CTO cannot compel countries to cater to LGBT travellers .......

FLORIDA, United States – Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation (CTO) Hugh Riley says while the body has provided information on the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) travellers to its member countries, it cannot compel them to cater to that group of vacationers.

“What we do is to bring the matter to discussion and we’ve not been shy about that at all. We brought all kinds of matter, including the LGBT matter, to the agenda of our annual conference. We have brought experts in on all sides of the issue, that’s our responsibility,” he argued.

He stressed however, that it is then up to each member country to decide how they want to deal with the issue.

“It’s a form of self-determination. It’s a form of member countries who are independent sovereign countries making their national policy, and that is how we have to accept it as a regional body. National policy from one country to another determines how vigorously that country wants to approach any particular niche,” Riley explained.

He was speaking to Caribbean journalists during the 18th Annual Shared Ownership Investment Conference at the Eden Roc Miami Beach Hotel in Florida, earlier this week.

Several Caribbean destinations, including St Maarten and Curacao, have openly accepted LGBT vacationers, while others privately welcome them.

also see:

J'cans Tap Gay Online Rental Market - Misterb&B Seen As Opportunity To Diversify Income 

Caribbean tourism must reflect changing demands ....... pink $$$ anyone? 

Jamaica Should Open Arms To Gay Tourism

Gay Tourism Potential? (Letter plus) 

LGBT tourism breaks through US$200 billion in annual spending 

Cuba's shot in the arm for LGBTQ personhood & pink tourism 

Jamaica has sat back and watched Cuba and indeed other Caribbean states despite lesser anti homosexual sentiments move into the arena of LGBTQ tourism. The few properties who offer only online accommodation to said markets do so on their own with very little support to the Tourism Product Development Company, TPDco; they are now slowly coming to their senses it is said as Airbnb is here and other knock off types forge ahead.

My present DJ residency for example is a product of that informal offshoot as the outfit Bubbles Bar is a paid membership structure catering to special markets from overseas mostly of gay and bisexual men over forty and who like dance, circuit and rave music. The outfit has its successes from Friday to Sunday nights with an aggressive marketing team and owner who is always seeking customers.

Think our way out of the loss nationally I suppose.

Peace & tolerance

H

J'cans Tap Gay Online Rental Market - Misterb&B Seen As Opportunity To Diversify Income

Well this is not anything new as the writers at Gleaner's business department present the captioned article in Sunday's last paper. The only new part are the platforms but networking has always been a feature of the gay tourist who takes the chance to come to Jamaica, especially at smalle properties and guest houses. I have facilitated such trips; especially when there is an event involved from overseas DJs to female/male impersonators (Drag king).

Previous entries will bring that to bear, such as:

LGBT leisure travel market set to spike .................... LGBT "friendly" resorts are here 2012

Caribbean tourism must reflect changing demands ....... pink $$$ anyone? 2015

Here is the current article in question:

As Jamaicans tap into the online rental market for business through platforms such as Airbnb they are slowly becoming more amenable to a side of the market that is largely shunned domestically gay travellers.

Some landlords and property owners are open to visitors through applications such as misterb&b, which caters to gays.

Still, it is not a big market by any measure. The number of local rooms available remains low at nine, but it grew from five two months ago Comparatively, Airbnb offers more than 1,000 listings across Jamaica.

The misterb&b site prides itself on listings, which offer "tips to stay like a gay local". Those hosts with whom Sunday Business spoke said offering the service complements the regular bed and breakfast offering.

"We don't do it only for the money," said one host, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

Rooms for gay visitors are listed across the island ranging from US$60 upwards, compared with Airbnb, which offers rooms for as low as US$20.

The theme of offering a 'safe space' was mirrored by other hosts, but all asked to remain anonymous for this story. It underscores the discreet service these listings offer within Jamaica, seen as a homophobic hot spot.

The most recent anti-gay furore surrounded the Attorney General Marlene Malahoo Forte tweeting that raising the gay rainbow flag at the US Embassy last week was disrespectful of Jamaican laws although she gave no legal rationale. The act of buggery that is, anal sex remains illegal, but there are no explicit laws against homosexuality.

Director of Tourism Paul Pennicook says that travel apps, whether catering to straight travellers or gays, do not need to channel activity through the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB).

