Costa Rica has always stood by the defense of human rights, promoting an inclusive and tolerant society; and even though this is still a work in progress, there is a big sector of the population that is not only respectful of the LGBTI community but in fact they understand the big potential behind this market, the tourism sector.

Costa Rica’s Diverse Chamber of Commerce also known as Costa Rica’s LGBTI Chamber of Commerce will be holding the first edition of the LGBTI Trade Mission; an event that aims to create a link between sexual diversity and commerce, the event is directed towards businesses, entrepreneurs, corporations, organizations, private companies and government institutions that are interested in targeting their services and directing their marketing strategies to the national and international LGBTI community. The purpose is to position Costa Rica as the first inclusive and LGBTI-friendly country in Central America and empower the LGBTI community so they can establish their own businesses and network with other inclusive companies. The LGBTI Trade Mission will take place September 12 and 13 at the Real Intercontinental Hotel.

The LGBTI tourism niche with their double income no kids (DINK) factor, allows this segment to invest more in themselves, and according to the World Tourism Organization they allocate approximately a 30% of their income to traveling; the LGBTI tourism sector has an annual growth of 10.3% and they account for a 15% of the global amount spent in traveling. The LGBTI tourists spend more money when they travel and they spend more time vacationing.

Costa Rica’s LGBTI Chamber of Commerce will provide more data on the LGBTI global market in another event scheduled for October 20 at the Park Inn Hotel; with these efforts they hope to educate on emerging markets in global tourism, their potential, and also give extensive knowledge of this segment to improve visitor experience.

Costa Rica as a touristic destination has always been associated with beautiful beaches and nature; now its economy and image can also benefit from being associated with respect, inclusiveness and diversity.