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Big D comes out of the closet
Forgot the image of the strong, silent cowboy. Dallas tourism officials are now embracing gay and lesbian visitors.
“Big D” is a diverse metropolitan area that “has left behind stereotypes of big-haired women and rowdy cowboys — that is, unless you count sassy drag queens and strapping gay rodeo champs,” according to a Web site operated by the Dallas Convention & Visitors Bureau.
“Our Secret is Out” proclaims the site, which features images of same-sex couples enjoying the local sights.
“It’s not about being politically correct, it’s about being economically correct,” said Phillip Jones, president and CEO of the tourism bureau, told USA Today.
He said gay travelers spend an average of $100 more per day than other travelers and plan four to six trips a year.
In addition to leisure travelers, the city is seeking to attract gay-oriented meetings, including a gay rodeo.
About 20 gay-oriented meetings have come to the city since the promotion began two years ago, Jones said. About six events are scheduled over the next year, including a gay rodeo.
The tourism bureau put up the Web site this year, listing more than 20 gay-friendly hotels, shopping areas, tourist attractions and night clubs.
“We’ve come a long way since the days of the saloon,” the site says. “Everyone should experience the queer life and rich history of this ‘Texas-sized’ city.”
Report by David Wilkening
David
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