LGBT tourism has evolved over the years, moving from marginalization to celebration and recognition. From Marginalization to Visibility LGBT travelers often faced discrimination and hostility in many destinations. However, as the LGBT rights movement gained momentum, the first community-specific destinations and events emerged. Creating safe and welcoming spaces was the first step towards inclusion in […]
LGBT tourism has evolved over the years, moving from marginalization to celebration and recognition.
From Marginalization to Visibility
LGBT travelers often faced discrimination and hostility in many destinations. However, as the LGBT rights movement gained momentum, the first community-specific destinations and events emerged.
Creating safe and welcoming spaces was the first step towards inclusion in tourism.
From Axel Hotels we are pleased to highlight the opening of Axel Hotel Barcelona, the first LGBT hotel of the chain opened in 2003 and one of the first worldwide to offer a free and safe space for the collective two decades ago.
Rise of LGBT Destinations
In the 1970s, destinations such as San Francisco, New York and Provincetown began to gain popularity among the LGBT community.
These places became landmarks of LGBT culture and history, attracting travelers seeking authentic, non-judgmental experiences.
As we have grown, we have been pioneers in different destinations in opening the first hotel aimed at the LGBT community in that city, such as Axel Hotel Madrid, Axel Hotel San Sebastian, Telégrafo Axel Hotel La Habana and the new destinations to come such as Axel Hotel Bilbao or Axel Hotel Valencia and Porto.
The ”boom” of gay tourism
Over time, Pride Month (June) became a landmark occasion for LGBT tourism. Parades, festivals and events around the world brought together people of diverse identities to celebrate diversity and equality.
These festivities not only generated an influx of travelers, but also drove awareness and acceptance.
Millions of people travel throughout the year to the world’s most famous Pride events such as Maspalomas, Madrid, Miami or Tel Aviv.
You can enhance your stay with us in these destinations at Axel Hotel Madrid, Axel Beach Maspalomas or Axel Beach Miami · South Beach.
LGBT tourism has come a long way, transforming destinations and the way we travel. Through perseverance and the fight for equality, the LGBT community has left an indelible mark on the tourism industry.