E ducating all

With the growth of the industry, information and education is spreading. While hotels are educating their staff, it's important to sensitise everyone involved, even local artisans and residents who interact with travellers. “Our international guests love rural trips. They prefer offbeat experiences like turban and saree tying, kushti (wrestling) and cultural performances, especially in Rajasthan. And during these activities, they interact with local villagers. Thus, it's crucial that residents also realise the importance of welcoming all,” says Singla. “We have a team of educated drivers and guides, and we select good hotels, keeping in mind special treats for our LGBTQ+ guests,” says Rajendra Sharma, owner of Jaipur-based travel company Gay Tours India. Sharma says they are always mindful that guests return home with the best memories. “We hosted a group of ladies from the LGBTQ community from South Africa, the US and Europe, and it was a roaring success,” Sharma adds.

Singla says a lot of work is being done to educate industry stakeholders.

“As a representative of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA), we work to include more travel organisers on our platform where they can communicate with other operators and make more business opportunities," Singla adds. Agrees IGLTA president/CEO John Tanzella, “India is a major destination for international tourism, with great potential to grow the inbound and outbound network to benefit LGBTQ+ travellers and LGBTQ+-welcoming businesses. The India initiative is key for us.”

“Chueca in Madrid is a fun, open and inclusive place. With cafes, bars and restaurants, it's a favourite of the LGBTQ+ community," says Pranay Baidya.