Where to Vacation: A Travel Guide for LGBTQ-friendly Countries
As the old saying goes: travel broadens the mind. No matter who you are, you will catch the travel bug at some point in your life. There’s nothing quite like picking a place on a map, arriving for the very first time, and getting to know the locals. There is something enlightening about experiencing a new culture, wherever that may be.
However, there are a lot of things you must think about before traveling abroad, especially if you are a member of the LGBTQ community. You need to factor in the local laws on same-sex marriage and relationships, not to mention the cultural attitude towards homosexuality or Trans rights. Check out the best and worst places for an LGBTQ trip below.
Best Places for LGBTQ Travel
Sweden
Sweden is an amazing country for LGBTQ travellers. In fact, Scandinavia is considered very safe – same-sex marriage was made legal in 2009. And if you like to party, Sweden hosts more Pride festivals than any other country in the world. Couple that with beautiful views and welcoming locals, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better vacation in Europe.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is one of the most progressive countries in the world. Each city has its own individual identity. The further north you go, the friendlier the people become. They legalized gay marriage in 2009, and many of the biggest cities have thriving LGBTQ communities. It won’t take you long to feel at home. Settle in at an independent pub or head out into one of the many idyllic countryside locations.
India
India is an exciting and exotic country which has made plenty of changes to its opinion on LGBTQ issues. In 2018, the country reversed an old British law which prohibited “unnatural acts” between two men. It is now legal to have gay sex. Indian literature and history is full of LGBTQ figures who are depicted as heroes and warriors. The people are more than welcoming to travelers, and the food is some of the very best in the world.
Canada
There is a reason Canada is known as one of the friendliest countries in the world. There are plenty of constitutional rights in place to safeguard the LBGTQ community and provide equal rights in all areas of life. There’s a huge gay culture in Toronto, and if you go further afield, you’ll be greeted by some of the most beautiful wilderness and landscapes in the entire world. The poutine isn’t too bad, either!
Worst Places for LGBTQ Travel
Brunei
Brunei recently made it legal to flog and beat people purely because of their sexuality. This received widespread criticism from plenty of Western human rights groups and celebrities such as George Clooney campaigned for the state to revert its controversial and abhorrent laws.
Nigeria
Africa is a beautiful continent with amazing wildlife and stunning vistas. Unfortunately, many African countries have a narrow-minded and discriminatory view of the LGBTQ community. Nigeria is notorious for violence against gay people. You can be imprisoned for 14 years if you are gay, and some Nigerian states have implemented the death penalty.
Egypt
Egypt is a bucket list location for many travelers, thanks to its world heritage sites and rich history. It has a booming tourist industry but plenty of laws that discriminate against homosexuality. If you have any homosexual publications or items, you’ll get up to two years in prison, while same-sex relationships can lead to three years with a hefty fine as well.
Qatar
Qatar is one of the wealthiest states in the world, thanks to plentiful oil supplies. However, the country is extremely prejudiced against the LGBTQ community. Tourism is high on the agenda thanks to the 2022 World Cup, but many gay people will refuse to attend due to the fact the death penalty potentially awaits anyone “guilty” of committing a homosexual act.
These are just a few of the best and worst places to go traveling for gay people. Wherever you think of going, be sure to do your research beforehand. We want you to enjoy your trip to the fullest extent. And if you find somewhere amazing for gay people, be sure to let us know!