TORONTO — The International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association is bringing its 35th annual conference to Toronto this May and they want agents to know they are welcome to attend – for free.

Members from the Florida-based group were in Toronto earlier this week at the BISHA hotel to promote the event. According to the group, they are already seeing an uptick in event registrations, which they credit to the appeal of the city.

The conference will run from May 9-12 with the goal to connect gay, lesbian and gay-friendly travel and tourism suppliers with buyers. Through a scheduled appointment program, guests can attend numerous educational workshops and networking receptions.

For suppliers looking to attend the event, the early bird pricing is set to expire on Jan. 31. To register, go to iglta.org/convention.

For travel agents, the conference is giving them the opportunity to attend for free through its Buyer/Supplier Marketplace, which will give agents the chance to connect with LGBT operators from across the world. Buyers who qualify will receive five nights at the host hotel, a table at the Marketplace and complementary convention registration for four days. To find out more, go to iglta.org/convention/buyer-supplier-marketplace/.