An initiative that positions inclusion as a strategic axis of the new Spanish tourism model.
Madrid, June 24, 2025 - The Spanish capital has hosted a new stop of the national tour of the LGBTI Travel Experiences Guidean innovative platform that connects travelers with authentic and safe tourism experiences aligned with values of inclusion and diversity. The event was held at the Hotel BLESS Madrida space certified with the Queer Destinations Committeda benchmark in diverse hospitality within the luxury sector.
The event was opened by Edgar Weggelaar, CEO of Queer Destinationswho emphasized that "This guide is not just a digital tool: it is a declaration of intent. Diverse tourism is tourism with a future. With this platform, Spain is taking a firm step towards a tourism model that is more competitive, humane and aligned with the values of the present."
From the Government of Spain, Ana Muñoz, Director General of Tourism Policies of the Ministry of Industry and Tourismreaffirmed the institutional commitment:
"Thanks to the support of the Ministry of Industry and Tourism and to the European Next Generation fundsWe are promoting a new tourism model that puts sustainability, digitalization and inclusion at the center. This guide is a clear example of how public policies can transform reality and ensure that Spain continues to lead in tourism, also from diversity."
The most touching moment of the event was the one that Carla Antonelli, Senator of Más Madrid and LGBTIQ+ activist, who delivered a strong message:
"Today more than ever, in the face of the setbacks we are seeing in rights and freedoms in different parts of the world, it is essential to defend what has been conquered and move forward with firm steps. This guide is not only a tourism project, it is a strategic tool to guarantee safe and sustainable spaces. Because traveling is also an act of freedom. And because no rights are guaranteed if it is not protected every day with public policies, visibility and real commitment."
The project is led by Queer Destinations together with the concurrent entities: ACOGAT, Axel Hotels, Respira Comunicación and Shangayand is financially supported by the Ministry of Industry and Tourism through the Next Generation EU funds.
Currently in its final stage of development, the LGBTI Travel Experiences Guide will have contributed to the formation of more than 1,800 tourism professionalsthe sensitization of more than 150 companies and service providersand the direct benefit of more than 200,000 travelers.
After the institutional interventions, attendees were able to explore live the operation of the digital platform, learn about its customized filters, the directory of sensitized companies and the certification criteria that guarantee a truly inclusive tourism experience. The event concluded with a toast and networking space.
About the LGBTI Experiences Guide Tourism Spain
The guide is a geolocalized webapp which recommends accommodations, restaurants, activities and other experiences verified for their commitment to inclusion. Its accessible design and its focus on the LGBTIQ+ traveler experience. allow us to generate trust, security and connection. Currently in its final stage of development, this tool aims to make Spain a leading destination in diverse hospitality, while promoting the transformation of the tourism sector based on sustainability, training and human rights.
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