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The wide world is out there for everyone to experience, and travel is all about discovery. While different destinations welcome visitors, not all of them are sure to be friendly toward out-and-proud members of the LGBTQ community. For this community, taking a trip overseas comes with an extra set of challenges.
LGBTQ rights and tolerance levels vary dramatically across the world. Even in places where homosexuality is legal, travellers have to go harassment and discrimination. Do you think you will feel safe holding hands with your partner or spouse out in public? Will someone stop on your itinerary need you to pass as straight? If you take your children, will your parental rights be rejected or scrutinized?
These questions should not keep you from travelling, but they should prompt some additional and careful planning. Here's what to keep in mind when preparing for your next International trip;
Choose Your Destination Wisely
Selecting a destination is exciting but, there are some vital things that you need to keep in mind as many countries and cultures are not accepting of gay people. In some countries or places identifying as, or merely LBGTQ is considered a crime. It is not safe to travel the places that aren't expressly supportive of LGBTQ rights, whether it's an international destination or less LGBTQ-friendly area.
Take special note of countries and areas to avoid. Even in LGBTQ-friendly places, there can be geographical neighbourhoods that are not as welcoming. Consider the potential risk and your personal ethics, before you decide where to go. There are plenty of online resources that can help you. Check out online sites and choose your destination wisely.
Get Your Paperwork Done
Like any family travelling with kids, same-sex parents should also carry vital documents like individual passports, proof of travel insurance and some important medical documents. With LGBTQ, it is better to pull together more extensive paperwork in order to avoid any issues in transit. Each kid's passport, adopting papers, and birth certificates are some other papers.
Additionally, if you are not a parent listed on your child's birth certificate, don't forget to carry a notarized letter from the parent whose name is listed; it will authorize you to travel with the kid.
Make sure you are not carrying important documents in one place when travelling. Keep important files on a flash drive or within the email to keep organized and ensure nothing is lost.
Find LGBTQ-Friendly Accommodations
Finding a perfect place for your happy family vacation is the most important part of tour planning. For LGBTQ travellers, finding where you are welcome can make all of the difference, whether that is within a country at large or at a specific resort.
You can get rid of a few issues by using travel brands that train employees on inclusion and make a concerted effort to be queer-friendly. Many hotel brands have inclusivity training and programs dedicated specifically to LGBTQ customers and families.
Additional Tips
No matter where you visit, you and your family are subject to the local laws and judicial processes. Keep in mind that you will not have the same legal protections as you do in your own country.
Stay aware of the culture and political condition of the country you are going to. When you are travelling to any particular country, do proper research about it from knowing the climate to local customs.
Seek out places where the community is vibrant and accepting regardless of where you are.
You can take advantage of Social media and contact more gay couples and families.
While travelling, no matter who you are is to be conscious and aware of your surroundings. If you're in a place where homosexuality is frowned upon, exercise discretion and limit public displays of affection.
If you run into legal issues, experience harassment, or are arrested while abroad, immediately contact the nearest embassy.
Apart from all these tips, you need to be prepared for the dumb question. You may have to go through some awkward questions when checking into a hotel or a flight. It gets uncomfortable but instead of reacting angrily, so use it as a teaching moment to help the person better understands the LGBTQ family. Expect that anything can happen and be prepared. Don't let others spoil your vacation. That's it for now.
May your journey be eye-opening! May you have new and profound experiences, and may you arrive and depart, in a safe manner!
We hope you enjoy the article. Don't forget to share your own tips with us in the comment section below.
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