LGBTQ+ Travel Guides

Traveling can be an incredibly rewarding and memorable experience. With so many beautiful places in the world with vibrant cultures, amazing landscapes and delicious cuisine, it can be a difficult task to decide where to travel next. The LGBTQ+ community faces an even bigger challenge as LGBTQ+ acceptance, laws and protections vary widely around the globe. This set of travel guides was designed to provide you with a brief overview of each country, including some of the most popular destinations and attractions. You’ll learn about the best times to visit, events and tours available, and up-to-date insights on LGBTQ+ laws and protections in each country.

LGBTQ+ Rights & Travel Safety

LGBTQ+ Safety Guide

Policies and public acceptance of LGBTQ+ people varies widely from country to country and even within some countries. Laws and attitudes can impact the safety of LGBTQ+ people but they also can affect the perception of safety in destinations around the world.

Trans Safety Guide

Transgender, genderqueer and non-binary individuals face unique challenges when traveling, ranging from being humiliated by airport security, to being targets of hate crimes, to not having access to proper medical care while abroad.

Marriage Equality Guide

Marriage as an institution has been around for much of recorded history, but it’s only been within the past few decades that governments have started to extend equal access and rights to marriage for same-sex couples. Currently, 29 countries recognize same-sex marriage around the globe.

HIV Travel Guide

Just as many countries present added considerations for LGBTQ+ travelers, many also require unique precautions for travelers with HIV.

Africa

Morocco

Morocco in one word is vibrant. From the white, snow-capped Atlas Mountains to the golden hues of the Sahara Desert to the lush green farms, travelers to this north African country are immersed in the vibrant colors of a geographically diverse nation.

South Africa

Unlike the rest of the African continent, South Africa is worlds apart when it comes to being classed as an LGBTQ+ welcoming destination.

Asia & Middle East

Hong Kong

Possessing one of the most spectacular skylines on the planet, Hong Kong is a dynamic metropolitan city full of excitement, beauty and surprises.

India

India is a smorgasbord of delights, offering everything from beautiful coastline and deserts to mega metropolises.

Israel

Israel is well known for a history that spans over 5,000 years and is showcased in its religious and archaeological sites, from the Roman structures throughout Jerusalem to the ancient fortress of Masada in the southern part of the country.

Japan

Japan is a fascinating county, rich in culture and tradition, with many exotic beaches and one of the most famous cuisines in the world.

Nepal

Nepal is amongst the most progressive countries in Asia for LGBTQ+ people due to several laws giving rights to display one's preferred gender and forbidding discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Taiwan

While Taiwan is not as popular of a tourist destination as its Asian neighbors, it is considered one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in Asia.

Thailand

The Thais are extremely welcoming people and have been embracing LGBTQ+ tourists for decades. Thailand is frequently referred to as The Land of Smiles, and for good reason.

Australia & South Pacific

Australia

Recognized as one of the most LGBTQ+ accepting countries in the world, Australia boasts widespread support for same-sex marriage, a massive sign of acceptance throughout the country. It’s also a land of staggering contrasts and unbelievable beauty.

New Zealand

New Zealand is a magical land full of breathtaking nature, wild adventure and rich culture. Today, a cultural mix of just under five million "Kiwis" call New Zealand home.

Central America & Caribbean

Costa Rica

This charming country in Central America is famed for its tropical climate, breathtaking landscapes, and its delicious coffee, but there are hundreds of reasons to visit Costa Rica that you may not even know.

Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is the LGBTQ+ capital of the Caribbean, home to queer people of all ages, colors, and genders. It’s a tropical island blessed with miles of white sand beaches and is a cultural mecca of cities steeped in history.

Europe

Belgium

Beloved for its historic charm, high fashion, and heavenly cuisine, Belgium is one of Europe's best open secrets for savvy travelers.

England

England welcomes every letter of the acronym LGBTQ+ along with everyone else, which is why it’s a favourite destination for visitors of all ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations and gender identities.

France

France consistently tops the UN’s World Tourism Organization annual report on the country that receives the most visitors.

Germany

With its 16 states, Germany can be considered the geographical center of Europe. It ranks among the top 15 LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world and is known as very welcoming, particularly in the bigger cities.

Greece

Greece is the birthplace of democracy, the Olympic Games, Western philosophy and Western theories of tragedy and comedy.

Iceland

Iceland is a must-see destination for LGBTQ+ travelers who seek nature and adventure in a unique country that exceeds the imagination’s expectations.

Italy

Italy is, without doubt, one of the top destinations on many travelers’ lists. Tourists flock to the home of ‘La Dolce Vita’ (the sweet life) every year, drawn by the sun, sea, fashion, design, history, art, architecture and gastronomy.

Portugal

From beautiful beaches to vast wineries to ornate Azulejos tiles to incredible gastronomy experiences, Portugal really has it all.

Spain

Spain is one of the most culturally liberal and welcoming countries for LGBTQ+ travelers. People in large cities and in most of the country are very open-minded and accepting.

Sweden

Sweden is a truly incredible country for LGBTQ+ travelers looking to experience a welcoming and affirming destination packed with stunning natural landscapes, gorgeous design, iconic coastal villages, trendy big cities, and a fascinating history.

The Netherlands

Tulips, cheese, clogs, and, of course, bicycles. The Netherlands, commonly referred to as Holland, is undoubtedly one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world.

North America

Canada

Canada is known to be friendly and welcoming to all, and this hospitality extends to the LGBTQ+ community. Canada is a must-visit for all LGBTQ+ travelers.

Mexico

Mexico is a unique and colorful country with vibrant energy rooted in its culture, food and local history. From beach getaways to pyramid excursions, Mexico has a wide variety of travel options.

United States

The U.S. adventure is just as diverse and nuanced as the LGBTQ+ community that calls the country home. For some, a U.S. adventure is all about bustling big cities, chic luxury accommodations, and high-end nightlife. For others, it's about visiting tiny towns, jaw-dropping natural wonders, and the vastness of Big Sky Country.

South America

Argentina

Argentina is considered one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in South America. It was the first country in South America and 10th in the world to legalize same-sex marriage.

Brazil

Brazil is the largest and most populated country in South America and Brazilians are well known to be friendly to foreigners, welcoming them as if they were their friends. Brazil is a paradise for visitors since the country has such diverse offerings.

Colombia

Despite its sordid history with the drug cartels, Colombia has undergone a major transformation over the last 20 years. And although Catholicism is still strong here, Colombian society is often considered more tolerant compared to its neighbors because of the diversity within the population.

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