LGBT Tourism in Northern Portugal

In tourism, the achievement of acceptance, freedom of expression, equal rights and respect in various destinations and public spaces has stimulated growing interest from companies and destinations, reinforced by the strong purchasing power and the availability for more frequent trips by LGBT community (Baxter, 2010; WTO, 2017). For a destination that aims to attract and build a strong relationship with the LGBT market it is vital, regardless of their motivation, to offer a safe and welcoming environment, interacting with understanding and respect. This study analyses the North of Portugal stakeholders' attitudes and perceptions, particularly the hotel industry and the local community, towards the LGBT tourism/market. By conducting two separate studies that complement each other, it was concluded that the region has the right conditions to put it on LGBT tourism and captivate this market segment, but that there are still slight prejudices that must be corrected.