London crowned best for gay travellers

London has been crowned as the best international holiday destination by American gay and lesbian travellers.

In an online survey of more than 7,500 lesbian and gay travellers in the USA, more than 8% had visited the capital in the past 12 months, placing the city ahead of Paris and Rome – the only other European destinations to make the top 10.

Survey respondents indicated that they chose leisure destinations because friends recommended them, they offer unique attractions, and are known for their gay-friendliness.

Tom Wright, chief executive of VisitBritain, welcomed the result. 

“Typically experienced travellers, who take longer holidays, we have marketed Britain as a destination in the gay and lesbian communities [in the USA] for nearly a decade,” he said.

“With US visitors down by 5% so far this year, it’s important that we tell as many of them as possible about all they can enjoy in this country. In the tradition of Britain’s inclusive society, our campaign expresses the diversity of experiences that all our visitors, whatever their sexuality, can enjoy here.”

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By Daniel Thomas

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