The IGLTA Foundation, the philanthropic branch of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association and Community Marketing and Insights, has released a new report on the state of LGBTQ+ travel.
The report, made with the input of over 2,300 community members, examines the impact of anti-LGBTQ+ policies on LGBTQ+ travel, with a particular focus on Florida. It investigates the repercussions of the state’s recent anti-LGBTQ+ legislation on the tourism sector.
Key findings from the report reveal a significant issue, with 80% of U.S. LGBTQ+ respondents viewing Florida as somewhat or very unwelcoming. This negative sentiment substantially impacts business and meeting travel, with 49% of global and 52% of U.S. LGBTQ+ meeting planners expressing reluctance or refusal to organize professional events in the state due to its legislative stance.
However, two-thirds of U.S. respondents and 59% of global participants are still willing to visit LGBTQ+-friendly cities within states that enforce anti-LGBTQ+ laws, including Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella emphasized the broader implications of these findings.
“We are committed to delivering essential research to help businesses navigate the continuous evolution of LGBTQ+ tourism, “said Tanzella of the report. “While this report arose from the negative legislative actions in Florida, the takeaways are applicable globally, to any destination facing governmental challenges that impact its ability to attract LGBTQ+ travelers. It also highlights the ways that inclusive destinations—like our engaged members and partners throughout Florida—can overcome the vitriol with authentic support.”
Here are some additional key insights from the report:
- Gay and bi+ men were the most likely to visit Florida, with 21% of those surveyed saying they had visited Florida in the past year.
- LGBTQ+ Gen Xers were the generation most likely to visit Florida, with 20% having traveled to Florida in the past year.
- Respondents indicated they were likely to visit California (61%) or New York (58%) next year. Both states are considered LGBTQ+-welcoming.
- 87% of respondents indicate that anti-LGBTQ+ policies would make it less likely to visit a state.
- 69% would consider or are actively boycotting traveling to states with anti-LGBTQ+ policies.
- Among event travelers surveyed, 53% said they would not attend an event hosted in Florida due to anti-LGBTQ+ policies.
- Fear of physical violence (50%), verbal harassment (51%) and Gov. Ron DeSantis’ statements or legislative priorities (84%) were among the reasons LGBTQ+ tourists may cross Florida off their travel list.
The report also includes a section to help those in Florida better advocate for their communities and LGBTQ+ travelers.
Click here to read the entire report, or check out a one-page report summary here.
Are you less likely to visit Florida or a state with anti-LGBTQ+ policies? Let us know by emailing us at newsisout@localmedia.org.