Hello, Pride Month!
Since 1983, IGLTA has provided free travel resources while promoting equality and safety within LGBTQ+ tourism globally. Last year, they conducted a survey to gauge LGBTQ+ traveler sentiment while the pandemic was in its early days. One year later (March 26 through to April 9, 2021), they fielded a second survey with the support of the IGLTA Foundation to get a take on LGBTQ+ traveler sentiment as the tourism industry begins recovery.
John Tanzella, IGLTA President/CEO says, “We wanted to revisit this project a year into this challenging time to reinforce the resilience of LGBTQ+ travelers, and to champion the importance of equity, diversity and inclusion in destination outreach. Again, the results undeniably show that LGBTQ+ travelers are ready to travel, and represent a valuable, loyal audience for tourism businesses that make the effort to genuinely welcome them.”
Survey highlights are being shared with the DMO community.
And there’s more news.
Aequalitas Media, one of the fastest growing LGBTQ+ media companies in the U.S., announced the formation of the Gay Travel Business Network (GTBN), a new LGBTQ+ B2B travel organization. Ed Salvato is executive director, advised by a founding board of directors—including some of the best and brightest in the industry, said Aequalitas Media CEO, DJ Doran.
“The Connect THRIVE Summit and GBTN share the mission of creating meaningful and valuable connections with the intention of exploring opportunities to work together,” says Will Seccombe, president, Connect Travel. “We believe that our partnership with GBTN is a win/win for all businesses and destinations interested in community development through LGBTQ+ travel.”
Do join us for the tourism comeback—virtual or in-person— for Connect THRIVE Summit in Las Vegas, co-locating with eTourism Summit, Connect TOUR, and IPW.
Reminder for eTourism Summit:
Submissions for Emerging Tourism Stars are closing on June 14, 2021.
Submissions for the 4th Annual eTSY Awards are closing on June 28, 2021.
