The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) will present the
Hanns Ebensten Hall of Fame Award to George Neary, a longtime advocate
for LGBTQ+ tourism, during its 36th Annual Global Convention in New York
City (24-27 April). For 20 years, Neary focused on developing cultural,
heritage and LGBTQ+ tourism through his role as Associate Vice
President of Cultural Tourism for the Greater Miami Convention &
Visitors Bureau.
The award recognizes a tourism professional from the association’s
membership in more than 80 countries who has shown a longstanding
commitment to making the world a more welcoming place for LGBTQ+
travelers. Hanns Ebensten, the award’s namesake, is largely considered
the father of LGBTQ+ travel, having organized the first gay group tour
in 1973.
“We are very proud to honor George, who has not only been a great
champion for tourism in Miami, but also has been such a great friend and
supporter to those of us working in tourism around the world,” said
IGLTA Board Chair Juan JuliĆ , founder and president of Barcelona-based
Axel Hotels. “Even in ‘retirement,’ he continues to share his expertise
with visitors to Miami through customized tours that reflect the city’s
diversity, history and colorful LGBTQ+ community. Our industry is
fortunate to have him.”
After retiring from the GMCVB last year, Neary launched Tours ‘R’ Us,
using his extensive knowledge of Miami to lead LGBTQ+, arts and culture
group tours in his home city. He also currently serves on The Miami
Beach Cultural Arts Council and the Miami Beach Pride Committee and is a
founding board member of the Greater Miami Gay & Lesbian Chamber of
Commerce.
“I am honored and humbled to be chosen for this Hall of Fame award!”
Neary said. “I remember Hanns Ebensten and how he advertised in After Dark magazine
for his travel programs and dreamt of going on his trips to Egypt and
other exotic locations. He was the pioneer in gay travel and am thrilled
to be receiving this award named in his honor!”