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Media Contact: LoAnn Halden

Mobile/WhatsApp: +1.954.253.4095

Loann.halden@iglta.org

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (13 April 2023)—The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association will hold its 40th Anniversary Global Convention 4-7 October in Puerto Rico and is now accepting applications for speakers for this historic event.

Each year, IGLTA strives to gather dynamic and engaging speakers from diverse backgrounds who will deliver compelling and informative presentations for the attendees. From seasoned experts to rising stars, IGLTA welcomes all professionals who are passionate about sharing and discussing their ideas. Speakers will have the opportunity to showcase their unique perspectives at the Puerto Rico Convention Center in a combination of breakouts, workshops, and main stage presentations.

“As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we’re excited to bring together a diverse group of tourism professionals and thought leaders to share their insights on LGBTQ+ tourism,” said IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella. “We invite all professionals who are passionate about advancing our industry to apply and help us create an LGBTQ+ tourism event to remember.”

Notable past speakers include Jennifer Brown, DEI expert and Founder/CEO of Jennifer Brown Consulting (JBC); Fabrice Houdart, Human Rights Officer at the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR); and Matthew Pritchard, Head of Industry and Travel of Southeast U.S. at Google.

The annual convention brings together top industry leaders and experts from around the world to share insights and best practices in LGBTQ+ tourism. This premier educational and networking event has been helping businesses connect and thrive for nearly four decades. For more information about the convention and registration, please visit IGLTA convention.org.

About IGLTA

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. IGLTA’s global network includes 12,000 LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80 countries. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org and follow us on Facebook @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness or Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @iglta.

Media Contact: LoAnn Halden

LoAnn.Halden@iglta.org

+1.954.253.4095 (US mobile & WhatsApp)

+44 (0)7757 245 430 (UK mobile)

IGLTA Foundation Promotes LGBTQ+ Travel at EQUAL Africa in Cape Town

Tourism leaders from around the world will gather to discuss opportunities and challenges facing LGBTQ+ travel in Africa

CAPE TOWN, South Africa (30 March 2023)—The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association Foundation is excited to showcase its enhanced partnership with World Travel Market (WTM) Africa to power this year’s EQUAL Africa in Cape Town on 3 April.

Held as part of Africa Travel Week, EQUAL Africa will feature several educational sessions focused on insights and best practices to create a more inclusive tourism industry. During the conference, the IGLTA Foundation will unveil its third Leadership Think Tank Report titled, “How the Private Sector Can Drive LGBTQ+ Tourism Development in Emerging Destinations.” The report will provide recommendations to support the advancement of LGBTQ+ travel and will be available to download from the IGLTA website after its launch.

The full EQUAL Africa program with speakers is available here.

The IGLTA Foundation also will recognize Kenyan entrepreneur Rodney Otieno (he/him) as the first EQUAL Africa Fellowship recipient. He is the co-founder of The Queer & Allied Chamber of Commerce (QACC Africa) based in Nairobi, an organization that promotes economic relationships between queer-owned and operated businesses, entrepreneurs, and their allies, in nations throughout Africa. The IGLTA Foundation Fellowship Program provides support and opportunities for emerging leaders in the LGBTQ+ tourism industry. This is the first time the Fellowship program has been offered for an event outside of the IGLTA Global Convention and highlights the IGLTA Foundation’s continued growth.

“EQUAL Africa brings together global travel professionals to create more dialogue around safe and inclusive travel for all. We are thrilled to help make this important event happen,” said IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella (he/him). “We are especially excited to introduce Foundation Fellowship recipient Rodney Otieno in Cape Town and share his story with other travel leaders. His work exemplifies the positive impact that LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and businesses can have on communities throughout Africa.”

“I’m absolutely thrilled to have been awarded the IGLTA Foundation Fellowship to attend EQUAL Africa at WTM Africa in Cape Town,” said Rodney Otieno, who operates WK Inclusive Travel in addition to founding QACC Africa. “ I have no doubt that LGBTQ+ tourism will continue to flourish here in Kenya, as the hub to East Africa, but also throughout the continent as most of the younger generation support diversity and there are many queer and queer-allied people operating in the tourism sector, providing fabulous tourism services. Attending EQUAL Africa will allow me, in my role as co-founder of the Queer & Allied Chamber of Commerce Africa, to support upcoming queer tourism entrepreneurs and promote further investment in LGBTQ+ businesses, whilst also promoting Kenya and the region as a safe and uniquely enjoyable tourism destination.”

