A recent OnePoll survey commissioned by the online travel provider finds that 58% of LGBTQIA Americans agree that they spend more time researching travel destinations and accommodations than cisgender or heterosexual travelers.
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS – Orbitz is introducing a new search capability that improves access to lodging partners that have signed an Inclusivity Pledge against discrimination on the basis of gender and sexual identity. More than 35,000 independent, boutique and name-brand hotels have opted in, making it a powerful search tool for LGBTQIA travelers.
Guests can explore LGBTQ-welcoming hotels via the dedicated search engine on Orbitz.com/Pride or check the LGBTQ-welcoming hotel filter during their search on Orbitz.com and mobile sites. Hotels that sign on agree at a minimum to enforce a zero-tolerance policy for discriminatory behavior. Some LGBTQ-welcoming hotels have adopted additional measures, such as training staff on gender identities and use of gender-neutral language.
A recent OnePoll survey commissioned by the online travel provider finds that 58% of LGBTQIA Americans agree that they spend more time researching travel destinations and accommodations than cisgender or heterosexual travelers.
More than that, six in 10 respondents said they’ve canceled a trip or changed their travel plans due to feeling unsafe as a result of their gender identity or sexual orientation.
“Most of us plan a trip with the fundamental expectation that we’ll find a place to stay where we can be ourselves, but that’s not a reality for all travelers today,” says Carey Malloy, Orbitz Brand Director. “More than a quarter of respondents in our survey said that they feel the need to downplay their LGBTQIA identity while traveling. Today, we’re helping them start their trip search with a place where they’ll feel welcomed.”
Shop LGBTQ, Earn a Free Stay on Orbitz
Orbitz is offering two limited-time incentives encouraging travelers to support LGBTQ-welcoming hotels and queer-owned businesses in exchange for up to $150 in free travel money from the site.
- Visitors who reserve a stay at an LGBTQ-welcoming hotel on Orbitz.com/Pride June 15-21, 2021, will receive $50 back in Orbucks.
- Additionally, anyone who supports an LGBTQ-owned business this month is eligible toreceive $100 in Orbucks.
Nearly half of OnePoll survey respondents said they are planning to participate in Pride this year, and of those, 66% said their first big, post-COVID trip will be something to help them celebrate. In conjunction with Pride month and these limited time offers, Orbitz is sharing top places to shop and stay in cities celebrating Pride across the U.S. this summer and fall. The travel brand is also donating to five LGBTQIA non-profits this month, including It Gets Better, IGLTA Foundation, Trans Lifeline, Stonewall Community Foundation and National Center for Transgender Equality.
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She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