"The JTB has no jurisdiction over the creation of travel apps," said Pennicook in a response facilitated through the JTB marketing department. "The JTB has no direct relationship with Airbnb nor misterb&b.

There are numerous online entities that provide travel services such as air, accommodation, ground transfer, etc. to the travelling public, but these services are not, nor are they required, to be channelled through the JTB."

The local gay lobby group, J-FLAG, provisionally endorsed the move as it offers safe spaces to gays.

"Anything that creates a safe space for travellers is a good thing, assuming that the app and the people renting have good intentions," said a spokeswoman at J-FLAG.

"I am a lesbian and if I am travelling I know that not all places are friendly to the LGBT community. So on the face of it, it would seem as a good thing," she said.

The spokeswoman, who also requested anonymity, said she would want the app service to be more inclusive of lesbians.

Misterb&b launched in 2013 primarily to allow gay men to secure gay-friendly rentals. Misterb&b offers 55,000 rentals in 130 countries and is not affiliated or associated with Airbnb.

The site came about after co-founder Matthieu Jost encountered mixed experiences while renting on travel sites. He recalled a most uncomfortable host in Barcelona four years ago whose hostility sparked the impetus for the site.

"Upon arrival, the host felt not comfortable with gay men staying in her home. She even asked 'Are you going to sleep in the same bed?'" according to information on the rental site.

From that experience, Jost misterb&b's chief executive officer decided a short-term rental service by and for gay men was needed to help provide safety and community for travellers.

also see:
Calling for a Tourism Boycott on Jamaica is a dumb idea at this time 2013

Is ‘The Most Homophobic Place on Earth’ Turning Around? 2015

Cuba's shot in the arm for LGBTQ personhood & pink tourism

Gay Tourism Potential? (Letter plus)

The following is a letter to the Gleaner on potential expansion of LGBT tourism since recent US gay marriage court ruling. I am in agreement with most of the sentiments as the private networking as obtains now or links from larger properties to markets via gay pride and advocates now exists.

The potential for the pink dollar is tremendous but it seems in Jamaica we are usually behind the times and allow others to take the lead in some sense.

Bearing in mind Cuba does not have a buggery law and pervasive homo/transphobia as we do and despite their communist stance they do allow LGBT tours once planned properly and such. Groups such as CENESEX headed by none other than the daughter of Fidel Castro, Mariela Castro has made significant strides.

Now to the letter:

THE EDITOR, Sir:

With the recent landmark ruling of the United States Supreme Court further entrenching the rights of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community, this time giving same-sex couples the lawful right to marry, is Jamaica prepared for the spillover effects of this move? Jamaica has long been viewed as probably one of the most homophobic countries in the world, even though this is far from the truth. However, should the discussions about the possible benefits to our tourism sector begin?

Nobody can argue with the fact that the spending power of same-sex couples is most times much stronger than that of heterosexual couples. With this new wave of change that will hit the US, honeymoons and family vacations will now feel more like a right to same-sex couples, and Jamaica is in a perfect location to benefit from this.

Jamaica has the perfect package - sun, sea, sand, culture, entertainment - that can truly resonate with vacationers. But are we prepared for this new type of tourism? Are hotel workers ready and willing to serve two ladies in love? Or two men who have recently tied the knot? Are our police officers prepared to protect possible same-sex tourists who may become victims of discrimination in our tourism areas? And the biggest question of all, is our Government prepared to stand by our product - Jamaica - as one that is open for all to enjoy?

There can be no pussyfooting around the issue; we must face it.

I think the Ministry of Tourism needs to take a very in-depth look at the potential for Jamaica, and not wait until after other Caribbean islands has started and are benefiting. Lest we get the leftovers, as with the ganja movement.

Hotels need to start training their team members about cultural diversity as do schools certifying hospitality workers. Same-sex couples will want to experience Jamaica. It's better we be prepared than act obliviously to what's going to happen because people now feel more entitled to travel with their legal partner.

JAVID BROWN

Ocho Rios, St Ann

ENDS

I hope someone in authority take heed; the larger resorts do already encourage LGBT tourists especially with certain events such as Bloom at Hedonism or so on.

Others such as the up-end market Round Hill is known for entertaining LGBT guests as couples and so on.

A word to the wise is sufficient.

