Planning the perfect honeymoon is an exciting milestone for soonlyweds, yet for LGBTQ+ couples, a dream honeymoon destination can carry concerns about safety and inclusivity.
Certain locations are more welcoming and inclusive than others, and knowing which destinations to consider—or avoid—can transform a good honeymoon into a genuinely affirming experience. Many destinations that are popular for honeymoons, such as some locales in the Caribbean and exotic destinations such as Dubai and Uganda, are actually quite dangerous for LGBTQ+ travelers. And I'm not saying don't travel to these places — anywhere you travel is going to have risks (even ones deemed “safe” — that's just unfortunately the reality of being queer), but just make sure to do extensive research. Also realistically speaking, it's important to recognize the privileges that come with passing, gender presentation, race, et al., so those who don't fall into what society-driven “norms” may face even more challenges. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to assess the safety of a destination for LGBTQ+ honeymooners and ensure a safe start to married life.
1. Research LGBTQ+ Rights and Protections
When choosing a destination, researching local laws and attitudes toward LGBTQ+ people is essential. Here’s where to start:
a. Legal Status of Same-Sex Relationships and Marriage
- Check if the destination legally recognizes same-sex relationships or marriages. Countries that have legalized same-sex marriage or offer protections for LGBTQ+ individuals tend to be more welcoming.
- The International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, and Intersex Association (ILGA) regularly publishes reports detailing LGBTQ+ rights across the globe. Their website is an invaluable resource for updates on laws and regulations.
b. Discrimination Protections
- Investigate whether the location has legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Many LGBTQ+ travelers avoid destinations that lack such laws, as the absence of these protections can signal a less supportive or even hostile environment.
c. Transgender Rights
- For transgender honeymooners, it’s crucial to know if local laws respect gender identity. This includes the right to use appropriate gendered facilities, protections against discrimination, and potential issues with identification. For example, some countries require documents to reflect an individual's assigned sex at birth, which can cause issues at airports or hotels. And be sure to research the specific destination you'll be (not just the overall country) and specifically for transgender rights. A perfect example is here in our own country, where we have marriage equality but many states such as Texas have anti-trans laws in place.
2. Utilize Travel Advisory Resources
Several resources provide up-to-date information on the LGBTQ+ friendliness of destinations. Some recommended tools include:
a. Equaldex
- Equaldex is a crowdsourced map and database that provides information on LGBTQ+ rights by country, including whether same-sex marriage is recognized and if discrimination laws are in place. The platform allows travelers to read real-time experiences shared by other LGBTQ+ individuals and provides insights into the lived experiences of local LGBTQ+ communities.
b. U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory
- Although not LGBTQ+-specific, the U.S. Department of State website provides safety information for international travel. It notes any countries where Americans, including LGBTQ+ individuals, may face security risks or human rights abuses.
c. Destination-Specific LGBTQ+ Travel Guides
- Publications like (shameless plug) Love Inc. and our friends at Out Traveler curate LGBTQ-inclusive travel guides, where we share personal experience-driven insights into local culture, safety tips, and recommendations for LGBTQ-friendly accommodations and attractions.
d. Local LGBTQ+ Organizations
- Many countries have LGBTQ+ rights groups, community centers, or advocacy organizations. Contacting them directly, if possible, or reviewing their publications can provide firsthand perspectives on what LGBTQ+ travelers might expect in that area.
3. Consult LGBTQ+ Travel Experts and Bloggers
Engaging with LGBTQ+ travel bloggers, influencers, and experts can provide invaluable information about a destination’s safety and inclusivity. Some top LGBTQ+ travel influencers have traveled extensively and frequently post detailed accounts of their experiences. Here are a few platforms and bloggers worth following:
- The Nomadic Boys: A travel blog run by a gay couple who share experiences, tips, and guidance on LGBTQ-friendly destinations, especially in countries where safety might be a concern.
- EveryQueer: This site shares local LGBTQ+ culture guides to many destinations, as well as queer travel-related roundups (like this list of lesbian bars around the world). They also host their own tours!
- 27 Travels: Our friends Gabi and Shanna share their travel adventures on their blog and social @27travels. These fun IRL newlyweds have a knack for sharing about a destination that speaks to a young couple in love.
4. Use LGBTQ-Specific Booking Sites
There are several travel platforms dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ travelers find safe, inclusive accommodations, like Misterb&b and Fabstayz, which are Airbnb-like platforms created specifically for our community.
5. Be Aware of Cultural Attitudes and Social Norms
While laws and legal protections are important indicators, social attitudes can also affect the comfort level for LGBTQ+ honeymooners. Some things to consider include:
- Gender Norms and Behavior: In more conservative or traditional countries, public displays of affection (PDA) may be frowned upon for all couples, regardless of orientation.
- Religious and Cultural Influences: In some areas, religious beliefs strongly influence public attitudes toward LGBTQ+ rights. Knowing whether a country’s predominant religion has anti-LGBTQ+ leanings can prepare couples for local customs and societal expectations.
- Urban vs. Rural Dynamics: In many countries, urban areas are more progressive than rural ones (again, like our own United States). LGBTQ+ honeymooners might consider planning the bulk of their activities in metropolitan centers where LGBTQ+ communities are more visible and supported.
6. Look for LGBTQ+-Friendly Hospitality Certifications & Reviews
Many hotels, resorts, and travel companies make efforts to be LGBTQ-inclusive, which can make a huge difference in the honeymoon experience. Look for indicators like:
a. TAG Approved® or IGLTA Certification
- The International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) and Travel Advocacy Group (TAG) both certify accommodations as LGBTQ+-friendly. Hotels with these certifications have policies supporting LGBTQ+ guests and often train staff on inclusivity.
b. Review Policies and Past Guest Experiences
- Read reviews on sites like TripAdvisor, which can include details from past LGBTQ+ guests about their experiences. If you’re booking through major mainstream platforms like Airbnb, reach out to hosts in advance to confirm that they welcome LGBTQ+ couples.
7. Prepare for Potential Legal and Safety Concerns
In destinations where LGBTQ+ rights are limited or non-existent, it’s essential to prepare for potential legal and safety challenges:
a. Carry Documents and Emergency Contacts
- Have a copy of your marriage license or other identification, and carry contact information for local embassies or consulates. In some cases, LGBTQ+ couples have faced legal issues or discrimination when using shared rooms, so having these documents may help if any questions arise.
b. Emergency Resources
- Be aware of emergency contacts, such as LGBTQ+ rights organizations or embassy support lines. Some destinations have U.S. embassies or other Western diplomatic offices that may offer assistance to LGBTQ+ travelers in distress.
c. Know Local Medical Facilities
- Before leaving, research whether there are LGBTQ-friendly medical facilities or clinics in the area.
8. Evaluate Social Media and News Sources
Check recent news or social media mentions of the destination. Unfortunately, incidents targeting LGBTQ+ travelers can occur, and social media often provides real-time accounts of these situations.
9. Choose Destinations with Established LGBTQ+ Communities
Some locations are known for their vibrant LGBTQ+ communities and should be on every couple’s radar. Destinations like San Francisco, Amsterdam, Berlin, and Sydney not only welcome LGBTQ+ travelers but celebrate them. Choosing locales with robust LGBTQ+ communities can provide a honeymoon experience that is not only safe but also immersive and affirming.
10. Trust Your Instincts and Be Cautious
At the end of the day, trust your instincts. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable in a particular area, don’t hesitate to leave or adjust your plans. Safety is paramount, and no destination is worth compromising your well-being or peace of mind.
Cover photo by Los Muertos Crew
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