There’s nothing like venturing out into the world and experiencing all of what life has to offer. However, if you’re a member of the Queer community, you likely want to visit a place that is supportive (especially if you’re going to spend your hard-earned money there!). So, the question is, where should you go on your next sexy, fun getaway when you travel as a Queer person?
Ultimately, there are so many amazing places to explore that it might feel overwhelming.
Don’t stress! We’ve done the homework for you and compiled a helpful list that outlines the safest places to travel as a Queer person.
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The Netherlands: Leading the World in Queer Support
The Netherlands has a history of championing rights for Queer people, including becoming one of the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex civil marriage in 2001. Since then, the Netherlands has made great strides in establishing itself as a safe space for people who are LGBTQIA+ with its strong anti-discrimination laws. But that’s not all. The Netherlands goes the extra mile and hosts many Queer-friendly celebrations, like Amsterdam’s Canal Parade, making it a supreme vacation spot.
Photo: Mark Neal via Pexels
Iceland: A Safe Space for Travel as a Queer Person
Iceland is another one of the most Queer-friendly countries in the world, featuring laws that not only allow same-sex marriage but also grant LGBTQIA+ people rights to IVF, adoption, and name- and identity-changing procedures for those in transition.
If you’re traveling to Iceland and want to check out some Queer-friendly events, take a look at Reykjavik Pride. This annual festival brings together tens of thousands of LGBTQIA+ people and their friends and family to show their support for the Queer community.
Photo: Anthony Rodriguez via Unsplash
Canada: A Queer-Friendly Country (That Doesn’t Require A Hop Across the Pond)
Outside of Europe, Canada was one of the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, and its staunch anti-discrimination laws offer protections for Queer people with regard to sexual orientation and gender identity.
But what’s there to do in Canada for Queer travelers? You’ve got the Annual Queer Prom for Youth, the Toronto Queer Film Festival, the Uncloseted Comedy Pride Festival, and so much more!
Photo: William Fonteneau via Unsplash
Sweden: Home to One of the Region’s Biggest Pride Parades
Sweden is another European country to travel to as a queer person. It not only accepts the Queer community but goes above and beyond to support anyone identifying as LGBTQIA+. In 1972, Sweden became the first country in the world to allow trans individuals to legally change their gender after transition. That same year, the country began offering free gender reassignment treatment.
Travelers who identify as Queer will be happy to know that Sweden hosts one of the largest pride festivals in the Nordic region: Stockholm Pride. If you’re planning a summertime vacation, you need to visit Stockholm so you can partake in this jam-packed event that shows appreciation and acceptance for Queer people.
Photo: via Visit Brussels
Belgium: Queer-Friendly Entertainment Galore
If you’re a waffles and chocolate fan, Belgium has garnered a reputation as being extremely Queer-friendly. Anti-discrimination laws, same-sex marriage, and adoption legalization… as well as the banning of conversion therapy… are only some of the reasons Belgium is considered a safe haven for Queer people.
While you’re on holiday in Belgium, make sure to put Brussels on your itinerary. Whether you identify as Queer or not, there is a plethora of LGBTQIA+-themed shows, exhibitions, and festivals scheduled throughout the year.
Photo: Karly Santiago via Unsplash
Make the World Your Rainbow-Colored Oyster–and Feel Safe While Adventuring
The world has so much to offer for Queer travelers–no matter if you prefer trekking around Europe or you are seeking five-star luxury. Moreover, our world is progressing every day. Ways of thinking are shifting. Conservative patriarchal tropes will be banished to the dustbins of history.
Every person deserves to see and experience the world safely, confidently, and abundantly. We are each entitled to live the absolute best life possible. Therefore, know that we will keep making sure you know all that you need to be aware of as you travel while also proudly “doing you.”