As a member of IGLTA, WTM Africa has become a strong partner to expand support and visibility for LGBTQ+ travel in the region. IGLTA has worked with WTM Africa since 2015 to develop LGBTQ+ educational content and events like EQUAL Africa.

“We are proud to partner with IGLTA on EQUAL Africa to promote inclusive and diverse tourism experiences in Africa. As we strive to rebuild and grow the African tourism industry, it is our collective responsibility to ensure that everyone feels welcome and safe when traveling in Africa, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity,” said Africa Travel Week’s Megan De Jager (she/her), Portfolio Director-Travel, Tourism and RX Africa Marketing. “We believe that by championing LGBTQ+ inclusion, we can create a more vibrant and accepting tourism landscape, one that reflects the true beauty and diversity of our continent.”

About IGLTA & the IGLTA Foundation

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. IGLTA’s global network includes 12,000+ LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80 countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow us on Facebook @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness or @IGLTAFoundation, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @iglta.

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Media Contact: LoAnn Halden

LoAnn.Halden@iglta.org

+1.954.253.4095 (US mobile & WhatsApp)

+44 (0)7757 245 430 (UK mobile)

IGLTA will celebrate 40 years of advancing LGBTQ+ tourism globally 4-7 October with a return to the Caribbean for the first time since 1985

Register here today!

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (21 March 2023)—The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association opened registration today for its 40th Anniversary Global Convention, which is set for 4-7 October at the Puerto Rico Convention Center. The host of IGLTA’s second-ever global conference in 1985, Puerto Rico continues to be a beacon in the Caribbean for queer travelers and the perfect backdrop for the premier educational and networking event for LGBTQ+ tourism.

“We are so excited to bring our Global Convention back to San Juan for an event that will inspire everyone working to advance LGBTQ+ travel for the future,” said IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella. “This truly momentous occasion would not be possible without Discover Puerto Rico, and their steadfast support for the LGBTQ+ community on the Island.”

Discover Puerto Rico, the Island’s Destination Marketing Organization, has been a vocal champion of welcoming LGBTQ+ travelers since its inception in 2018. In 2019, polls showed that 19% of LGBTQ+ travelers identified Puerto Rico as an LGBTQ+ welcoming destination and in 2020, that number increased to 41%. This increase was reached through further embracing the community, working alongside LGBTQ+ agency HospitableMe, and taking an “education first” approach by providing their teams and local partners with in-depth training on evolving industry standards of inclusive hospitality.

“It is an honor to be the host destination of this historic and impactful conference,” said Leah Chandler, Chief Marketing Officer of Discover Puerto Rico. “This partnership with IGLTA is not only an acknowledgment of our efforts surrounding inclusivity for all travelers who seek the Island’s unique cultural and tourism offerings, but also a commitment to be an example to our neighbors in the Caribbean for creating environments that are welcoming to everyone, and ultimately drive positive outcomes for businesses and locals alike.”

IGLTA Global Convention registration includes:

• Opening Reception at the DISTRITO T-Mobile, the ultimate entertainment center in San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Two days of educational sessions
• Media Networking Event connecting delegates with global media outlets and influencers that promote LGBTQ+ welcoming travel
• Two LGBTQ+ Tourism Expo networking lunches that unite all attendees
• Closing Reception presented by 2024 Global Convention host destination Osaka, Japan
• Option to participate in the IGLTA Buyer/Supplier Marketplace on 4 October for one-to-one scheduled meetings (additional fee)

IGLTA’s Global Convention has been helping businesses connect and thrive within the LGBTQ+ tourism industry for nearly four decades. From educational sessions on the latest marketing trends and travel innovation to dynamic networking receptions, the convention offers an enlightening—and productive—time for the world’s top LGBTQ+ welcoming tourism and travel professionals. It also provides an opportunity to support the charitable IGLTA Foundation with Voyage, a stylish ticketed evening event during the convention that raises funds for LGBTQ+ leadership, research, and education initiatives.

For more information, please visit igltaconvention.org.

About IGLTA

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. IGLTA’s global network includes 12,000 LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80 countries. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org and follow us on Facebook @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness or Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @iglta.

