LGBT stands for, respectively, lesbian gay bisexual or transgendered/transsexual people. Not surprisingly, the more that gay and lesbian folks become acknowledged in the world, the more money they spend. There are various firms that have now realized the large industry that gay travel and tourism is becoming, and who are working to get the 'pink dollar' in their pocket.
Gay individuals come in all shapes and forms and money circumstances. Many of them are professionals living in tiny towns or cities that haven't yet evolved to acceptance of same sex relationships or marriages. Several gay couples are still hiding their lifestyles from the prying eyes of others. A gay vacation, however, gives them the opportunity to be open and honest about their love and their life.
Some cities are more progressive than others. Several have what are called 'gay-borhoods', neighborhoods with housing and services purposely geared to the gay community. Gay travel choices typically aim to take people from their own less progressive towns and cities to areas like this. Areas like this are known as gay friendly or gay specific, and tourist agencies strive to mimic this special catering.
Gay travel plans will take people from their own tiny minded tiny cities to places that are known to welcome and support gay visitors. Sydney, Australia has been putting on what is often referred to as New Mardi Gras for many years. To support this extremely playful and engaging event, various airlines offer travel arrangements that are gay friendly, as well as sponsoring the event itself.
Other fashionable events that gay individuals wish to travel are film festivals. Canada, a country known for welcoming the gay travel and tourism community, provides these and other attractions. Gay people prefer to participate in normal activities that everybody else will when traveling. Both urban and outdoor activities made friendly and specifically for gays are on the market in Canada with other countries. A gay tour that has safety and respect is a perfect outlet for a professional gay couple.
Approximately 10 p.c of tourists and travelers admit to being gay couples or singles. As a result of of the magnitude of this number and its impact on the travel industry, many corporations are planning their services to match. The dollars that come from gay people spending cash on travel are referred to as the 'pink dollar' or in Europe the 'pink pound'. It becomes more and more evident what a money making industry gay travel is.
Once upon a time, when taking cruises and tours, gay groups were quietly hidden. They would not be in a position to convince workers on cruise lines to announce their meetings or events. To work around the nervousness of personnel on tours, gay individuals would list their events as a 'meeting of friends of Dorothy.' This refers to the days of World War II when homosexuality and being gay was illegal. People would quietly refer to gays as 'friends of Dorothy'. Some say this is a reference to the Wizard of Oz and a few say it refers to Dorothy Parker.
Fortunately the world community is moving towards a more unified and fair state of being. Gays, lesbians, bisexual people and those that are transgendered or transsexual are finding more and more acceptance world wide.
Gay travel could be a massive industry that promises to grow only bigger and bigger. Offering another minority with a secure and reliable travel choice is one thing that deserves whatever rewards it reaps, financial or otherwise.
For more information on
Gay Travel we invite you to read this article on Gay Travel Tips
