Vacationer of the Week: Keith Wein
This week, we’re chatting with Keith Wein, the owner and founder of 127 Travel. Although he was born in Brooklyn, New York, he was raised in North Miami Beach, Florida, and he currently lives in Seattle, Washington, with his husband Stefano Lorenzo.
Because he’s a seasoned travel expert, we wanted to ask Keith what place – not thought of as an LGBTQ+-friendly destination – he’d recommend queer travelers. We also talk about the importance of consulting a travel advisor and what destinations he thinks will be popular for LGBTQ+ travelers in 2022. Buckle up and let’s get to know Keith Wein!
Vacationer Magazine: At what age did you receive your first passport? What was your first trip?
Keith Wein: I received my first passport at 8 years old. I traveled with my family to London, England for 2 weeks, and still remember clearly that trip and the impression it made on me as a young boy.
What trip or travel experience sparked your passion for travel?
When I was in high school, I traveled to Israel to spend the summer with my cousins, and I also spent time on a kibbutz. It was the most foreign and exotic place I had been. I traveled independently and made new friends and had experiences that shaped me as an adult. I began to realize how different the world was and how much I wanted to explore it all.
What inspires you to travel?
Seeing how different people live and experience the world inspires me to travel. I feel as if I learn more about myself as I explore new countries and cultures.
Please tell us how you identify yourself on the LGBTQIA spectrum. Tell us if how you identify influences the way your travel.
I identify as a gay man and that has influenced some of my travel plans and my desire to experience how other gay men live across the world. I’m also married, so I’ve taken into consideration how my husband and I would be perceived as a couple in foreign settings.
What domestic and international destinations do you think will be popular travel destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers this year?
I think LGBTQ+ travelers aren’t restricted to only LGBTQ+ places such as Puerta Vallarta, Mykonos, Sitges, etc. I think after the last two years of this pandemic people are traveling to places they enjoyed visiting in the past and they want to revisit them. I think Italy, London, and Spain will definitely be popular.
Is there a travel destination that most queer travelers would think isn’t safe to visit, but you’ve visited and enjoyed it? If so, where?
I have visited Marrakech, Morocco several times. Most LGBTQ+ travelers may not think this is a safe place for them. However, many queer people are drawn to the location for its fashion history and its picturesque desert setting. There is a sexiness about this city, from the beautiful people to the ancient spa rituals of being bathed by another. Everything I saw, did, and ate in Marrakech is memorable.
What sparked your decision to start your own travel business?
I had been working in the travel business for many years, as a travel manager of high-profile companies. I was exhausted by working for others without reaping the benefits and being able to add my imprint or my personality to the experience. After consideration, I decided to take the chance and begin my own company.
Why do you think it’s important to consult a travel advisor when planning a trip?
A good travel advisor is very well connected and will make your travel experience seamless and get you perks you didn’t know were available. if you use a travel advisor, you never have to sit on hold with an airline or stand in line after a canceled flight at an airport. That should be enough to convince people to work with a travel advisor. I always use the antidote, “do you use an accountant to do your taxes?” A professional travel advisor can always get you more and save you time.
What are some hot luxury travel experiences right now that you would recommend to LGBTQ+ travelers?
I would recommend to LGBTQ travelers treat themselves and fly business class when they can. It enhances your travel experience. And I always recommend having a spa experience anywhere you go. After a long journey, travelers should treat themselves to a massage. You’ll thank yourself for doing it!
What’s the best tip you’d offer travelers?
Work with a travel professional so you can enjoy your trip and not worry about details.
What’s are your top three favorite places to visit?
My top 3 places to visit are Italy, Bali, and Greece
What three places are still on your bucket list to visit?
Three places on my bucket list are India, Australia, New Zealand, and Egypt.
What’s one thing you never forget to pack in your suitcase?
I never forget to pack a roll-up travel duffle bag that can be checked on the return trip home. I use it for all the stuff I purchased on my trip.
You’re going on a road trip. What singer or band is always on your playlist?
On a road trip, I like to listen to all kinds of music, but George Michael is always on that playlist
What travel trend or travel industry shift are you most excited to see this year?
Well after 2 years of the pandemic, I’m excited to see people traveling abroad again, and exploring new places.
