A new study has revealed that over two thirds of LGBTQIA+ travellers have experienced discrimination when travelling abroad.
The figure of 67% was revealed in a recent study conducted by Booking.com. Of those asked, 60% also agreed that being LGBTQIA+ has made them more insecure and self-conscious when they are abroad. Moreover, a staggering 63% consider a destination’s local legislation regarding LGBTQIA+ human, equality and marriage rights an important factor when it comes to booking a holiday.
Such concerns have had a clear influence on LGBTQIA+ travellers’ perceptions and decision making, with nearly half (48%) of respondents cancelling a trip within the past year after seeing a destination being unsupportive of its LGBTQIA+ residents.
On the other hand, more than half (63%) of LGBTQIA+ travellers have booked a trip in the past 12 months to a destination which they have seen supporting residents who identify as LGBTQIA+.
Other than just looking at what tourist attractions a destination has, LGBTQIA+ travellers look more specifically at how established the destinations' LGBTQIA+ tourism is.
When it comes to the actual travel to a destination, LGBTQIA+ travellers are also anxious about interactions with other passengers. As such, 47% of LGBTQIA+ travellers opt to select a specific seat in advance, to try to minimise interaction with others for fear of discrimination.
Once at their holiday destination, LGBTQIA+ travellers also try to protect themselves by actively adopting an altered persona. Almost half (45%) of respondents stressed that they modify aspects of their appearance and behaviour to avoid potential discrimination or unwanted attention.
Beyond their own decisions, LGBTQIA+ travellers recognise progress in the travel industry, with 78% saying increased inclusivity has made them feel more comfortable when travelling.
When Booking.com asked what features LGBTQIA+ travellers would like to see from travel companies in the future, just under a third mentioned implementing search filters to find properties that where LGBTQIA+ travellers would feel more comfortable.
“At Booking.com, we passionately believe that everyone should be able to travel and experience the world in their own unique way," said Arjan Dijk, CMO and senior vice president at Booking.com. “As a gay man, I unfortunately know first hand the challenges that persist in many parts of the world, including sadly with travel alerts already being issued ahead of Pride events this year."
He added: "Despite all this, I am incredibly inspired to see LGBTQIA+ travellers resiliently embracing their lived experiences, both at home and during their trips.”
Check out more of Daily Mirror's latest travel stories by signing up to our free weekly newsletter.