A city without prejudice: LGBT tourism in Siena
Siena, a forward-thinking city
Even now, the papers say that homophobia, and discrimination against gays, are ingrained problems in our society. We still read in the papers about hoteliers who refuse to accept same-sex couples in their hotel; it does not seem to matter that the may have booked in advance and confirmed with a deposit. Even those who rent holiday homes, hide the fact that they do not wish to welcome guests with different sexual orientations. And yet, the statistics show that each year between 5 to 10 percent of tourists travelling to Italy are gay. Prejudice and discrimination should therefore be abandoned, and Siena, one of Tuscany’s most popular destinations, has been gay-friendly for many years.
LGBT tourism in Siena
The initial impetus came from the Region of Tuscany in 2011, when they produced an advert inviting LGBT tourists to visit the region’s cities. Since then, the progress has been remarkable. Today Siena boasts a whole host of hotels that are aimed specifically at the gay population. These facilities range from farmhouses to the most prestigious hotels, who know how to pamper their guests with a great number or services. They can be found in the historic centre, as well as in quieter areas surrounded by the peace of the countryside. There is no prejudice and no discrimination even in many restaurants, boutiques and bars, where you can spend your free time in peace. In Siena, being with a person of the same sex does not cause people to laugh, and certainly does not provoke hostility: the city is ready to welcome everyone. Among other things, urban gay associations have prepared special events that include the best locations, both in terms of accommodation, and entertainment. So, things are really fine in Siena: it’s a town that is really open to everyone, without prejudice of any kind.
What can LGBT tourists find in Siena
Hotels, bed and breakfasts, residences and facilities located within period buildings, such as the Relais degli Angeli: this is the Sienese offering for LGBT tourism. The building, which houses the inn, welcomes guests in rooms adorned with frescoes: it is protected by the Superintendence of cultural heritage and immerses its guests in an atmosphere that is almost magical. Travertine floors, parquet, draperies, exquisite furnishings: everything is taken care of, down to the smallest detail, so that guests feel totally at ease. Each floor features welcoming communal areas, with fully-equipped libraries specially designed for those who love to read, and little nooks where you can retreat to enjoy a drink whenever you wish. The members of the LGBT community who have stayed there have very much enjoyed the hotel, not only because it is located in the historic centre of Siena, just a few steps from piazza del Campo. In addition to the elegant, stylish rooms equipped with every service you may require, our guests were impressed by our friendly and multilingual staff. In short, a place where it doesn’t matter which nationality you are and with whom you’re travelling.