Useful Tips for LGBTI Travelers

When traveling abroad, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and intersexual people face unique obstacles. Attitudes and laws in some travel destinations affect the ease of traveling for such people and their safety. Travel destinations have varying legal protections for LGBTI. What’s more, same-sex marriage is not legally recognized in most countries. In fact, consensual same-sex relations are considered a crime in over 70 countries. In some cases, people that engage in same-sex relations can face severe punishment.

Research Your Travel Destination

It’s important that you review information about your travel destination. Learn more about the perceptions, attitudes, and laws that relate to LGBTI travelers in your destination. Some countries have HIV/AIDS restrictions for LGBTI travelers when it comes to their entry, exit, and visa requirements. Therefore, take time to learn about your travel destination and plan or prepare accordingly.

Passport

Some LGBTI travelers have challenges when it comes to entering some countries using passports that bear photos and names that do not correspond to their current gender presentation. Therefore, conduct some research in advance and take appropriate action. For instance, know how you can change your name or update your gender designation on a passport. Also know how you can amend or replace your consular birth report abroad to suit your gender.

Carry Important Documents

Carry copies of crucial documents when traveling. This is particularly important when you travel to a country whose legal rights are different from those of your country. If you have a health condition, carry health and legal documents. Also carry custody documents if you are being accompanied by a minor. Additionally, have contact information like the phone number or address of your country’s embassy or consulate.

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance will cover different emergencies depending on your chosen plan. For instance, this insurance can cover you in case you need medical evacuation. There are also insurance companies that provide products that are specifically designed for LGBTI travelers.

Finally, carry everything that will make your trip amazing and go out there to explore and have fun! Check out my favorite site to do my travel plans and keep it nice and tidy by clicking here.