Mexico’s State Of Nayarit Embraces All With #NAYARITFOREVERONE

This Pride season, the Mexican state of Nayarit is embracing its place as one of the country’s most welcoming destinations for the LGBTQ+ traveler with pride celebrations taking place across the state, including two marches that look to show that Nayarit is for Everyone.

Nayarit has been catching the eyes of LGBTQ travelers for a while now. It was one of the first states in Mexico that recognized same-sex marriage, and as a member of IGLTA and Queer Destinations-certified, it has always been a champion for inclusivity. This year, Pride Celebrations will start on June 12th with Bahia Pride in the Riviera Nayarit jewel of Sayulita. The three-day event will feature performances by national performers with Sayulinda Hotel offering roof-top parties daily. The state capital, Tepic, will host its annual Marcha del Orgullo Nayarit (Nayarit Pride March) on Saturday, June 21 at 4 PM with marches taking over Downtown.

The recipe for a world-class LGBTQ destination is simple. What you need are fabulous hotels, beautiful beaches, exquisite dining, electric nightlife, gorgeous scenery and, of course, an inclusive energy. Enter Mexico’s State of Nayarit, a destination that exceeds in these areas and beyond. It’s a place practically tailor-made for LGBTQ travel.

Nayarit is home to many wonderful cities, beach towns, and small villages, all of which are ready to welcome and host LGBTQ travelers. From the gorgeous beachfront resorts and restaurants of Nuevo Vallarta to the boutique-heavy bohemian beach towns like Sayulita, the luxury hotspots of Punta Mita, and the rugged nature and beautiful wildlife of San Blas, Nayarit has a vibe to fit every style of traveler.

Among the top draws to Nayarit for LGBTQ+ travelers is the lengthy list of luxury hotels, resorts, and villas. Punta Mita is one of the top luxury enclaves within the state of Nayarit, home to five-star resorts like St. Regis Punta Mita, the Four Seasons Punta Mita and the newly opened Susurros del Corazon, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection. Travelers will also find resorts like Conrad Punta Mita and W Punta Mita along the Punta Mita peninsula, as well as one of the most robust villa rental portfolios in the country. To the north, the One&Only Mandarina and the Rosewood Mandarina offer one of a kind seclusion in luxury. More boutique hotel options can be found in between, from the village of Bucerias up through Sayulita and San Pancho.

Nayarit is perfect for the active LGBTQ+ travelers who want to experience more than the beaches — though the beaches along the Riviera Nayarit are among the most pristine in Mexico, particularly for surfers. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot thousands of migratory birds in the seaside village of San Pancho. Islas Marietas National Park is just off the coast of Punta Mita, which is a protected park known for its marine life, as well as its birds. A hidden beach can be found here, too, which is one of the top activities for travelers to Nayarit. Hiking, mountain biking, and yoga are all part of the Nayarit experience.

Visitors can also take their time learning about history and culture. Nayarit has four of Mexico’s famous Pueblos Magicos, or Magic Towns that are recognized for their preserved history, culture, and traditions. Sayulita is arguably the most famous Pueblo Magico in Nayarit (and one of the most famous in Mexico), but Nayarit is also home to Compostela, Jala, and Mexcaltitan. Compostela has splendid churches and gorgeous colonial architecture, as well as one of Mexico’s largest bird sanctuaries. The town of Jala sits in the shadow of the Ceboruco Volcano, which is a beautiful spot for hiking or watching the sunset. Mexcaltitan is an island just a short boat ride away from San Blas. It’s known as the Venice of Mexico, thanks to the canals that form within the streets during the rainy season. The car-free island is splashed with brightly colored houses and features some of the best seafood and ceviche in Mexico.

Access to Nayarit from the U.S. and Canada is incredibly easy. The Bay of Banderas Airport (PVR) as well as the Guadalajara Airport are just a quick drive away. Volaris Airlines will operate direct flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to the Riviera Nayarit International Airport (TPQ) starting July 16th.

The beauty of the state of Nayarit is that it offers a little bit of something for everyone. Every type of traveler, regardless of sexual orientation, has their own style and vibe, and the state of Nayarit has a resort, community, and experience to match.

