{"id":61711,"date":"2025-05-21T13:58:12","date_gmt":"2025-05-21T12:58:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/?p=61711"},"modified":"2025-05-21T16:47:26","modified_gmt":"2025-05-21T15:47:26","slug":"lgbt-travel-symposium-basque-country-spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/lgbt-travel-symposium-basque-country-spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand\/","title":{"rendered":"LGBT+ Travel Symposium \u2013 Basque Country: <br> Spain\u2019s northern rebel is taking a stand"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-7bb24ecbe1eeac13f458be7fedcc9bd1\" style=\"color:#26647f\">\u201cKaixo\u201d from Euskadi (the Spanish Basque region), the proud host of this year\u2019s LGBT+ Travel Symposium \u2013 an international gathering powered by OutThere, dedicated to advancing inclusion in the global travel space. Over two dynamic days, this storied, fiercely independent region of northern Spain, better known to many as the Basque Country, announced the launch of its new LGBTQIA+ tourism product, laying down a bold marker for what queer inclusive tourism looks like in practice. Now that we\u2019ve caught our breath, The Experientialist\u00ae revisits some of the key moments from the landmark event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>As queer globetrotters, we learn early to compile an internal shortlist of the places in this world that make us feel safe and accepted \u2013 strongholds that we can always count on for our spur-of-the-moment city breaks and rainbow-fuelled luxury getaways. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/luxury-travel-inspiration\/spain\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Spain<\/a><\/strong>, to its credit, has long delivered on that front, with cities and towns like Barcelona, Sitges and Madrid, not to mention islands like Ibiza and Gran Canaria, consistently ranking among the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in Europe, and living up to that reputation with every joyful visit. But further north, on the country\u2019s Atlantic edge near the French border, another destination has been quietly coming into its own, and the word is getting out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The Basque Country may not dominate glossy gay travel guides \u2013 at least not yet \u2013 but for those who\u2019ve been paying attention, it has long asserted itself as an appealing LGBTQ+-friendly destination, owing not only to its awe-inspiring natural landscapes and gastronomy (yes, the San Sebastian cheesecake lives up to the hype), but also to its open-mindedness, strong legal protections and a history of resistance to imposed conformity that bleeds into its culture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Euskadi is more than just another region of Spain. It has its own distinct identity: its own customs, traditions, and language (Euskara, one of the oldest in Europe), all of which it has had to defend for centuries in the face of marginalisation and authoritarian rule imposed by both Spanish and, at times, French powers. Sound familiar? That same instinct \u2013 to resist, to assert identity, and to take up space, is something queer communities know intimately. For years, both have been told to shrink, to stay silent, to disappear. And both have pushed back with pride.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In modern times, that same spirit of resistance and self-definition can be felt across the entire region, from its coastlines and fertile hills to its city centres, encompassing all three historic territories: Alava (\u00c1lava), Biscay (Vizcaya)  and Gipuzkoa (Guip\u00fazcoa) \u2013 which, prior to the Symposium, we traversed on a number of FAM trips with over 35 other media representatives, travel agents and influencers from across the world. But this spirit arguably reaches its full expression in Bilbao, Euskadi\u2019s de facto capital after Vitoria-Gasteiz and the creative engine for queer life and culture in the region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"61758\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A gay and lesbian couple ride bikes through Bilbao.\" class=\"wp-image-61758\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1-770x513.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_1-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"61759\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A gay couple take a selfie from a viewpoint in San Sebastian with a beach in the background.\" class=\"wp-image-61759\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2-770x513.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_2-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"61760\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A traveller rests his head on the lap of his partner outside the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao.\" class=\"wp-image-61760\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3-770x513.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_3-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"61761\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A gay couple explore a winery in Rioja.\" class=\"wp-image-61761\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4-770x513.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_4-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"61762\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A lesbian couple and their two children walk through a forest with art installations on the trees.\" class=\"wp-image-61762\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5-770x513.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_5-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"61763\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A lesbian couple hold hands on a beach as they prepare to surf.\" class=\"wp-image-61763\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6-770x513.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_6-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption wp-element-caption\">Queer travellers find their rhythm in the Basque Country\u2019s diverse landscapes and experiences: Vitoria-Gasteiz charms with its historic streets; in San Sebasti\u00e1n, the curve of La Concha beach and its calm waters offer a perfect pause; Bilbao\u2019s Guggenheim Museum captures a city in artistic motion; for wine lovers, Rioja Alavesa is a siren call; Oma Forest invites families into a living, painted fairytale; Hit the waves along the Basque Country\u2019s wild Atlantic coast.