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LGBTQ+ travelers and their allies can build a more inclusive world

January 15, 2025
Last updated: January 22, 2025
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A gay couple laugh and look at a map as they enjoy their trip
John Tanzella (he/him)
John Tanzella (he/him)
President/CEO, the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA)
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There’s something about exploring a new place, surrounded by new sights, sounds and complete strangers that can give travelers a feeling of being truly themselves, sometimes for the first time. Released from the expectations of family and friends back home, many people feel they can express themselves more openly abroad. That’s true for anyone, but perhaps LGBTQ+ travelers can relate to this more than others.

Navigating the challenges of LGBTQ+ travel

And yet, for some — especially trans and gender diverse people — travel can come with challenges. Discrimination, a lack of understanding, misgendering, safety concerns, and even the refusal of service can transform what was meant to be a relaxing holiday into a bad experience. Different regions and businesses are more open to LGBTQ+ travelers than others and ending up in the right place can really make or break someone’s experience abroad.

Recognizing this need for safe and welcoming travel options,a small group of pioneering travel agents and guesthouse owners decided to launch the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA). Our mission is to enable authentic travel that enriches lives and connects the LGBTQ+ community with the tourism industry.

Founded in 1983, IGLTA encompasses everyone on the LGBTQ+ spectrum and is the leading global network of LGBTQ+ travel professionals. Our network spans more than 13,000 welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events and travel media in more than 80 countries.

More than 40 years since we started this work, we’re happy to say that a lot has changed for our community, all over the world. The LGBTQ+ market is a powerful economic force: LGBTQ+ travelers are known for spending more per trip, and LGBTQ+ families are a rapidly growing travel segment looking for new and exciting places that accept their identities and offer inclusive amenities. But our work is not done.

Partnering for a more inclusive future

Looking ahead, we have our eyes set on even more ambitious goals. In 2024,we were proud to welcome Amadeus, one of our newest members. Its mission to make the experience of travel better for everyone, everywhere can be seen in the development of more inclusivetechnology that caters to the diverse needs of LGTBQ+ travelers, such as gender-neutral options and inclusive language. In addition, Amadeus is collaboratingwithGeoSure to integrate LGBTQ+ safety ratings intoAmadeus Hey! Solutions. Amadeus can be a powerful force in empowering LGBTQ+ businesses with the tools and resources they need to succeed.

Building a more inclusive world through travel

Travel has the unique power to open our hearts and minds. It brings all kinds of people together and helps us share experiences and discover new ways of living. As LGBTQ+ travelers explore new destinations and cultures, they foster greater understanding and acceptance within the broader community. Together, LGBTQ+ travelers and their allies can build a more inclusive world, not just within travel, but in society as a whole, and we’re excited to see where this journey leads us.

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