MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

First Pink Point LGTB in South America opens in Buenos Aires

Argentina’s capital Buenos Aires has been dubbed the new “gay mecca” of South America, and the Argentine Ministry of Tourism is running with it, according to an article published by LGBT contributed by Roy Heale.

The tourism ministry announced that international visitors to Argentina have increased by 30% year-over-year based upon numbers for June 2010. Buenos Aires is the most popular destination in Argentina and according to Mr. Heale “it is almost certain that many of these travelers are from the gay and lesbian community in the United States”.

So it seems appropriate that the first-ever Pink Point LGBT Information Centre in South America opened its doors in Buenos Aires this month. Following hot on the heels of Argentina being the first country on the continent to legalize same-sex marriages nationally, the timing of this launch could not be more appropriate. Argentina is truly joining the ranks as one of the most gay-friendly countries in the world.

Modeled after the successful Pink Point Amsterdam, which began during the Gay Games in 1998 -- since then has been expanded into Barcelona and London -- Pink Point Buenos Aires is a convenient, ground-floor storefront in the heart of downtown near the intersection of the renowned Florida and Lavalle pedestrian streets

“We wanted to bring together all the gay and gay-friendly businesses in Buenos Aires under one roof and provide a venue with information about the city's LGBT social life,” said Erik Hovenga Diaz, director of The Royal Family and main instigator of the Pink Point Buenos Aires.

“Visitors will be able to pick up brochures, gay maps, ask questions, and learn about the vibrant Buenos Aires gay community,” he said.

They will also be able to book real gay tours of the city and surrounding attractions hosted by knowledgeable local gay residents, join special Pink Point excursions, learn about all of Argentina, and purchase appropriate gay souvenirs or tickets to shows. Future plans include an art gallery focusing on the works of local LGBT artists. The information center will also be hetero-friendly and inclusive in the information provided.

Pink Point Buenos Aires is a member of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association, ensuring that all visitors to the center are connected to the larger global family of LGBT travel specialists. For more information, visit: www.pinkpointbuenosaires.com.