Specific training modules to be made available online for agents. Image: See-ming Lee

Specialised LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) destination training for travel agents and tour operators has been launched by tourism bodies in Helsinki and Frankfurt.

Visit Helsinki and Tourismus & Congress Frankfurt ran exhibitions at the World Travel Market 2012 and have now developed targeted training, aimed at increasing LGBT travellers to the European cities.

LGBT marketing firm Out Now Global constructed the unique training modules.

This is the first time a specific LGBT-focused training content has been available to mainstream travel agents.

The training modules will be launched early this year in partnership with training providers OTT and TTG Knowledge and made available online, free of charge.

“This new initiative has the potential to expand the market reach for LGBT sales substantially,” Out Now chief executive and founder Ian Johnson said.