'New Concorde' Designed To Cut US To UK flight Time To 45 Minutes And Travel Seven Times Faster Than Speed Of Sound

The A-HyM Hypersonic Air Master is a 170-passenger airliner concept designed to fly at over 5,600 mph and could cut the typical seven-hour London-New York journey to just 45 minutes.

The A-HyM Hypersonic Air Master would break the sound barrier

A revolutionary hypersonic airliner, the A-HyM Hypersonic Air Master, could slash London-New York flight times to a mere 45 minutes.

This groundbreaking aircraft is set to revolutionize air travel by flying at Mach 7.3-over 5,600 mph. Designed to carry 170 passengers, it could reduce the transatlantic journey from the usual seven hours, making transatlantic travel quicker than ever before.

In comparison, Concorde typically flew from London to New York in just under three and a half hours, compared to about eight hours on a subsonic flight. It comes after the TSA revealed a new list of 16 items that are banned from passengers' checked bags.

Spanish designer Oscar Viñals says the A-HyM would cruise at an altitude of 30,000 meters, far above conventional jets, using advanced heat-resistant materials like titanium and carbon fiber to withstand temperatures up to 1,832°F.

Its innovative Sonic Boom Mitigation System aims to reduce the disruptive noise of breaking the sound barrier, potentially allowing supersonic and even hypersonic flights over land without disturbing communities below, reports the Mirror.

Powered by a next-generation hydrogen-fueled combined-cycle engine, the aircraft would blend turbojet, ramjet, and oblique detonation technologies for both speed and eco-friendliness.

The A-HyM Hypersonic Air Master is made of heat-resistant materials like titanium and carbon fiber

Inside, passengers would enjoy spacious, comfortable cabins equipped with virtual panoramic windows and advanced entertainment systems designed to handle the unique conditions of hypersonic flight.

The A-HyM, a concept aircraft, is showcasing how advancements in materials science, propulsion systems, and aerodynamics are making ultra-fast and sustainable global travel more feasible than ever.

Oscar Viñals, the visionary behind the project, said: "This aircraft concept would allow its users not only to experience a unique flight at dizzying speeds in excellent conditions, but it would also allow them to "master" time, because a trip, for example, from London to Los Angeles would only take an hour and a half, from boarding at Heathrow international airport to disembarking at LAX (Los Angeles International Airport)."

But the team behind the A-HyM isn't alone in chasing the dream of commercial supersonic flight. In January, the Boom supersonic jet - often referred to as the 'new Concorde' - officially broke the sound barrier.

Boom, a Colorado-based company, launched its XB-1 test plane from California's Mojave Air and Space Port for a test flight in January. The plane reached a speed of Mach 1.1, or 844 miles per hour, while flying at about 35,000 feet.

A plane is considered 'supersonic' once it surpasses Mach 1. The Boom XB-1 is the first civil supersonic jet made in the US to break the sound barrier.

The challenge of breaking through the sound barrier, and the loud bang that occurs when planes do, is part of why super-fast air travel has been difficult to achieve from a business perspective.

As stunning and iconic as the Concorde's curved delta wing shape was, it had a fundamental flaw that led to its eventual retirement. Breaking the sound barrier creates a massive sonic boom that can wreak havoc on the ground below.

https://www.themirror.com/authors/milo-boyd/ https://www.themirror.com/authors/laura-colgan/

A Suite Sensation: American Airlines New Premium Boeing 787-9 Takes Flight

American’s newest premium aircraft made its debut today, carrying more than 200 customers on its inaugural flight from Chicago (ORD) to Los Angeles (LAX). The flight marked the start of summer travel as several new international and domestic routes are also launching June 5.

Customers on the first premium Boeing 787-9 flight received a gift bag with several commemorative items, including a flight tag designed specifically for the aircraft’s debut.

“We’re excited that you are part of the beginning of this plane’s journey,” American’s Chief Customer Officer Heather Garboden said in a note to passengers on Flight 2012. “Everything you see on board today was designed with you in mind: from the design details to Bluetooth connectivity to state-of-the-art entertainment, your comfort is our priority.”

