Top 5 tips for LGBT expats and travellers

In a 2014 survey, 82 percent of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) participants reported that they took a vacation in the previous 12 months. And 29 percent reported they were even taking five or more trips per year, making LGBT travellers one of the most lucrative segments of the global travel market. These travellers, however, may face challenges when visiting destinations that are unfriendly or oppressive toward LGBT travellers. Austria is considered a safe haven for people making part of the LGBT group, but there might be destinations, whether for travel or business assignment, that are more challenging.

We have discussed these issues with Crown’s Benedict Slonecki (Intercultural and Language Training and Partner Support Coordinator) as well as with Lisa Johnson, who is Global Practice Leader, Consulting Services, about the action steps which LGBT travellers should take, in order to avoid potentially risky situations and make the most of their travel.

Every LGBT traveller should follow these 5 tips:

  • Pre-researching well is key to pinpointing places of potential danger and to know in which countries it is even illegal to identify as LGBT.
  • Ensure that you fully understand the political and social climate of the country that you plan to visit.
  • Looking out for local support from LGBT social and professional groups and understanding local immigration laws.
  • It is helpful to know well relevant things about your surroundings and the places that you visit.
  • Do acclimate to a new place by understanding acceptable local behaviours and customs.