Event Showcased Opportunity for Growth in LGBTQ+ Travel Market
MEXICO CITY, Mexico (3 April 2025) — The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) hosted an LGBTQ+ Travel Symposium in Mexico City today, bringing together industry leaders, government officials, and travel professionals to discuss the growing LGBTQ+ travel market, and Mexico’s role as a leading inclusive destination.
The symposium highlighted key destinations including Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Cancun, Riviera Maya, Los Cabos, Zipolite, and Mexico City, while emphasizing the potential for other regions to expand LGBTQ+ tourism. Industry experts from IBIS (Accor), Booking.com, Ella Festival Mexico, Mexico National Association of Boutique Hotels, and Mexico City Pride March shared insights on best practices and market trends, reinforcing the economic benefits of embracing inclusivity. The event concluded with a networking reception hosted by Visit Puerto Vallarta.
“With the LGBTQ+ travel market expected to experience significant growth in the coming years, investing in inclusive policies and marketing strategies is not just the right thing to do—it’s an economic advantage,” said John Tanzella (he/him), IGLTA President/CEO. “Mexico’s tourism sector is well-positioned to capitalize on this growth, with strong LGBTQ+ travel hubs and room for further expansion. Symposiums like this offer valuable resources for tourism businesses to tap into this market authentically, building trust with the LGBTQ+ community while driving economic growth.”
The LGBTQ+ travel market is expected to surpass US$568 billion by 2030, making it one of the fastest-growing sectors in global tourism. With its strong tourism infrastructure, inclusive approach, and rich cultural heritage, Mexico has the opportunity to further solidify its position as a global leader in LGBTQ+ tourism, attracting new travelers while continuing to serve as a welcoming destination.
This event would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors: Discover Puerto Rico, Carnival Corporations & PLC, Puerto Vallarta Convention & Visitors Bureau, and Visit Dallas.
IGLTA is committed to creating global events that connect thought leaders in LGBTQ+ tourism and forge inclusive business connections. In addition to this symposium, the IGLTA Global Convention will take place this year in Palm Springs, California and the association also hosts an LGBTQ+ educational symposium in India, entering its fourth year in 2026.
Photos from the symposium are available upon request. Please email allison.mazzeo@iglta.org for more information.
About IGLTA & the IGLTA Foundation
The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association is the global leader in advancing LGBTQ+ travel and a proud Affiliate Member of UN Tourism. IGLTA’s mission is to enable authentic travel that enriches lives and connects the LGBTQ+ community and tourism industry. IGLTA's global network includes 13,000+ LGBTQ+ welcoming accommodations, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events, and travel media in 80 countries. The philanthropic IGLTA Foundation empowers LGBTQ+ welcoming travel businesses globally through leadership, research, and education. For more information: iglta.org, igltaconvention.org or iglta.org/foundation and follow social media at @IGLTA and @IGLTAFoundation.