Peace & tolerance

H

Cuba's shot in the arm for LGBTQ personhood & pink tourism

In April this year in a previous post Caribbean tourism must reflect changing demands ....... pink $$ anyone? I had raised the business side of LGBTQ person-hood as placed to our neighbours 90 miles to the north and the opportunities we might be missing in this regard, well we did not have to wait long as news comes that a mass wedding is coming in Cuba during their pride celebrations.

The BBC reported:

copyright Reuters - A law was passed in 2013 banning discrimination against sexuality - but not gender identity

Gay rights activists in Cuba will hold a mass wedding this weekend, in a country where gay marriage is still not legal.

The activists will be led by the daughter of President Raul Castro, Mariela, who is a leading gay and transgender rights campaigner.

The symbolic wedding will be part of Cuba's annual gay pride parade.

Ms Castro said she hoped the event could lead to further change in future.

In recent years, Cuba has taken steps towards integrating people from the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community.

In 2010, two years after he stood down as president, Fidel Castro said he had been wrong to discriminate against gay people, who were sent to labour camps soon after the 1959 revolution.

In 2012, Adela Hernandez, who is biologically male but has lived as a woman since childhood, became the first LGBT person in Cuba to win a seat in office, after winning in municipal elections in central Cuba.

And in 2008, Cuba approved free sex-change operations to those who qualified.
Ms Castro, the head of the National Sex Education Centre and a member of Cuba's National Assembly, says her father supports same-sex marriage, but no legislation has yet been approved.

"We can't do a wedding, but we wanted to have a very modest celebration of love with some religious leaders," said Ms Castro,

"In the future we'll see what more we can do."

In December 2013, a new labour law was approved, outlawing discrimination based on sexual orientation.

But the law did not ban discrimination based on gender identity, and Ms Castro voted against it.

"There is a fear that this will tear Cuban society apart," Ms Castro said. "It will create cultural and ideological enrichment."

In its 2014 annual report, Freedom House, a US-based think-tank, criticised delays in implementing same-sex marriage in Cuba, and said the authorities "do not recognize the work of independent, grassroots LGBT rights groups".

ENDS

So now that the thawing of relations with Cuba and the US the gates have flung open and the island already seen as a novelty will only attract more curiosity seekers and the visitor is looking for a rugged experience and freedom from harassment (as happens here so much), not limited to a concrete jungle all inclusive Jamaica may be in for some stiff competition. 

Local hotels and small properties have been privately marketing to the growing LGBT market in the states I am told and in the aforementioned post it was mentioned but outward displays of affection is not a culturally palatable, the homo-negative and homophobic climate also plus the label of us being one of the most homophobic countries thanks to Time Magazine's article.

We need to learn and develop our own products and shed this fear and misunderstanding that is blocking so much potential.

Sadly the forward thinking is still not there from some in the business

also see:

Cuba And Caribbean Tourism (Gleaner 2015)

LGBT leisure travel market set to spike .................... LGBT "friendly" resorts are here

Jamaica missing out on gay billions, says J'can scholar 2008 from the Jamaica Observer

Cuba Makes Progress in Sex Reassignment Surgery ... expects communist party to accept LGBT rights 2012

Cuban(s) enjoys new benefit of free sex-change operation 2011

Mariela Castro: “U.S government is concerned about LGBT movement in Cuba” 2012

Cuba Looking to Become Gay Travel Hotspot 2013

Caribbean tourism must reflect changing demands ....... pink $$$ anyone?

After years of idling in the doldrums, visitor arrivals to some parts of the region are increasing rapidly, travellers are spending more, and the yield for hoteliers is increasing. Moreover, as demand soars in Cuba, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and some smaller Caribbean destinations like Aruba, it is getting much harder for visitors to find a quality hotel room at short notice. Recent figures by the tourism ministry reflect good increases but those only reflect a lower section of the US market in particular while the ever increasing and robust if not bold LGBT market is yet to be tapped into.

Gay marriage rights are almost covering the 50+ states in the US, The UK has already moved in that direction and the EU is quite clear as to such rights and state benefits. Correspondingly local travel interests in those jurisdictions have adjusted rapidly to meet their demands and while LGBTQ family goes mainstream they have more disposable income and on the face of it seeking relaxative environments outside their countries, honeymoons anyone?

