Alright, globetrotters, grab your passport, your fiercest outfit, and a healthy dose of wanderlust because Lonely Planet has rolled out the glittery red carpet with their new “The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide”, the ultimate handbook to queer-friendly travel.
Think of it as a sassy, inclusive concierge for every LGBTQ+ traveller who’s ready to take on the world—and look fabulous doing it.

Why Does This Matter?
Let’s talk numbers (because nothing says fun like data). Back in the pre-pandemic heyday of 2019, LGBTQ+ travelers were busy jet-setting to the tune of US$218 billion in global spending. Fast forward, and predictions by 2030 have that number strutting confidently to an impressive US$568.5 billion (*Globetrender). Clearly, the LGBTQ+ travel market is not just thriving—it’s practically sashaying down the runway. Recognizing the growing demand for safe, welcoming, and authentic queer travel experiences, Lonely Planet decided it was time to raise the bar and launch this guide.
And let’s face it, it’s not always smooth sailing for queer travelers. A Booking.com survey revealed that 59% of LGBTQ+ travelers have faced some sort of discrimination while on holiday. Yep, more than half. Yikes. Enter this remarkable guide, which Senior Director Chris Zeiher aptly describes as “community-led, inclusive, and a little bit surprising.” Intrigued? You should be.
Your Ticket to 50+ Queer-Friendly Destinations
This isn’t just another collection of postcards and tourist traps. “The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide” is like being handed a secret map to destinations teeming with queer heart and soul. With over 50 destinations spotlighted, you’ll get insider tips from LGBTQ+ locals who know exactly where to find all the feels—less mainstream, more underground charm.
Picture this:
- Thailand as seen through the eyes of the iconic Pan Pan Narkprasert, aka Pangina Heals, who spills the tea (and maybe some glitter) on what makes the country tick.
- A behind-the-scenes vibe of Edinburgh, Scotland, where queer bookseller Mairi Oliver reveals the literary and LGBTQ+ gems that tourists might ordinarily miss.
- A dazzling spin on Stockholm, Sweden, courtesy of Lauren Aadland and her wife, Lisa Halling-Aadland. Spoiler alert—there’s more to Stockholm than ABBA.
- Or take a detour to Melbourne, Australia, where comedian Aurelia St Clair’s wit and wisdom lead the way to the city’s queerest nooks and crannies.
And don’t even think about writing off lesser-known gems like Valletta in Malta, Saugatuck & Douglas in the U.S., or Richmond—destinations you’d never expect to make your queer travel bucket list but totally should.
More Than a Guide—It’s a Love Letter
This guide is more than just logistics and maps. It’s a heartfelt love letter to the LGBTQ+ community, packed with vibrant photography, candid interviews with queer locals, and deeply personal insights. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer, the guide says, “Relax, darling. We’ve got you covered.”
You’ll find:
- A worldwide LGBTQ+ Pride calendar (Hello, planning your year around celebrations!)
- Hidden gems and community-driven recommendations you won’t find on TripAdvisor.
- Easy-to-follow maps sprinkled with insider secrets.
- Travel essentials tailored to LGBTQ+ explorers, from tours to apps to agencies.
Why You Need This Guide Right Now
If you’re the kind of traveler who dreams of sipping cocktails at a queer-owned café in Cape Town or dancing your heart out in a lesser-known artsy neighborhood halfway across the globe, then this guide is your spirit animal. It’s not about ticking off generic tourist attractions; it’s about connection, discovery, and celebrating queer joy in every corner of the world.
Whether you’re setting sail or just daydreaming with a suitcase in your mind, The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide is your must-have companion to finding a world that truly welcomes you.
Available now
Lonely Planet’s The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide is ready to be your travel BFF for $44.99. Snag it from shop.lonelyplanet.com or head to your local bookstore and start planning your grand adventures. Because the world is calling, and it’s time to answer—with a big, fabulous hello.
Win 1 of 4 copies of the new LGBTQ+ Travel Guide here!
Entries close 11.59pm AEDST, 20 February 2025.