The International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) has awarded the Curaçao Tourist Board with its prestigious “Destination Pioneer” award for its exceptional efforts in developing the island into an all-welcoming destination for travelers.
Curaçao boasts an impressive number of hotels and attractions with IGLTA memberships, which reflects its “Live and Let Live” philosophy to embrace all travelers. Since the 2004 launch of GayCuracao.com, an in-depth resource for gay travelers to the island, the Curaçao Tourist Board has made significant strides to put this Dutch Caribbean island on the map for LGBT travelers.
Throughout the years, the Curaçao Tourist Board has launched several campaigns in an effort to accept travelers from all types of races, orientations, and religions. These efforts include supporting Curaçao Gay Pro to develop a variety of LGBT-focused island events throughout the year, such as last year’s inaugural South Caribbean Pride Festival, a weeklong celebration bringing together the neighboring LGBT communities.
The Floris Suite Hotel has also been an important advocate for welcoming the gay community. Not only is the hotel’s General Manager, Frank Holtslag, the President of Curaçao Gay Pro, but Floris is also the official host hotel during the Curaçao Pride Festival and hosts several pride and LGBT events throughout the year.
“It is a true honor for Curaçao to be recognized by the IGLTA as a destination pioneer,” said Andre Rojer, North American Marketing Manager for the Curaçao Tourist Board and Ambassador for IGLTA in the Caribbean.” The award is a testament to the work we’ve done on island and abroad, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with IGLTA and bringing more travelers to discover our beautiful island.”
In April, the Curaçao Tourist Board will be honored at IGLTA’s 32nd Annual Global Convention, along with other LGBT advocates in the travel industry. For more information on LGBT travel in Curaçao, visit www.gaycuracao.com or www.curacao.com.