The Business of Tourism - Caribbean tourism must reflect changing demands

Cuba apart, which is a special case following the virtual freeing of US travel restrictions late last year, this rapid increase in demand for a Caribbean vacation largely reflects the fact that disposable income in the main feeder markets in North America and parts of Europe is increasing as economic recovery occurs and travellers begin to feel more financially secure. It is also the case that some Caribbean destinations such as Jamaica have again become hot in the eyes of those who establish on social media and in print the image of an aspirational destination.

see this previous post:

Cuba Makes Progress in Sex Reassignment Surgery ... expects communist party to accept LGBT rights 2012

Cuban(s) enjoys new benefit of free sex-change operation 2011

Mariela Castro: “U.S government is concerned about LGBT movement in Cuba” 2012

Cuba Looking to Become Gay Travel Hotspot 2013

Cuba's already forward thinking treatment of LGBT matters especially transgenderism the recent changes of US foreign policy and courting by the federal government when the trappings are finally gone the flood gates will open. Medical tourism especially may grow there given the above posts hints to free reassignment surgery and their overall state healthcare.

But for the most successful Caribbean markets, there are also other factors at work.

The recent surge in visitor demand and indications that even the lower-cost coming summer season is building well reflect better marketing, product improvements, and new airlift that has resulted in improved access, for instance, from the countries of Latin America and from Scandinavia. It also in part, reflects the ability of lower-cost air carriers to pass on to the growing numbers of visitors using their services, the savings they are making as the price of aviation fuel falls.

What this means is that the industry in many Caribbean tourism destinations is not only making a significant contribution to national economic recovery, but again demonstrating its often-ignored significance to the wider Caribbean economy.

At its most basic, this is good news, but it also raises interesting questions as to where the region's product is headed now that sustainable growth again seems possible.

For some, renewed demand is simply about a return to business as usual, the end to heavy discounting of room rates, and the Caribbean again taking its 'rightful place' as the world's paramount warm-water destination.

Competitive marketplace

However, for those who are more thoughtful, it is about recognising that during the years of stagnation, the global marketplace for tourism has changed, becoming intensely competitive, and that the future will require adapting the product and the tourism offering so that present success is sustainable.

For those willing to look over the horizon, the issue now is about reorienting and developing the Caribbean tourism offering to reflect changing international demand for the authentic, quality service and cuisine; and even when the price is high, value for money. It reflects, too, an understanding that a significant part of the higher spending end of the market is looking for much more than just a luxury hotel and a beach in the tropics.

This will mean a sea change in the way that some in the industry and government in the region think. It is about more than the normal default position of rebranding. It requires a new approach involving both the industry and government reconceptualising tourism, hotels and the tourism product in ways that make it globally competitive and ensures that a visitor feels that the region and a destination is special and wants to return.

This will not be easy as it requires properties, restaurants, attractions, and if they are able to become better corporate citizens, the internationally branded chain hotels, to think in a vernacular way and come together to renew and develop the product in a manner that promotes the uniqueness of the Caribbean nations in which they are located.

The old practice of the LGBT market having to be engaged most discreetly as they do come but under most private arrangements often in ultra private villas for security reasons. Outward displays of affection is a no no even if you're a tourist (local culture may often overlook certain things) 

Tolerant industry

"Our hotels have always welcomed. We don't necessarily place ads advertising that we accept the LGBT, but we would never turn back persons because of their sexual preferences," said a Negril hotelier, who added that there is really no difference from how the LGBT market was treated by the average hotel 20 years ago.

"The industry has always been more tolerant than the rest of the society," said the hotelier, adding that there are many gays working in the tourism sector, so it's no big news.

Another hotelier says Jamaica is not ready for this market, which is a big mistake. "I have tried to target them in the past, but I have given up, because it's a hard sell, particularly because of our homophobic reputation," said the hotelier.

She said if members of the LGBT community were to turn up at her property they wouldn't be turned back. She admits that the market has huge potential of pumping foreign exchange into the island's coffers.

also see:

LGBT leisure travel market set to spike .................... LGBT "friendly" resorts are here

Jamaica missing out on gay billions, says J'can scholar 2008 from the Jamaica Observer

Peace and tolerance

H

Jamaica Should Open Arms To Gay Tourism

A recent Gleaner hospitality news feature reported that Cuba, Barbados, Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Brazil and Argentina are among the top 10 most gay-friendly destinations in the Caribbean and Latin America.