About Discover Puerto Rico

Discover Puerto Rico is a newly established private, not-for-profit Destination Marketing Organization (DMO) whose mission is to make Puerto Rico visible to the world as a premier travel destination. The DMO brings prosperity to the people of Puerto Rico by collaboratively promoting the Island’s diversity and uniqueness for leisure and business travel, and events. It is responsible for all global marketing, sales, and promotion of the destination and works collaboratively with key local governmental and non-governmental players throughout Puerto Rico’s visitor economy and the community at large, to empower economic growth. To discover all the beauty the Island has to offer, visit DiscoverPuertoRico.com.

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The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association will take its premier event to Asia for the first time

Media Contact: LoAnn Halden

LoAnn.Halden@iglta.org

+1.954.253.4095 (US mobile & WhatsApp)

+44 (0)7757 245 430 (UK mobile)

OSAKA, Japan (7 March 2022)—The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) announced today that it has selected Osaka, Japan as the destination for its 2024 Global Convention. This will be IGLTA’s first-ever Global Convention in Asia. IGLTA is proud to partner with the Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau (OCTB) to make this historic event possible. 

“After a very detailed evaluation process, we are proud to recognize Osaka’s impressive bid and the leadership they have shown as an advocate for LGBTQ+ inclusion in Japan. Their commitment toward more discrimination-free spaces and travel experiences is remarkable,” said IGLTA Board Chair Felipe Cardenas. “This is truly a historic moment as Osaka becomes the first-ever IGLTA Global Convention host city in Asia–a reflection of our deep commitment to bring a more fair and inclusive travel industry to every corner of the globe.”

Home to the second-largest LGBTQ+ scene outside of Tokyo, Osaka is known for its welcoming locals and decadent food culture. Osaka Prefecture was the first regional-level government to implement a same-sex partnership system, for which over 500 couples have registered as of January 2023. 

Osaka city has also led Japan in encouraging businesses and organizations to incorporate and implement protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. In 2019, Osaka launched the LGBT Leading Company initiative, evaluating organizations on their actions, both as service providers and as employers, to ensure that all individuals can enjoy the same benefits regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. 

“We truly thank you for selecting Osaka as the host of the 2024 IGLTA Global Convention. Osaka actively works to develop into a city even more welcoming of all travelers, and we were the first destination in Japan to develop strategies specifically in LGBTQ+ tourism,” said Hiroshi Mizohata, President, Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau. “Osaka has a long history of being the gathering place for people, ideas, and goods from across Japan, making it well-suited to be labelled a diverse destination.” 

Osaka is undergoing rapid development to receive a massive influx of visitors for Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. The theme of Expo 2025 is “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” a philosophy that is deeply shared with IGLTA’s mission. 

For more information on welcoming Osaka: www.visitgayosaka.com.

About IGLTA

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. IGLTA’s global network includes 12,000 LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80 countries. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org and follow us on Facebook @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness or Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @iglta.

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The report, highlighted in the opening session of IGLTA’s Global Convention in Milan, is now available as a free resource on the association’s website  

Media Contact: LoAnn Halden

+1.954.253.4095 Mobile/WhatsApp

loann.halden@iglta.org

Milan, Italy (3 November 2022)—The IGLTA Foundation has released a new report authored by Peter Jordan—one of the world’s leading specialists on LGBTQ+ travel—outlining best practices for businesses and travel companies to remain competitive in the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic. The report, which was featured at the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association’s Global Convention in Milan last week, is titled “Going Further: How to Make LGBTQ+ Travel Transformational for Travelers, Communities and the Planet” and aims to provide recommendations and insights for leaders in the travel industry through extensive research and focus groups. The IGLTA Foundation commissioned the report to help ensure the travel industry continues to evolve and move forward.

“IGLTA and its Foundation strive to provide our network with the tools and resources necessary to promote more inclusive business practices in tandem with responsible approaches to travel around the world. This report by Peter Jordan is exactly the kind of forward-thinking strategy that drives our organization and the travel industry as a whole,” said Theresa Belpulsi, Immediate Past Board Chair, IGLTA Foundation. “The COVID-19 pandemic has had a serious impact on the way that global and local travel communities interact. By taking a closer look at the diverse LGBTQ+ community of travelers, this report explains how we can build back our businesses, adopt practices that reduce our environmental footprint, and contribute to the wellbeing of communities in our most beloved destinations.”

