Let start off with Acronyms!

LGBT = Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender

Most common and inclusive way to refer to the entire community (GLBT can be used interchangeably)

IGLTA = International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association

Organization made up of LGBT Travel and tourism industry professionals

TAG Approved = Travel Alternatives Group

A hotel certification program that includes more than 1,800 properties worldwide. TAG Approved properties must meet certain standards, which include enforcement of non-discriminatory sexual orientation policies and LGBT sensitivity training for employees.

Did you know:

• The LGBT community represents approximately 4.5% of the US population
• 1 in 7 people has a gay family member, co-worker, neighbor or friend
• 44% of gay men and 65% of lesbians live with a partner (so they already have their travel companions!
• 5% of gay men have children
• 20% of lesbians have children
• 85% of gays and lesbians take annual vacations, compared to national average (65%)
• Because gay and lesbian adults are less likely to have children than heterosexual adults, it may come as no surprise that they have more pets! 71% of LGBT adults own pets (compared to 63% of heterosexual adults), so a hotel’s pet policies may be important to them.

There is always something going on with LGBT organizations…Here are a few samples

• International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics
• Gay Games
• Gay Softball Association (NAGAAA & ASANA)
• International Gay Bowling Organization
• International Federation of Black Prides
• International Gay Rodeo Association
• Lesbian and Gay Band Association
• National Gay Pilots Association
• National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
• GALA Choruses
• GLMA – Gay Lesbian Medical Association
• Out and Equal – the federation of LGBT ERGs (Corporate Employee Resources Groups)

Here are some Gay and Lesbian Travel Magazines to check out:

Out Traveler- www.outtraveler.com

Passport Magazine www.passportmagazine.com

This is all Thanks to Ask Charlie!