Customers traveling in the 51 Flagship Suite® seats enjoy more personal storage space, a wireless charging pad, USB-C and AC power and a one-of-a-kind chaise lounge seating option with an adjustable headrest pillow. Prior to boarding, customers in this cabin receive Priority check-in, security, boarding and baggage handling. When traveling on a long-haul international flight, customers have access to American’s Flagship® lounge prior to departure, and during the flight, Flagship Suite® service offers a multicourse meal curated to pair with award-winning wines, the newly introduced Brandon Blackwood amenity kits and a comfy duvet blanket with a refreshing dual-sided pillow with cool touch fabric on one side and traditional fabric on the other.

For those opting for Premium Economy, customers will experience the redesigned seat with new headrest wings that give customers additional privacy and new calf and footrests that offer enhanced comfort. The 32 Premium Economy seats also feature a new trim and finish, wireless charging, water bottle storage and USB-C and AC power, ensuring customers have a place for everything during their travel journey.

Customers traveling in Main Cabin will enjoy an inflight experience tailored for their personal travel experience. Each seat offers USB-C and AC power and 4K QLED screens, featuring the newest inflight entertainment technology from Thales that includes American’s vast entertainment options, from blockbuster movies to audiobooks and children’s shows. American’s new aircraft is not just about luxury for few — it is about comfort and care for all.

Bluetooth connection is available across all cabins, giving customers the choice to use their own personal headsets to enjoy one of the numerous entertainment options available on American’s inflight entertainment screens.

Summer travel to Europe starts now

Connecting customers for summer vacation is more convenient as American launches several new international routes today.

For those who want to experience Italy’s basilicas, Roman ruins and gondola-filled canals, American is launching new nonstop service from Miami (MIA) to Rome (FCO) and Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) to Venice, Italy (VCE).

Customers wanting to roam around Grecian columns and olive farms can easily get to Athens, Greece (ATH) with new service from Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT). American will offer four daily flights to Greece this summer, providing access to the country from more U.S. airports than any other airline.

Earlier this month, American also launched new nonstop service from ORD to Naples, Italy (NAP); Philadelphia (PHL) to Edinburgh, Scotland (EDI); and PHL to Milan, Italy (MXP). Customers also wanting to explore Spain have another option with the new nonstop service from ORD to Madrid (MAD) that started in March.

About American Airlines Group

As a leading global airline, American Airlines offers thousands of flights per day to more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries. The airline is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members serve more than 900 destinations around the globe. Shares of American Airlines Group Inc. trade on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol AAL. Learn more about what’s happening at American by visiting news.aa.com and connect with American @AmericanAir and at Facebook.com/AmericanAirlines. To Care for People on Life’s Journey®.

‘Hong Kong Summer Viva’: Calling All Fans To Dive Into Festivals, Games And Parties

This summer, Hong Kong invites the world to experience “Hong Kong Summer Viva”, a season-long celebration of everything we love about summer, with exclusive experiences, parties and adventures for every type of fan. From theme park parties and island escapes to action-packed sports events, buzzing fairs and surprise pop-ups, Hong Kong Summer Viva is your invitation to dive headfirst into a summer to remember – only in Hong Kong.

Global Fans Unite for Fun-Filled Theme Park Celebrations

Get ready to groove into the summer party vibes! Starting June 28, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) celebrates its 20th anniversary with The Most Magical Party of All, a year-long extravaganza filled with three unmissable festivities, including a brand-new anniversary-only castle stage show, largest-ever parade and the grandest nighttime spectacular in HKDL’s history. At this day-to-night party, tempt your tastebuds with more than 80 new food and drink creations, complete your party look with over 300 all-new 20th anniversary merchandise, and receive a complimentary digital party photo via the Disney PhotoPass mobile app.

In collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board, the Resort is introducing a limited-time postcard redemption offer. Fans registered on the DHK who spend HK$100 or more in a single transaction at any merchandise store in Hong Kong Disneyland Park can receive a complimentary, resort exclusive postcard* (while stocks last).

