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December 18, 2007
City of Sensitive Brotherly Love
Posted by: Chris
I wrote a couple weeks back that the New York City campaign to woo gay tourists was in serious need of some sensitivity training, after a spokesperson was quoted as welcoming "families" or "just you and your lover." I took some flak for being hyper-sensitive myself, but I felt some vindication earlier today when I read that the city of Philadelphia is actually putting money into more than marketing gay tourists.
The goal, obviously, is to avoid "awkward situations" at check-in and throughout the gay guest's stay. If you've traveled much with a same-sex partner, you no doubt know what they're talking about.
On more than a few occasions, especially outside big cities, there are the confused and repeated questioning about whether you really want a single bed for two guests of the same gender. I've been annoyed as well by references to my boyfriend as my "friend," when I'm sure they wouldn't make the same assumption if he were a she.
I recognize the reputation of "sensitivity training" and political correctness, but keep in mind that these are not merely folks with whom we have every day interactions. We are their paid guests, and their role within the hospitality industry is to make us feel welcome and comfortable.
Let's hope the Big Apple follows the City of Brotherly Love's lead and starts with City Hall.
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Let's hope the Big Apple follows the City of Brotherly Love's lead and starts with City Hall.
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Travel on Feb 10, 2009 11:41:29 PM:
Is that only Gays share the bed? I don' thinks so.