The fair was attended by representatives from renowned destinations, highlighting their offers and initiatives aimed at this audience.
There were 64 exhibitors, plus 8 co-exhibitors from Mato Grosso do Sul (the main sponsor of the event) and 930 registered participants.
Andalusia: A Destination of Luxury and Diversity
Helena Jiménez Verdejo, from the Cooperation Department of the Public Company for the Management of Tourism and Sports of Andalusia, presented the region as one of the main destinations for LGBT+ tourism. "Andalusia, in the south of Spain, is rich in history, culture, gastronomy, sports, beaches and natural parks. This tourism segment is characterized by clients looking for luxury, good food and fun, as well as enjoying nature in a peaceful way. Torremolinos, Seville and Cádiz are the main destinations in the region, with events such as the ILGTA world congress in Seville in 2025. We invite everyone to discover Andalusia for an unforgettable experience," said Helena.
Thailand: Respect and Welcome for All
Jeff Santos, president of Total Asia and Capital Marketing, which represents the country in South America, highlighted Thailand as a pioneering destination for LGBT+ tourism. "Thailand is synonymous with diversity and plurality. The country positions itself as a safe and respectful destination, welcoming visitors of all identities with great hospitality. For more than 30 years, Thailand has stood out as an inclusive and safe destination, valuing love in all its forms and providing a comfortable and organized experience for all tourists," said Jeff Santos.
Pipa: Inclusion and Romance in the Brazilian Northeast
Wanderson Borges, co-founder of Movimento Preserve Pipa, highlighted Pipa beach as an inclusive and romantic destination. "Pipa is known for its inclusion, being one of the most welcoming beaches in the Brazilian Northeast. Our focus is to promote mini weddings and honeymoons for LGBT+ couples, as well as private ceremonies and bachelor parties. We have participated in the LGBT+ Tourism Expo for five years, each time with a different theme, and we have reaped great rewards from our investments in this niche market," said Borges.
New Orleans: Culture and Diversity Throughout the Year
Allan Colen, representing New Orleans for Outlook Reps, highlighted the importance of the city's participation in the fair: "New Orleans has a rich cultural diversity and a deep connection with minorities since its founding. This diversity is clearly reflected in its welcoming of the LGBT+ public." His partner, Kim Moura, highlighted the LGBT+ activities in the city: "New Orleans has a calendar totally focused on the LGBT public throughout the year, with monthly parties, a Halloween roller skating spree, marathons and cocktail festivals that cater to all audiences. Since its founding, New Orleans has always welcomed everyone," concluded Moura.
São Luís: Training and Inclusion in Tourism
Saulo Santos, tourism secretary of São Luís, Maranhão, emphasized the city's efforts to train its tourism businesses to better serve the LGBT+ public. "For the past three years, we have been focused on training hotels, restaurants and travel agencies to meet the expectations of this growing segment. Participating in the LGBT+ Tourism Expo is part of our public tourism policy, promoting a tourist guide with attractions and suggested itineraries for the LGBT community," explained Saulo.
Mato Grosso do Sul: Pioneering and Partnerships in LGBT+ Tourism
Bruno Wendling, president of the Mato Grosso do Sul Tourism Foundation, highlighted the state's pioneering role in LGBT tourism. "Since 2017, we have been working with specific training and campaigns, positioning ourselves as a welcoming and safe destination for the LGBT+ community. Our next step is to focus on the employability and inclusion of LGBT+ people in the tourism job market, in addition to continuing to promote segmented events such as the ecotourism event, the Adventure Travel World Summit in Bonito," commented the president of FUNDTUR.
The LGBT+ Tourism Expo proved to be a fundamental event for promoting inclusive and welcoming destinations, reinforcing the importance of diversity and respect in the tourism sector.
Report and photos: Mary de Aquino.