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Wandering through the city\u2019s punchy Old Town (Casco Viejo), you\u2019ll spot queer residents openly holding hands and smooching on benches, rainbow flags waving from wrought-iron balconies and tucked-away gay bars buzzing with conversation. In the San Francisco district, queer-owned caf\u00e9s and venues give space to drag shows and a thriving underground art scene. The city plays host to Zinegoak, the Basque Country\u2019s landmark LGBTQ+ film festival, and every June turns into a hotbed of unbridled queer joy with the arrival of Bilbao Pride. It also welcomed its first Axel Hotel in 2024, adding an exciting new pin to the map of global gaycations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On May 8\u20139, the city became a stage for LGBTQ+ travel innovation, when some 100 industry professionals, comprising more than 50 local tourism providers descended upon the Bizkaia Aretoa for the LGBT+ Travel Symposium &#8211; Basque Country, proudly powered by OutThere, in collaboration with the&nbsp;Department of Tourism, Trade and Consumer Affairs of the Basque Government&nbsp;and the Basque Tourism Agency,&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/basquetour.eus\/index.htmhttps:\/\/tourism.euskadi.eus\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Basquetour<\/a><\/strong>. Now in its sophomore year, the international forum, designed to shape the future of LGBTQ+ travel through the exchange of wisdom, experiences, and best industry practices, is one of the landmark initiatives in Euskadi\u2019s ongoing mission to position itself as a benchmark for inclusive tourism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cOur tourism code of ethics contains six principles to ensure the Basque Country remains the safe, welcoming, sustainable and respectable destination that we are.\u201d Said Javier Hurtado Dominguez, Minister of Tourism, Trade &amp; Consumer Affairs, Basque Government, as he inaugurated the Symposium, before shedding light on some of the active work Euskadi has been doing behind the scenes with Queer Destinations. Through this strategic collaboration, the organisation has assisted the region in developing a long-term tourism strategy that includes industry training, inclusive quality benchmarks, and tailored experiences for LGBTQ+ travellers. So far, more than 180 tourism businesses in the region have completed the programme and earned the Queer Destinations Committed accreditation. In fact, the Basque Country itself now holds the distinction of being the first officially certified <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/queerdestinations.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Queer Destinations<\/a><\/strong> Committed region in Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Founder and President of Queer Destinations Oriol Pamies chimed in with a timely opening address on the shifting state of LGBTQ+ rights worldwide, drawing attention to the alarming rollback of DEI efforts and trans protections in many regions. In contrast, he praised the Basque Country for standing firm in its values and actively strengthening its commitment to equality and inclusion: \u201cThe era of passive support is over\u2026 More than ever,&nbsp;given the evolving global state of LGBTQ+ rights, there is a need to move from talk and representation to commitment and action. We are encouraged by BasqueTour\u2019s enduring dedication to this matter.\u201d Oriol then put out an optimistic reminder of our spending power as queer travellers, and how by making intentional choices with our money we can change the tide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While conversations around inclusion rightfully lean on ethics and moral responsibility, there&#8217;s this pragmatic reality that can\u2019t be ignored: embracing LGBTQ+ travellers makes economic sense. <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tourism.euskadi.eus\/en\/euskadi-lgtbiq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Euskadi\u2019s LGBTQIA+ tourism product<\/a><\/strong> is as much a reflection of the region\u2019s deeply held values as it is an answer to a growing market. Globally, this segment generates over \u20ac200 billion each year and is expanding at a rate of 8% annually. But numbers alone don\u2019t define its impact. These travellers gravitate toward destinations that offer more than token gestures \u2013 they\u2019re drawn to places that welcome them wholeheartedly, and to brands that align with who they are.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cBeyond the Basque Country\u2019s unique landscapes and experiences, its climate to suit all tastes, fantastic gastronomy and everything within easy reach\u2026 it has a hospitable people and a long history of acceptance, struggle and understanding of the diversity that exists in the world. It\u2019s no wonder that we have a high retention rate, with 46% of repeat travellers.\u201d Said BasqueTour\u2019s Director General Daniel Solana Alonso, in a one of one conversation with Queer Destinations co-founder Edgar Weggelaar.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-2 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"819\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"61770\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12-819x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Uwern Jong delivers a speech on stage. \" class=\"wp-image-61770\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12-819x1024.jpg 819w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12-1639x2048.jpg 1639w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12-610x762.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12-770x962.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12-1400x1749.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12-300x375.