Travel

Travel proud to World Pride in Sydney this year with Booking.com … – Travel Weekly

World Pride hits Sydney in February this year and Booking.com has today been announced as a major partner and exclusive digital travel provider.

As an extension of the company’s free Travel Proud programme, Booking.com will be involved with two key events at Sydney WorldPride. Firstly, a dedicated stage at ‘Pride Villages’ which will take place on the Oxford Street strip and will be closed to traffic for a festival hub.

Additionally, Booking.com is sponsoring the three-day human rights conference hosted at Sydney’s International Convention Centre.

“At Booking.com, we believe everyone should be able to experience the world as themselves, always,” Arjan Dijk, senior vice president and chief marketing officer, Booking.com said.

“Travel should ideally be all about positive experiences, adventure and enjoyment. Yet for many LGBTQIA+ travellers, this can often be  a very different reality, as a majority (82 per cent) have experienced less than welcoming, or uncomfortable moments when travelling.”

“In addition to celebrating the revitalisation of the Australian tourism sector, our sponsorship of Sydney WorldPride is a symbol of our continued investment in supporting rainbow communities everywhere and our commitment to enable truly inclusive travel experiences in even more places around the world.”

Kate Wickett, CEO Sydney WorldPride added: “Sydney WorldPride is proud to partner with one of the world’s most exciting digital travel companies, Booking.com as they continue to ensure inclusive and welcoming properties are available for rainbow travellers across the globe. Sydney is open and excited to welcome all to our shores!”

Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras CEO, Albert Kruger said he is excited about this years event and proud to have a world renowned company onboard as a major partner.

“Booking.com is a company that is committed to supporting LGBTQIA+ people,” Kruger said.

“As well as creating a safe and inclusive environment within their own organisation, they support our communities in finding inclusive accommodation options when they are planning their next trip away.”