The city of Valencia is experiencing a significant increase in hotel bookings due to the Gay Games. Hotel occupancy stands above 76% this weekend and is expected to reach nearly 84% next, coinciding with the official start of the competition. Some establishments have already reported being fully booked.
The Hotel Neptuno, for instance, is reporting close to 100% occupancy, according to its revenue manager, Andrea Frenova. Although a few rooms remain available for the upcoming week, demand is very high.
Over 10,000 participants from eighty different countries are expected to attend. Many attendees have opted for a combination of accommodation, alternating between hotels and apartments, while others have decided to extend their stay in city hotels to better prepare for the sporting events.
“"It allows me to be very calm, enjoy the city, and arrive prepared to win."
The influx of visitors has also positively impacted the restaurant sector. Several restaurants have introduced special menus designed for athletes, featuring more protein-rich options and fermented doughs. It is anticipated that this event will generate approximately a 30% increase in turnover for these businesses.
According to the organizers' estimates, each participant is expected to spend an average of 180 euros per day. This would result in an overall economic impact for the Gay Games in Valencia of around 120 million euros.