Not surprising at all, these countries have huge tourism industries, attracting visitors from all over. Cuba, despite its political limitations, has made major strides with LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) rights to the point where it is almost a non-issue now.

I have seen openly gays there, in hotels, and outside. It's not in your face, but no one is bothered. Yes, LGBT groups have great economic power, and the article reports that the LGBT tourism industry is valued a whopping US$200 billion annually.

What a great loss to Jamaica that we cannot be more tolerant, considering that tourism earns more than 50 per cent of our foreign exchange and account for a quarter of all jobs!

We limit ourselves and our potential by virtue of our own prejudices and unnecessary hostility. 'Gay-friendly' does not mean acceptance either, what it means is, we are mature enough, intelligent enough to recognise that diversity is a part of life, and that our customers will come to us in all sizes, shapes and forms.

The article went on to state that there are few properties on the island, five resorts to be specific, which currently list their properties as 'gay-friendly'. If true, this is progress. However, I know of only one such resort that has been gay-friendly, for decades, hospitable to all guests, regardless, and its room occupancy level hovers at nearly 100 per cent at all times, all year!

TRAIN STAFF TO UNDERSTAND DIVERSITY

More properties in Jamaica need to train staff to understand diversity, they will eventually learn. All persons are potential tourists, and our industry leaders must wake up, and realise the world is also changing around us while we continue to limit ourselves.

When Jamaicans go abroad, whether to visit or to live, they adapt so easily, no issues at all, as they learn to live with, play with, and work with LGBT individuals.

I, therefore, don't buy the argument that our people cannot learn to be more tolerant on home turf! Diversity and tolerance should be an integral part of Team Jamaica's tourism training, which is a start. And, yes, we can still hold on to our ethics, morals, religion and even offer prayers for those we choose to judge and condemn!

I hope someone in authority take heed; the larger resorts do already encourage LGBT tourists especially with certain events such as Bloom at Hedonism or so on.

Others such as the up-end market Round Hill is known for entertaining LGBT guests as couples and so on.

A word to the wise is sufficient.

Peace & tolerance

H

LGBT tourism breaks through US$200 billion in annual spending

Janet Silvera, Hospitality Jamaica Coordinator

Tourism spend by the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) will exceed US$200 billion for the first time in 2014.

Statistics released at the just-concluded World Travel Market by Out Now Business Class (ONBC), the world's leading LGBT tourism trade association, said the United States (US) leads the market, followed by Brazil.

US LGBT travellers spent US$56.5 billion and Brazil US$25.3 billion, says Out Now.

The news comes as the organisation announced a major partnership with the European Tour Operators Association (ETOA) and GALTA (Gay and Lesbian Tourism Australia).

It also comes at a time when Jamaica has come under more pressure from the LGBT community and travel guide books and websites such as Tripadvisor.com, where persons have advised gays and lesbians from visiting the country.

An advisory in the popular Frommers Guide which describes Jamaica as the most homophobic island in the Caribbean, with harsh anti-gay laws, even though there's a large local gay population.

"Many all-inclusive resorts allow same-sex couples, but if you're desiring a gay trip to get some sun, forget Jamaica unless you want to stay deep in the closet," stated Frommers, advising readers to opt for places such as Puerto Rico, notably Old San Juan, which is a friendlier destination.

"Or South Beach (part of Miami Beach) or Key West, but definitely not Jamaica where intolerance of gays is most pronounced. Local gay activists have been killed or had their homes set on fire," said the guide book.

A number of visitors to the renowned Tripadvisor website also cautioned those who may opt for Jamaica, stating that just because the resorts say they are gay friendly doesn't mean all the employees are tolerant.

One person's perspective from their trip read like this, "Our only down side to the resort was that we seemed to have been the only lesbians to have ever graced the resort. We were asked at least 1,000 times if we were sisters, or friends or something, and they were in disbelief when we said we were married. We were asked if they could join, and nonsense like that, but for the most part the staff was very friendly. Again, just not for a lesbian honeymoon. Not that we are looking to be all gay all the time, but just to not be on the spot all the time."

In the meantime, ONBC and ETOA jointly released a new LGBT2020 Report on European Tourism showing the total value of spending on travel by LGBT Europeans will next year account for US$66.1 billion of total tourism spending.

