LGBT travel is one of the most liberating ways to explore the world, but it also comes with unique considerations. Whether you’re planning your first gay holiday or you’re a seasoned traveller, knowing how to avoid common mistakes can make the difference between a stressful trip and a smooth, empowering experience.

At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe “gay-friendly” isn’t always friendly enough. As a gay-owned travel company, we prioritise real inclusion, cultural awareness, and travel planning that puts you — and your identity — first.

Let’s explore how you can travel with more confidence, fewer risks, and a lot more joy.

Why LGBT Travel Needs a Different Kind of Planning

The world is full of beautiful destinations, but it’s not equal for everyone. While some countries have protective laws and thriving queer scenes, others still criminalise same-sex relationships or restrict gender expression.

That’s why LGBT travel planning goes beyond picking a hotel and booking a flight. It’s about choosing where you’ll be safe, respected, and free to be yourself. It’s also about recognising the subtle ways that travel can affect your comfort, health, and emotional wellbeing.

A good trip is about more than just location. It’s about how the journey makes you feel.

Common LGBT Travel Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced travellers sometimes overlook things. Let’s break down the most frequent missteps — and how to dodge them with confidence.

1. Skipping Research on Local Laws and Attitudes

One of the most common mistakes is assuming that everywhere is as accepting as your home city. Sadly, that’s not always the case.

Some countries have laws that ban same-sex relationships, public displays of affection, or even certain types of clothing. Others may be technically legal but still hostile in public opinion or police enforcement.

What to do instead:

• Check the legal status of LGBT rights in your destination
• Look for trusted travel blogs or resources written by queer travellers
• Be especially careful if travelling through rural or religiously conservative regions

Every place has its own story — know it before you go.

2. Assuming All Hotels Are LGBT Inclusive

A hotel might not outright ban LGBT guests, but that doesn’t mean they’ll make you feel welcome. Some properties have outdated policies, avoid marketing to same-sex couples, or may show bias during check-in.

What to do instead:

• Choose accommodation that markets itself explicitly as LGBT-friendly or gay-owned
• Read recent reviews from queer travellers
• Use travel agents like Wide Awake Holidays who know which suppliers are genuinely inclusive

We work only with partners who respect you — and your partner.

Ask us about special offers on LGBT-friendly hotels in popular destinations. We’ll help you find the perfect match.

3. Being Too Relaxed About PDA

Holding hands or sharing a kiss may feel like a natural expression of love. In some destinations, though, this can draw negative attention or even lead to arrest.

What to do instead:

• Be mindful of cultural norms and legal restrictions
• Save romantic moments for private or clearly inclusive spaces
• Let your safety guide your behaviour, not assumptions

You deserve to feel free — but also secure.

4. Using Dating Apps Without Caution

Apps can be a fun way to meet people abroad, but they can also be used to entrap or harass LGBT individuals, especially in places with poor protections.

What to do instead:

• Use travel-specific filters or alerts available on some platforms
• Always meet in a public space first
• Share your location with a friend and trust your instincts

Apps can connect — or complicate. Navigate them wisely.

5. Missing Out on Local LGBT Culture

Too often, travellers stick to the tourist trail and miss the rich, diverse, and often underground LGBT scenes that give destinations their soul.

What to do instead:

• Seek out local queer-owned businesses, artists, and events
• Ask your hotel concierge (if you feel safe doing so)
• Look for LGBT tours, art walks, or drag brunches

You didn’t travel this far to feel like an outsider. Dive in.

LGBT Travel: How Gay Friendly is Spain?

Spain is a long-time favourite for LGBT travellers — but how does it actually stack up when it comes to rights and acceptance?

• Legal Status of Homosexuality: Legal since 1979
• Same-Sex Marriage: Fully legal since 2005
• Anti-Discrimination Laws: Yes, in employment, housing, healthcare, and public services
• Employment Protections: Strong national laws protect workers from discrimination
• Equal Age of Consent: Yes — age of consent is equal across all sexualities
• Public Opinion: Very supportive, especially in urban centres like Madrid and Barcelona

Cities like Sitges and Ibiza aren’t just popular — they’re woven into the fabric of queer global culture.

