Five tips for LGBT travellers to Spain

A survey that has been conducted in late 2014 revealed that 82 percent of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) participants took a vacation in the previous 12 months, with 29 percent taking five or more trips per year. This means that LGBT travellers are among the most lucrative segments of the global travel market. These travellers – as well as migrants and expats, however, face challenges when visiting destinations that are unfriendly or oppressive toward LGBT travellers. Spain is considered a safe harbour for people from the LGBT group, but there exist destinations, whether for travel or business assignment, that might be more challenging for a longer stay.

This topic has been discussed with Crown’s Benedict Slonecki (Intercultural and Language Training and Partner Support Coordinator) and also with Lisa Johnson (Global Practice Leader, Consulting Services), in particular regarding the steps that LGBT travellers can take to avoid potentially risky situations and make the most of their travel or even relocation.

Every LGBT traveller should know following 5 tips:

  • Ensure you understand the political and social climate of the country that you plan to visit.
  • It is key to conduct a deep research pinpointing places of potential danger and to know in which countries it is even illegal to identify as LGBT.
  • Possibly acclimate to a new place by understanding acceptable local behaviours and customs.
  • Seek local support from LGBT social and professional groups and understand local immigration laws.
  • Make sure you know well relevant things about your surroundings and the places that you visit.