How to Find LGBTQ+ Friendly Accommodations: The Ultimate Guide
Finding a place to stay as an LGBTQ+ traveler isn’t just about comfort—it’s about feeling safe, welcomed, and respected. While many destinations are becoming more inclusive, not all accommodations are truly queer-friendly. That’s why it’s important to know how to find hotels, guesthouses, and retreats that celebrate LGBTQ+ travelers rather than just tolerate them.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel, a budget-friendly stay, or a women-only retreat, this guide will help you navigate the best options and ensure your next trip is both comfortable and affirming.
1. What Makes an Accommodation LGBTQ+ Friendly?
Just because a hotel says it’s “welcoming to all” doesn’t always mean it truly embraces LGBTQ+ guests. A genuinely queer-friendly stay goes beyond marketing and includes:
Inclusive Policies – Anti-discrimination policies that explicitly protect LGBTQ+ guests.
LGBTQ+ Staff and Training – Employees trained in inclusivity and cultural competency.
Gender-Inclusive Spaces – Respect for pronouns, non-binary guests, and all-gender bathrooms.
Queer Visibility – Hotels that actively support Pride events or partner with LGBTQ+ organizations.
Safe Atmosphere – A space where LGBTQ+ couples can feel comfortable expressing affection without judgment.
Before booking, it’s essential to research and read reviews from fellow queer travelers to get an authentic sense of an accommodation’s inclusivity.
2. LGBTQ+ Friendly Booking Platforms
To make the search easier, several booking platforms specialize in LGBTQ+ accommodations. These sites filter out non-welcoming stays and prioritize places where queer travelers feel safe and at home.
Misterb&b
Often called “the Airbnb for LGBTQ+ travelers,” Misterb&b offers short-term rentals, hotels, and queer-owned stays worldwide.
Hosts are either LGBTQ+ themselves or explicitly inclusive.
Great for solo travelers looking for community or queer-friendly shared spaces.
Purple Roofs
A directory of LGBTQ+ owned and queer-friendly bed & breakfasts, hotels, and vacation rentals.
Focuses on small, locally-owned accommodations rather than large chains.
Ideal for those wanting a more personal and community-driven travel experience.
Gay Hotels Collection
Curated list of LGBTQ+ friendly hotels, resorts, and guesthouses worldwide.
Features both luxury and budget options.
Provides verified reviews from queer travelers.
These platforms help remove the guesswork and ensure you book an accommodation that aligns with your needs.
3. Best LGBTQ+ Friendly Hotel Chains
If you prefer staying in well-known hotels, some international chains have built a strong reputation for LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
Axel Hotels (Global)
A hotel chain specifically designed for LGBTQ+ travelers.
Locations in queer-friendly cities like Barcelona, Berlin, Madrid, and Miami.
Known for its stylish atmosphere, social events, and community feel.
Kimpton Hotels (USA & International)
One of the most inclusive mainstream hotel brands, offering gender-inclusive amenities and queer-friendly service.
Regularly partners with LGBTQ+ events and organizations.
W Hotels (Worldwide)
Luxury brand with a history of supporting LGBTQ+ rights.
Frequently sponsors Pride events and queer art initiatives.
Moxy Hotels (Europe & USA)
A modern, budget-friendly boutique brand by Marriott that markets itself towards young, diverse travelers.
Welcoming vibe with inclusive policies and fun, LGBTQ+ friendly social spaces.
Choosing one of these hotel chains adds an extra layer of security, especially in destinations where LGBTQ+ acceptance may vary.
4. Women-Only & Queer-Focused Retreats
For LGBTQ+ women seeking a safe, affirming space, women-only retreats and queer-focused resorts offer a unique experience.
Olivia Travel
The largest travel company specializing in lesbian and queer women’s vacations.
Offers all-women cruises, resort stays, and adventure trips.
A great way to connect with like-minded travelers in a safe and fun environment.
La Villa Bonita (Mexico)
A women-owned retreat center offering culinary and wellness getaways.
LGBTQ+ friendly and designed for solo female travelers, couples, and friend groups.
Lesbian Getaways
Organizes small-group retreats for queer women in destinations like Costa Rica, Bali, and Italy.
If you’re looking for a space where you can fully relax and be yourself, these options provide an extra level of comfort and community.
5. How to Research and Choose the Right Stay
Check Reviews on LGBTQ+ Travel Forums
Websites like Queer In The World, Travel Gay, and Dopes on the Road offer firsthand reviews from LGBTQ+ travelers.
Look for mentions of staff attitude, safety, and inclusivity rather than relying on a hotel’s own description.
Search for LGBTQ+ Certifications
Some hotels are officially certified as LGBTQ+ friendly by organizations like IGLTA (International LGBTQ+ Travel Association).
Booking sites like Expedia now have an LGBTQ+ friendly filter for hotels.
Message the Hotel Before Booking
If you’re unsure about a hotel’s inclusivity, email or call ahead with questions about their LGBTQ+ policies.
Ask if same-sex couples are welcomed without issue and whether gender-inclusive amenities are available.
6. Signs an Accommodation Might Not Be LGBTQ+ Friendly
Even in destinations known for being queer-friendly, not all accommodations are welcoming. Some red flags to watch for include:
No clear anti-discrimination policy or LGBTQ+ inclusivity statement.
Negative reviews from queer travelers mentioning discomfort or mistreatment.
Staff avoiding or hesitating to acknowledge same-sex couples.
Lack of gender-neutral bathrooms or refusal to accommodate non-binary travelers.
If you encounter any of these warning signs, it’s best to look for alternative accommodations to ensure a safe and comfortable stay.
Final Thoughts: A Safe Stay Makes All the Difference
Finding LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations is about more than just comfort—it’s about ensuring your travel experience is affirming, safe, and enjoyable. By choosing queer-friendly hotels, retreats, and booking platforms, you can travel with confidence and truly enjoy your journey.
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