Topdeck has debuted a first-of-its-kind Inclusivity Policy, doubling down on its commitment to creating safe and welcoming trip experiences for young LGBTQIA+ travellers and helping travel advisors meet the diverse needs of today’s travellers.
The 18-39 youth travel experts have updated booking and trip accommodation options to allow more choice for your clients, aligning with Gen Z travel preferences to deliver a more inclusive experience.
So, what’s new? During the booking process, travellers can now select the non-binary ‘X’ as their passport gender.
Topdeck has also added more inclusive accommodation types across its four trip styles, moving beyond binary male or female gender allocations to offer a mixed-room option that allows all travellers to share their space, regardless of gender or identity.
All travellers can feel free to self-identify and share any relevant information to assist Customer Service teams in creating a safe and supportive environment on their trips and promote equality and respect during the booking process.
The youth travel experts conducted in-depth focus groups with young travellers, Trip Leaders and internal team members to inform the policy direction.
Australian LGBTQIA+ youth organisation Minus18 facilitated training and education, ensuring teams in the office and on the road are fully versed in the new policy, stance and terminology, allowing travellers to feel welcomed at every touchpoint.
Topdeck Travel General Manager APAC Anna Fawcett said the first-of-its-kind initiative is the culmination of many months of consultation and collaboration with various stakeholders aimed at making the 18-39 youth touring space more welcoming and inclusive to LGBTQIA+ travellers.
“Topdeck has always been an inclusive brand that encourages Topdeckers to ‘feel real’ and bring their authentic selves on board when they travel with us,” she said.
“Our mission is to ensure our travellers feel safe, comfortable and included throughout their interactions with us, from our marketing content to the booking process and the actual on-road experience.
“We want to empower all young travellers to ‘feel real’ and free of judgement to explore more purposeful connections with each other and the communities they visit with like-minded Trip Leaders and crew through our style of social group travel.”
Topdeck’s Delve Deep and Sail & Swim 2025-26 trips are currently on sale.
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