The LGBTQ+ Experiences Traveler: Who They Are, What They Do, and Why. With Guests Glenn Tkach & Rebecca Fisher

Summary

In this conversation, Janelle and Stephen discuss the importance of LGBTQ+ travelers. They explore the meaning of LGBTQ+ and its variations, as well as the significant economic value of LGBTQ+ travel. The guests, Glenn Tkach and Rebecca Fisher, share their experiences in designing and leading LGBTQ+ history tours in Vancouver and Philadelphia, respectively. They discuss the challenges of uncovering and presenting LGBTQ+ history, as well as the impact of their tours on different audiences. The conversation also touches on the age demographics of LGBTQ+ travelers and the importance of authenticity and storytelling in engaging with this audience. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for tour operators to prioritize inclusivity and representation to attract and cater to LGBTQ+ travelers.

Key Takeaways:

• LGBTQ+ travelers are a valuable market in the tourism industry, with an estimated annual value of $200 billion.
• LGBTQ+ history tours provide an opportunity to share untold stories and educate people about the LGBTQ+ community and its history.
• Designing LGBTQ+ history tours can be challenging due to the lack of easily accessible historical records, but it is important to uncover and share this history.
• LGBTQ+ travelers tend to be younger, with a smaller percentage of travelers in the 55+ age group, likely due to the impact of the AIDS epidemic and discrimination faced by older LGBTQ+ individuals.
• Engaging with difficult and sad aspects of LGBTQ+ history on tours is important, but it is also essential to balance it with celebration and pride.
• Authenticity and storytelling are key in creating meaningful experiences for LGBTQ+ travelers. LGBTQ+ travelers tend to be more interested in walking tours and are often from the age group of 35 to 54.
• Queer families, with parents bringing their queer children, are often seen on tours as a way of showing support and learning about LGBTQ+ history.
• Making LGBTQ+ travelers feel safe and welcomed is crucial, and tour operators can achieve this through casual mentions of LGBTQ+ inclusivity in marketing and engaging with the community through donations and support.
• Inclusivity and representation are important not only for LGBTQ+ travelers but also for allies and those who prioritize diversity and sustainability.
• By prioritizing inclusivity and representation, tour operators can attract a broader market and make their experiences welcoming for everyone.

You can find out more about and connect with the speakers here:

• ⁠⁠Glenn Tkach, Professional Guide & Speaker, Forbidden Vancouver Tours
• Rebecca Fisher, Beyond the Bell Tours

You can find out more about the research that we mention in the episode here:

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠2024 Experiences Traveler Outlook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - The 2024 U.S. Experiences Traveler Outlook report delves into the state of the U.S. experiences traveler – who they are, what they want, what are they looking for in 2024 – and some key trends shaping the tours, activities and attractions sector for the coming year. 

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠2024 US LGBTQ+ Experiences Traveler - This study delves into the mind of the LGBTQ+ experiences traveler – who they are, what they want, and ho