“Going Further” helps explain how the LGBTQ+ travel community can work together to rebuild and promote LGBTQ+ travel through five positive action steps that businesses can take—in addition to existing efforts to support responsible travel—that benefit their destinations, host communities and visitors. The report includes data from an IGLTA consumer survey conducted last year to assess the mindset of LGBTQ+ travelers as they returned to leisure travel post-pandemic. Even before the pandemic emerged, consumers were paying increasing attention to the impact of business on their local communities, economy, and the environment. Now, data from that survey shared for the first time as part of this project shows that these issues matter more than ever to LGBTQ+ travelers, too. 

Among the key findings, the survey found that:

• 2 in 3 LGBTQ+ travelers wanted to reduce the environmental footprint of their next trip.
• LGBTQ+ travelers show a strong desire to support their destination’s local LGBTQ+ community, for example by contributing to LGBTQ+ community projects (69% of respondents) and supporting LGBTQ+ owned businesses (72%).
• Nearly three quarters of respondents said that racial equality had become important or very important to them during the past year, underlining the importance for businesses to actively improve their diversity, equality, and inclusion practices.
• More than half of respondents said that improving their mental health was important to them, reflecting a greater social awareness of this issue. 

The full report is available at iglta.org/research.

The IGLTA Global Convention would not be possible without the generous support of our convention sponsors. Institutional Presenting: Italian National Tourist Board; Comune di Milano; YesMilano; AITGL. Presenting Level: Discover Puerto Rico; International Experience Canada/Government of Canada; Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau; Tourist Board of Spain – Turespaña; Visit València; Sevilla City Office. Official Level: American Express Travel; Booking.com; CAP Travel Assistance by FocusPoint International; Delta Air Lines; Hilton; Visit Lauderdale; IMG; Israel Ministry of Tourism; The Florida Keys & Key West; Malta Tourism Authority; ProColombia; Simpleview; Starhotels; Toscana Promozione Turistica; The TreadRight Foundation; Visit Philadelphia; Visit West Hollywood. Conference Level: AIG; Cvent; Fidenza Village; Google; PROMPERU; Tourism Seychelles; SXM Media; Visit Greater Palm Springs. Breakout Session Sponsors: Puerto Vallarta; WeTravel. Community Partners: Allumeuse; Arcigay; Bocconi University; Community Marketing & Insights; EDGE: LGBTI+ Leaders for Change; Mantra Communications; myGwork; NEBE; Parks – Liberi e Uguali; Pink Media; Sonders and Beach; SEA Milan Airports; World Food Travel Association.

About the Author: Peter Jordan, a consultant and researcher based in Amsterdam, has authored pioneering reports on diverse aspects of tourism and LGBTQ+ inclusion and diversity for the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), European Travel Commission and IGLTA. He is currently engaged in several strategy projects aimed at helping national and local destination management organizations navigate post-COVID-19 tourism recovery. 

About IGLTA & the IGLTA Foundation

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. IGLTA global network includes 12,000 LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80+ countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow us on Facebook @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness or @IGLTAFoundation, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @iglta.

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LGBTQ+ tourism thought leaders gathered in Italy for IGLTA’s largest convention outside of the U.S. in the association’s history

Media Contact: LoAnn Halden

+1.954.253.4095 Mobile/WhatsApp

loann.halden@iglta.org

Milan, Italy (1 November 2022)—The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association’s 38th Global Convention, 26-29 October at the UNAHotels Expo Fiera Milano, was IGLTA’s largest convention outside of the United States to date, with 550 delegates representing 39 countries and territories from around the world. The convention, the premier educational and networking event for LGBTQ+ tourism, the was association’s first European convention since Madrid in 2014. The event was originally set for 2020, but had to be rescheduled due to the pandemic, making it a cause for greater celebration.

Given the current political climate for LGBTQ+ issues, this year’s convention became even more important, strengthening ties between the global LGBTQ+ tourism community and the business community of Italy. 

“As we continue to see increasing opposition toward LGBTQ+ communities globally, IGLTA’s convention—built around business networking, education and inclusivity—could not be more critical,” said IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella. “The incredible outpouring of support for this year’s convention further strengthens our ability to elevate LGBTQ+ voices in the tourism industry and to continue working to ensure LGBTQ+ travelers have access to safe and welcoming experiences as they explore the world.”