Guests can mail the postcard for free using the in-park mailbox, sharing the magic of the 20th Anniversary celebration with friends and family around the world. Make your summer even more magical with this special keepsake!

Over at Ocean Park Hong Kong, the fun continues with Ocean Park Summer Splash 2025. From 5 July to 24 August, panda lovers are in for a treat as they celebrate the first birthday of the Hong Kong’s panda twins – Jia Jia and De De, and meet their newest IP character installations, which are dressed in summer gear to welcome all visitors. Ocean Park Hong Kong will also offer special deals for overseas panda fans, including its first-ever “Twin Park Package Ticket” granting access to both parks. Guests can also receive an exclusive summer goodie bag filled with a panda luggage tag and park vouchers, with first come first serve purpose.

The family-friendly Summer Splash 2025 also features water gun battle zones, a giant ball pool and adorable water play areas for little ones. As day turns to night, Water World Ocean Park Hong Kong will be turning up the energy with a splash-tastic dance party, including live DJ sets and picture-perfect sea views.

Football Fever Takes Over Hong Kong

Kicking off at the end of July, Hong Kong Football Festival 2025 will bring together four of the world’s top clubs – Liverpool FC, AC Milan, Arsenal, and Tottenham Hotspur – to face off at the new Kai Tak Stadium. Fans can catch two blockbuster matches on separate days: Liverpool FC vs. AC Milan on 26 July, and Arsenal vs. Tottenham Hotspur on 31 July, marking the first North London Derby played outside the UK.

Exclusive open training sessions at Kai Tak Stadium offer rare access on 24 July (Liverpool FC), 29 July (Tottenham Hotspur), and 30 July (Arsenal). AC Milan’s Open Training will be held at the Hong Kong Stadium on 25 July. Additional club-led events and activities for fans will be announced. Please stay tuned!

For Cristiano Ronaldo fans, the CR7® LIFE Museum Hong Kong will be on display for the first time in Asia, starting 7 July at K11 MUSEA. First signature museum of the football GOAT in Asia offers a captivating journey through the life and career of football’s greatest icon, Cristiano Ronaldo. This unique exhibition offers fans an unprecedented glimpse into the world of football through the eyes of one of the sport's most celebrated players.

Sun-Soaked Islands and Marine Adventures for Outdoor Enthusiasts

Island-hopping in Hong Kong offers more than just sun and sea – it’s a gateway to natural wonders and rich marine life, too. From June to August, travellers can enjoy a breezy two-hour “Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region Boat Tour” with Recommended Geopark Guide (R2G) across this scenic UNESCO-listed corner of Hong Kong, where dramatic coastal formations like the Elephant Trunk Cave await.

UNESCO Global Geopark - R2G Boat Tour of the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region Details:

Date: June–August (Every Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday)

No. of rides: 3 rides per day (9am, 12pm and 3pm)

Route: Sai Kung Pier > Sharp Island (Land for approx. 30 min) > Bell-shaped sea arch > Basalt Island > Po Pin Chau > Elephant Trunk Cave > Sai Kung Pier (Duration: 2 hrs)

Tour language: English, Mandarin

Tour fee: HK$380 per person (same price for adults and children)

How to register: https://www.trip.com/things-to-do/detail/92723760/?locale=en_xx

For a deeper dive beneath the surface, book your spot on a guided Coral Exploration Programme with the WWF Hong Kong Hoi Ha Marine Life Centre in the northeastern New Territories. You’ll glide over the marine park on a glass-bottomed boat, spot vibrant coral reefs and learn about local coral restoration efforts – a fascinating look at the city’s vibrant underwater ecosystem.