The CEO of Out Now Global, Ian Johnson also said the results presented at WTM had much to keep the industry thinking on about how to best understand and meet the needs of the global LGBT travel market. "It is great that the value of LGBT tourism spending now exceeds USD$202 billion but there are still many challenges the industry needs to address," Johnson said.

"Staff training is essential to help get staff up to speed with what has become an unstoppable LGBT consumer revolution for the travel industry. We are obviously pleased that all ONBC members now receive unlimited online staff training to help deliver better understanding and customer service to LGBT guests."

Johnson also pointed out that the acronym LGBT may soon be replaced by the more inclusive LGBTI - recognising an increasing awareness of intersex issues in society. "Intersex people are becoming more visible and their unique issues are slowly becoming better understood," Johnson said.

"In a number of markets in which Out Now works the acronym LGBT, it is now routinely being superseded by LGBTI and the global tourism industry definitely needs more education on what being intersex means."

Intersex is the condition of being intermediate between male and female or hermaphroditism.

janet.silvera@gleanerjm.com

Real change is needed, tolerance does not mean acceptance ............

The following article was sent to me by a reader via email and my thoughts was sought, here is the piece firstly"

When two women marry. What must we do if Buggery Law attacked by those who could destroy tourism?

By Linton Gordon

Over a weekend in June we woke up to the news that two ladies got married to each other in Trelawny. This unprecedented lesbian marriage is not recognized by our Laws, as our Laws recognize marriage to be a matrimonial contract between a consenting male adult and a consenting female adult.

However, this marriage is recognized in some countries and may very well be a testing of the waters here in Jamaica.

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller’s decision to initiate a parliamentary debate on our laws pertaining to homosexuality has been welcomed by the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. Our laws prohibit “sexual” relationship between man and man. There is no law prohibiting such acts between two females. However certain acts between two females can lead to a charge of Indecent Conduct.

The Offences Against The Persons Act groups any so called sexual act between two males with acts of bestiality. This is a clear indication of the contempt with which the framers of the Law held such acts between two males. There is increasing pressure worldwide for countries to repeal laws that make consenting “sex” between adult males a crime.

Our law is to be found at Section 76 of the Offence Against the Persons Act as follows:

“Whosoever shall be convicted of the abominable crime of buggery, committed either with mankind or with any animal, shall be liable to be imprisoned and kept to hard labour for a term not exceeding ten years.”

The Act does not restrict the crime to acts with men only. It follows that “anal sex” with a female is also a crime in our Law.

We have a serious challenge as it relates to the matter. Our main trading partners are the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada. The majority of our tourists are also from these countries. It can therefore be taken that somewhere along the line some of the tourists coming here are lesbians and some are homosexuals.

Indeed, the operators of our hotels and the employers at these hotels have now learnt that to refuse a gay couple a room can lead to a fall out in business.

Then there was a time when workers at some of these hotels swore that they would not serve homosexuals. Today they have no choice but to do so and they do so and turn a blind eye to the sexual preference of these persons.

There might be potential investors who have refused to come to Jamaica and invest in fear of their lives because of their sexual preference being in conflict with our intolerance. This take us to a very ticklish question, that is: what should be our reaction to a known millionaire homosexual who is prepared to come and invest in the opening of a factory that will employ thousands of Jamaicans? Should we refuse him because he is a homosexual or should we take the route of United Kingdom, Canada and the United States of America where the attitude is “While I do not agree with your lifestyle, I will not participate and I will not interfere with you.”

What if a campaign is launched in Europe and North America to discourage tourist from coming to Jamaica because of our Buggery Law? Are we prepared to see the death of tourism rather than a change to the Buggery Law? Should we hang onto the Buggery Law at all cost even if we run the risk of international isolation?

Those who advance religion on justification should assure us that they can, through prayer, lift us out of ignorance, illiteracy and poverty.

It seems to me that all the contenders should move towards a compromise and the compromise should be found in one word ‘ tolerance’. As objectionable and obnoxious as we might find the relationships and acts we discuss herein, we should be prepared to ignore those who so conduct themselves in the way we do not. Those who so conduct themselves should do so in their privacy and without bringing it into our faces.

We as a country should be prepared to make rational and objective decisions in the interest of our country, difficult and painful as these decisions may be.

I personally find the practice of homosexuality and lesbianism unacceptable and, certainly in the case of so called sexual acts between two men, unnatural.

