Even though pandemic travel is complex these days, many people may still have the opportunity to travel to specific locations. However, if you are a queer person finding yourself in a safe position to travel, you may be overwhelmed navigating LGBTQ+ friendly destinations.
There are many queer-friendly destinations worldwide that offer a safe space and a positive experience. Here are some of our favorite picks for LGBTQ+-friendly destinations.
What Are the Best Cities for Safe Queer Travel Destinations?
Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Florida
These two Florida cities are renowned for their LGBTQ+ friendly energy. Fort Lauderdale, in particular, has been lauded as one of the most inclusive places for visitors for decades. It even has 1,000 local businesses that have taken the Safe & Clean Pledge. According to Visit Fort Lauderdale’s website, the Safe & Clean Pledge “provides a unified message that health and safety standards, and protections against the spread of COVID-19, are a top priority.”
Miami has also put the Greater Miami Travel Guidelines and Destination Pledge into practice on their site. This document discusses how safety measures are being put into practice within the community.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is the ideal weekend getaway for many people. There are fewer tourists there in the fall, and it can make for a fun and relaxing vacation. Philadelphia is LGBTQ+ welcoming and has many safe LGBTQ+ restaurants, events, and nightclubs. In addition, many visitors enjoy spending hours at the Barnes Foundation art collection.
Provincetown, Massachusetts
Provincetown is an iconic destination for queer travelers. You’ll want to make sure you book ahead of time during busy summer events like Bear Week or Carnival. Even visiting outside these busy times has more of a chill vibe if that’s more of your traveling style. Plus, there are always LGBTQ+ events going on year-round.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
This choice may be the most unconventional of the bunch. However, this LGBTQ+-friendly city has a lot of cultural appeals. There is a charming entertainment district where you can hear live music and watch the theatre. Also, this city has a thriving culinary scene that people enjoy.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico continues to be the LGBTQ+ capital of the Caribbean. Its setting is appealing since it has such beautiful warm and sunny weather, and the country as a whole is authentic when it comes to supporting queer travelers.
Even though there have been some attacks on local transgender people publicized in the media, Puerto Rico has a visible trans community that they support. In addition, there is plenty to do for queer people in Puerto Rico as there are various things to do for nightlife that is meant for LGBTQ+ and non-binary folks. Because of this welcoming environment, Puerto Rico is a more appealing choice for LGBTQ+ people than places like Mexico or other Caribbean destinations.
Are There Queer-Specific Vacations?
Cruises
Cruises are starting up again and implementing COVID-19 protocols. These cruise lines will also be soon mandating that all guests and crew must be fully vaccinated. As a result, cruise ships will be one of the safest vacations you can take, and to seal the deal, there are many LGBTQ+ friendly cruise lines.
Resort Vacations
Resort vacations can also be a safe bet during a pandemic. There are a lot of outdoor activities with plenty of space so that guests can sprawl out.
There are queer tour companies that can help you plan a resort vacation and ensure that you will be in a safe, progressive, and welcoming atmosphere. Out Adventures is an excellent resource for preparing for these types of trips.
How Do You Go About Booking These Trips?
Suppose you are overwhelmed by the idea of planning a queer family vacation. In that case, companies like R Family Vacations are experts in planning fun and safe tours or cruises where you can connect with other LGBTQ+ travelers and allies.
In 2022, R Family will be offering land tours in Thailand and Ireland, an Alaskan cruise, and an all-queer Uniworld river cruise in Northern Italy. Be sure to check out their website to stay updated on all the LGBTQ+ trips that they offer.
Are there LGBTQ+ friendly accommodation sites?
When you are traveling as an LGBTQ+ person, there is always the possibility that you may not feel welcome at certain hotels or AirBNBs. However, many companies are queer-friendly, so you can be assured that your stay is welcoming and relaxing. Here are some of our top picks:
This site features an extensive number of LGBTQ+-friendly accommodation listings. Their accommodations are available in 200 countries and are especially targeted towards gay men.
FabStays provides inclusive accommodations for all members of the LGBTQ+ community.
According to their website:
“The FabStayz Community brings together FabTravelers like you, experienced FabHosts, and the most amazing selection of COZY, unique, trendy, COMFY, and one-of-a-kind accommodations!”
Orbitz Pride is another site that lists queer-friendly travel accommodations. They give back to organizations that are supportive of LGBTQ+ communities and efforts.
Even though Booking.com is a popular site for any traveler, they are now incorporating an LGBTQ+ certification program. This program involves live training and materials for their hotel partners. So be sure to check for the “Proud Hospitality” label on accommodation listings to find a safe and welcoming stay.
In Summary
If you are a queer person who can travel safely during the pandemic, be sure to visit one of the previously mentioned cities or try booking one of the LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations that we recommended. Traveling as an LGBTQ+ person can be a safe and rewarding experience when you plan for it mindfully.
