“Everyone’s gay in Amsterdam”

A visitor to this great city might conclude that the headline is true. Certainly, it is not just tolerant. It is downright affirming, with full same-sex marriage equality. In 1987 the city became the first city in the world with a gay monument dedicated to all who have been oppressed and persecuted for same-sex expression.

So with tongue planted firmly in cheek, officials at the Netherlands tourism board have launched Everyone’s Gay in Amsterdam. Nearly every major pro-gay city now boasts marketing campaigns aimed directly at luring gay travelers. What’s new about Amsterdam’s is that this campaign is aimed at non-gay travelers first and foremost, with only one section of the campaign’s web site promoting gay friendly bars and restaurants. The implicit message? That straight travelers not only don’t mind gay friendly cities–they actually prefer them.

Amsterdam on GayCities

Photo by travelcheese