This article therefore should not be taken as one written on their behalf or in support of homosexuals and lesbians. The views I express are entirely in the interest of the country and the interest of this country should be our priority. Full stop.

ENDS

Certainly the perception given here is that locals are being forced to accept homosexuality overall but why can't we just see people as people and not who they sleep with or how we have sex? If the country's interest is of such priority and we already have properties who do open their doors to LGBT vacationers and naturists while quietly doing so so as to avoid unwarranted backlash why then make it seem as if gay persons are out to suddenly use outward displays of affection to poison everyone else?

The paranoia that somehow all we are here to do is to homosexualize everyone else is preposterous. Do we see elsewhere around the world where same sex relations and sexual activities are legal any untoward displays of affection in public that this writer implies, even in the gayest of nightclubs or entertainment spots there is civility, the raunchy effect of same sex activity is a misnomer as if same gender loving persons who would come here would suddenly have open sex for all to see, holding hands or embracing openly is not going to suddenly lead to a transfer of homosexuality to a heterosexual or this scared writer of the piece. The fear of the unknown is just beyond me when it comes to homosexuality.

The lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) leisure travel market is set to reach a record US$181 billion in 2013, says a report from the recently concluded World Travel Market (WTM) in London, England.

The findings are based on the LGBT2020 research programme from leading global LGBT marketing specialist Out Now Global -http://www.outnowconsulting.com - which measures consumer spend, purchasing habits and brand preferences across 22 countries.

The new data shows a 9.7 per cent year on year growth in the LGBT travel market, up from US$165 billion in 2012. The findings come at a time when a few Jamaican resorts have become more accepting of same-sex couples.

Tolerant industry

"Our hotels have always welcomed. We don't necessarily place ads advertising that we accept the LGBT, but we would never turn back persons because of their sexual preferences," said a Negril hotelier, who added that there is really no difference from how the LGBT market was treated by the average hotel 20 years ago.

"The industry has always been more tolerant than the rest of the society," said the hotelier, adding that there are many gays working in the tourism sector, so it's no big news.

Another hotelier says Jamaica is not ready for this market, which is a big mistake. "I have tried to target them in the past, but I have given up, because it's a hard sell, particularly because of our homophobic reputation," said the hotelier.

She said if members of the LGBT community were to turn up at her property they wouldn't be turned back. She admits that the market has huge potential of pumping foreign exchange into the island's coffers. We need to get real and realise that the pink dollar we are prepared to take under the table while ignoring the "types" can't work anymore we are going to have to get open and embracing and have real tolerance if we are to diversify our tourism product and thus improve our economy not with the kinds of numbers we are hearing in terms of LGBT travel and the potential it affords. LGBT consumers are finding the cost of living tough and some are working two or more jobs to keep things together, but with dramatically fewer households with children, travel remains a viable option for more LGBT travellers and one that is still within their household budget.

We need to get with it already.

Peace and tolerance

H

LGBT leisure travel market set to spike .................... LGBT "friendly" resorts are here

Janet Silvera, Hospitality Jamaica Coordinator

The lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) leisure travel market is set to reach a record US$181 billion in 2013, says a report from the recently concluded World Travel Market (WTM) in London, England.

The findings are based on the LGBT2020 research programme from leading global LGBT marketing specialist Out Now Global -http://www.outnowconsulting.com - which measures consumer spend, purchasing habits and brand preferences across 22 countries.

The new data shows a 9.7 per cent year on year growth in the LGBT travel market, up from US$165 billion in 2012. The findings come at a time when a few Jamaican resorts have become more accepting of same-sex couples.

The country is also labelled an 'adamantly homophobic nation', but research shows that there are a number of LGBT-friendly resorts in Negril, Port Antonio, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios and the south coast, which have been getting complimentary reviews from same-sex couples, jetting in and out of the island.

Tolerant industry

"Our hotels have always welcomed. We don't necessarily place ads advertising that we accept the LGBT, but we would never turn back persons because of their sexual preferences," said a Negril hotelier, who added that there is really no difference from how the LGBT market was treated by the average hotel 20 years ago.

"The industry has always been more tolerant than the rest of the society," said the hotelier, adding that there are many gays working in the tourism sector, so it's no big news.

Another hotelier says Jamaica is not ready for this market, which is a big mistake. "I have tried to target them in the past, but I have given up, because it's a hard sell, particularly because of our homophobic reputation," said the hotelier.