Coral Exploration Tour Details

Date: June - September

Activities:

Introduce HK marine environment and Hoi Ha Marine Park

Learn about the coral community in Hoi Ha

Observe Hoi Ha Wan corals on our glass-bottomed boat (Aged 5 or above)

Visit the coral nursery facility

* Round trip transportation from Sai Kung to Hoi Ha Wan is included

Language: English, Mandarin

Tour fee: HK$360 per person (same price for adults and children)

How to register: https://www.wwf.org.hk/en/oceans/booking/

2 Must-Visit Summer Fairs for Curious Minds

Book lovers can look forward to two exciting events at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in Wan Chai this summer. From 16 to 22 July, the Hong Kong Book Fair returns with the theme of the year, “Food Culture • Future Living”. It brings together publishers, authors and readers to promote the culture of reading through seminars with renowned authors from around the world, a range of cultural activities and the World of Art and Culture zone, all to inspire the public to explore reading the world.

Then, from 25 to 29 July, the spotlight shifts to fandoms of a different kind with the five-day Ani-Com & Games Hong Kong (ACGHK), the city’s premier festival for anime, comics, gaming and cosplay. Whether you're a devoted manga enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the gaming world, this high-energy pop culture fest delivers an afternoon of colour, creativity and pure fun. ACGHK 2025 introduces a dedicated Tourist Fast Lane (Gate 1B) at normal ticket price for international visitors holding valid travelling documents.

Even More Hong Kong Summer Events and Offers

Besides attractions, hotels and Quality Tourism Services (QTS) Scheme-certified merchants are supporting HKTB’s “Hong Kong Summer Viva” thematic promotion. Starting on 23 June, locals and visitors can enjoy more than 100 summer dining and spending offers, including more than 20 of buy-one-get-one-free offers, covering merchandises and tourism products such as sweet soup drink, beverages, hotel afternoon tea sets and hotel buffet deals and many more. Various attractions and transport operators will also provide discounts and hospitality treats, such as free packages for round trip peak tram ride and Sky Terrace 428 admission ticket and water taxi tour around the Victoria Harbour for HK$100. Further details will be announced in due course.

Visit the Hong Kong Summer Viva page for full event details and insider tips. And don’t miss the revamped Discover Hong Kong travel platform, now featuring monthly event timelines, powerful search tools and up-to-date listings to help you plan the ultimate summer getaway.

United And Spotify Announce New Collaboration: Music, Podcasts, And Audiobooks Now Available On 130,000+ Seatback Screens

United and Spotify today announced a first-of-its-kind collaboration that delivers an even more entertaining travel experience in the sky, with 450+ hours of content now available for free on the airline's 130,000+ seatback screens, many of which offer stunning 4K quality and Bluetooth audio compatibility.

This is the first time Spotify has offered audiobooks and video podcasts onboard an airline, allowing United flyers to enjoy more than 65+ pieces of content, including popular titles like Good Hang with Amy Poehler, The Dave Chang Show, and The Comment Section with Drew Afualo.

In addition, next year, United passengers will be able to use their personal devices to log into the Spotify app on the inflight entertainment screen. This will allow passengers to enjoy their favorite personalized content on the seatback so they can pick-up their favorite podcasts, music, and audiobooks from right where they left off.

"Spotify has a huge audience and people love their content. And now our customers can enjoy it all in a simple and easy way, at 35,000 feet," said Richard Nunn, CEO of MileagePlus. "Together, we're giving millions of customers an entirely new way to experience and explore premium content from the world's most popular artists, authors and podcasters –all while flying with the latest technology in the sky."

"As a frequent United flyer myself, it's incredibly exciting to see Spotify now available on the world's largest airline," said Ian Geller, VP of Business Development at Spotify. "At Spotify, we're dedicated to being everywhere our users are, giving creators opportunities to reach new platforms and engage different audiences. I'm especially looking forward to bringing an even more personalized app streaming experience to seatbacks next year."

Onboard Experience

Spotify content will be available on more than 680 United aircraft and appear as a new content category – "Spotify." This replaces "audio" under the home menu and includes 'Podcast', 'Video Podcasts', 'Audiobooks', and 'Playlists' channels. Additionally, in the coming months, a majority of aircraft will receive a dedicated 'Spotify' featured channel where all Spotify content will be housed together for quick and easy enjoyment.

On Starlink-equipped aircraft, travelers can stream Spotify content on their personal devices from gate-to-gate without interruption. All they will need to do is log in to their MileagePlus® account and accept the terms and conditions for using Starlink. From there, travelers can open their Spotify app and stream content, just like they do at home.

