The Cool Hostel in Coquimbo, Northern Chile operates year-round as a deliberately queer-friendly space, moving beyond Pride Month tokenism to embed LGBTQ+ inclusion into its daily operations and community culture. Co-founder Cris Sankari has positioned the hostel as a sanctuary where guests "can show up exactly as you are," creating an intentional alternative to mainstream hospitality that often overlooks or marginalizes queer travelers.
Located in Chile's Norte Chico region, The Cool Hostel addresses a genuine gap in accessible, welcoming accommodation for LGBTQ+ visitors exploring South America's Pacific coastline. The hostel's commitment extends beyond symbolic gestures to practical hospitality choices. Staff training, inclusive booking options, and deliberate community partnerships reflect a philosophy that sustainability encompasses social responsibility alongside environmental practices.
This model responds to clear market demand. LGBTQ+ travelers increasingly prioritize safety, representation, and authentic welcome when selecting accommodations. Booking platforms like Hostelworld now highlight LGBTQ+ certifications and filters, recognizing that queer-friendly properties attract both dedicated guests and allies seeking values-aligned travel experiences. The Cool Hostel's approach positions it competitively within the budget accommodation sector, where hostels traditionally emphasize social connection and cultural exchange.
Coquimbo's waterfront location and proximity to the Atacama Desert provide natural appeal for backpackers and adventure travelers. A queer-centered hostel expands the city's tourism profile beyond typical beach and nature tourism. Similar initiatives operate across Latin America, including Casa Xochiquetzal in Mexico City and various pride-focused hostels in Buenos Aires, establishing a growing network of deliberately inclusive budget accommodations.
The hostel's sustainability focus encompasses labor practices, resource management, and community investment alongside LGBTQ+ advocacy. This intersectional approach