Convention Highlights:

• The Opening Reception, held at Sforzesco Castle, where guests had the opportunity to visit the Rondanini Pietà, the last work by Michelangelo.

• IGLTA’s Buyer/Supplier Marketplace was the most successful to date, generating 1,330 appointments with buyers that conduct over US$100 million in LGBTQ+ business annually.

• The IGLTA Foundation Think Tank, uniting global tourism leaders to discuss how the tourism industry can support LGBTQ+ travel in emerging markets facing cultural, governmental or infrastructure challenges.

• Main stage content that ranged from discussions of responsible tourism strategies and future LGBTQ+ marketing trends to meaningful conversations about transgender and nonbinary inclusion in hospitality and intersectionality within the queer travel community. 

• Voyage, the IGLTA Foundation Fundraiser, drew a sold-out crowd of 250 attendees and raised over US$50,000 for IGLTA Foundation initiatives. 

IGLTA’s 40th Anniversary Global Convention is set for 20-23 September 2023 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. More information and early registration for next year’s convention can be found here. 

High-res images from the Milan convention available upon request.

The IGLTA Global Convention would not be possible without the generous support of our convention sponsors. Institutional Presenting: Italian National Tourist Board; Comune di Milano; YesMilano; AITGL. Presenting Level: Discover Puerto Rico; International Experience Canada/Government of Canada; Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau; Tourist Board of Spain – Turespaña; Visit València; Sevilla City Office. Official Level: American Express Travel; Booking.com; CAP Travel Assistance by FocusPoint International; Delta Air Lines; Hilton; Visit Lauderdale; IMG; Israel Ministry of Tourism; The Florida Keys & Key West; Malta Tourism Authority; ProColombia; Simpleview; Starhotels; Toscana Promozione Turistica; The TreadRight Foundation; Visit Philadelphia; Visit West Hollywood. Conference Level: AIG; Cvent; Fidenza Village; Google; PROMPERU; Tourism Seychelles; SXM Media; Visit Greater Palm Springs. Breakout Session Sponsors: Puerto Vallarta; WeTravel. Community Partners: Allumeuse; Arcigay; Bocconi University; Community Marketing & Insights; EDGE: LGBTI+ Leaders for Change; Mantra Communications; myGwork; NEBE; Parks – Liberi e Uguali; Pink Media; Sonders and Beach; SEA Milan Airports; World Food Travel Association.

About IGLTA & the IGLTA Foundation

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. IGLTA global network includes 12,000 LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80+ countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow us on Facebook @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness or @IGLTAFoundation, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @iglta.

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Tuesday 18 October 2022: The sky is set to sparkle when the Qantas WorldPride Flight from Los Angeles to Sydney takes off on 22 February 2023, bringing members of the American LGBTQI+ community to Australia to celebrate Sydney WorldPride. 

As a proud supporter of the LGBTQI+ community Qantas is the official airline partner for Sydney WorldPride. The three-week WorldPride festival is being held in the Southern hemisphere for the first time and coincides with the famous Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. 

Onboard Qantas’ WorldPride Flight, customers will enjoy an array of experiences hosted by Australian comedian Joel Creasey, including live inflight entertainment, limited edition ‘Rainbow Roo’ Qantas pyjamas designed specifically for the flight and a menu created by Australian chef and Qantas Director of Food Beverage and Service, Neil Perry. 

A general admission ticket to Live and Proud: Sydney WorldPride Opening Concert, featuring special guest performer Kylie Minogue, will be a special gift from Qantas for all passengers on the flight

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said the Australian national carrier was proud to continue its work as a champion for diversity and equal rights, including on LGBTQI+ issues.

“Supporting the LGBTQI+ community is part of the Qantas spirit and this flight will be operated by members of the Qantas Illuminate network, a community of Qantas LGTBQI+ employees and their allies.

“We are proud to bring visitors from the USA not only to celebrate Sydney WorldPride, but also to experience all that this vibrant city and country has to offer.”

Ahead of Sydney WorldPride, Qantas has partnered with the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) to support people travelling to Sydney for the festival. John Tanzella, President/CEO of IGLTA, welcomed the new partnership with the flying kangaroo. 

