Dani from Globetrottergirls has some great advice for planning the perfect lesbian-friendly travel experience. Back in 2010, she was planning her first trip to Latin America and had a lot of questions. She wondered about safety, the chance to connect with local lesbians, and what to expect in countries with a strong Catholic influence and machismo culture.
Fast forward to today, and planning a lesbian trip is much easier. But it can still be overwhelming if you’re not heading to a lesbian or Pride festival. So, where do you start? How do you find queer-friendly destinations and meet other gay travelers? Dani has put together a comprehensive guide for lesbian travelers, covering everything from trip planning to finding LGBT-friendly booking sites, travel opportunities for same-sex couples or solo travelers, and how to meet like-minded people during your trip.
If you’re planning your first international trip, it’s a good idea to choose a country with liberal views on same-sex relationships. The US Department of State, the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA), and the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA) are great resources for LGBTQ travel information.
For accommodation, check out Purple Roofs, the world’s largest travel directory of LGBT-friendly accommodation, or TAG Approved® hotels, which support the LGBT community in their employment policies and services.
There are also several providers for lesbian tours, like Olivia, which offers all-lesbian vacations, and Diva Destinations, a UK-based lesbian tour operator. If you’re traveling solo, these tours can be a great way to meet new people and form friendships.
To meet other lesbians while traveling, try using dating apps like HER, Tinder, OkCupid, or PlentyOfFish. You can also join Couchsurfing groups or look for lesbian groups on Facebook.
Finally, it’s important to stay safe while traveling. Do your research, be aware of your surroundings, and take the same precautions other solo female travelers take. As long as you plan your trip thoroughly, you don’t have to be afraid. Traveling can give you unforgettable experiences, connect you with other lesbians all over the world, and show you some of the most beautiful spots on the planet.
Dani Heinrich, the writer and photographer behind GlobetrotterGirls.com, has been nomadic since 2010. She’s always on the hunt for amazing street art, mouthwatering food, secluded beaches, scenic running routes, off the beaten path gems, and a hammock to work from. You can follow her adventures on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
When you’re ready to book your trip, use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight and Hostelworld or Booking.com for accommodation. Don’t forget travel insurance to protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. If you’re looking for activities for your trip, check out Get Your Guide for cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.
