Global survey highlights LGBTQ+ travel experiences in 2025

A new study released by ITB Berlin in collaboration with Diversity Tourism and A3M Global Monitoring sheds light on the experiences of LGBTQ+ travelers worldwide, revealing both encouraging progress and persistent challenges. The "Perceptions and Experiences of LGBTQ+ Travellers" survey, conducted between December 2024 and April 2025, examines feelings of safety, social acceptance, and interactions with authorities across various destinations.

ITB Berlin initiated the survey to gain a deeper understanding of the realities faced by LGBTQ+ individuals while traveling. The findings will inform discussions at the upcoming ITB Berlin, scheduled for March 3-5, 2026.

The survey, which included responses from queer travelers via ITB and LGBTQ+ community channels, explored perceptions of social acceptance, legal rights, safety when dealing with authorities, experiences with police and healthcare systems, and use of social networks. In-depth interviews with LGBTQ+ tourism experts and frequent travelers provided further context.

Ramona Zaun, LGBTQ+ commissioner at ITB Berlin, stated the importance of the survey in contextualizing safety ratings with personal perspectives. "We take the findings very seriously and will incorporate them into further developing our LGBTQ+ segment at ITB Berlin. We are fully committed to promoting LGBTQ+ travel not just during the trade show but 365 days a year," said Zaun.

Key Findings:

• Safe Havens: Canada and Spain consistently rank as safe destinations, with 100% of respondents reporting respectful treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals. Public displays of affection are widely accepted in Spain (90%) and Canada (71%), and police are generally perceived as supportive.
• Regional Divides in the USA: The United States presents a mixed picture, with only about one-third of respondents feeling comfortable displaying affection publicly or viewing the police as LGBTQ+-friendly. The data indicates significant regional disparities between progressive and conservative areas.
• Ambivalence in Germany: Despite progressive laws, social acceptance in Germany is viewed with caution. Only about half of respondents feel at ease as LGBTQ+ individuals in public or believe they are treated equally by authorities.
• Disparities within the LGBTQ+ Community: Transgender and intersex individuals experience discrimination more frequently than gay men across most countries.
• South America: Brazil, Chile, and Peru generally exhibit high tolerance in tourist regions, despite some legal restrictions.
• China and Dubai: Authorities in these destinations are often pragmatic as long as queer travelers maintain discretion.
• Increasing Obstacles in the USA: Recognition of non-binary identities is being reversed in some areas.
• Established Acceptance in Spain: Cities like Madrid and Barcelona, along with areas along the Mediterranean and the Canary Islands, are considered particularly LGBTQ+-friendly.
• Generational Differences: Younger LGBTQ+ travelers from Western societies are more sensitive to restrictions on public behavior, while older generations are more willing to adapt.

Thomas Bömkes, managing director of Diversity Tourism und LGBTQ+, emphasized the need for safety guidance that goes beyond legal frameworks. "What matters is how safe people actually feel at a destination. That is precisely where our joint survey comes in," said Bömkes.

Recent Developments (2024/2025):

• Positive Developments: Dominica and Namibia decriminalized homosexual acts, Germany strengthened transgender rights, and Thailand legalized same-sex marriage.
• Setbacks: Iraq introduced harsh laws against homosexuality, Mali criminalized same-sex relationships, Trinidad and Tobago repealed a liberal ruling, and Georgia introduced anti-LGBTQ+ legislation.

A3M plans to establish a global network for LGBTQ+ traveler safety, facilitating the sharing of experiences, data, and recommendations to enhance visibility, safety, and respect worldwide.

The survey will be conducted annually to monitor evolving trends and challenges in LGBTQ+ travel. The ultimate goal is to ensure that queer travel is truly safe and inclusive.