Top LGBT+ Activism and Causes in the Travel Industry

Travelling as an LGBT+ person isn't always as straightforward as it should be. While the world opens up in many ways, hidden obstacles and subtle exclusions still linger. That’s why Travel Industry LGBT Activism is more than a trend—it’s a necessity.

This isn’t just a blog post. It’s a look into the movements, organisations, destinations, and individuals reshaping what it means to travel with pride. Whether you're a seasoned jet-setter or someone dreaming of your first gay holiday, this is your roadmap to understanding how the travel world is becoming more inclusive.

Let’s take a closer look at who’s leading the charge, what progress has been made, and where you fit in as an LGBT+ traveller.

Travel Industry LGBT Activism: Why It Matters More Than Ever

Visibility changes everything. For decades, the LGBT+ community has fought for space—in politics, in culture, and now, in travel.

When travel companies support LGBT+ rights, they send a powerful message: "You belong here."

And that changes lives.

From lobbying for anti-discrimination laws to promoting queer-owned hotels, Travel Industry LGBT Activism helps build safer and more welcoming experiences for everyone. But there's still work to be done.

The Rise of Advocacy in Travel

Change often begins with a small step. For many, that step was taken by refusing to hide who they were while travelling.

Over time, that visibility became action. Today, we see:

• Travel conferences with queer representation
• Campaigns pushing for inclusive tourism policies
• LGBT+ travel content creators reshaping the narrative
• Hotel chains training staff on inclusivity
• Airlines joining Pride parades with purpose

This isn’t marketing. This is momentum.



But how do you, as a traveller, benefit? And how can you support the right causes?

Jamie Says:

"As someone who built a gay-owned travel company in the UK, I’ve seen first-hand how much representation still matters. It’s not just about safe hotels or knowing which bars are LGBT+ friendly—it’s about feeling seen. At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe that sometimes 'gay-friendly' is not friendly enough. We tailor-make holidays that genuinely celebrate you, not just tolerate you."

Who’s Leading the Way in Travel Industry LGBT Activism?

Let’s shine a spotlight on some of the causes and groups at the forefront of change.

IGLTA (International LGBTQ+ Travel Association)

The IGLTA is more than a trade organisation. It’s a global network advocating for LGBT+ travellers across all borders.

They provide resources for both travellers and businesses. They also run an annual global convention that drives innovation and inclusivity in travel.

Their work helps create the foundation for safer, more informed LGBT+ holidays.

Queer Destinations

Based in Spain, Queer Destinations partners with tourism boards to certify LGBT+ welcoming cities and regions. Their "Queer Destinations Committed" label has set a new standard in hospitality.

If you're planning a holiday to Spain or Mexico, chances are you've already benefited from their work.

Open for Business

This coalition of global businesses promotes inclusive economic growth through LGBT+ inclusion. Their research is widely used to encourage destinations to welcome LGBT+ travellers not just socially, but economically.

The Protections You Receive When Booking Through Wide Awake Holidays

When you book a tailor-made holiday through Wide Awake Holidays, you’re not just buying a trip.

You’re investing in peace of mind.

Here’s what you get:

• ATOL protection for flight-inclusive holidays
• Membership with Protected Trust Services (PTS) for financial protection
• Supplier Failure Insurance on all tailor-made trips
• Scheduled Airline Failure Insurance so you’re covered even if your airline collapses
• Personalised planning with access to over 200 suppliers and operators
• Support from a UK-based, gay-owned company that understands your travel needs

When things go wrong, we’re here. And we don’t just fix problems—we prevent them.

Travel Industry LGBT Activism by Destination

Let’s look at how activism and inclusive tourism play out in real destinations around the globe. These countries not only offer unforgettable holidays—they’re also pushing boundaries.

Spain

Spain has long been a favourite for LGBT+ travellers. But what sets it apart is its deep-rooted activism and openness.

How Gay Friendly is Spain?

• Legal since: 1979
• Same-sex marriage recognised: Since 2005
• Anti-discrimination laws: Strong protections in place
• Employment protections: Yes, nationally recognised
• Equal age of consent: Yes
• Public opinion: Very supportive

Spain is home to Maspalomas Pride, Sitges Carnival, and one of the world’s biggest Pride events in Madrid.

Hotel Highlight: Axel Hotel Barcelona

An exclusively gay property with a buzzing rooftop pool and city-centre location.

Ask us about current offers at Axel Hotel Barcelona.

