I went through different websites to get insight view of Gay and their roles in local economy. Experienced as a tour operator for certain years, I never had imagined experiencing Gay tourism boom around the world. Presently I am not in tourism industry but I felt really interesting that Gay tourism is gaining its momentum in a fast pace. I hope Sajha viewers will enjoy reading it. Gay Tourism:- According to Tourism Intelligence International in 2000, some 10% of international tourists were gay or lesbians, accounting for more than 70 million arrivals worldwide. This market is thus an important market segment and is expected to continue to grow as a result of a change in attitudes to homosexuality. Gays are regarded as being 'early innovators' and 'trendsetters'. They usually have a high disposable income and no kids - the so called DINKS of the 21 Century. American gay and lesbian tourists for example are estimated to generate $54.1 bn a year - about 10% of the total US travel industry. As a result of the fact that this segment tends to have few family responsibilities they have a large pool of discretionary cash for traveling. The US market is regarded as being the most important source of gay and lesbian tourists, with the highest levels of disposable of income. It is reported that this market has many specialist segments, which are interested in high value holidays, such as cruising, eco and adventure tourism. Some Gay and lesbian related tourism organizations:- New Zealand:- The New Zealand Gay and Lesbian Tourism (NZGLTA) is a professional, non-profit organisation which has been established to assist the gay, lesbian and bisexual traveller by maintaining standards of service and hospitality in tourism related products. Gay Travelers Shore Up Local Economy :- In the February 2002 issue of Out & About magazine, Fort Lauderdale was declared the next ?gay-vacation Mecca,? overtaking Key West and Miami. And the events of September 11 have not changed that. With more than 10 gay-owned businesses, a good mix of attractions and more than 30 hotels catering specifically o the gay/lesbian market, Fort Lauderdale is considered a gay-friendly destination. Last year approximately 555,000 gays visited the area, spending more than $500 million. Montreal has a large network of services and organizations for the gay and lesbian community Gay friendly France: - So close to Britain yet so different. Did you know that France is one of Europe?s top gay friendly-destinations?