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_12.jpg 1707w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"61765\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Delegates gather at the LGBT+ Travel Symposium at Bizkaia Aretoa in Bilbao.\" class=\"wp-image-61765\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7-770x513.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_7-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"819\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"61769\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11-819x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Speakers at the LGBT+ Travel symposium.\" class=\"wp-image-61769\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11-819x1024.jpg 819w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11-1638x2048.jpg 1638w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11-610x763.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11-770x963.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11-1400x1750.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11-300x375.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_11.jpg 1707w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"819\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"61768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10-819x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A gay influencer couple share a kiss on a bench.\" class=\"wp-image-61768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10-819x1024.jpg 819w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10-1638x2048.jpg 1638w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10-610x763.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10-770x963.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10-1400x1750.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10-300x375.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_10.jpg 1707w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-id=\"61766\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A crowd of travel professionals look towards the stage at the LGBT+ Travel Symposium.\" class=\"wp-image-61766\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8-360x240.jpg 360w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8-610x407.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8-720x480.jpg 720w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8-770x513.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_8-1400x934.jpg 1400w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"819\" height=\"1024\" data-id=\"61767\" src=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9-819x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Delegates network over coffee and pastries at the LGBT+ Travel Symposium.\" class=\"wp-image-61767\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9-819x1024.jpg 819w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9-1229x1536.jpg 1229w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9-1638x2048.jpg 1638w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9-610x763.jpg 610w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9-770x963.jpg 770w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9-1400x1750.jpg 1400w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9-300x375.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/LGBT-Travel-Symposium-Basque-Country-Spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand_9.jpg 1707w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 819px) 100vw, 819px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n<figcaption class=\"blocks-gallery-caption wp-element-caption\">Shaping tomorrow: over 100 professionals converged at the LGBT+ Travel Symposium to drive inclusive tourism through thought-provoking keynotes, roundtables and one-to-one discussions.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>OutThere\u2019s Experientialist\u00ae-in-Chief and LGBT+ Travel Symposium host Uwern Jong then invited Joseba Berzosa (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.basquedestination.com\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Basque Destination<\/a><\/strong>) to the stage for a fireside chat offering an insider\u2019s take on the destination. Joseba gushed over his home\u2019s culinary scene and cultural offerings, and shared tips on the best ways visitors can connect with queer locals. The conversation was followed by a panel titled \u201cBeing influential: The power of LGBTQ+ media,\u201d featuring Aisha Shaibu-Lenoir (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/thequeernomads\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">@thequeernomads<\/a><\/strong>), Alfonso Llopart (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/shangay.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Shangay<\/a><\/strong>), Allyssa Leaton (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/thelesbianpassport\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">@thelesbianpassport<\/a><\/strong>), and Karl &amp; Dan (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/coupleofmen\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">@coupleofmen<\/a><\/strong>). Together, they reflected on the impact of queer storytelling and the best \u2013 and worst \u2013 practices they\u2019ve encountered as content creators.\u2028<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Uwern returned to the stage, this time joined by Bastiaan Ellen (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/mrhudsonexplores.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Mr. Hudson Explores<\/a><\/strong>), Judith Guerra (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.consolid.com.mx\/en.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Consolid<\/a><\/strong>), and Phil Hollister (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/pinkglobus.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Pink Globus<\/a><\/strong>), to offer a travel advisor\u2019s take on how the Basque Country can better position itself to international audiences. The consensus was that with more and more queer travellers seeking meaningful experiences that go beyond the cookie-cutter Pride trappings, Euskadi is uniquely well-placed to deliver\u2026 if it works on its self-promotion (we all love a hidden gem, but a little PR never hurt anyone.