Helsinki - a GLBT-friendly city

Use of the term ”Gay friendly” when promoting Helsinki as a travel destination for LGBT customers

When using the term "gay friendly” tourism companies in Helsinki agree to the following guidelines:

As a company when hiring new employees we do not discriminate against sexual orientation or gender identity, neither do we discriminate sexual orientation during the recruitment process or when implementing practical work arrangements
Our company is proud to serve all customers, also LGBT visitors
Our company treats all customers equally, respectfully, honestly and sincerely
Our customers does not assume anything – our customer asks the visitor. For example, when offering accommodation to two persons of the same gender, we do not assume that they want two separate beds. Instead, we ask if they want separate beds or a double bed
Our company offers the same feeling of safety and security within all our facilities and in all service situations
Our company trains employees and our key suppliers and stakeholders who are involved in customer service with LGBT visitors
Our company does not tolerate impolite, vociferous or antagonistic language use from employees or other visitors or between employees
Our company is serious about protecting the privacy of visitors, and our company is aware that it is important to serve LGBT visitors discretely. Our company has developed a safe and friendly environment for all visitors
For our company, use of the term “gay friendly” demonstrates that LGBT visitors understand that the destination or service company does not necessarily serve only LGBT visitors, but that they often serve LGBT visitors in addition to other tourists. The company ensures good service without demonstrating any intolerance towards LGBT visitors. This does not mean that other companies offering tourism services are intolerant. By using the term “gay friendly”, companies simply demonstrate that they do not tolerate any discrimination against LGBT visitors at their service outlets and in their operations.

The written proposal above was made by the Helsinki City Tourist & Convention Bureau and presented to the Board of HeSETA ry, which subsequently approved it. We will continue to co-operate with this association in other event-related arrangements.

Our aim is to offer foreign travel organisers, travel agencies and transportation companies a list of companies that are committed to serving also LGBT visitors. We work with Out Now Consulting who have an online training programme. The companies that have completed the training will receive a Gay Comfort label that they can use in all their marketing.

Further information

Hanna Muoniovaara (hanna.muoniovaarai@hel.fi)
Marketing Manager

Kari Halonen (kari.halonen@hel.fi)
Marketing Director