Rail Europe and ELTA Join Forces to Champion Safe LGBTQ+ Travel

October 23, 2023 Vacationer Staff

Rail Europe, the leading provider of train and rail passes across Europe, has become a member of the European LGBTQIA+ Travel Alliance (ELTA) as part of its commitment to embrace diversity and ensure inclusivity in travel. This union underscores a collective dedication to fostering a welcoming and safe travel environment for all, irrespective of gender, sexuality, or identity.

ELTA is dedicated to advocating for safe, inclusive, and equal travel experiences for the LGBTQIA+ community throughout Europe. By partnering with businesses, destinations, and travel providers, ELTA works toward ensuring the travel industry is as vibrant and diverse as the people it serves.

“At Rail Europe, diversity isn’t merely a concept; it is one of our foundational pillars, deeply embedded in our values. Partnering with ELTA allows us to reinforce our commitment to championing the spirit of inclusive and accessible travel across Europe. The journeys we offer not only connect cities but also cultures, communities, and people, honoring the rich, diverse spectrum of experiences and identities that traverse our continent,” said Björn Bender, Executive Chairman and CEO of Rail Europe.

“It is a historic agreement for LGBTQ+ tourism, we are now able to count on the support of such an important player in the rail industry. Rail Europe, in the person of its CEO Björn Bender, was immediately willing to enter into a partnership with ELTA, united by their interest in promoting inclusive tourism in accordance with the DE&I principles contained in the QueerVadis protocol which defines the essential guidelines, behaviors, and good practices for marketing, sales, customer care, and welcoming the LGBTQ+ community and provides useful indications on how to also approach diversity management within companies,” said Alessio Virgili, president of ELTA.

By collaborating with ELTA, Rail Europe plans to enhance the travel experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals and allies, ensuring they feel welcomed and celebrated on every journey. This partnership will involve:

Specialized Journeys: Collaboratively recommending rail journeys and packages that cater to LGBTQIA+ travelers, integrating stops at historically and culturally significant destinations within the community.

Involvement and Support: Participating in bringing people to LGBTQIA+ events, festivals, and pride celebrations across Europe, harnessing the power of the rail network to bring communities together.

This partnership intends to bridge the gaps between diverse communities across Europe, enabling connections, fostering understanding, and promoting cultural exchange. Rail Europe and ELTA tout the partnership as “paving the way towards a more inclusive and accessible travel industry.”