Freedom Collection from Thomsons

Fresh out of the wrapping, Thomson Freedom is a new range of holidays for gay and lesbian travellers.

We’ve kicked things off with Europe and all the favourites line up - Gran Canaria, Mykonos, Sitges, Lesbos and Ibiza. Plus there are couple of newcomers to the scene in the shape of Majorca and Tenerife. Hotel-wise, there’s a real mix – everything from hipper-than-thou hotels to practical budget bases. And what sets them apart is the fact they’re all GayComfort certified, so there’ll be no raised eyebrows at check-in.

Plus, some of our hotels go one step further and are either gay or lesbian exclusive. You’ll find them in Gran Canaria, Mykonos, Sitges and Lesbos

What is GayComfort?

Sometimes a holiday can become an unjustified cause of some toe-curling scenarios. You know what we mean – like the customary ‘can we please swap this twin room for a double?’ question; or worrying how staff might react to lesbians or gay men just being a couple on holidays. GayComfort has been designed to help you navigate through all that.

In a GayComfort certified hotel you know that the hotel is not just filling in some "tick-box" to claim they are "gay friendly". Instead you know staff are specially trained to become truly "gay welcoming". It basically means staff are trained on lesbian and gay travel sensitivity issues to make you feel at home right from the moment you step into the lobby.

Is it really necessary?

Well, actually, yes. Three out of four gay travellers actively seek hotels they believe are ‘genuinely’ welcoming. And research shows most gay holidaymakers are worried about the reception they’ll receive from, well, reception - not to mention the bar staff, the housekeepers and the waiters. More and more, people are looking for confidence that their holiday will be a hassle-free experience.

Is it officially recognised in any way?

Of course. GayComfort isn’t any old training – in fact, it’s officially recommended by the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA). They had this to say about it: “Out Now has developed the best gay training, accreditation and marketing programme in the world.”

So, which hotels have the stamp?

Every hotel in the Freedom range. We’ve made sure all of them have gone through the programme so you can relax and feel instantly at ease, wherever you’re staying. Isn't that how travel should be?

Please contact us for latest availability and prices or to discuss your specific holiday requirements. Telephone us direct on 0844 884 9501.