In a resounding display of solidarity and progress, the travel industry came together for the most significant international LGBTQ+ travel industry event, Proud Experiences LA 2023. Opening during Pride month at the prestigious Fairmont Century Plaza, the event shattered records. It provided a powerful platform for global travel brands, products, and services to connect with LGBTQ+ agents and travel planners dedicated to curating unforgettable leisure experiences for their clients.

Under the theme “It’s Time for Action, Not Just Words,” Proud Experiences LA 2023 set out to celebrate, educate, and validate the LGBTQ+ travel community. With attendees hailing from 40 countries and comprising 180 suppliers and 170 buyers and agents, the event showcased the global reach and influence of the LGBTQ+ travel sector. The event featured diverse speakers, masterclasses, and personal stories, all geared towards advancing the industry’s commitment to inclusivity and promoting a world where everyone feels a sense of belonging.

Simon Mayle, the Event Director of Proud Experiences, emphasized the core mission of the event, stating, “Proud Experiences is about humanity. It’s about the absolute goal of making everyone feel like they belong everywhere, encouraging people to be their true authentic selves, and giving the travel industry an opportunity and a platform to understand how they can become true advocates, whilst also adding real business opportunities. There are still some 64 countries that criminalize homosexuality, but we believe travel has the power to shift change.”

The impact of Proud Experiences on travel industry professionals was evident as attendees expressed their enthusiasm for the event and commitment to driving change. Michelle Bearman, VP of Sales at Ennismore Chicago, remarked on the exponential growth in their presence at the event, saying, “Last year we attended with just a plus one, and now we have a presence here this week of 32 hotels. Proud Experiences fits our brands because it supports what we were already doing. For example, we have a culture of sharing LGBTQ+ experiences throughout our global team, ensuring that training resonates through the hotels and every department. Next year we are going to do even more at this event.”

Similarly, Mohammad Ghazizadeh, Commercial Director at The Maybourne Beverly Hills, praised the event for its focus on creating inclusive environments for LGBTQ+ guests. Ghazizadeh highlighted the value of the masterclass sessions, where participants shared insights and strategies for fostering inclusivity. “The Masterclasses were a great way to hear first-hand from other voices to validate what we are doing as a hotel group. My main business objective for Proud this year was to make new connections, and I have done. I also love that we get a full 15 minutes to connect with the agents and buyers – it gives us time to really talk and understand what their LGBTQ+ clients are wanting from their travel plans,” he added.

Tom Ho, a Luxury Travel Advisor with ProTravel International, emphasized the sense of community fostered by Proud Experiences. “It’s all about comradery, friendship, and a sense of family at Proud. The appointments are vital as they give me a chance to talk with the exhibitors to ensure our LGBTQ+ clients are safe and confident wherever they choose to stay. The masterclass sessions really separate this event from others; they were a great source of information for me.”

Keynote speaker Dame Kelly Holmes, an inspirational figure and Olympic champion delivered a powerful message to the attendees. Holmes urged the travel industry to understand the profound impact of acceptance on individuals anxious about how they will be received. She emphasized the importance of continual growth and improvement: “If you lead the way, people will follow. Show your support for the LGBTQ+ community; they are human beings and deserve the best holiday ever!”

As Proud Experiences LA 2023 came to a close, organizers announced that next year’s event will take place from June 3-5, 2024, once again at the illustrious Fairmont Century Plaza. With remarkable success and unwavering commitment to fostering inclusivity, Proud Experiences has solidified its position as the premier international gathering for the LGBTQ+ travel industry. As the event continues to evolve and expand, it paves the way for a future where travel becomes a powerful catalyst for positive change, breaking down barriers and creating unforgettable experiences for all.

For more information about Proud Experiences, please visit Proud Experiences Official Website.

Written by: Matthew Thomas

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