GAY AND LESBIAN TOURISM – IN SEARCH OF GAY SPACE?

Abstract

The paper explores existing published work related to gay and lesbian tourism motivations. Following, the findings of a small-scale quantitative study regardingthe profile of the Greek gay and lesbian tourists and their motivations when choosing a holiday destination and accommodationare presented. The paper concludes that lesbians are less prone to travel to well-known gay destinations compared to gays and that both avoid homophobic destinations. In terms of accommodation and destination choice, sexuality is not the most decisive factor, although it plays a more important role for gays. Revealing the motivations of the gay and lesbian niche market can help develop an effective marketing strategy.