LGBTQ+ Travel Guides: Safest (and Riskiest) Destinations for 2025
The world has come a long way in terms of LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance. While there is still progress to be made, more and more countries are embracing diversity and welcoming LGBTQ+ travelers. As we look towards the future, it’s important for travelers to be mindful of their safety when choosing destinations. In 2025, where will LGBTQ+ travelers feel safest and where should they exercise caution? Let’s take a look at some of the top destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers and the potential risks they may face in the coming years.
Europe
Europe has long been known as a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. Progressive laws and attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community have made it a popular choice for both leisure and business travel. In 2025, Europe will continue to be a safe and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. However, as we have seen in recent years, political and social trends can quickly shift, and it’s important for travelers to stay informed and stay safe.
The Safest
European countries such as the Netherlands, Belgium, and Spain have consistently been ranked as some of the safest places for LGBTQ+ travelers in the world. These countries have strong anti-discrimination laws and are renowned for their vibrant LGBTQ+ communities. In 2025, LGBTQ+ travelers can expect these destinations to remain safe havens for travel.
The Risks
While Europe as a whole is generally safe for LGBTQ+ travelers, there are some countries where caution should be exercised. In Eastern Europe, countries such as Poland and Hungary have seen a rise in anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment in recent years. In 2025, it’s important for travelers to be mindful of their safety in these countries and to avoid any potentially risky situations.
Asia
Asia is a vast continent with a wide range of cultures, religions, and attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community. While it may not be known as a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, there are countries in Asia that are making progress towards more inclusive and accepting societies.
The Safest
Thailand, a popular destination for travelers of all kinds, has made great strides in terms of LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance. In 2025, it’s expected that Thailand will continue to be a safe and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. Other countries in Asia that are considered relatively safe for LGBTQ+ travelers include Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea.
The Risks
On the other hand, there are countries in Asia where being LGBTQ+ is still considered a crime. In 2025, LGBTQ+ travelers should be careful when visiting countries such as Malaysia, Brunei, and Singapore where being gay is illegal. It’s important for travelers to research the laws and attitudes of their chosen destination before traveling.
Africa
Africa is a continent with a rich and diverse culture, but unfortunately, it’s not known as a safe destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. However, there are some promising developments in some African countries that may make it a more welcoming destination in the future.
The Safest
In 2025, South Africa is expected to remain the safest option for LGBTQ+ travelers in Africa. As the first country on the continent to legalize same-sex marriage, it has a relatively open and accepting society. Other countries that are slowly making progress towards LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance include Mozambique and Cape Verde.
The Risks
The majority of African countries still have laws criminalizing homosexuality, and in some countries, being gay is punishable by death. It’s important for LGBTQ+ travelers to exercise extreme caution when traveling to countries such as Nigeria, Egypt, and Uganda.
The Americas
The Americas have long been a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, with countries such as Canada, the US, and Mexico leading the way in terms of LGBTQ+ rights and acceptance. However, there are still some issues that may impact the safety of LGBTQ+ travelers in the coming years.
The Safest
In 2025, Canada and the US are expected to remain safe and welcoming destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers. However, in recent years there has been a rise in anti-LGBTQ+ hate crimes in certain areas of the US, so travelers should be mindful of their safety and avoid any potentially dangerous situations. Mexico also has a large and vibrant LGBTQ+ community, making it a relatively safe option for travelers.
The Risks
While many countries in North and South America have made progress towards LGBTQ+ rights, there are still places where it may be unsafe for LGBTQ+ travelers. Brazil and Jamaica, for example, have seen an increase in violence towards the LGBTQ+ community in recent years. It’s important for travelers to do their research and to be cautious when traveling to these areas.
LGBTQ+ travel guides are constantly evolving to reflect the changing attitudes and laws around the world. As we look towards 2025, it’s encouraging to see progress being made in many countries towards a more inclusive and accepting society for LGBTQ+ travelers. However, it’s important for travelers to be mindful of potential risks and to plan their trips accordingly. With the right research and precautions, LGBTQ+ travelers can continue to explore the world safely and confidently in the coming years.
