PROUD Experiences is returning with a dedicated PROUD Gathering at International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) North America, continuing its mission to “expand inclusion and belonging in the luxury travel sector.”To take place on Monday 6 October 2025 at Baha Mar, Bahamas, this two-hour forum will unite changemakers, visionaries, and industry leaders to tackle critical issues in LGBTQ+ travel through “engaging interviews, thought leadership and practical guidance.”The event kicks off with a surprise musical performance, followed by a welcome from Simon Mayle, Event Director of ILTM North America, ILTM Latin America, and PROUD Experiences. Mayle will then introduce a series of sessions designed to equip attendees with tools for meaningful change.“The PROUD Gathering at ILTM North America is more than just a conversation – it’s a catalyst for change,” Mayle said.“It’s where industry leaders come together to challenge assumptions, share best practices and commit to creating genuinely inclusive experiences for LGBTQ+ travellers. I’m proud that we’re not only keeping this conversation going but deepening it in a way that drives real business impact.”
Key discussions at the Gathering include a “Travel advisor perspective,” featuring travel industry icon Kimberly Wilson Wetty and Haisley Smith, VP of Luxury, Land & Cruise at Internova Travel Group. Together, they will explore the role of advisors in authentically supporting LGBTQ+ clients, from first consultation to in-destination experience.Meanwhile, in the “Hospitality leadership” session, Brian King, President of Marriott International Caribbean & Latin America, will join Nina Ruggiero, Senior Editorial Director at Travel + Leisure, to reflect on Marriott’s evolving approach to LGBTQ+ inclusion across the guest journey and internal culture.Another highlight will be “The State of LGBTQ+ Tourism” update by long-time advocate and expert Ed Salvato where he will present new data collected exclusively from ILTM attendees that provides fresh insight into the business case for LGBTQ+ travel.Closing the event, Jim McPartlin, a renowned US hospitality training executive, will join Salvato for an interactive Masterclass offering a range of strategies for growing this important segment in a meaningful way.Following the Gathering, ILTM North America will feature three days of pre-scheduled, one-to-one appointments and networking events. Registration for the event, sponsored by Internova Travel Group, closes on 29 July.
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Key discussions at the Gathering include a “Travel advisor perspective,” featuring travel industry icon Kimberly Wilson Wetty and Haisley Smith, VP of Luxury, Land & Cruise at Internova Travel Group. Together, they will explore the role of advisors in authentically supporting LGBTQ+ clients, from first consultation to in-destination experience.Meanwhile, in the “Hospitality leadership” session, Brian King, President of Marriott International Caribbean & Latin America, will join Nina Ruggiero, Senior Editorial Director at Travel + Leisure, to reflect on Marriott’s evolving approach to LGBTQ+ inclusion across the guest journey and internal culture.Another highlight will be “The State of LGBTQ+ Tourism” update by long-time advocate and expert Ed Salvato where he will present new data collected exclusively from ILTM attendees that provides fresh insight into the business case for LGBTQ+ travel.Closing the event, Jim McPartlin, a renowned US hospitality training executive, will join Salvato for an interactive Masterclass offering a range of strategies for growing this important segment in a meaningful way.Following the Gathering, ILTM North America will feature three days of pre-scheduled, one-to-one appointments and networking events. Registration for the event, sponsored by Internova Travel Group, closes on 29 July.