She said if members of the LGBT community were to turn up at her property they wouldn't be turned back. She admits that the market has huge potential of pumping foreign exchange into the island's coffers.

In the meantime, the Out Now reports list the USA market at the top of the league at US$52.3 billion, followed by Brazil (US$22.9 billion) and Japan (US$18.5 billion). Europe, it says, is a more important LGBT market than the USA with the total value of the eight most important markets in Europe being significantly larger than the US market (US$58.3 billion) and Latin America's most important three markets account for an additional US$36.0 billion).

Announcing the figures at WTM, Out Now Global CEO Ian Johnson said: "A number of different factors continue to drive growth in this sector. Many LGBT people have grown up experiencing things a bit tougher than most, so a difficult economy, and working to keep things moving in tough times, including our travel plans, is part of the modus operandi for many of us."

Johnson is quoted as stating that like many people, LGBT consumers are finding the cost of living tough and some are working two or more jobs to keep things together, but with dramatically fewer households with children, travel remains a viable option for more LGBT travellers and one that is still within their household budget.

"The LGBT community's resilience is matched by an expansion of product options which are tailored to meet LGBT needs. Today, there are more and more destinations, hotels and tour operators, all catering to the particular needs of our market, and that makes travel a very desirable leisure pursuit for all those who can afford it."

For the first time this year, Turkey and Israel were added to the LGBT 2020 survey, says Out for the first time this year. The new Turkey research data shows that this new market accounts for more than US$5.1 billion in annual tourism spending. Israel adds another US$1.1 billion to the annual value of LGBT tourism spending globally.

"Having identified a remarkably resilient potential customer base for 2013, now is the time for industry operators to really step up a gear and work to strengthen their market position," says Johnson.

To facilitate this process, he says, in a cost effective and genuine way, Out Now has developed a suite of new services to help the industry make that important change.

Top 5 Gay and Lesbian Friendly Destinations in the Caribbean

According to Travel Expert Robert Curley

With its fun-in-the-sun destinations, carefree attitude, and myriad couples-oriented resorts, the Caribbean seems an ideal vacation spot for gay and lesbian couples. But not all Caribbean islands are created equal: some (notably the French, Dutch, and U.S. islands) roll out the welcome mat for gay couples, while others, like Jamaica, Barbados, and the Cayman Islands, have a reputation for homophobia. With the help of the travel experts at Gay.com, here's my picks for the top Caribbean destinations for gay travelers.

1. St. Barts
With its laissez-faire French culture and a myriad of private villas to choose from, St. Barts is has been called the most gay-friendly island in the Caribbean. This is the place to get lost in the Caribbean for a few days, far from the cruise-ship crowds.

2. St. Martin/St. Maarten
Both Dutch St. Maarten and French St. Martin have long had a gay-friendly reputation, with many private villas for rent and beaches and bars where gay and straight couples peacefully coexist. St. Maarten's reputation was sullied somewhat by a 2004 incident where a gay couple was assaulted near a popular beach bar, but island tourism officials were quick to apologize, and the island remains near the top of the list for many gay Caribbean travellers.

3. Puerto Rico
Gay travelers in Puerto Rico will find the Caribbean's only real gay nightlife scene: San Juan highlights include the Atlantic Beach Bar (with a weekly drag show) and clubs like Eros. On both the mainland and the island of Vieques you can find gay-friendly resorts, and gay travelers in Puerto Rico have the benefit of protection by U.S. antidiscrimination laws.

4. U.S. Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands -- St. Croix, in particular -- has become a mecca for gay travellers, many of whom wind up at the welcoming Sand Castle on the Beach Resort in Fredericksted. Gay travellers can expect a friendly and tolerant attitude throughout the U.S.V.I., and if public displays of affection are not exactly embraced, the reaction is not likely to be more than a second glance.

5. Curacao
While some Caribbean island privately welcome gay travellers, Curacao has been the most public in its embrace: "With exceptional gay friendly hotels and attractions, [Curacao] encourages gay and lesbian travellers to visit the island and experience its 'live and let live' atmosphere for themselves," says the Curacao Tourist Board, which has launched a marketing campaign aimed at gays and lesbians and includes information on gay-friendly hotels and clubs on its website.

Which Islands are Gay Friendly?Gay Caribbean Report CardQT Magazine