Booking.com's survey reveals five travel destinations that welcome LGBTQ+ travellers with open arms.

Travelling can be seen as a great break from our hectic work schedule and stressors, and it is often an exciting and welcoming experience for everyone. However, discrimination unfortunately still exists and remains a crucial concern, in particular towards the LGBTQ+ community.

Through a survey, Booking.com, a digital travel platform where individuals can book accommodation, flights, and attractions, shares five LGBTQ+-friendly destinations, underscoring the value of profiling destinations that celebrate diversity and provide a safe and inclusive environment.

The destinations include Sydney, Bangkok, Taipei, Kathmandu, and Singapore, which offer a stunning travel experience and a heartfelt embrace and welcome, regardless of who you are or whom you choose to love.

In addition, they are also Travel Proud certified by Booking.com, whereby staff members are formally trained in inclusive hospitality. This training also allows accommodation providers a fresh perspective on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ travellers.

Step into LGBTQ+ destinations reimagining inclusivity

Several APAC destinations are currently embracing love and inclusivity. For example, Sydney is home to the world's largest LGBTQ+ festival, the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras.

Australia also boasts the highest number of Travel Proud-certified accommodations in APAC, such as the Wildlife Retreat at Taronga, which provides a tranquil escape with stunning views of Sydney Harbour and close encounters with native Australian wildlife.

Other destinations include Bangkok, which boasts a colourful portfolio of LGBTQ+-owned establishments known for providing travellers with a warm and inclusive environment far and wide. Amongst these is Divana Spa, a popular massage and spa for those seeking a pampering break where all visitors can be their true, authentic selves.

In addition, Kathmandu also boasts a trekking guide training programme tailored for LGBTQ+ individuals. In addition to leading treks, guides will be more than happy to introduce visitors to the local LGBTQ+ scene and community.

"At Booking.com, we passionately believe that everyone should be able to travel and experience the world in their unique way," said Mr Arjan Dijk, Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President of Booking.com. "I am incredibly inspired to see LGBTQ+ travellers resiliently embracing their lived experiences, both at home and during their trips."

Dijk believes that this approach would enable the LGBTQ+ community to be embraced and make it easier for everyone to Travel Proud.

Since Booking.com launched its Travel Proud program in 2021, it has comprised more than 67,000 Travel Proud-certified properties globally in 12,645 cities and destinations across 133 countries and territories. 

The company has also partnered with the Global Equity Fund in the U.S. to bring together like-minded governments and private sector entities dedicated to advancing and defending the human rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ people worldwide.

Embracing LGBTQ+ on the Rise

LGBTQ+ community awareness has been a growing trend over the past year, with many activities and movements organised by countries worldwide.

For instance, Singapore is a well-loved and liberal community, and the Tiong Bahru neighbourhood is home to many members of the LGBTQ+ community. During the Pink Dot month, held annually in June, many windows shine pink, and rainbow flags proudly hang on balconies.

Building on the momentum, Booking.com continues to lead the way in transforming how the LGBTQ+ community can experience the world non-discriminately through its priorities of helping people travel with confidence and making properties extra welcoming.

The company also plans to conduct more training sessions in a wide range of languages to increase the number of accommodation partners that plan to be Travel Proud certified.