LGBTQ+ travellers would like know the status of a location, including local laws, religious sensibilities, and safety tips.
Booking.com has conducted its most extensive LGBTQ+ travel research to date, shedding light on the challenges LGBTQ+ travellers face and the progress made by the travel industry in supporting them. The findings highlight the importance of personal safety and the role of allyship in increasing confidence among LGBTQ+ travelers in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region.
Instead of feeling fearful or insecure, 78% of LGBTQ+ travellers actually feel more confident because of their identity, compared to 69% in survey results last year. However, personal safety and well-being have become a major concern for LGBTQ+ travellers when choosing a destination, with 83% saying they must consider these factors.
This figure has significantly increased from 66% last year.
The research involved 11,555 LGBTQ+ travelers from 27 countries and territories worldwide. The study also revealed that recent news events, including major sports and music events and corporate sponsorships, have put discriminatory legislation and attitudes in the spotlight. This has greatly impacted LGBTQ+ travelers’ decisions on where to go. Nearly three-quarters (73%) of respondents said controversy in the news about discrimination and violence towards LGBTQ+ individuals influenced their choice of destination. Travellers from Australia (84%), Hong Kong (82%), and the US (79%) were the most cautious.
A regressive revolution
Unfortunately, there has been some regression in terms of personal safety for LGBTQ+ people, particularly those who are transgender. Currently, there are 64 countries that criminalize same-sex relationships, with 11 even imposing the death penalty. These destinations are off-limits for most LGBTQ+ travellers, despite hosting major global events. Due to higher rates of discrimination and violence, 68% of LGBTQ+ travellers consider some destinations completely unsafe. Even after booking trips, travellers remain vigilant, with almost half (49%) having cancelled a trip in the past year after realizing the destination does not support LGBTQ+ individuals.
Discrimination remains a significant concern throughout the travel experience, with 61% of respondents reporting they have faced discrimination while traveling.
Out of all LGBTQ+ travelers:
- 30% have experienced stereotyping.
- 22% have been stared at, laughed at, or verbally abused by other travelers.
- 21% have faced similar experiences with locals at their destination.
- 15% have been threatened or intimidated by local law enforcement.
While travel can bring a sense of freedom and self-expression, a significant proportion of LGBTQ+ people still feel restricted. Over a third (34%) have felt the need to change their behavior to avoid judgment or uncomfortable interactions with others, and 28% have felt the need to change their appearance to do the same. This is particularly true for Gen Z LGBTQ+ travelers, with 40% feeling the need to change their behavior and 32% feeling the need to change their appearance.
Transforming caution into confidence
However, despite the challenges, LGBTQ+ travelers are gaining confidence in their travel experiences. 85% of LGBTQ+ travelers feel confident participating in any activities they desire while on vacation. Most LGBTQ+ travelers (74%) seek out attractions and activities tailored to LGBTQ+ individuals.
Positive travel experiences are becoming more common, boosting the confidence of LGBTQ+ communities. A significant number (84%) of LGBTQ+ travelers have experienced some form of positive interaction during their travels. This includes friendly and informative correspondence with accommodations before arrival (44%) and great first impressions upon arrival, such as welcome drinks and friendly staff (47%).
The travel industry is actively contributing to changing attitudes and perceptions. A vast majority (84%) of LGBTQ+ travellers feel more comfortable travelling due to the industry’s increased inclusivity. In fact, 82% actively enjoy the experience of booking trips, only slightly less than the overall traveller population.
While personal safety concerns have a key impact on destination choices for LGBTQ+ communities at large (40%), other key motivations for travel play a very strong role, with beautiful natural scenery (48%), tasty local cuisine (47%) and great beaches (35%) rounding out the top elements that have the greatest impact on destination choices.
Active allyship in the travel industry
The research also indicates that there is still more work to be done to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ travellers. While providing guidance and information about the local area is common (42%), only 21% have received LGBTQ+-specific guidance. One-third (39%) would like to receive information about the LGBTQ+ status of a location, including local laws, religious sensibilities, and safety tips.
Travel companies must step up as allies and implement inclusive policies to support LGBTQ+ travellers. Research shows that 74% of LGBTQ+ travellers research travel brands and experiences to understand their support for LGBTQ+ individuals. Furthermore, 75% are more likely to book travel and experiences with LGBTQ+-owned brands, and 79% prefer airlines and brands with inclusive policies.
Booking.com’s Travel Proud program plays a role in promoting allyship within the travel industry. Currently available in multiple languages, the program has certified over 24,000 properties globally, with Travel Proud stays available in 118 countries and territories.
Laura Houldsworth, Managing Director of Asia-Pacific at Booking.com, emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and acceptance in the travel industry. She believes that everyone should be able to experience the world as themselves. While progress has been made, it is vital for the travel industry to continue striving for inclusion, creating an environment where everyone can flourish and thrive, whether they are exploring closer to home or venturing to the other side of the world.