“For more than 25 years, Qantas has been an outstanding advocate for LGBTQ+ communities across Australia, and a champion in promoting a safe, equitable, and diverse culture for both their customers and staff. We’re so excited to welcome another leading travel brand that has demonstrated long-term support for our community into our family of Global Partners.” Sydney WorldPride CEO Kate Wickett said the Qantas WorldPride flight will make it easy for visitors from the USA to travel to Sydney for the festival.

“I can’t think of a more dazzling or glamorous way to arrive in Sydney than on this incredible WorldPride flight. The USA is by far the biggest market for international visitors coming to Sydney for WorldPride and we’re excited that Qantas is helping our guests arrive in fabulous style.”

The Qantas WorldPride Flight will go on sale today with seats bookable at qantas.com/worldpride starting from $1,545 USD round trip. It will be operated by a 236-seat Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner with Economy, Premium Economy and Business class cabins. The flight will operate with net zero emissions, with 100 per cent of emissions carbon offset.

Media Enquiries: Qantas Media +61 418 210 005 qantasmedia@qantas.com.au

The award-winning entrepreneur, speaker and author will address delegates on 27 October

Media Contact: LoAnn Halden

+1.954.253.4095 Mobile/WhatsApp

loann.halden@iglta.org

Milan, Italy (11 October, Coming Out Day, 2022)— The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) announced that Jennifer Brown, Founder and CEO of Jennifer Brown Consulting (JBC), will be a keynote speaker at this year’s Global Convention in Milan on Thursday, 27 October. Brown’s session will focus on expanding strategies that promote safe and inclusive workplace environments for traditionally marginalized identities—women, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people with disabilities.

Ahead of Brown’s keynote address, there will be a Women’s Leadership Networking event hosted by Booking.com for women attending the convention to meet Brown and connect with other women entrepreneurs to share the ideas, best practices, and the unique challenges that women in business face. This will take place in the convention host hotel Lobby Bar, UNAHOTELS Expo Fiera Milano, from 18:00h-19:00h, Wednesday, 26 October prior to the convention Opening Reception at Sforzesco Castle

“Women entrepreneurs—especially LGBTQ+ women entrepreneurs—face persistent barriers that make achieving economic success a serious challenge with lasting consequences,” said IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella. “Which is why I’m so excited to have Jennifer here in Milan, to share her experience with others and her strategy for creating more inclusive workplace cultures where everyone can thrive.”

Brown is an award-winning entrepreneur, speaker, author, and diversity and inclusion expert who is deeply passionate about building more inclusive and welcoming workplaces. As the Founder and CEO of JBC, a certified woman- and LGBTQ+-owned firm, Brown and her team design and execute inclusion strategies that have been implemented by some of the biggest companies and nonprofits in the world. She is the bestselling author of two books, Inclusion: Diversity, The New Workplace and The Will to Change (2017) and How to Be an Inclusive Leader: Your Role in Creating Cultures of Belonging Where Everyone Can Thrive (2019)—with the newly expanded and updated Second Edition just released on 4 October.

“Instead of ignoring or denying differences, we need to acknowledge that we all have identities that impact our experience in the world and in the workplace,” Brown said. “We need to recognize the impact of bias, stereotypes, and dominant cultures on people with marginalized identities, not have them swept under the rug by pretending they don’t exist. When we recognize that the journey is more arduous for people of certain identities, we begin the real work of challenging systems and building equity.”

For more information about this year’s convention in Milan, please visit igltaconvention.org.

The 38th Annual IGLTA Global Convention would not be possible without the generous support of our convention sponsors. Institutional Presenting: Italian National Tourist Board; Comune di Milano; YesMilano; AITGL. Presenting Level – Discover Puerto Rico; International Experience Canada/Government of Canada; Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau; Tourist Board of Spain – Turespaña; Visit València; Sevilla City Office. Official Level – American Express Travel; Booking.com; CAP Travel Assistance by FocusPoint International; Visit Lauderdale; Delta Air Lines; Hilton; IMG; Israel Ministry of Tourism; The Florida Keys & Key West; Malta Tourism Authority; Simpleview; Starhotels; Toscana Promozione Turistica; The TreadRight Foundation; Visit Philadelphia; Visit West Hollywood. Conference Level – AIG; Cvent; Fidenza Village; Google; PROMPERU; Tourism Seychelles; SXM Media; Visit Greater Palm Springs. Breakout Session Sponsors – WeTravel. Community Partners – Allumeuse; Arcigay; Community Marketing & Insights; EDGE: LGBTI+ Leaders for Change; Mantra Communications; myGwork; NEBE; Pink Media; Sonders and Beach; World Food Travel Association.

