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Hotel Zed: A Benchmark for LGBTQ+ Friendly Accommodations

by | Nov 4, 2024 |

Looking for a fabulous and inclusive place to stay on your next adventure? Look no further than Hotel Zed, with locations in Kelowna, Victoria, and Tofino, British Columbia. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or your partner, Hotel Zed ensures every guest feels welcome, celebrated, and safe. LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations are more than just a nice-to-have; they’re essential for creating safe spaces where everyone can feel at home. Hotel Zed stands out as a leading example, setting the bar high for inclusivity and community support.

From the moment you step through the door, you’ll notice Hotel Zed’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. The leadership team’s philosophy is all about celebrating their people, ensuring their staff love their work so they can pass that joy on to guests. Visible symbols of inclusivity, like the progressive pride flag and gender-neutral restrooms, are just the beginning. Hotel Zed’s dedication extends to every aspect of their service, making them a standout choice for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Let’s dive into what makes Hotel Zed such an inclusive and welcoming space. We’ll explore their supportive work environment, training programs for employees, inclusive booking policies, and contributions to the local queer community. After reading this article, you’ll clearly understand why Hotel Zed should be at the top of your list for your next fabulous stay in British Columbia. Let’s get started!

Hotel Zed: A Benchmark for LGBTQ+ Friendly Accommodations

What Makes Hotel Zed LGBTQ+ Friendly?

Welcoming Atmosphere

Hotel Zed’s commitment to making everyone feel welcome is evident the moment you arrive. Their leadership philosophy emphasizes the importance of celebrating diversity and ensuring every guest feels at home. This welcoming atmosphere isn’t just about a friendly greeting; it’s woven into the fabric of the hotel. Whether you’re scrolling through their Instagram, browsing their website, or checking in at the front desk, Hotel Zed’s message is clear: “This is the place for you.”

Visible symbols of inclusivity are proudly displayed throughout the property. The progressive pride flag flies high on a flagpole, and pronouns are included on name tags and email signatures. Every restroom is gender-neutral, ensuring all guests feel comfortable and respected. These small but significant gestures make a big impact, signaling to LGBTQ+ travelers that Hotel Zed is a safe and welcoming space.

The colorful exterior of the Hotel Zed Kelowna.

Supportive Work Environment

Creating an inclusive environment starts with supporting their team. Hotel Zed recently hired a new VP of People and Culture, dedicated to building policies that ensure every employee feels valued and supported. This includes comprehensive benefits for transitioning employees, going above and beyond standard health insurance programs. Hotel Zed is also registered with Pride at Work and is Rainbow Registered, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining a supportive and inclusive workplace.

Training on different types of harassment and ensuring a safe work environment are priorities. Employees are trained to understand and address harassment, ensuring a safe and respectful environment for everyone. This commitment to employee well-being translates into better service for guests, creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere throughout the hotel.

The exterior of the Hotel Zed Kelowna with an outdoor pool, across from Kelowna City Park, and near Okanagan Lake, in Kelowna, BC.

Training for Front-Line Employees

New Orientation Program

Hotel Zed has implemented a detailed orientation program for all new employees, focusing on internal bias, pronouns, and identity. This training ensures that staff are knowledgeable and respectful of all guests’ identities. The program includes explanations of the progress flag and how to address microaggressions, helping employees police their internal biases.

Training is required within the first three days of employment and includes annual retraining to ensure staff remain up-to-date on best practices. This comprehensive approach ensures that all employees are prepared to provide the best possible service to LGBTQ+ guests. Additionally, support for transitioning employees includes benefits and policies developed by the new VP of People and Culture, demonstrating a deep commitment to inclusivity.

Inclusive Booking Policies

Inclusivity at Hotel Zed extends to their booking policies. They have developed a deadnaming policy to support transgender and non-binary guests. This means that guests can check in with names that may not match their IDs, a crucial accommodation for many in the LGBTQ+ community. Implementing this policy required updating their booking engine, demonstrating Hotel Zed’s commitment to inclusivity and guest comfort.

This policy is more than just a technical update; it’s a statement that all guests are welcome and respected. By ensuring their booking engine supports these needs, Hotel Zed provides a seamless and respectful experience for all travelers. This forward-thinking approach sets them apart as a leader in inclusive hospitality.

A sequin wall in the mini discotheque at the Hotel Zed Tofino.

LGBTQ Certifications and Accreditations

Pride at Work

Hotel Zed’s registration with Pride at Work is a testament to their commitment to creating an inclusive workplace. Pride at Work Canada is an organization that empowers employers to build workplaces that celebrate all employees, regardless of gender expression, gender identity, and sexual orientation. Being part of this program means that Hotel Zed actively works to support their LGBTQ+ employees and create a positive work environment.

Rainbow Registered

The Rainbow Registered accreditation is another significant achievement for Hotel Zed. This program recognizes businesses and organizations that meet rigorous standards for LGBTQ+ inclusivity. To qualify, companies must demonstrate their commitment to inclusivity through policies, practices, and training. For LGBTQ+ travelers, the Rainbow Registered symbol is a sign that they can expect a welcoming and inclusive experience.