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next up was the panel \u2018LGBTQ+ travel: what\u2019s next?\u2019 featuring Meg Ten Eyck (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/everyqueer.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">EveryQueer<\/a><\/strong>), Elle Pinkard (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/destinationrainbow.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Destination Rainbow<\/a><\/strong>), Lexie Shaibu-Lenoir (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.queerweddings.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Queer Weddings<\/a><\/strong>), and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mconte.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Marley Conte<\/a><\/strong> (Trans&amp;). The group tackled how the travel industry can do better when it comes to representing the full spectrum of queer identities. Lexie spoke about the need for better representation of Black queer travellers in tourism marketing \u2013 a point Marley echoed through the lens of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/icons-of-inclusion-series-marley-conte\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">their experience as a trans\/non-binary person<\/a><\/strong>. Meg challenged brands to stop treating lesbian travellers as an afterthought, shaped by the experiences of gay men. And Elle made a compelling case for why the Basque Country is primed to welcome queer families, adding a pointed reminder to the industry at large: \u201cIf you\u2019re LGBTQ+ inclusive, don\u2019t just say it once, say it twice\u2026 our families don\u2019t want to have to read between the lines.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For the final panel of the LGBT+ Travel Symposium, three representatives from three Basque Country businesses (<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bilbaorivercompany.com\/en\/home\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bilbao River Company<\/a><\/strong>, <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/romotur.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Romotur<\/a><\/strong>, and <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/underwaterwine.com\/en-eu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Crusoe Treasure<\/a><\/strong>) that are currently undergoing the Queer Destinations training program, joined Rika Jean-Fran\u00e7ois to detail some of the best inclusive practices they have picked up on their journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There\u2019s no getting around it \u2013 it\u2019s a precarious moment for LGBTQ+ rights worldwide, which makes it all the more important to celebrate our wins, nurture optimism, and shine a light on the people and places that are choosing to be on the right side of history. As Uwern Jong put it plainly, \u201cWe often talk about creating safe spaces in this industry, but now we need to take it literally.\u201d It\u2019s genuinely encouraging to see destinations like Euskadi doing more than just talking, but actively working to shape a tourism model that\u2019s human-centred and in step with the values of a diverse, modern society.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the shifting tides of global equality, the Basque Country isn\u2019t just throwing down its anchor and staying put, but sailing forward at full speed, offering a warm \u201cOngi etorri\u201d to queer travellers everywhere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:20px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/basquecountry.lgbttravelsymposium.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">www.basquecountry.lgbttravelsymposium.com<\/a><\/strong> | <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tourism.euskadi.eus\/en\/euskadi-lgtbiq\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">www.turismo.euskadi.com<\/a><\/strong> | <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/queerdestinations.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">www.queerdestinations.com<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-black-color has-text-color has-link-color wp-elements-03e5dffe56593eaf514e1ed2e69a529c\"><em>Photography courtesy of Visit Euskadi \/ LGBT+ Travel Symposium<\/em><\/p>\n<span class=\"et_bloom_bottom_trigger\"><\/span>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Euskadi \u2013 better known to many as the Basque Country \u2013 announced the launch of its new LGBTQIA+ tourism product at this year&#8217;s LGBT+ Travel Symposium by OutThere, laying down a bold marker for what queer-inclusive tourism looks like in practice.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":106,"featured_media":61781,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"advgb_blocks_editor_width":"","advgb_blocks_columns_visual_guide":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[2806],"tags":[3772,3773],"class_list":["post-61711","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-experientialist","tag-basque-country","tag-lgbt-travel-symposium"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.6 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The Basque Country hosts LGBT+ Travel Symposium 2025 - OutThere magazine<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Euskadi doubles down on inclusive tourism at this year&#039;s LGBT+ Travel Symposium by OutThere | LGBTQ friendly holidays and vacations\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/lgbt-travel-symposium-basque-country-spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"This Northern Spanish territory is doubling down on queer inclusive tourism\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Euskadi \u2013 better known to many as the Basque Country \u2013 strengthens its commitment to inclusive tourism at this year&#039;s LGBT+ Travel Symposium, proudly powered by OutThere.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.outthere.travel\/lgbt-travel-symposium-basque-country-spains-northern-rebel-is-taking-a-stand\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"OutThere magazine\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-05-21T12:58:12+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" 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