While I understand bigguy's frustration, trust me this is not unique to gay establishments, but more due to supply/demand.

You want to attend CES or NAB in Vegas; talk to the hand. Same with IBC in AMS.

They're considered 'citywide' events & the hotels can basically charge what they want due to the # of attendees.

Sometimes you can get better rates via the alternate booking sources (and on that I would say count your lucky stars & book it); other times they'll just refer you back to the org that blocked it all out & you're SOL.

Cheers.