Canada

Canada isn’t just safe—it’s actively supportive.

How Gay Friendly is Canada?

• Legal since: 1969
• Same-sex marriage recognised: Since 2005
• Anti-discrimination laws: Strong federal protections
• Employment protections: Yes, coast to coast
• Equal age of consent: Yes
• Public opinion: Very high acceptance

Toronto and Vancouver lead the way with inclusive nightlife, Pride events, and queer cultural scenes.

Hotel Highlight: The Anndore House, Toronto

A hip, design-forward hotel in the Church-Wellesley Village, Toronto’s queer neighbourhood.

Let us check today’s offers for The Anndore House.

Argentina

Argentina leads Latin America in LGBT+ rights.

How Gay Friendly is Argentina?

• Legal since: 1887
• Same-sex marriage recognised: Since 2010
• Anti-discrimination laws: Present but inconsistently enforced
• Employment protections: Varies by province
• Equal age of consent: Yes
• Public opinion: Strong and growing support

Buenos Aires is often referred to as the "Paris of South America" and has a well-established queer scene.

Hotel Highlight: Lugar Gay

An all-male gay hotel in Buenos Aires with a relaxed, boutique vibe.



Speak to us about available rooms at Lugar Gay.

Portugal

Portugal is emerging as a top European destination for inclusive travel.

How Gay Friendly is Portugal?

• Legal since: 1982
• Same-sex marriage recognised: Since 2010
• Anti-discrimination laws: Comprehensive and enforced
• Employment protections: Yes
• Equal age of consent: Yes
• Public opinion: Increasingly positive, especially in cities

Lisbon and Porto both host vibrant Pride events and LGBT-owned businesses.

Hotel Highlight: My Lisbon Rooms

An LGBT+ owned guesthouse located in the heart of Lisbon’s gay district.

Let us find the best rate for My Lisbon Rooms for your travel dates.

Thailand

Thailand has long welcomed LGBT+ travellers, even before legal reforms caught up.

How Gay Friendly is Thailand?

• Legal since: 1956
• Same-sex marriage recognised: In progress (civil union passed in 2023)
• Anti-discrimination laws: Broad protections based on gender identity
• Employment protections: Present but not always enforced
• Equal age of consent: Yes
• Public opinion: Generally tolerant, especially in tourism areas

Bangkok and Phuket are hubs for queer nightlife, wellness retreats, and inclusive resorts.

Hotel Highlight: Babylon Bangkok

A legendary all-male gay resort and sauna popular with international travellers.

Get in touch for package rates to Babylon Bangkok.

South Africa

The first country in Africa to legalise same-sex marriage, South Africa is a progressive beacon.

How Gay Friendly is South Africa?

• Legal since: 1998
• Same-sex marriage recognised: Since 2006
• Anti-discrimination laws: Guaranteed by constitution
• Employment protections: Yes
• Equal age of consent: Yes
• Public opinion: Mixed, more open in cities

Cape Town is a gay travel hotspot, known for its beaches, clubs, and cultural heritage.

Hotel Highlight: The Glen Boutique Hotel

Located in Sea Point, Cape Town’s gay-friendly zone, with luxury rooms and spa.

We can secure special offers at The Glen Boutique Hotel.

Your Role in Supporting Travel Industry LGBT Activism

Travellers hold power.

Where you stay, who you book with, and how you speak up all play a role. Here’s how to travel more consciously:

• Book with LGBT+ owned or friendly providers
• Support destinations making real change
• Leave reviews that highlight inclusivity
• Report issues when you see them
• Stay informed through LGBT+ travel communities

You deserve more than tolerance. You deserve celebration.

Why Book With Wide Awake Holidays?

We’re not just a travel agency.

We’re a company founded on the belief that being LGBT+ shouldn’t mean compromise. We tailor-make your holiday to reflect your identity and your comfort.

• Personalised service
• Exclusive access to gay-friendly and gay-owned properties
• Holiday planning from a gay-owned UK team that gets it
• Financial protection from ATOL and Protected Trust Services

From city breaks to long-haul escapes, let us show you what it means to travel with pride.

Ready to Book Your Next Holiday?

You deserve a holiday that doesn’t ask you to tone it down.

Let Wide Awake Holidays help you plan a journey where you can be your full self. We tailor-make every trip to your needs, using our extensive network of trusted, inclusive partners worldwide.

Call us today on 01495 400947 or use the holiday enquiry form on our website to start planning.

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