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Traveling While LGBTQIA
More Black travel companies should pay attention to this lucrative audience
The international Black travel movement that has exploded over the past few years was sparked by the lack of representation of Black voices in the mainstream travel industry. African Americans spend more than $63 billion each year on travel. You don’t have to scroll too far on your social media timeline before spotting one of your favorite Black travel pages posting breathtaking views of architecture or someone petting exotic animals in Southeast Asia.
Although I am inspired by all the beautiful imagery, as a Black queer femme of color, I have learned there are a few more things I must consider when traveling abroad than flight costs, accommodations, and excursions. Researching if the country is LGBTQ+ friendly is vital, as is deciding if my partner and I feel like being less affectionate in public, for fear of the reaction it may cause. Should we pose as best friends instead of lovers when asked, or do we take the chance and hold hands anyway on a white-sand beach? These decisions are not to be taken lightly and could potentially be a life-or-death situation.
As a Black queer femme of color, I have learned there are a few more things I must consider when traveling…
