Booking platforms have become second nature when planning a trip—and for many travelers, Booking.com is the go-to choice. But beyond convenience, the company has been working on something more meaningful: making travel more inclusive.

I spoke with Kristofer Barber (Director Global Communications at Booking.com) about their Travel Proud program, what it means for LGBTQ+ travelers, and why it matters.

It’s hard to imagine planning a trip today without using Booking.com. When I talk to friends—especially within the LGBTQ+ community—it’s almost always the same answer: “Of course, I booked through Booking.com.”

So when I sat down with Kristofer to talk about their Travel Proud program, I was curious: what does inclusivity actually look like in the world of travel?

Kristofer smiles as we begin. “That’s a great question,” he says. “And first of all, thank you for taking the time to speak with me.”

He explains that Travel Proud is, at its core, a free inclusive hospitality training program offered to accommodation partners. The goal is simple but important: helping hotels better understand the experiences of LGBTQ+ travelers—and how to make them feel genuinely welcome.

“It’s about awareness,” he tells me. “And about giving people the tools to create a better experience.”

Properties that complete the training receive a small badge on their listing—a pink suitcase icon. It may seem like a minor detail, but for many travelers, it can make a big difference when choosing where to stay.

Small Moments That Matter

As our conversation continues, Kristofer brings up a situation that immediately feels familiar.

“Many LGBTQ+ travelers have experienced that moment at check-in,” he says, “when someone asks: ‘Are you sure you want one bed?’”

It’s a simple question—but one that can instantly create discomfort.

“You suddenly don’t know how welcome you are,” he adds.

That’s exactly the kind of moment Travel Proud is trying to prevent.

The training, developed together with ‘HospitableMe’, focuses not just on theory but on real-life situations. It covers the basics—like understanding LGBTQ+ terminology—but also dives into everyday interactions in hospitality.

“There’s no prior knowledge required,” Kristofer explains. “It’s designed as a safe learning space.”

One part of the training even uses a visual tool—the “Genderbread Person”—to help explain the difference between gender identity and sexual orientation in a simple, accessible way.

More Than Just a Badge

Of course, a badge alone isn’t enough. I ask Kristofer how Booking.com ensures that the Travel Proud label actually means something.

He’s clear about it: “We take it very seriously.”

The company actively monitors guest reviews and feedback, including for Travel Proud properties. If travelers report negative experiences, those cases are investigated.

“In some situations, we’ve removed the Travel Proud badge,” he says. “It doesn’t happen often—but accountability is important.”

A Global Effort—with Real-World Limits

Travel Proud has grown quickly. Today, more than 130,000 properties across over 150 countries are part of the program.

“That means you can find Travel Proud accommodations almost anywhere,” Kristofer says. But as we talk, it becomes clear that global travel isn’t always straightforward.

In countries where LGBTQ+ relationships are criminalized, the Travel Proud badge isn’t displayed. It’s a decision made with safety in mind—for both travelers and accommodation partners.

“It’s a complex reality,” Christopher admits.

He also points to broader challenges, especially for transgender and non-binary travelers. Changing policies and border regulations can make travel more stressful than it should be.

“I’ve heard from friends who are more hesitant to travel to certain countries right now,” he says. “Even entering a country can be uncertain.”

Still, he emphasizes that many properties continue to create welcoming spaces—no matter the wider political context.

Finding Inclusive Places to Stay

Back on more practical ground, I ask how easy it is for travelers to actually find these inclusive accommodations.

“It’s become much simpler,” Kristofer says. Travelers can now filter directly for LGBTQ+-friendly properties on Booking.com. There’s also a newer feature: smart search.

“You can just type something like ‘LGBTQ-friendly hotel near the beach,’” he explains, “and the system will automatically find the right places.” It’s a small shift in how we search—but one that makes a big difference in how confident travelers feel when booking.

A Bigger Picture

As our conversation wraps up, one thing becomes clear: Travel Proud isn’t just about one program or one platform.

There are similar initiatives around the world, and Kristofer sees them as part of a larger movement.

“The more education and awareness there is,” he says, “the better it is for everyone.”

And while all properties on Booking.com are expected to treat guests with respect, Travel Proud adds something extra—a visible commitment to inclusivity.

Why It Matters

What stayed with me after our conversation wasn’t just the scale of the program or the number of participating hotels.

It was the idea that travel, at its best, should feel effortless—not just in booking, but in being yourself.

Because exploring the world should never come with the question: Will I feel welcome here?

And if a small pink suitcase icon can help answer that question—even a little—it’s a step in the right direction.