Greece’s tourism ministry is focusing on enhancing its appeal to LGBTQI+ travellers. By partnering with Queer Destinations, the ministry aims to diversify its tourism offerings and promote inclusivity.
- Olga Kefalogianni, Greece’s tourism minister, has initiated a memorandum of cooperation with Queer Destinations to target LGBTQI+ tourists.
- Queer Destinations, established in 2019, collaborates with governments and tourism entities to boost LGBTQI+ tourism.
- The strategy involves data analysis, industry sensitisation, and promoting LGBTQI+ events in Greece.
- Greece plans to implement a code of conduct to prevent discrimination against LGBTQI+ individuals within the tourism sector.
The Hellenic ministry of tourism is actively working to enhance Greece’s appeal to the LGBTQI+ community as part of a broader strategy to enrich and diversify tourism options in the country. In a significant move, tourism minister Olga Kefalogianni has signed a collaboration agreement with Queer Destinations, a pioneering organisation promoting LGBTQI+ travel.
Founded in 2019, Queer Destinations has been instrumental in fostering LGBTQI+ tourism by engaging with governments and tourism industry stakeholders around the world. The partnership with Greece marks another step in its mission to promote safe and welcoming environments for LGBTQI+ travellers.
According to the tourism minister, the strategic focus on LGBTQI+ travellers is expected to provide “an additional competitive advantage” to Greece’s tourism sector. This initiative includes the collection and analysis of relevant data to better understand the needs and preferences of this demographic.
Efforts will also be directed towards educating and sensitising local industries and communities about the importance of inclusivity and understanding regarding LGBTQI+ tourists. Additionally, Greece plans to host and support LGBTQI+ events as part of its broader promotional efforts.
To further solidify its commitment, the ministry has developed a code of conduct aimed at preventing and addressing discrimination against LGBTQI+ persons in tourism-related businesses. This step underscores Greece’s dedication to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors.
Oriol Pamies, founder of Queer Destinations, and Edgar Weggelaar, its CEO, have expressed their gratitude to the Greek minister for her proactive approach and lauded the country for its progress in acknowledging LGBTQI+ rights. Their presence during the memorandum signing in Athens symbolises the collaboration’s importance.
Greece’s strategic initiatives mark a significant progression in LGBTQI+ inclusivity, extending a warm welcome to diverse travellers.
