Booking.com recently surveyed over 11,000 LGBTQ+ travelers from 27 different countries and created a report about the habits and preferences of queer and transgender tourists. The research highlights challenges faced by LGBTQ+ travelers and measures taken to ensure safe and enjoyable travel experiences. Despite increasing inclusivity within the travel industry, the survey reveals that hurdles remain.
Discrimination and anticipation of bias
Notably, 59% of LGBTQ+ travelers have encountered discrimination while traveling. This figure increases among those who are out (63%), have partners (64%), or are advocates for LGBTQ+ rights (68%). Anticipation of bias is common, with 55% expecting discriminatory behavior from fellow travelers and 57% from locals.
Anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and social acceptance
Local legislation and social acceptance play significant roles in destination choices for LGBTQ+ travelers. Over half (55%) of those surveyed consider LGBTQ+ rights and equality laws important, and 51% compare the destination’s acceptance to their home country. News reports also influence decisions, with 50% taking them into account. These factors have led 43% of LGBTQ+ travelers to even cancel trips to unsupportive destinations, particularly among transgender (59%) and intersex (56%) individuals. 56% have chosen destinations perceived as supportive of LGBTQ+ residents.
Preferences for established LGBTQ+ destinations
When choosing travel destinations, 57% of LGBTQ+ travelers prefer places with established LGBTQ+ tourism. However, 43% are interested in locations where their presence could promote broader social acceptance. Pop culture also influences travel decisions, with 65% inspired by LGBTQ+ media, especially millennials (70%).
Pre-Flight precautions
One in three LGBTQ+ travelers has experienced negative incidents with fellow passengers, and 36% fear reactions from seatmates. As a result, 46% pre-select seats to minimize interactions, a practice most common among transgender (61%), intersex (55%), and non-binary (50%) travelers.
Many LGBTQ+ travelers adopt personas or modify their appearance to avoid discrimination, with 40% engaging in such practices. This is particularly prevalent among transgender (59%) and lesbian (47%) travelers. Safety and cultural adaptation are primary motivations, with 43% aiming to protect themselves and 35% adjusting to cultural norms.
Travel industry progress and future needs
73% of LGBTQ+ travelers recognize positive changes within the travel industry, and they feel more comfortable due to increased inclusivity. This comfort extends to interactions with accommodation hosts (80%), hospitality professionals (82%), and during check-ins (83%).
LGBTQ+ travelers desire features that enhance their experiences, such as filters to identify welcoming properties. This is particularly important for transgender (49%) and genderfluid (40%) travelers.
Arjan Dijk, CMO and Senior Vice President at Booking.com, shared his thoughts on the survey and his own personal experience traveling as a gay man.
“As a gay man, I unfortunately know first hand the challenges that persist in many parts of the world, including sadly with travel alerts already being issued ahead of Pride events this year, said Dijk.” Despite all this, I am incredibly inspired to see LGBTQ+ travelers resiliently embracing their lived experiences, both at home and during their trips. While real and tangible progress is being made, we must remain vigilant and do our part to make it truly easier for everyone to Travel Proud.”
Travel Proud is Booking.com’s program to make travel more inclusive to the LGBTQ+ community. Booking.com is also one of the founding partners and sponsors of The Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center, which officially opens June 28.