Almost everyone recognizes that gay and lesbian travel is a fast-growing market, but few target it as well as the city of Vienna.
That was the theme of the get-together at the sultry bar Atelier in the heart of Toronto’s King St. West recently, as leading lights of the gay travel community gathered to learn a little more about VIE and its options for the gay and lesbian community.
“Gays and lesbians want to know where they will be welcomed – and safe,” said Deb Parent of Conxity.com. “And Vienna has done a terrific job, with its famous gay balls and gay-friendly restaurants and bars.” Gay men in particular, she added, appreciate good food and good hotels, so when you see a city targeting the gay traveler, even straight folks will receive the benefits of a quality infrastructure.
The city has published a Queer Guide, full of details sure to be of interest to gay clients. Listings include bars, restaurants, clubs, and sports clubs, as well as a schedule of annual events.
The not-to-be-missed event is the annual Life Ball (May 17 this year), billed as “the most spectacular queer party in Europe,” which raises more than a million Euros for HIV projects each year. Have fun while you support a good cause? Viva Vienna!
