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.
SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO – The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association opened registration 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.
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She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
