Out Now: Lonely Planet’s LGBTQ+ Travel Guide
The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide is a comprehensive and inclusive exploration of over 50 LGBTQ-friendly destinations worldwide. Written by Queer, neurodivergent travel writer Alicia Valenski, this guide is designed to help LGBTQ+ travelers navigate the world with confidence, safety, and pride.
This beautifully designed coffee table book is more than just a list of Queer-friendly spots; it’s a collection of stories and firsthand insights gathered from LGBTQ+ locals who call these vibrant destinations home. These intimate interviews will bring readers closer to the heart of each location through authentic, personal experiences. Our contributors’ voices offer invaluable advice on where to stay, what to do, and how to connect with the local LGBTQ+ communities, offering a deeper, more meaningful travel experience.
From the thriving gayborhoods of Sao Paulo in Brazil, to the artsy streets of Melbourne Australia, The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide offers everything from cultural landmarks to hidden gems. Whether you’re seeking an island escape, an adventure-filled trip, or a family-friendly getaway, this guide includes curated hit lists for every interest, ensuring there is something for every type of traveler.
Over the past 10 years, the Queer travel market has been growing. When travel was at its peak before the pandemic, travel spending from Queer people reached $218 billion worldwide. By 2030, experts predict that travel spending by queer travelers could reach $568.5 billion. One of the reasons for this is that the population of people who identify as Queer is increasing, with the 2021 UK census finding that 6.9% of Gen Zs identified as LGBTQ+. (Globetrotter)
Although Queer travel seems to be on the rise, Gay Times found in a survey of 15k LGBTQ+ people, 65% said they cannot find LGBTQ+ travel information easily when searching for a destination. That is why Lonely Planet’s The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide works as a one stop shop for LGBTQ+ travel.
In addition to destination recommendations, this book offers essential tips on navigating local LGBTQ+ rights, understanding safety precautions, and accessing emergency resources. It’s invaluable material for both first-time and seasoned travelers, providing the knowledge and confidence to explore the world without compromise.
The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide is not just about seeing the world; it’s about connecting with it. It’s about feeling seen and respected wherever you go and finding spaces that celebrate who you are. Valenski’s work ensures that LGBTQ+ travelers can explore the globe on their own terms, with the knowledge that their safety, enjoyment, and community are top priorities.
“We recognized the Queer community was looking for a guide that understands them, especially given the challenges they continue to face when travelling. By example Booking.com recently revealed 59% of LGBTQ+ travelers have experienced discrimination when on holiday.” Comments Chris Zeiher, Lonely Planet’s Snr Director, Trade Sales & Marketing. “Creating a guide that is community-led, inclusive and a little bit surprising in terms of destinations featured felt absolutely essential.”
Inside Lonely Planet’s The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide:
- 50+ LGBTQ+ travel destinations around the world where the Queer community can thrive outside of just Pride parades, including: The USA, South America, Europe, South Africa, Asia, Canada, and Australia
- Handy ‘Know Before You Go’ boxes for each destination share details on the local languages, currency, Pride celebrations, and information on when to go
- Additional LGBTQ+ travel hit list for travelers with specific interests that include adventure; art; family-friendly festivities; island escapes; trailblazing experiences
- Essential travel information for first-time and seasoned travelers covering rights, practical safety tips, advice for emergencies, and more
About the Author: Alicia Valenski
Alicia Valenski, a Queer, neurodivergent travel writer, brings her own journey to these pages, with a touch of cheek and lots of heart. From discovering hidden safe spaces to navigating the challenges of Queer travel, Alicia’s firsthand experiences offer a safe space for readers to connect, dream, and feel seen. She reminds us that exploring the world should feel like stepping into a friend’s arms—and that LGBTQ+ travelers, of all identities, deserve nothing less.
Lonely Planet’s The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide is available from shop.lonelyplanet.com or where all good books are sold. Price US $30.00
About Lonely Planet
Lonely Planet has been guiding travel for more than 50 years with a core belief that travel is for everyone.
A trusted voice in travel guidance, Lonely Planet is part of the Red Ventures portfolio, and has been dedicated to providing actionable inspiration for every kind of traveler since 1973, Lonely Planet’s mission is to help more people from more backgrounds experience the joy of going places. Over the past 50 years Lonely Planet has printed over 150 million guidebooks covering 221 countries as well as countless other titles showcasing the wonders of the world for travelers of all types.
Lonely Planet reaches hundreds of millions of travelers each year online and across social channels helping them unlock amazing experiences. Lonely Planet can be found on lonelyplanet.com, mobile, video, social media, and in 14 languages, armchair and lifestyle books, ebooks and more.
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