Collaboration Beyond the Skies

To celebrate the launch, MileagePlus members who are new to Premium Individual can sign up for a subscription and earn up to 1,000 bonus miles. Spotify is also partnering with Kinective MediaSM by United Airlines – the airline industry's first traveler media network – to share the offer with United customers throughout their travel journey. Travelers may see prompts to sign up for Spotify Premium and earn miles based on their MileagePlus status. These messages will be served across United's owned and operated media channels, including inflight entertainment screens, the United app, United Club screens, email and more.

To learn more visit united.com/spotify.

Tourists Detained At U.S. Airports Prompt Travel Warning Updates Across Europe

U.S. immigration enforcement policies cause uncertainty for international travelers.

EvgeniyShkolenko/Depositphotos (EvgeniyShkolenko/Depositphotos)

In recent weeks, several European governments—including the United Kingdom, Germany, Denmark, and Finland—have updated their travel advisories for citizens visiting the United States following a series of detentions involving European tourists at U.S. ports of entry.

These actions reflect growing concern over the consequences of U.S. immigration enforcement policies and highlight increasing uncertainty for international travelers—even those with valid documents.

The detentions have sparked concern among the affected nations, human rights advocates, and immigration attorneys, who note that the discretionary power of Customs and Border Protection officers at ports of entry can lead to unpredictable outcomes.

Multiple German Citizens Detained

Germany was among the first to revise its travel advisory after at least three German citizens were denied entry and detained upon arrival in the U.S. despite holding what they believed were appropriate travel documents.

One German tourist was held in a U.S. immigration detention center for 16 days after reentering the U.S. from Mexico. Another German citizen spent over six weeks in detention.

The German Foreign Office clarified that having a valid visa or an approved Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) does not guarantee entry. “The final decision on whether a person can enter the U.S. lies with the U.S. border authorities,” the advisory stated.

Travelers are now urged to be prepared for possible secondary screening and to ensure that their travel plans, financial support, and intended activities align with their visa or ESTA conditions.

UK’s Strengthened Travel Warning

The United Kingdom updated its travel advisory after several British citizens were reportedly detained under similar circumstances.

In one case, a British woman was held for more than ten days over concerns she may have breached visa conditions. UK officials emphasized that U.S. immigration laws are “strictly enforced,” and even minor perceived violations can lead to detention or removal.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is now advising UK travelers to double-check their visa conditions and ensure they are not engaging in activities—such as unpaid work or extended stays—that could be interpreted as outside the bounds of their visa or ESTA.

Nordic Countries Warn Transgender Travelers'

Denmark and Finland issued targeted warnings for transgender individuals planning to travel to the U.S., citing specific risks tied to documentation and identity recognition.

Travelers whose passports include a gender marker of "X" or who have recently changed gender markers are advised to contact the U.S. embassy before traveling to clarify how border officials will interpret their documents.

Denmark’s advisory highlighted the possibility of entry denial or distressing experiences at airports for transgender travelers. These nations recommend proactive communication with U.S. authorities before travel to avoid unexpected detention or refusal of entry.

New Risks for Travelers at U.S. Borders

EvgeniyShkolenko via Getty Images

Tourists from friendly nations with traditionally uncomplicated entry procedures are now being advised to prepare for increased scrutiny. These updates caution that even routine visits can result in detainment if border authorities suspect a violation—intended or not—of visa terms.

International travelers should now factor immigration risks into their travel planning more than in years past, particularly as U.S. enforcement practices tighten and the threshold for entry denial appears to have lowered.

https://www.yahoo.com/author/wander-worthy/

New Sculpture, In Plain Sight, Unveiled At Cherry Street Pier For Pride Month In Philadelphia

Visit Philadelphia has unveiled In Plain Sight, a large-scale sculpture at Cherry Street Pier honoring Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual members of the LGBTQ+ community. On display throughout Pride Month this June, the installation serves as a bold celebration of the TQ+ community — a group facing increased scrutiny as LGBTQ+ rights remain at the center of national debate. The sculpture underscores Philadelphia's longstanding commitment to being a welcoming and affirming destination for LGBTQ+ residents and travelers.

