LGBTQ+ travellers have shown in recent years that they hold high value for tourism businesses and industry can get accreditation to leverage from this growing community of travellers.

Travel and tourism brands can become accredited by the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) to showcase support for the LGBTQ+ community and their needs.

IGLTA Accredited is a standard of assurance that travel brands are committed to promoting equality and safety for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Evidence-based allyship ensures properties and travel organisations meet comprehensive criteria before being recognised as IGLTA Accredited.

To obtain accreditation, brands must document fulfilment of eight criteria that demonstrate they are creating a safe and welcoming environment for their staff and LGBTQ+ travellers.

The criteria are: diversity, equity, inclusivity, policy, community, advocacy, transparency and sensitivity.

“IGLTA Accredited is not a training or education programme on LGBTQ+ travellers. Instead, it’s a process that verifies and declares the presence of inclusivity effort within the organisation. So the aim is to recognise and showcase brands that have already put inclusive practices in place.

“Through the accreditation programme we aspire to create a world where LGBTQ+ travellers can find a welcoming home away from home, no matter where their journey takes them,” Amine Gabbouj, IGLTA Foundation Coordinator, said during a recent The Africa Hub webinar.