About IGLTA & the IGLTA Foundation

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. IGLTA global network includes 12,000 LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80+ countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow us on Facebook @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness or @IGLTAFoundation, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @iglta.

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The award will be presented to the Italian LGBTQ+ nonprofit at IGLTA’s Global Convention in Milan 

Media Contact: LoAnn Halden

+1.954.253.4095 Mobile/WhatsApp

loann.halden@iglta.org

Milan, Italy (4 October 2022)—The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association has announced that Arcigay—a national non-profit organisation focused on promoting and protecting equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community in Italy—is the recipient of the 2022 Pathfinder Award. This award is given to an individual or organisation that has made a significant positive impact on their destination, demonstrating the highest standard of warmth and hospitality to the LGBTQ+ community. Arcigay will receive the Pathfinder Award, part of this year’s IGLTA Honors presented with support from American Express Travel, on 28 October during IGLTA’s Global Convention in Milan. ‘

“Each year, IGLTA Honors recognize individuals and organisations that have shown a tireless commitment to making the world a more welcoming place for LGBTQ+ travelers. Arcigay has consistently worked to promote a safe and inclusive environment for queer communities across Italy,” said IGLTA Board Chair Felipe Cardenas. “We are thrilled to present this award to such a collaborative and effective organisation.”

For almost 40 years, Arcigay has worked on the national and local level to build a more equitable and inclusive community throughout Italy for LGBTQ+ individuals. Arcigay consists of 72 affiliated associations and local committees that work together to advocate and support initiatives aiming at the promotion and protection of LGBTQ+ rights. It is the largest LGBTQ+ not-for-profit organisation in Italy, in terms of its number of volunteers and activists throughout the country.

“Arcigay was founded in 1985 as a reaction to a brutal double murder of two young gay lovers in Palermo. Although since then the society has become more open, homo-transphobia is still a problem; acts of violence and discrimination cannot been overlooked; Italian politics struggles to provide proper legal protection to our rights and many LGBTQ+ people still do not feel comfortable to be visible in the workplace or in society, in general,” said Secretary General of Arcigay Gabriele Piazzoni.  

“This notwithstanding, the LGBTQ+ community is a thriving, creative and combative part of the Italian society that every year fills the streets of our cities with more than 50 Prides and millions of people. The work of Arcigay—with its 70 chapters distributed all over the country—and many other local LGBTQ+ organizations is vital to trigger the deep change that is still needed. We are happy and honored to receive this international recognition that we like to share with all the Italian LGBTQ+ community.”

For more information about this year’s convention in Milan, please visit igltaconvention.org.

The 38th Annual IGLTA Global Convention would not be possible without the generous support of our convention sponsors. Institutional Presenting: Italian National Tourist Board; Comune di Milano; YesMilano; AITGL. Presenting Level – Discover Puerto Rico; International Experience Canada/Government of Canada; Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau; Tourist Board of Spain – Turespaña; Visit València; Sevilla City Office. Official Level – American Express Travel; Booking.com; CAP Travel Assistance by FocusPoint International; Visit Lauderdale; Delta Air Lines; Hilton; IMG; Israel Ministry of Tourism; The Florida Keys & Key West; Malta Tourism Authority; Simpleview; Starhotels; Toscana Promozione Turistica; The TreadRight Foundation; Visit Philadelphia; Visit West Hollywood. Conference Level – AIG; Cvent; Fidenza Village; Google; PROMPERU; Tourism Seychelles; SXM Media; Visit Greater Palm Springs. Breakout Session Sponsors – WeTravel. Community Partners – Allumeuse; Arcigay; Community Marketing & Insights; EDGE: LGBTI+ Leaders for Change; Mantra Communications; myGwork; NEBE; Pink Media; Sonders and Beach; World Food Travel Association.

About IGLTA & the IGLTA Foundation

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. IGLTA global network includes 12,000 LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80+ countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow us on Facebook @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness or @IGLTAFoundation, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @iglta.

