IGLTA’s 40th Anniversary Convention in San Juan with Record Turnout

Friday, October 13, 2023

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) concluded its largest convention in 40 years, with 700 attendees from 36 countries. The occasion provided guests with a chance to learn about the most recent developments in the market and network with industry experts from around the world. It also served as a monument to the growing significance of LGBTQ+ tourism in the Caribbean.

Discover Puerto Rico played a vital role in the success of the 40th Anniversary Global
Convention, contributing generous support and expertise that ensured a truly memorable event for all attendees.

Leah Chandler (she/her), Discover Puerto Rico’s Chief Marketing Officer said that
Discover Puerto Rico alongside their on-Island partners was honored to host the prestigious IGLTA convention on the beautiful Island.

She adds, “Inclusivity has been a strategic pillar of our DMO since its inception in 2018, and celebrating IGLTA’s 40 th  anniversary convention in Puerto Rico is a testament to our values in action. The team at Discover Puerto Rico has worked for more than two years to bring this extraordinary event to life, and we are thrilled to have helped IGLTA surpass record attendance at this year’s conference”.

IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella (he/him) said, “IGLTA’s 40th Anniversary Global
Convention was a resounding success, and a showcase for the resilience, creativity and
diversity of the LGBTQ+ travel community.” 

Convention Highlights:

• Opening Reception: Hosted at the T-Mobile DISTRITO by Discover Puerto Rico.
• Buyer/Supplier Marketplace: Supported by Experience Kissimmee, Visit Miami,
• Visit Orlando, and Visit Tampa Bay, featuring buyers representing US$686.5 millionin annual business, a 65% increase from 2022.
• IGLTA Foundation Think Tank: Held at Casa Bacardí, featuring discussions byglobal C-Suite thought leaders on the future of LGBTQ+ travel and hospitality in the Caribbean.
• IGLTA Foundation’s Voyage Fundraiser: Raised over US$100,000 to support research, education, and leadership initiatives promoting LGBTQ+ inclusive travel.
• Women in Leadership Networking Reception: A significant gathering for women and non binary attendees, hosted by Booking.com, allowing networking and connections.
• IGLTA Pride Party: Celebrated the LGBTQ+ community in the host destination, with event proceeds supporting the 2023 Pathfinder Award recipients, True Self Foundation, and Waves Ahead Corp Puerto Rico.

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