To celebrate the forthcoming Manchester and Leeds Pride events, Manchester-headquartered online travel giant Booking.com has dug into its data sets to reveal the most LGBTQ+ friendly stays for those visiting the events.
According to Booking.com’s own research, 71 per cent of UK LGBTQ+ travellers have had less-than-welcoming or uncomfortable experiences when travelling, with 61 per cent reporting they have to consider their safety and wellbeing when choosing a holiday destination.
As a result, Booking.com launched its Proud Hospitality programme to help combat some of the challenges and barriers the LGBTQ+ community face when travelling, by offering training to its partners, providing them with practical skills and techniques to allow their guests to feel more welcome.
First up on August 7 is Leeds Pride, returning for its 17th year after missing two years due to the pandemic and bouncing back with what is set to be its biggest parade yet. For those travelling to the event, Booking.com recommends The Dakota Leeds. The hotel is located at the heart of Leeds, just two minutes away from the main event. The hotel features 85 luxurious bedrooms as well as an onsite bar and grill restaurant. The cocktail bar features an outdoor terrace overlooking Greek St, which is Booking.com customers’ favourite part of Leeds, according to reviews.
Next up on August 26, Manchester Pride will be held around the city’s famous Gay Village. Over the last 15 years Manchester Pride has become a loud and proud display, taking place on the August bank holiday. The Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is on the doorstep of Manchester’s parade, with its huge array of shops within easy walking distance. Set in the heart of Manchester City Centre, the grand Kimpton Clocktower offers stylish, modern rooms furnished with elegant décor.
Booking.com is due to move more than a thousand staff into its new Manchester HQ, which has capacity for around 2,000 staff, in November.
