More than 400 international, Mexican and local business who are interested in targeting the LGBT market are expected to gather during the three-day B2B trade show and networking events, including representatives from airlines, hotels, tourism offices, tour operators, travel agents, international media, international organizations and governmental offices.The only Mexican destination to be a member of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association, Puerto Vallarta made its debut as a tourism destination in the 1960s when celebrity visits by Elizabeth Taylor and Tennessee Williams launched the destination into the eye of international media, and has since developed into the country’s leading LGBT destination. Puerto Vallarta offers an all-inclusive atmosphere in its Romantic Zone area which is home to many businesses that are LGBT-owned and/or target the consumer, including beaches, tours, activities and restaurants bars and clubs to choose from.

On October 31 the state of Jalisco, where Puerto Vallarta is located, approved a civil union law that allows couples co-habiting to register their union with the state and allowing for certain rights, including that of inheritance, property ownership, and medical rights among others.

Vallarta Pride will take place from May 22-26, 2014, the three-day celebration of LGBT culture and Puerto Vallarta’s welcoming community will include music festivals, beach parties, fashion shows and activities in participating bars and clubs.

LGBT Business Expo, www.lgbtbusinessexpo.com