These certifications and accreditations are not just badges of honor; they represent a deep commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space for all guests and employees. Hotel Zed’s participation in these programs sets a high standard for other businesses to follow.

The Hotel Zed Kelowna is Rainbow Registered.

Giving Back to the Local Queer Community

Hotel Zed’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community goes beyond their walls. They actively participate in local pride events in Kelowna, Kamloops, Victoria, and Tofino. Their involvement in Tofino Pride is particularly notable, partnering with the Coastal Queer Alliance to provide community advocacy and education. These efforts include hosting free Pride events and drag brunches, creating visibility and providing first-time Pride experiences for local queer teens.

The Tofino Pride events have been a huge success, with drag performers and musical acts drawing large crowds. These events are more than just celebrations; they’re opportunities for community building and creating safe spaces for everyone. By actively participating in and supporting these events, Hotel Zed demonstrates their commitment to the local queer community.

The Hotel Zed retro van decorated with Pride flags in the 2022 Victoria Pride parade.

Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion in Action

Handling Guest Complaints

At Hotel Zed, diversity, equality, and inclusion are not just buzzwords; they’re put into action every day. When it comes to handling guest complaints, the hotel treats same-sex couples the same as hetero couples. If a complaint is made about a couple making out in the pool, it’s handled with the same approach: asking the couple to cool it if necessary but never discriminating based on gender or orientation.

If a guest is uncomfortable with the pride flag or an LGBTQ+ employee, they’re politely informed that they may want to find another place to stay. This firm stance ensures that Hotel Zed remains a safe and welcoming space for queer-friendly guests. It’s a clear message that inclusivity and respect are non-negotiable values at Hotel Zed.

A queen size bed in a guest room at the Hotel Zed Kelowna.

Marketing and Visibility

Hotel Zed showcases diversity in their marketing materials, featuring same-sex couples in their photo shoots and social media posts. The marketing team is prepared for reactions, understanding that not everyone will be comfortable with these images. However, this visibility is crucial for creating a truly inclusive space.

By including diverse representations in their marketing, Hotel Zed not only attracts LGBTQ+ travelers but also sends a message to the broader community about the importance of inclusivity. This approach helps create a safer and more welcoming environment for all guests, making Hotel Zed a standout choice for queer travelers.

Gender-Neutral Restrooms and Changing Rooms

Inclusivity at Hotel Zed extends to their facilities, with gender-neutral restrooms and changing rooms in all public areas. These restrooms are clearly marked, ensuring all guests feel comfortable and respected. The signage, such as “All Genders,” is a simple but powerful statement of inclusivity.

Providing gender-neutral facilities is an essential part of creating a welcoming environment for all guests. It removes the stress and discomfort that can come with using gender-specific restrooms, making Hotel Zed a more inclusive space for everyone. This commitment to inclusivity is evident in every aspect of their service.

Hotel Zed: A Benchmark for LGBTQ+ Friendly Accommodations

Year-Round Pride Symbol Display

Hotel Zed proudly displays the Rainbow Registered flag on the front door of all their properties. This symbol is more than just a decoration; it’s a clear message that LGBTQ+ guests are welcome year-round. The flag is a sign of Hotel Zed’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity and support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Displaying the Rainbow Registered flag prominently shows that Hotel Zed is serious about their commitment to inclusivity. It’s a visible statement that all guests are welcome and respected, regardless of their gender identity or sexual orientation. This year-round display is a powerful symbol of Hotel Zed’s dedication to creating a safe and inclusive space for all.

Hotel Zed: A Benchmark for LGBTQ+ Friendly Accommodations

Embrace Inclusivity at Hotel Zed

Hotel Zed sets the standard for LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations, offering a welcoming atmosphere, supportive work environment, comprehensive training programs, and inclusive booking policies. Their commitment to giving back to the local queer community and creating a safe space for all guests is truly inspiring. By choosing to stay at Hotel Zed, LGBTQ+ travelers can enjoy a comfortable, inclusive, and celebratory experience.

Planning your next trip to Kelowna, Victoria, or Tofino? Make Hotel Zed your home away from home. Support businesses that prioritize inclusivity and create spaces where everyone can feel welcome. Book your stay at Hotel Zed and experience their exceptional hospitality for yourself.

The colorful exterior of the Hotel Zed Tofino.

Share Your Thoughts and Experiences

Have you stayed at Hotel Zed? We’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, ideas, suggestions, and stories in the comments below. Let’s continue to support and celebrate inclusive businesses like Hotel Zed. For more information and reservations, visit Hotel Zed’s website and explore their fantastic properties in Kelowna, Victoria, and Tofino.

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Brian Webb

Brian Webb

Author

Brian Webb is the founder and editor-in-chief of HomoCulture, a celebrated content creator, and winner of the prestigious Mr. Gay Canada – People’s Choice award. An avid traveler, Brian attends Pride events, festivals, street fairs, and LGBTQ friendly destinations through the HomoCulture Tour. He has developed a passion for discovering and sharing authentic lived experiences, educating about the LGBTQ community, and using both his photography and storytelling to produce inspiring content. Originally from the beautiful Okanagan Valley in the southern interior of British Columbia, Brian now lives in Vancouver, British Columbia. His personal interests include travel, photography, physical fitness, mixology, drag shows.

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