The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association will host its 38th Annual Global Convention in Milan, Italy this fall, according to Travel Pulse. One of the travel industry’s top events for LGBTQ+ tourism, the convention will be held October 26-29.
It was originally planned to take place in 2020, however, had to be rescheduled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
The convention will be held at UNAHOTELS Expo Fiera Milano, and will bring together travelers, tour companies, travel agents, and various other hospitality organizations to network and share ideas, insight, and services geared toward nurturing inclusivity and equality in travel. It is seen as being key in preparing to move forward in an era of post-pandemic travel.
With Italy receiving an annual 2.7 billion euros from LGBTQ+ travel, it is an ideal location in which to host the convention. This will be the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association’s first time hosting the event in Europe in eight years; the last time was in Madrid in 2014.
“We’re excited to finally be able to celebrate our long, successful partnership with Italy, and showcase Milan, the country’s most cosmopolitan LGBTQ+ welcoming city,” said John Tanzella, the company’s President and CEO. “While the postponements were disappointing, the conference that will unfold will be even more meaningful for the destination and our membership. The convention will focus on inclusive business strategies and networking opportunities to support our industry’s future success.”
For the past several years, the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association has been working with the City of Milan, the Italian National Tourist Board (ENIT) and the Italian Association of LGBTQ+ Tourism (AITGL) to prepare for the event.
“We have never wavered in our commitment to bringing IGLTA to Milan,” said Maria Elena Rossi, Marketing and Promotion Director, ENIT. “In 2022, IGLTA attendees will discover more innovation in our tourism offerings and a greater emphasis on quality experiences that unite Milan and the surrounding area. Through collaboration with their network of tourism professionals and thought leaders, we can be sure of a successful event.”
From now until June 30, the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is running a special promotion allowing attendees to reserve their spot at the convention with a discounted $100 refundable deposit. Early registration ensures first access to limited capacity opportunities, and either the locking in of a 20% discount off of supplier marketplace registration, or a free marketplace registration for a second participant
For more information, visit www.igltaconvention.org.
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