We offer packages to Spain with handpicked LGBT-friendly hotels and curated experiences. Ask us for options tailored to your travel style.

LGBT Travel: How Gay Friendly is Thailand?

Thailand has a reputation for tolerance, but what does the law say?

• Legal Status of Homosexuality: Legal since 1956
• Same-Sex Marriage: Not yet legal, but civil partnerships are under review
• Anti-Discrimination Laws: Yes, since 2015 — the Gender Equality Act prohibits bias
• Employment Protections: Some protections, but enforcement varies
• Equal Age of Consent: Yes, for heterosexual and homosexual activity
• Public Opinion: Generally tolerant, especially in cities and tourist areas

From Bangkok to Chiang Mai, Thailand remains a top pick for relaxed, vibrant LGBT travel.

We have exclusive offers for Thailand escapes, including gay beach resorts and wellness retreats. Ask us for current packages.

LGBT Travel: How Gay Friendly is South Africa?

South Africa leads the way for LGBT rights on the African continent.

• Legal Status of Homosexuality: Legal since 1998
• Same-Sex Marriage: Legal since 2006
• Anti-Discrimination Laws: Strong constitutional protections
• Employment Protections: Fully protected under law
• Equal Age of Consent: Yes
• Public Opinion: Varies by region — Cape Town is very welcoming; rural areas may be more conservative

Cape Town is considered the queer capital of Africa, known for its inclusive vibe and stunning natural beauty.

Ask us about South Africa travel packages with LGBT-hosted tours and safaris.

Jamie Says: “People often ask me, ‘Where’s safe to travel?’ But I think the better question is, ‘Where will I feel seen?’ LGBT travel should be about more than just safety. It should be about connection, celebration, and finding your place in the world.”

Safety Tips for LGBT Travellers

Here’s a quick round-up of practical ways to stay safe and confident on your next trip:

• Use a travel agent who understands LGBT travel
• Register with the UK FCDO for travel alerts (especially in higher-risk countries)
• Pack copies of important documents, including prescriptions and travel insurance
• Carry a card with emergency contacts and phrases in the local language
• Keep your phone charged and consider carrying a backup power bank
• Learn local customs so you can blend in where needed
• Always trust your instincts — if something feels off, leave

What About Trans and Non-Binary Travellers?

While this post uses LGBT+ as a broad umbrella, we know that trans and non-binary travellers face additional challenges.

• Some countries require gender on ID to match appearance
• Airport security can be invasive or misgendering
• Health and access to hormones can be limited abroad
• Finding safe, gender-neutral bathrooms is still a global issue

If you’re travelling while trans or non-binary, we recommend:

• Checking TSA or border control policies in advance
• Carrying a doctor’s letter if you travel with hormone therapy
• Booking through agents who understand the specific needs of gender-diverse clients

At Wide Awake Holidays, we never assume — we ask, we listen, and we create holidays with your comfort in mind.

Why Book Your LGBT Travel with Wide Awake Holidays?

We believe your holiday should reflect your whole self — without compromise.

When you book LGBT travel through us, you’ll get:

• A personal service from a gay-owned, UK-based travel company
• Support before, during, and after your trip
• Holidays protected by Protected Trust Services
• Access to more than 200 suppliers and inclusive tour operators
• Tailor-made experiences that reflect your style and needs
• Real insight into where you’ll be welcomed — not just tolerated

We don’t just tick boxes. We build trips around people, not templates.

LGBT Travel: Your Next Trip Starts Here

Whether you’re planning your first LGBT holiday or your fiftieth, you deserve more than a cookie-cutter experience. You deserve connection, celebration, and support — from the moment you start planning until the moment you come home.

Let us help you discover the world your way.

Call us on 01495 400947 to start planning, or use our holiday enquiry form on the Wide Awake Holidays website. We’d love to make your next adventure unforgettable.