I was recently at WorldPride in Washington, D.C., and the rainbow flags were flying high. Was it the international crowd that I had hoped for? Not exactly. But there was a definitive queerness in the air, and I’m not just talking about David Archuleta and Cynthia Erivo’s free post-Parade performances. The global LGBTQ+ pink travel dollar was valued at $320 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach $630 billion by 2033. No wonder brands want to join the pink pony club.
Indeed, some companies have rolled back their DEI efforts due to the Orange Menace’s crackdown. But others are digging in their Christian Louboutin heels to ensure all of their customers feel welcome. The travel sector has become one of the most visible advocates for LGBTQ+ visibility. After all, the gays know how to have a good time. We bring the party.
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Not too long ago, I was at an all-inclusive resort in the Dominican Republic celebrating a friend’s milestone birthday, and wouldn’t you know it, nearly every friendly pool conversation with fellow guests turned into an invitation to a swingers’ party. Who knew “all-inclusive” was so literal? But we weren’t complaining. Although I preferred the shade of a cabana and a good gay book, part of me felt like Sally Field at the Oscars. (“You like me!”)
A few key developments are piquing our interest at Queerty, including LGBTQ+-friendly destinations and certifications, new airline routes, and property openings.
Put on your rainbow wings and fly
According to Fortune, Delta Air Lines’ chief external affairs officer said “diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to effective human capital management at Delta” at an earnings call earlier this year. While that sounds a little snoozy, we appreciate the sentiment. The airline’s Faces of Travel campaign represents the company’s “long-term commitment to increase representation and visibility within travel culture.” Does that include bonus Sky Miles?
Captain and Line Check Pilot Lane Kranz shared his perspective with Delta as part of Stonewall’s 50th anniversary, and his words ring true now more than ever. “I think it’s an important time to recognize the progress we have made, but it’s also a good time to talk about the progress we have not made,” he said. “When you harness the energy of different people, that creates new perspectives and ideas — innovation. Innovation leads to change, and change leads to opportunity. This is why diversity is so important.”
Delta is amping up its European routes, offering its most expansive trans-Atlantic summer schedule in history, including new routes to Copenhagen, Dublin, Brussels, and Milan. Not that we needed an excuse, but Copenhagen Pride, August 9 through 17, is reason enough to head to northern Europe, splurge on a Michelin-starred meal (you have 16 starred restaurants to choose from), and find a fling with a strapping Nordic local.
Say gay: “IGLTA accredited” offers a new level of inclusivity
You’ve read on Reddit that the hotel you booked is LGBTQ+-friendly, and then you show up all lovey-dovey with your partner for your first weekend getaway, and you get serious side-eye at the reception desk. Rude! Fortunately, several organizations have emerged with accreditation to ensure (at least in theory) that the proof is in the pudding.
The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) launched the IGLTA-Accredited program in 2023. Currently, 37 hotels worldwide have received accreditation. For travelers, it’s a sign that the work is complete. Each property is audited and must pass an eight-step criteria assessment developed by a panel of industry leaders. And it’s not just one and done. Each property must meet all criteria each year to maintain accreditation.
But the real question is, where to go? Here are three options for different kinds of queer travelers:
The international adventure seeker: Hilton Osaka
Osaka hosted IGLTA’s 2024 International Convention, and wouldn’t you know it, we were there. Osaka is a bustling foodie city, with two distinct nightlife districts, numerous shopping options, and quick access to other highlights via Japan’s efficient rail system, including Kyoto and Tokyo.
Located across from JR Osaka Station (which will connect you by train to nearly anywhere else in the country), the Hilton Osaka features an indoor pool and five restaurants and bars, though you’ll want plenty of time to explore the city as it hosts Expo 2025 through October 13.
New York state of mind at Gild Hall, a Thompson Hotel – Hyatt
NYC may be the city that never sleeps, but a room at Gild Hall, a Thompson Hotel, may change your mind. Located in the Financial District, the property boasts a gorgeous nod to mid-century design. It is within walking distance of One World Trade Center, the Seaport, and nearly every subway imaginable to whisk you to the theater district to see Jonathan Groff or Orville Peck on Broadway, then meander over to nightlife in neighboring Hell’s Kitchen.
Rest, relax & rejuvenate at Zoëtry Curaçao Resort & Spa
Have you picked out your summer read? Now you just need somewhere to park yourself and dive in, doze off, and do it all over again. Zoëtry Curaçao Resort & Spa features 72 suites, and although it’s only 10 minutes from the airport, it feels like a secluded paradise. The property levels up the all-inclusive experience with a focus on well-being, organic à la carte restaurants, top-shelf liquor, and 24-hour concierge service.
More ways to vet your stay
In addition to IGLTA, other brands have emerged to connect with the LGBTQ market:
Preferred Pride Hotels — Preferred Hotels & Resorts launched its Preferred Pride program in 2011 and rebooted the effort in 2023. According to Business Traveler, “Preferred Pride hotels must operate in destinations that do not criminalize homosexuality, offer diversity training to all employees, and actively support the LGBTQ community through charitable donations, volunteer days or Preferred Pride initiatives.”
Belmond — For those with deep pockets or a high-limit credit card, Belmond has been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ luxury, establishing an LGBTQ+ advisory board. The brand, which includes hotels, luxury train routes, cruises, and travel packages, has been an IGLTA member since 2011.
Travel with an LGBTQ+ tour operator — So many trips, so little time! There’s a group trip for every kind of traveler, whether you’re looking for an epic party cruise of floating six-packs on Atlantis, family-friendly fun aboard an LGBTQ+ Disney cruise, or the chance to visit locales like Mongolia or Nepal with the comfort and security of group travel, rest assured that there’s a queer with an itinerary for you.
Here’s a look at where some of our favorite LGBTQ+ content creators have been traveling:
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