Travel has always been a way to explore new cultures, meet new people, and broaden our perspectives. But for LGBTQ+ travelers, it’s also about finding safe, welcoming spaces and understanding the diverse experiences of queer people worldwide. Whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community or an ally eager to learn more, LGBTQ travel books offer a unique lens through which to see the world. From compelling stories to insightful travel guides, these books highlight the joys, challenges, and unexpected surprises that come with queer travel. In this guide, we’ll explore a selection of our favorite LGBTQ travel books, ranging from practical advice on travel safety and bar recommendations to deeply personal narratives that shed light on the queer experience in unexpected places.
Pride Atlas
Author: Maartje Hensen
If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate LGBTQ+ travel guide, you’re in for a treat. Having traveled with Maartje Hensen on numerous occasions, I’ve seen firsthand her remarkable ability to capture the essence of a place through her lens and her words. She’s not only an incredible photographer and storyteller but also a dear friend whose travel recommendations I’d follow without hesitation. This guidebook goes beyond just listing destinations; it delves into the rich tapestry of queer culture worldwide. Whether it’s exploring the birthplace of Pride in New York, uncovering Berlin’s historic gayborhood, or finding hidden gems like the first LGBTQ+ bar in Nepal, this book is brimming with expert insights and stunning photography. You’ll also find practical travel tips, safety advice, and a celebration of the vibrant LGBTQ+ communities that make each destination unique, making this a must-have companion for your next adventure.
Out in the World: An LGBTQIA+ (and Friends!) Travel Guide to More Than 100 Destinations Around the World
Authors: Amy B. Scher & Mark Jason Williams
This innovative travel guide is your gateway to unforgettable LGBTQIA+ vacations. From the inclusivity of Ojai, California, to the surprising charm of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, this guide uncovers destinations that warmly welcome the LGBTQIA+ community. Rather than focusing solely on gay bars or Pride parades, it highlights diverse experiences, from Curaçao’s stunning beaches to the festive atmosphere of Christmas in the Cotswolds. With themed chapters like “Romantic Rendezvous” and “Fun Haunts and Spooky Spirits,” there’s something for every traveler. Packed with expert advice from Amy B. Scher and Mark Jason Williams, this guide ensures a safe, meaningful journey while supporting local LGBTQIA+ communities.
Out in the World: The 2024 International LGBTQIA+ Travel Guide Filled with Pride
Author: Stefan Arestis & Sebastien Chaneac
Get ready for an epic adventure with *Out in the World*, the ultimate LGBTQ+ travel guide from the Nomadic Boys, who have led the LGBTQ travel scene for over a decade. We’d follow them anywhere, and this guide is packed with their top travel experiences across six continents. From dazzling Pride celebrations to hidden gems, this guide offers tips, advice, and resources for exploring the world’s best and safest destinations. Whether you’re dreaming of snorkeling in the Philippines, skiing in Canada, or partying in Mexico, this vibrant guide will help you plan the trip of a lifetime and travel with pride!
Destination Pride: A Little Book for the Best LGBTQ Vacations
Author: Andrew Collins
Destination Pride is a vibrant guide filled with colorful recommendations and practical tips to spark your next LGBTQ travel adventure. In my early days, I took a trip to Ottawa with Andrew, and his adventure stories left a lasting impression on me. His book is truly a gem. Over the years, the LGBTQ travel scene has flourished, with destinations like Cape Town, Copenhagen, and Tel Aviv becoming inclusive havens. Andrew Collins, an award-winning LGBTQ author, shares his favorite quirky and quintessential travel experiences, from queer film festivals in Mumbai to Amsterdam’s iconic floating Pride Parade. Whether planning an epic road trip or a romantic getaway, this book is your guide to exploring the world with pride.
Moby Dyke: An Obsessive Quest To Track Down The Last Remaining Lesbian Bars In America
Author: Krista Burton
Moby Dyke by Krista Burton is a fascinating and humorous exploration of the disappearing lesbian bars in America. Once there were 206; now, only a few dozen remain. Burton, a former Rookie contributor and creator of the Effing Dykes blog, embarks on a cross-country journey to visit these last bastions of queer culture. Along the way, she experiences her first drag show post-pandemic in Indiana, competes in dildo races in Houston, and conquers her karaoke fears in Nashville. While documenting the state of these bars, Burton also reflects on her personal journey, from coming out to her Mormon parents to marrying her trans husband. Moby Dyke is a heartfelt travelogue celebrating the unique community found within these cherished spaces.
The Rough Guide to the Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Places in Europe
Author: Rough Guide
Discover the best of Europe with The Rough Guide to the Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Places in Europe! This exciting coffee-table book is a visual feast, featuring 20 top LGBTQ+ destinations across the continent. From bustling, vibrant cities to charming hidden gems, each location is highlighted with stunning photos and expert recommendations.
Organized by season, the guide makes it easy to plan year-round adventures. Dive into each destination’s unique LGBTQ+ history and meet notable local figures. You’ll also find essential tips on where to eat, drink, sleep, and shop. With its engaging text and beautiful imagery, this guide is your ultimate companion for an unforgettable LGBTQ+ travel experience in Europe.
Sassy Planet: A Queer Guide to 40 Cities, Big and Small
Author: David Dodge, Nick Schiarizzi, Harish Bhandari, Braulio Amado (Illustrator)
Explore the freshest LGBTQ+ scenes worldwide with Sassy Planet, a vibrant and quirky travel guide. While iconic queer spots like New York and Berlin have long been favorites, this guide uncovers emerging destinations as queer visibility expands globally. With insights from DJs, artists, activists, and locals—many discovered through apps like Grindr and Scruff—you’ll get the lowdown on 40 exciting cities. Whether you’re heading to Pittsburgh with tips from RuPaul’s Drag Race star Alaska or exploring Tokyo’s bustling queer bar scene in Shinjuku, this guide has you covered. It’s packed with interviews, best-of lists, hidden gems, and plenty of sass, giving you everything you need to navigate both well-known and up-and-coming queer hotspots.