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The award will be presented at IGLTA’s Global Convention in Milan, 26-29 October

Media Contact: LoAnn Halden

+1.954.253.4095 Mobile/WhatsApp

loann.halden@iglta.org

Milan, Italy (4 October 2022)—The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association has announced that Peter Jordan—Founder of Gen C Traveller and Head Strategist at Toposophy—is the recipient of the 2022 Hanns Ebensten Hall of Fame Award. This honor is awarded to a longtime IGLTA member who is a thought leader in LGBTQ+ tourism and has tirelessly contributed to the association/IGLTA Foundation in its mission to advance LGBTQ+ travel globally. The award takes its name from the man widely considered the father of LGBTQ+ travel, Hanns Ebensten, and is selected by the IGLTA board of directors from the association’s members in 80 countries. The IGLTA Honors, presented with support from American Express Travel, will take place 27-28 October during IGLTA’s Global Convention in Milan.

“For more than a decade, Peter Jordan has been at the forefront of research and innovation within the queer travel community. From authoring international reports on LGBTQ+ inclusion and diversity to his work to advance sustainable models of development in tourism around the globe—Peter’s experience speaks for itself,” said IGLTA Board Chair Felipe Cardenas. “It’s no wonder Peter has become respected as one of the world’s leading specialists on LGBTQ+ travel. This award is well-deserved, and I look forward to seeing Peter continue his ever-important work.”

Peter Jordan is a consultant and researcher based in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. He has authored pioneering reports on diverse aspects of tourism and LGBTQ+ inclusion for the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and European Travel Commission in collaboration with IGLTA and its Foundation. He recently created a new report for the IGLTA Foundation, “Going Further: How to Make LGBTQ+ Travel Transformational for Travelers, Communities, and the Planet,” which will launch at the Milan convention. The report breaks new ground by bringing LGBTQ+ travel and sustainability together, with concrete recommendations for destinations and businesses.

Peter has delivered multiple strategy projects, workshops, and keynote presentations on LGBTQ+ travel in English, Spanish and French for national tourism organisations and industry associations in Europe, Asia, Africa and North and South America. He is currently engaged in several strategy projects aimed at helping national and local destination management organisations navigate post-COVID-19 tourism recovery. 

“I am deeply touched and very humbled to receive this award from IGLTA. I know that many recipients before me have been pioneers, opening new opportunities for LGBTQ+ people to travel globally, and changing many lives and local communities for the better,” said Peter Jordan. “I hope that my research has helped, and will continue to help to break down stereotypes, open doors and spark interactions that help many more LGBTQ+ people benefit from the life-changing benefits that travel can bring.”

For more information about this year’s convention in Milan, please visit igltaconvention.org.

The 38th Annual IGLTA Global Convention would not be possible without the generous support of our convention sponsors. Institutional Presenting: Italian National Tourist Board; Comune di Milano; YesMilano; AITGL. Presenting Level – Discover Puerto Rico; International Experience Canada/Government of Canada; Osaka Convention & Tourism Bureau; Tourist Board of Spain – Turespaña; Visit València; Sevilla City Office. Official Level – American Express Travel; Booking.com; CAP Travel Assistance by FocusPoint International; Visit Lauderdale; Delta Air Lines; Hilton; IMG; Israel Ministry of Tourism; The Florida Keys & Key West; Malta Tourism Authority; Simpleview; Starhotels; Toscana Promozione Turistica; The TreadRight Foundation; Visit Philadelphia; Visit West Hollywood. Conference Level – AIG; Cvent; Fidenza Village; Google; PROMPERU; Tourism Seychelles; SXM Media; Visit Greater Palm Springs. Breakout Session Sponsors – WeTravel. Community Partners – Allumeuse; Arcigay; Community Marketing & Insights; EDGE: LGBTI+ Leaders for Change; Mantra Communications; myGwork; NEBE; Pink Media; Sonders and Beach; World Food Travel Association.

About IGLTA & the IGLTA Foundation

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of the United Nations World Tourism Organization. IGLTA’s mission is to provide information and resources for LGBTQ+ travelers and expand LGBTQ+ tourism globally by demonstrating its significant social and economic impact. IGLTA global network includes 12,000 LGBTQ+ and LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80+ countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow us on Facebook @IGLTA, @IGLTABusiness or @IGLTAFoundation, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram @iglta.

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