New York State Launches LGBT Tourism Website
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) - New York State has launched a new campaign to try to sell the LGBT community on visiting and spending tourism dollars.
The iconic I Love NY logo has gotten a makeover in the form of a rainbow colored heart for the new tourism marketing aimed at the LGBT community.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced the official launch of a new "I Love NY LGBT" website on Saturday. Some marchers in Sunday's gay pride parade in New York City will be wearing rainbow-hearted I Love NY shirts.
New York State Launches LGBT Tourism Website
"This is a travel segment that does a lot of travel, spends a lot of money," Ross Levi of Empire State Development told WCBS 880's Jim Smith.
According to the group running the campaign, LGBT tourism is a $70 billion a year industry. Smith said New York has plenty to offer.
"Many LGBT people both in and out of state just simply aren't aware that New York State has an 'I Love Lucy' museum in her own hometown and more ski slopes than Colorado and 250 wineries," Levi told Smith. "New York is the number one destination with the LGBT community and there is just so much for them to see in all corners of the state."
LINK: New York State LGBT Tourism Website
Gov. Cuomo touted the new campaign as a great way to spur tourism statewide.
"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. 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," Gov. Cuomo said in a news release.
With the U.S. Supreme Court's recent decision striking down the Defense Of Marriage Act, the state is also highlighting the other big draw: same-sex marriage.
"If you're planning a wedding, there's really no better place you can come than New York," said Levi. "With the DOMA decision, there are now more reasons than ever for LGBT people to plan destination weddings."
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