Going Barefoot
October 13, 2004 | 
News Reports
The Caribbean resort company Sandals has finally lifted its policy that prevented same-sex couples from visiting their thirteen resorts. Several companies around the world (including the Washington Post and taxis in London) refused to print ads for Sandals because of their exclusionary practices. While I can appreciate that this is a great step and I’m pleased they finally chucked the policy, I’m still not sure gay and lesbian couples should go to Sandals, just because they can. For one thing, just because gay couples are allowed in doesn’t mean they’re going to be treated with respect by the staff and other guests. There’s also a Groucho Marx element here - do we want to join this club just because it will accept us as members? There are plenty of other all-inclusive resorts throughout the Caribbean that welcome gay and lesbian travelers, including the large family of SuperClubs locations. And there are literally hundreds of smaller, more intimate resorts throughout the region. In summary, while I’m glad Sandals has opened their doors, I still think there are better places to go.
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