QV Standard
A protocol of best practices and policies for welcoming LGBTQ+ travelers and creating inclusive workplaces.
Protocol for LGBTQ+ Travel Inclusion
QueerVadis Standard
Developed in partnership with AITGL – Italian LGBTQ+ Tourist Board, validated by RINA Services S.p.A., an international certification body, and supported under the patronage of ELTA – European LGBTQ+ Travel Alliance, the QueerVadis Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Standard defines best practices for marketing, communication and diversity management aimed at fostering inclusion and preventing discrimination. The standard places a specific focus on gender equality and the inclusion of LGBTQ+ travelers, while also addressing inclusive workplace practices. Organizations adopting the QueerVadis Standard are encouraged to promote inclusive policies throughout their supply chain, working with suppliers that align with the QueerVadis criteria for LGBTQ+ inclusion. This approach supports the development of a more inclusive workforce and contributes to the emotional wellbeing of employees, while reinforcing responsible and values-driven business practices across the tourism industry.
The validation certificate issued by RINA is available here.
Our Vision
Our vision is to contribute to the inclusion path with regards to the traveling LGBTQ+ community in the world.
Our Mission
Our mission is to help companies to assess gaps between policy and culture in interactions with the LGBTQ+ community.
Core Values
Environmental, Social and Economic Sustainability. In hospitality, we mean advocacy for environment protection, accessibility for everyone and fair competition.
QV Standard Milestones
Queervadis Criteria
QueerVadis-certified organizations meet high standards of inclusive hospitality, ensuring a welcoming, respectful and safe environment for all. Certification is based on a set of clearly defined criteria, including:
Staff Involvement
Actively engaging employees in diversity, equity and inclusion through structured training, awareness initiatives and shared responsibility across the organization.
Diversity Management
Establishing formal policies and practices that promote inclusion, fair treatment, representation and equal opportunities at all levels.
Social Responsibility
Demonstrating a concrete commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community and advancing inclusion both within the organization and in the broader social context.
Governance
Implementing leadership structures, policies and oversight mechanisms that ensure accountability, transparency and long-term commitment to DE&I principles.
DE&I Marketing
Developing inclusive communication strategies that authentically represent and engage the LGBTQ+ community across branding, messaging and outreach.
Operational Best Practices
Integrating DE&I principles into daily operations through concrete actions that ensure a consistently inclusive and welcoming experience.
Travalyst Criteria
QueerVadis has undergone an independent review and has been found compliant with Travalyst’s criteria. As a result, QueerVadis is included in Travalyst’s list of recognized sustainability certifications, standards and schemes for accommodation providers. This initiative supports greater transparency and consistency in the sustainability information presented to travelers worldwide.
What RINA Says
RINA auditors have conducted a severe analysis on the D&I Protocol and validated it as applicable, with respect to specific norms, national and international regulations. We acknowledge the value of protocol D&I as a tool to promote, monitor and evaluate the capacity of its addressees to create a more inclusive environment, both for guests and for workers. We do believe that protocols like this are a great contribution to the thriving and improvement of the travel industry, aligned with RINA vision in terms of sustainability.
Ready to create a more inclusive travel experience?
Download the free S&B Toolkit and access practical guidance to help your business become a welcoming destination for all.
What Our Clients Say
John Doe
Jessica Smith
