The event brings together representatives of institutions, companies and cultural entities committed to a fairer and more inclusive tourism model.
Barcelona, July 15, 2025 - Within the framework of the Hotel InterContinental Barcelona, an establishment recognized with the distinctive Queer Destinations Committedthe official presentation of the LGBTI Travel Experiences Guidean innovative platform that promotes an inclusive and transformative tourism model, aligned with the values of diversity, security and human rights.
The event was attended by Edgar WeggelaarCEO of Queer Destinations, who highlighted the transformative dimension of the project and its strategic role in consolidating Spain as a safe and respectful destination for the LGBTQ+ community.
For its part, Patrick Torrent, Executive Director of the Agència Catalana de Turisme, highlighted Catalonia's commitment to a tourism model that is committed to diversity and excellence as differential elements of international competitiveness.
A new milestone: Meliá Hotels International joins the project
One of the most relevant milestones of the event has been the announcement of the incorporation of Meliá Hotels International as a partner in the project and as a new member of the Guide. Its membership strengthens the scope of the project and projects its impact to new levels. The chain will train about 700 professionals in inclusive hospitality, actively contributing to the creation of safe and respectful tourism spaces.
This step consolidates Meliá as a key player in the construction of a tourism model aligned with the values of diversity, excellence and commitment to people, reaffirming its leadership as an international benchmark hotel group.
A project with real impact
In its first phase, the Guide is currently training more than 1,800 tourism professionalshas involved more than 300 companies and service providersand will directly benefit more than 200,000 travelers. These advances will lay the foundations for its expansion at national and international level in future stages, consolidating its impact through training, digitalization and diversity.
Currently in its final stage of development, the platform is configured as a geolocalized webapp which recommends accommodations, restaurants, cultural venues and a variety of experiences committed to diversity and creating safe environments for all people.
Institutional support and cultural fabric
The event has been attended by important institutional representatives, among them the Generalitat de Catalunyathe Diputació de Barcelonathe Barcelona City Councilas well as the municipalities of Salou y SitgesThe company is a benchmark for diverse tourism in Catalonia.
Also present were cultural entities as the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC) and the Joan Miró FoundationThe project is a reflection of the synergy between culture, inclusion and tourism development.
A collective project
The LGBTI Travel Experiences Guide is part of the Tourism Experiences Spain Program of the Ministry of Industry and Tourism, financed with Next Generation EU funds. The project is coordinated by Queer Destinationsin collaboration with key entities such as, Axel Hotels, Breathe Communication, Shangay, ACOGATand, recently incorporated, Meliá Hotels International. Actors committed to promoting a more diverse, responsible and connected tourism with the realities of the LGBTQ+ community.
This project marks a turning point for the tourism sector: a tool at the service of change, with committed partners and a clear vision for a fairer, safer and more diverse future.
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