Tips for gay travelers to visit the world safely

For L.G.B.T.Q. travelers, making a trip abroad usually means thinking about security concerns, fears of discrimination, and stress-related to rules and restrictions. With this in mind, here are some suggestions to stay safe and make the most of your trip.

Support LGBTQ Travel Companies

When harsh anti-LGBTQ laws entered into force in many countries worldwide, several gay people were immediately in danger. Therefore, when planning your trip, choose an LGBTQ travel agency that knows which are the best countries to visit.

LGBTQ travelers could actively support companies and companies with anti-discrimination solid policies. There are a couple of lists of gay-friendly tour operators. Just surf the web and try any of those. 

Get To Know The Local Laws and Customs In Your Destination

Regardless of a country’s reputation, researching local laws and customs is vital for LGBTQ travelers. Around 70 countries have restrictive laws on sexuality and sexual orientation. Travelers can also check the Department of State of the United States for more updated information. On this site, you will find travel warnings about the most dangerous places to visit for LGBTQ. The Transgender National Equality Center also offers travel advice to anyone interest.

Connect With Locals

Connecting with locals of the LGBTQ community can be an indispensable resource to discover local culture and even find inclusive medical attention.

Many travelers use Facebook, Instagram, and Grindr to meet people in new places. As a foreign person, there is a specific community aspect to these apps, enabling you to form bonds with the local gay community.

Manage Your Expectations About Your Partner

When traveling abroad for the first time with your gay partner, there is always a sense of trial. You will want to know how your partner reacts to several things. It can be tense if you let it be. But, you need to manage your expectations. It is never good to set a high standard, especially when visiting another country.

There will always be a high level of uncertainty and concern involved. But don’t wait to see how your partner will react. Aim to reach new comfort levels which can strengthen your relationship. 

Know Your Rights

Air travel rights can be a point of discrimination for transgender and non-binary travelers. These can face further difficulties when passing through the security of the airport.

The Transgender National Equality Center offers resources to know how to react in potentially inconvenient scenarios.

Some potential obstacles are traveling with a passport whose gender marker does not coincide with the sex presentation. There are a variety of steps to follow before crossing to be as prepared as possible.

For starters, ask your doctor for a letter of medical needs when traveling with needles or prostheses.

Also, study local restrictions on prescription drugs. All travelers have the right to dignity and respect in security screenings. The National Transgender Equality Center urges transgender travelers to request a private detection or ask a supervisor if they ever feel uncomfortable. 

Don’t Let Fear Prevent You From Going Where You Want To Go

Travel experts agree that you should never give up going where you want to go because you feel afraid. LBGTQ travelers indeed face several difficulties, but there is nothing to fear if you follow the necessary tips. Do your research and visit the most amazing places in the world.

Q Magazine: supporting our community

brett

Born in Cairns (Far North Queensland – Australia) I am the youngest and the only boy of a family of five. My first serious job was as a Salesperson, the announcer, then Production Manager for 4AM. I spent in excess of ten years running my own successful entertainment agency before moving to Melbourne (Victoria – Australia) where I currently live, work and play. A week after arriving I joined the sales team at JOY 94.9fm – what was to be Australia’s first and only dedicated gay and lesbian radio station. I was clearly destined to be self-employed as fate would have it. Q Magazine was born in March 2004 and as they so rightly say ‘the rest is history’.

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