Traveling together as an gay couple is a chance to visit new places, learn about new cultures, and strengthen your bond. But the experience can be even richer if you make new friends during your journey: other LGBTQ+ couples and locals. It can foster a sense of community, transforming an otherwise enjoyable holiday into an unforgettable adventure. But whether you’re looking for travel flings, local expertise, or just someone to expand your social circle, there are numerous methods to meet other travellers on the road.
This article will look at the best ways for us to engage with others on their travels, resulting in a more engaging and rewarding trip.
Utilise LGBTQ+-Friendly Apps and Websites
Today’s digital world has made it easier than ever for couples to connect with each other and the world while travelling. There’s a multitude of apps and websites out there for the LGBTQ+ community, with resources to connect with fellow travellers or the locals. Misterb&b is a great one because it connects queer travellers with hosts and accommodations that welcome them. It doesn’t only give you a safe place to stay; this platform will also allow you to interact with hosts who can share local knowledge and potentially introduce you to their own networks.
While they are often thought of as apps for dating, social apps like Grindr and Her can be good for meeting people when you’re traveling. Open to friendship and socializing, with visiting couples in particular; many users will be happy to chat. If using these apps, be very clear about what you want out of it to avoid any misunderstandings. You can also join such LGBTQ+ travel groups on Facebook or Meetup, as they are a great way to find local events or gatherings you can take part in while you’re staying. Usually, they have locals mixed in with travelers, and it’s a great balance of perspectives and experiences.
Attend LGBTQ+ Events and Gatherings
Attending local LGBTQ+ events and gatherings is one of the most enjoyable and simple ways to meet other LGBTQ+ couples when you’re on Vacation. Perhaps the most widely known and most celebrated in the LGBTQ+ community are pride festivals and parades, which are typically filled with a lively atmosphere of those with like minded interests from all walks of life. Such events are spread over several days and include parades and concerts, educational workshops and social mixers, and much more, allowing for plenty of ways to meet others.
While pride celebrations are a huge part of the LGBTQ+ calendar, many destinations have also been hosting LGBTQ+ film festivals, art exhibitions, and cultural events all year round. Not only do these gatherings allow you to dip your toes into the local LGBTQ+ culture, but they also give you the space to meet and mingle with the other attendees. If you’re in need of a more intimate setting, seek meetups or social events in your destination that are targeted at the LGBTQ+ community. They can be things as simple as a coffee meetup to more scheduled group stuff like city tours or cooking classes.
Don’t forget that it’s through nightlife that people meet. A fun, energetic way to socialize and meet other couples is to attend drag shows, comedy nights, and the like at LGBTQ+-themed parties or drag shows.
Stay at LGBTQ+-Friendly Accommodations
Selecting the appropriate accommodation can make a huge difference in your ability to connect with other LGBTQ+ couples while on Vacation. Instead, choose LGBTQ+-friendly hotels, resorts or guesthouses so you are sure of having a warm and comfortable stay, as well as meeting other like minded travellers. These establishments are many of which, cater to the LGBTQ+ community and specifically their guests feel free and at ease in their identities.
If you want a deep dive into some of our recommendations for staying at gay-friendly resorts, check out this write-up we did a short while ago.
Accommodations that are suitable to LGBTQ+ individuals generally serve well beyond shelter. Some do a lot of organizing social events, mixers, or group activities that get people together. They can be everything from welcome cocktail hours and pool parties to guided tours of local LGBTQ+ hotspots. Participating in these types of events can quickly create natural, organic interactions with other couples who have the same interests and travel styles.
They’ve built a reputation for being LGBTQ+ friendly, and some of them are even boutique hotel chains or have some of the best social scenes associated with them. Look for properties that have had recognition by LGBTQ+ travel organizations, or go for research options such as Axel Hotels, which caters mainly to gay travelers. Do your research and even if you’re staying at a mainstream hotel, ask if there are any LGBTQ+ specific programs or events going on while you’re there.
Engage with Local LGBTQ+ Communities
Connecting with local LGBTQ+ communities is the best authentic and enriching experience during your vacation. Do, however, search local LGBTQ+ organizations, community centers, or advocacy groups in your destination. Most of these organizations have regular events, workshops, or social gatherings that visitors are invited to attend. Attending these events will help you meet locals from that place to help you understand the LGBTQ+ culture and history of that place.
While you’re here, why not volunteer or attend the activism events? Giving back to the local community is a great way to give back and also meet like-minded people who share the same values. All of these can help foster incredible connections and lasting memories, from helping out at an LGBTQ+ youth center to a local LGBTQ+ group’s beach clean-up or fundraising event.
You’ll never underestimate befriending locals. They can connect you with their social circles, share an insider’s perspective on the best LGBTQ+ spots in town, and make the people they love to hang around with. Go and talk to folks at LGBTQ-friendly cafes, bookstores, or community spaces. They love to show tourists their best-kept secrets and often invite you to events and get-togethers that you probably wouldn’t otherwise know about.
Use Social Media for Connection
Yet social media has proven to be a powerful means for LGBTQ tourists and other travelers and residents to connect. Platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook can help you locate LGBTQ+ events, groups, and people that are close to you and significant in your life. Before your trip, start following LGBTQ+ influencers, travel bloggers or local organisations in your destination. Usually they promote upcoming events, recommend LGBTQ+ friendly places, and give local insight.
If you want to post about your travels on your own social media accounts, you probably should. If you’re taken aback by that, you’ll be taken aback to discover people who know people, or even who have connections to people to get you there. If you’re visiting an area and want to find posts from other locals, use hashtags like #LGBTQTravel or use #PrideIn[Destination]. Once you comment on or send a direct message to these posts, start conversations and maybe set up a meetup.
Many destinations have a plethora of wonderful Facebook groups and pages that are social events and gatherings centred around the LGBTQ+ community. Join these groups before you go, and you’ll have contact and information. In fact, these travellers even started temporary profiles or posts with them to share with others about their travel dates and other interests to find people in the same area.
Conclusion
Visiting another LGBTQ+ couple on vacation can be really great, and can help you learn about other cultures, make friends, and remember things you will never forget. The most effective way to really connect with these people is to use LGBTQ+-friendly apps and websites, attend a local event and gatherings, stay at LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations, get involved with the local community, and engage with people all around the world through social media. On the road, remember that new relationships are formed via openness, respect, and a willingness to venture outside of one’s comfort zone.
For more LGBTQ+ travel tips, destination guides, and community stories, be sure to check out our other articles on Gay Couple Getaway. We’re dedicated to helping LGBTQ+ couples make the most of their travel experiences, fostering connections, and celebrating diversity around the world. Our website is the best place to get inclusive and motivating travel content, whether you’re organizing your next trip or trying to find ways to become involved with the LGBTQ+ community worldwide.
