Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo announced Saturday the launch of the new “I love NY LGBT” tourism website. This tourism portal for LGBT travelers provides several options for destinations that are especially community-friendly and welcoming places to vacation. The website , Cuomo said, will boost tourism in New York and recognize LGBT pride month.
“New York State has a tremendous variety of must see destinations for all travelers of different interests, whether they are wine connoisseurs, history buffs or outdoor adventurers,” Cuomo said. “The website will be an important tool to help attract visitors, encourage spending in our communities and create jobs in the industry. New York has a proud history of welcoming the LGBT community and whether you’re planning a weekend trip or a destination wedding, I encourage all to come explore the Empire State.”
The website gives suggestions and helpful tips on ways LGBT travelers can plan a trip to New York. Topics featured on the page include arts and culture, history, food and drink, shopping, relaxation, family fun, outdoor adventure and nightlife. The website lists local LGBT events and resources that provide information for same-sex couples planning a wedding in New York state.
At a summit in Albany last year, Cuomo invited  hundreds of tourism experts to discuss ideas on how the state can ramp up the number of tourists to all parts of the state. The conclusion was to launch a $60 million tourism campaign to grow New York’s jobs and revenue-generating venues so more people, including members of the LGBT community, will visit the Empire State.
“The LGBT market is of such immense value to the tourism industry, so New York is to be commended for launching this cutting-edge niche tourism initiative,” said Cristyne Nicholas, chair of the New York State Tourism Advisory Council and CEO of Nicholas & Lence Communications, a New York based strategic communications firm. “Because so much of LGBT marketing can be done through free or low-cost avenues, the cost-benefit ratio on this project is particularly attractive, allowing for a big bang for the buck.”
