Embracing Inclusivity in Hosting: Welcoming Guests from All Backgrounds

Opening your property to guests from around the world is a fundamental part of hosting. Inclusivity helps every guest feel welcomed and valued, whatever their background.

Creating a warm, comfortable environment for guests from different cultures and walks of life is key to being a great host. At Holidu, we believe every guest deserves to be treated with respect, free from prejudice or judgment, regardless of age, gender identity, sexual orientation, nationality, ethnicity, physical ability, race, or religion.

A safe, welcoming atmosphere helps guests feel at ease. By making it clear that all visitors – whether traveling as couples, families, or friends – will be warmly received, you create a richer experience for them. This aligns with Holidu's mission: to make hosting and booking holiday homes free of doubt and full of joy.

Tips to make your guests feel welcome

1. Use Instant Booking to support inclusivity

Holidu's instant booking feature lets guests book without prior approval, signalling that you are open to hosting anyone who meets your criteria. It sets a welcoming tone from the start. For more information, see the Benefits of Instant Bookings.

2. Clearly describe your property's accessibility features

If your property offers accessibility features, describe them accurately in your listing. Consider including details such as:

• Wide doors (minimum 80 cm)
• Step-free access to the property and throughout the interior
• Elevator access
• Toilet with grab rails
• Raised toilet and adapted bath/bathtub with bath chair
• Lowered bathroom sink
• Emergency cord in the bathroom
• A bathroom with a 1.5-meter turning circle
• Roll-in shower, shower with grab rails, and shower chair

If your property includes several of these features, it can be highlighted as wheelchair-inclusive, making it easier for guests with accessibility needs to find and book your property. You can update these amenities under Amenities > Accessibility.

3. Accommodate guests with service animals

We ask all hosts to accommodate guests who require a service animal, in line with EU service animal laws. Service animals are not considered pets, so they must be allowed at the property whether your listing is pet-friendly or not. Denying service animals could be considered discriminatory. For more details, please see our article on service animals.

4. Respect guests' privacy

Once guests check in, find the right balance between making them feel welcome and respecting their privacy. Avoid visiting unnecessarily, but make it clear you are available to help if needed. This creates a comfortable, stress-free environment.

5. Create an inclusive property description

Use welcoming language in your property description. Highlight features that appeal to diverse travelers, such as proximity to public transportation, nearby places of worship, grocery stores that cater to different dietary requirements, or family-friendly amenities. Avoid using language that might inadvertently exclude certain groups of people.

Why inclusivity matters for your hosting success

By creating an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming atmosphere, you help ensure your guests have an unforgettable stay – and contribute to a more open, accepting global community of travelers. Properties that actively welcome guests from all backgrounds often receive higher satisfaction ratings, positive reviews, and repeat bookings. Inclusive hosting practices also expand your potential guest pool, leading to increased bookings and revenue throughout the year.

Remember, inclusivity is an ongoing commitment. Regularly review your property description, amenities, and house rules to ensure they reflect your welcoming approach. Listen to guest feedback and be willing to make adjustments that demonstrate your dedication to creating a safe and comfortable space for everyone.