To bring In Plain Sight to life, Visit Philadelphia consulted with local artists and creatives, including Philadelphia-based Bill Adair, an independent arts and culture consultant and former director of the Pew Center for Arts & Heritage. The concept was developed in partnership with local agency A&G (Allen & Gerritsen) and the final piece was fabricated by Outshaped, a family-owned 3D design and manufacturing studio.

Standing at 10 feet tall and weighing 250 pounds, the sculpture's design incorporates colors from the different LGBTQ+ pride flags, each representing a segment of the community:

Transgender (T): Light blue, white and pink stripes from the Transgender Pride Flag.

Queer (Q): Elements from the traditional Rainbow Pride Flag, featuring red, orange, yellow, green, blue and violet.

Plus (+): Yellow and purple from the Intersex Pride Flag, symbolizing autonomy and visibility; black and white from the Asexual Pride Flag; and black and brown from the Progress Pride Flag, representing people of color and other marginalized groups within the LGBTQ+ community.

The sculpture also features carved grooves throughout, symbolizing the layered identities and lived experiences within the community. These design choices were intentionally selected to reflect the diversity and intersectionality of the TQ+ population.

"Visit Philadelphia is honored to present In Plain Sight as a meaningful tribute to the TQ+ community. This sculpture is a visible reminder of Philadelphia's commitment to being a welcoming place for all," said Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia. "When travelers come here, we want them to feel our city's love, pride and spirit. Representation matters and research supports that. LGBTQ+ travelers spend more, travel more often and are more likely to choose destinations where they feel seen and affirmed."

According to Community Marketing & Insights (CMI), 63% of LGBTQ+ travelers view Philadelphia as a welcoming destination. A separate Booking.com study found that 73% of LGBTQ+ travelers say increased inclusivity has made them feel more comfortable while traveling. The community also represents an estimated $1.4 trillion in annual purchasing power, with LGBTQ+ travelers spending 33% more than their non-LGBTQ counterparts and taking an average of four to six trips per year.

Cherry Street Pier, located on the Delaware River Waterfront, is hosting the installation throughout June. Visit Philadelphia is currently seeking a permanent home for In Plain Sight following Pride Month. Businesses or cultural institutions in Philadelphia or the surrounding counties whose values align with Visit Philadelphia's welcoming mission are encouraged to apply for the opportunity to host the sculpture next. The deadline to submit is Monday, June 23, 2025.

"We're proud to host In Plain Sight during Pride Month," said Joseph Forkin, president of the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation. "The waterfront is a place for everyone, and Cherry Street Pier — home to a vibrant and diverse creative community — is the perfect location to spotlight this important symbol. We're honored to be part of its journey and can't wait to see where it goes next."

Philadelphia's connection to LGBTQ+ history is long and significant. The city was the site of the "Annual Reminder" protests at Independence Hall in the 1960s, one of the first organized gay rights demonstrations in the United States. In 2004, Visit Philadelphia launched Get Your History Straight and Your Nightlife Gay, the country's first LGBTQ-specific tourism television commercial. Two decades later, the organization introduced In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union: Drag Queen Story Time on Independence Mall and in 2024 it sponsored Philadelphia Gay News' successful effort to secure a Guinness World Records title for the largest drag story time reading.

"2025 calls for marketers to be bold and brave," said Neil Frauenglass, chief marketing officer, Visit Philadelphia. "Our TQ+ sculpture sends a message to the community that they are seen and welcome in Philadelphia today, next year when we celebrate the country's 250th birthday and always."

Visit Philadelphia's welcoming message to LGBTQ+ travelers is also prominently featured in a current New York City advertising takeover, which launched May 5 and runs through June 8. The campaign also includes bonus placements during the Tony Awards and NYC Pride weeks — June 9–15 and June 23–29 — reaching an additional 4.7 million impressions.

To learn more about In Plain Sight, please visit http://visitphilly.com/inplainsight.