67% of British LGBTQ+ travellers have faced discrimination abroad in the last year – up from 55% in 2023 – as the community continues to face significant challenges, according to new research from Booking.com.
This figure rose to 68% of those who consider themselves advocates for LGBTIQ+ rights and change.
Nearly two-thirds (64%) of those who have a partner said they experienced these situations during the past year.
LGBTQ+ travelers expect some form of discriminatory behavior from both their colleagues (61%) and locals in the destinations they visit (62%). At the same time, 60% agree that being LGBTQ+ has made them more insecure and self-aware when abroad.
Almost half (48%) of respondents cancelled a trip after seeing that a destination does not support LGBTQ+ people. However, 63% booked a trip in the last 12 months to a destination that was considered supportive for those who identify as LGBTQ+.
More than 1,000 people from the UK took part in the annual poll of nearly 11,500 LGBTQ+ travellers from 27 countries.
Freedom of expression and movement is a priority
According to the survey findings, almost three in four (70%) LGBTQ+ travellers from the UK said being able to be their authentic selves on their trip is the most important factor in choosing a destination, higher than the global average (63%).
Accommodation that fits their budget is the second biggest concern (68%), likely reflecting the current economic uncertainty affecting people across the country.
Almost one in three (27%) had a negative experience with a passenger directly related to their identity, while 36% expressed concern at the idea of sitting next to a stranger, fearing their reaction or behavior towards them as an LGBTQ+ person.
Meanwhile, nearly half (45%) of LGBTQ+ travelers say they modify elements of their appearance and behavior to avoid potential discrimination or unwanted attention, while half have created an alter-ego to allow them to fit into different environments when traveling.
Travelling to destinations that have the right legislation makes it easier to feel integrated, and this is reflected in interactions with those working in the travel industry.
The survey found that 85% of LGBTQ+ travelers feel comfortable when they arrive to check in at their property, 82% when they have correspondence with accommodation hosts and airlines, and 84% when interacting with staff such as tour guides, flight attendants and taxi drivers.
Additionally, when asked what features LGBTQ+ travelers would like to see from travel businesses to improve their future travel experiences, 31% cited filters that would make it easier to identify properties that offer a welcoming experience.
Arjan Dijk, head of marketing and senior vice president at Booking.com, said: “As a gay man, I am sadly aware first-hand of the challenges that still exist in many parts of the world, including unfortunately the travel warnings already issued ahead of this year’s Pride events.”
According to him, while real and tangible progress is being made, everyone needs to be vigilant and do their part to make it really easier for everyone to travel proudly.
Meanwhile, research for Sustainable Journeys found that the LGBTQ+ community leads the way in supporting sustainable tourism.
LGBTI+ travellers show increased care and attention for sustainable purposes and tend to travel to destinations that are more socially, economically and environmentally sustainable.
They are specifically looking for progressive, socially and economically responsible travel options, with top destinations such as Copenhagen, Dublin and Malta prioritising equality towards LGBTIQ+ people.
