Richmond recognized as a “Top 10 LGBT Destination” finalist

OutRVA, a branch of Richmond Region Tourism, announced Tuesday that Richmond has been selected as a top 10 finalist in the NatWest British LGBT Awards to determine the best LGBT Travel Destination.

The publication’s destinations span the globe as Amsterdam, Barcelona, Miami, New York, Orlando, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Stockholm, and Vancouver are also in the running. The number one LGBT travel destination will be determined by votes accrued now through March 22nd. Voters are encouraged to visit RichmondIsOut.com to cast their vote for Richmond.

The NatWest British LGBT Awards recognizes individuals, organizations and destinations that have demonstrated their commitment to the LGBT community. The winners will be announced at a star-studded awards party on May 12th in London. The ceremony itself, dubbed “the Gay Oscars,” is the most prominent LGBT-focused event in the UK. Media partners include The Independent, Huffington Post, Gay Star News, OK! and Out News Global.

Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney created a video on the T. Tyler Potterfield bridge with downtown Richmond and members of Richmond’s LGBT community behind him in support of the voting efforts.

“This is an exciting opportunity for Richmond to tell travelers how welcoming we are. Our wonderful community has so much to offer LGBT visitors and OutRVA has helped communicate that message,” he said. “Let’s get out the vote and show the world that Richmond, Virginia is truly for all lovers.”

Mayor Stoney has been a strong supporter of the LGBT community, and officiated a same-sex wedding as his first act in office after his swearing in on January 1st.