Festuris – Gramado International Tourism Trade Show, now in its 37th edition, has established itself as one of the most important business and trend platforms in the sector in Brazil and Latin America. This year, the LGBT+ Diversity stage welcomes for the first time one of the most respected voices in queer tourism in the world: Ed Salvato. His appearance is scheduled for November 7, at 4 pm.
With over 25 years of experience, Ed Salvato is a true ambassador for inclusion in tourism. Former editor-in-chief of iconic publications such as OUT Traveler, ManAboutWorld, and the pioneering Out & About, he stands out for his commitment to the safety, belonging, and visibility of LGBTQ+ travelers in an industry that, historically, has not always welcomed diversity.
A professor at New York University's (NYU) Tisch Center of Hospitality, Salvato teaches the institution's first course focused on inclusion and belonging in the travel industry. In addition, he is co-author of the influential The Handbook of LGBT Tourism & Hospitality, a work considered essential for professionals and brands that want to create truly welcoming experiences for the queer audience.
His career also includes six years on the board of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) — five of them as treasurer — and extensive work as a consultant to destinations, hotels, and operators seeking to transform good intentions into real practices of inclusion.
“With Ed Salvato's presence, Festuris 2025 reinforces its commitment to innovation and to more humane, accessible, and inclusive tourism—where every traveler, regardless of their identity, can be welcome anywhere and be exactly who they are with peace of mind, safety, and respect,” says Festuris CEO Marta Rossi.
On the LGBT+ Diversity stage, Salvato will share his global vision, combining data, practical experiences, and real stories of transformation, showing how tourism can be a powerful tool to promote respect, connection, and belonging in an increasingly pluralistic world.
WHAT ED SALVATO SAYS - Excited to share content at Festuris 2025, Ed comments: "I am honored to participate in Festuris for the first time and especially excited to join the Diversity stage. For over 25 years, my work has focused on helping destinations and travel brands create experiences where every traveler feels safe, seen, and welcomed. At Festuris, I will share insights on the future of LGBTQ+ tourism, anticipating the trends and challenges that will shape our industry over the next five years. I am equally eager to learn from colleagues in Brazil and Latin America who are advancing this work in powerful ways. Together, we can expand the conversation about belonging in travel and inspire a new generation of leaders committed to hospitality that welcomes everyone."
He emphasizes: “The future of LGBTQ+ tourism depends on creating experiences where every traveler feels they belong, and I am excited to bring this conversation to Festuris.”
FESTURIS - The 37th Festuris will take place in Gramado from November 6 to 9, in the Serra Park pavilions, under the theme “Reimagining Tomorrow.” Registration is now open and free for travel agents, tour guides, press, press officers, content creators, and guest ambassadors. To register, visit www.festurisgramado.com.br. For more information, follow Festuris on social media @festurisgramado
Tickets for the Festuris Meeting are now available for purchase on the Festuris website. This September, tickets cost R$ 360.00 and, in addition to access to the main stage, this ticket allows you to participate in the General Trade Show. More information can be obtained from Julia Bervanger, by phone/WhatsApp: + 55 (54) 99955 - 4934.
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