Introduction to Queer Destinations and its Founder, Oriol Pamies
Oriol Pamies, the founder of Queer Destinations in 2019, believes that Mexico can become a preferred destination for international LGBTQ+ tourists due to the policies of US President Donald Trump, which have made some travelers hesitant to visit popular US cities like San Francisco, Washington, Chicago, New York, or Los Angeles.
Progress in Sensitivity and Capacity
Pamies’ optimism is rooted in the significant advancements in sensitivity and training regarding LGBTQ+ issues within governments, destinations, and businesses. In 2022, Los Cabos became the first destination to receive the Queer Destinations Committed certification.
Global LGBTQ+ Tourism Market
According to Coherent Market Insights, the global market value of LGBTQ+ tourism is projected to surpass $350 billion by the end of this year, with an annual growth rate of approximately 10%.
Mexico’s LGBTQ+ Tourism Segment
In Mexico, the LGBTQ+ tourism segment accounts for roughly 15% of the total tourism industry, with around 2.9 million annual visitors. These travelers typically stay for an average of four nights, regardless of low or high seasons. The focus is on luxury tourism, incorporating high-level culture, shopping, and gastronomy experiences. Popular destinations include Cancun, Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Cuernavaca, Los Cabos, Oaxaca, and Veracruz.
Collaboration with Mexican Tourism Authorities
To raise awareness about LGBTQ+ tourism among the travel industry and generate data to support their efforts without making it mandatory, Pamies signed a memorandum of understanding with the Mexican federal Tourism Secretary, Josefina Rodríguez, during a recent Tianguis Turístico event in Baja California.
“It was refreshing to meet with the official. She has a clear vision of what Mexico is and represents. She understands that Mexico should not envy anyone else. It’s clear that she wants to emphasize a country where diversity is respected and encourages all states to have destinations with the necessary training. Mexico can capture a portion of the international tourist spending that will not go to the US. It’s time to invest in marketing and awareness campaigns,” Pamies explained.
Early Adopters of Inclusive Tourism
Some Mexican states have already taken action. In March of the previous year, the Oaxaca Tourism Secretariat, through its Professionalization Turism Division, invited all tourism businesses in Oaxaca to obtain the Queer Destinations distinction, recognizing it as a global leader in LGBTQ+ tourism.
Pamies’ Current Involvement
Currently, Pamies is part of a team creating the first app as part of an LGBT travel guide in Spain, with plans to replicate it in other countries.
Growth and Impact
“I never imagined it would happen so quickly. Mexico opened the doors for us. We’ve gone from being a target of inclusion, accessibility, and diversity policies to playing a proactive role in tourism strategies for countries and businesses,” Pamies stated.
