Canada recently won the award for Country of the Year at the 25th International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association conference.

Canada was recently named the best travel destination in the world by PlanetOut at the 25th International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) conference in Las Vegas on May 2, 2008. IGLTA is the world's leading organization with over a thousand members of gay, lesbian and community friendly travel professionals with a commitment to enhance GLBT tourism throughout the world.

PlanetOut presented the award for Country of the year to Canada for its progressive GLBT politics and culture, a reputation for gay-friendly tourism and for setting new standards for other countries to follow. Vancouver Pride Society representatives were in attendance when the Canadian Tourism Commission accepted the award on behalf of Canada.

Canada's GLBT Pride events have gained widespread attendance and attention throughout the world. With the added distinction as the #1 GLBT travel destination in the world, attendance at Canadian GLBT Pride events is expected to continue to increase significantly. Vancouver's Pride Day parade and festival on Sunday August 3 has an expanded parade route for the estimated half million people expected to attend this year's Vancouver Pride Parade.

The Vancouver Pride theme this year, Celebrating 30 years of the Rainbow, celebrates the evolution of Vancouver's Pride celebrations from a small march to a world recognized event in a world class city and country. The Vancouver Pride theme also celebrates the 30th anniversary of the rainbow flag, a symbol of GLBT unity and strength throughout the world.