Section header
I NTERV I EW
Charting the course for inclusive travel W hen Thomas Bömkes became involved in LGBTQ+ tourism in the mid-1990s, it was As ITB Berlin celebrates more than 60 years of connecting the global
Q: What milestones stand out in how destinations and brands have engaged with LGBTQ+ travellers? An early turning point was when major destinations like Amsterdam, San Francisco, and Sydney began to actively promote themselves as LGBTQ+-friendly, not just during Pride, but year-round. This set a global benchmark for visibility and inclusion. Another was mainstream travel brands and hotel groups integrating diversity and inclusion into their core strategies rather than treating it as a marketing niche. The launch of dedicated LGBTQ+ initiatives by companies like American Airlines, Hilton, and VisitBritain marked a real shift toward authenticity. Equally important has been the rise of digital and social media, giving LGBTQ+ travellers
very much a niche segment, “often under the radar and driven mainly by community networks, independent travel agents, and a few pioneering destinations”. Over the years, the market has evolved tremendously, he says. “What was once a small, somewhat underground movement has become a recognised and respected part of the global travel industry.” Today, LGBTQ+ travellers are seen not only as a valuable market – worth an estimated $357 billion in 2025 (Coherent Market Insights) – but integral to inclusive tourism development. “Destinations and brands have learned that visibility, authenticity, and genuine engagement with the community are key to success,” says Bömkes. “We’ve moved from marketing to the LGBTQ+ community to truly welcoming them, and that’s a major shift. The conversation has also broadened to include intersectionality, safety, and social impact, making the sector more sophisticated and purposeful than ever before.” Here, Bömkes reflects on the rise of the LGBTQ+ travel and his future vision.
travel community, its long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion continues to set the agenda. ITB Global Travel Collection speaks to Thomas Bömkes, Managing Director, Diversity Tourism and LGBTQ+ Tourism Advisor, ITB Berlin, about the progress and prospects for this important tourism market sector
their own voice and influence. More recently, the focus on
responsible and inclusive tourism, where equality and representation are tied to broader sustainability goals, has become a defining evolution. These moments together have transformed the sector from symbolic gestures to genuine, values-driven engagement. Q: How has industry perception of LGBTQ+ tourism shifted?
138 | ITB GLOBAL TRAVEL COLLECTION
Made with FlippingBook Annual report maker