Travel Tips for Lesbians

Because adventure doesn't retire, it evolves.

I have created Sapphic Journeys for women like us, mature LGBTQIA+ travellers, couples, and solo explorers who are done settling for travel experiences that weren't built with us in mind. We deserve more than just "gay-friendly" stickers on hotel windows. We deserve spaces where we are genuinely, completely welcome.

So here are the travel tips I wish someone had given me earlier.

Research before you go — but don't let fear stop you

Not every destination is equally welcoming, and it's worth knowing what you're walking into. Websites like ILGA World publish annual reports on LGBTQ+ rights by country, and the Spartacus Gay Travel Index is a useful reference point. That said, don't let an imperfect score put you off everywhere. Many destinations that score moderately on paper have thriving, visible queer communities in their cities. Do your research, trust your instincts, and ask in the community — women who've been there will always give you the most honest picture.

Seek out LGBTQ+-owned and affirming businesses

Wherever possible, spend your money with businesses that actively support our community. LGBTQ+-owned guesthouses, restaurants, and tour operators exist in more places than you'd think. Not only does it feel better to be in a space that was built for you — it supports the communities that have created those spaces, often against considerable odds.

Travel during Pride season when you can

There is something genuinely magical about arriving in a city during Pride. The energy is different. The visibility is different. The sense of belonging is different. Whether it's Amsterdam in July, Barcelona in June, or Brighton in August — planning a trip around a Pride event gives you an instant community, instant events, and an instant reason to go somewhere new.

Don't underestimate the power of travelling with the right people

I've travelled solo, I've travelled in couples, and I've travelled in groups. And the one thing I know for certain is that the people you travel with shape the experience as much as the destination does. That's the whole reason I built Travel Chemistry — because finding women who travel the way you do, who are open to the things you're open to, who bring out the best version of you on the road, is genuinely life-changing. If you haven't tried it, try it.

Trust your gut in every situation

This applies to travel generally, but especially to us. If a hotel, a bar, a neighbourhood, or a situation feels off — leave. You don't owe anyone an explanation. Our safety and comfort come first, always. And when something feels right — a restaurant where the host's face lights up when she sees you, a guesthouse run by a woman who clearly gets it, a city street where you can hold hands without a second thought — lean all the way in. Those are the moments that make travel what it is.

The world is more beautiful when you see it as yourself. Go and find your people along the way.

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