“No matter who our guests are we treat them exactly the same. This isn’t something that we need to train…”

Manchester Pride 2018 once again broke all records, with visitors flocking to the famously LGBTQ-friendly city to celebrate what makes them proud. Alongside a host of live events, a parade of thousands and more glitter than even we could deal with.

But the love didn’t just stop on the parade, as many businesses from the surrounding area joined in the Pride celebrations – cementing Manchester as a city bursting with an inclusive mind and forward-thinking allies.

Proud to stand in solidarity with Gay Times and Manchester Pride during the colourful time was AC Hotel Manchester Salford Quays – the four-star modern hotel that’s sure to offer you all you need during a visit to the city. And the open minds continue from the front door to the restaurant as we found out when we sat down with the hotel’s general manager.

Related: Rita Ora, Jake Shears and Sigala to play huge Manchester Pride show

“The very ethos of AC Hotels is to connect with the local community and really draw on its culture and sole,” explains Richard Pearson, general manager at AC Hotel Manchester Salford Quays. Manchester is renowned for its diversity, with people from all over the world and all walks of life choosing to live in our city; and of course at the heart of Manchester’s diversity is our LGBTQ+ community.

“Partnering with Manchester Pride over the last two years is just one of many local charities we partner with, Forever Manchester is another. No matter who our guests are we treat them exactly the same. This isn’t something that we need to train, it is so strong in our culture that our team do it naturally.”

Richard adding: “It is important to us that we celebrate our LGBTQ+ team members at the hotel, especially over the Pride celebrations. Our Director of Sales held ‘Dave’s Rainbow Rave’ on the opening of Manchester’s Pride weekend, where the team came along and enjoyed food, drink and some classic pride tunes.

“We are always eager to get involved in more LGBTQ+ initiatives and would welcome any ideas or suggestions on how we could further support our local communities.”

With spacious hotel rooms, complimentary Wi-Fi, plug-in technology, designer bedding and upscale amenities, you can start your day with an energising breakfast at AC Kitchen before heading out for a day of meetings at MediaCityUK or sightseeing, giving a whole new meaning to stepping out loud and proud.

Now, anybody from a slumber party at the AC Hotel Manchester?

More information can be found here

Words Luke Smith

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