As Pride Month unfolds, Booking.com has released its latest research highlighting the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ travellers from Singapore. Despite efforts to make travel more inclusive, the findings show that 82% of LGBTQ+ Singaporean travellers have encountered discrimination while traveling. Many expect discriminatory behavior from both fellow travelers (77%) and locals at their destinations (77%), with 73% feeling more insecure and self-conscious due to their LGBTQ+ identity.
Taking Control of Travel Experiences
LGBTQ+ travellers are becoming more proactive in managing their trips to navigate these challenges. From carefully choosing destinations to pre-booking seats on flights, they are finding ways to ensure safe and enjoyable travel experiences.
Destination Considerations
Budget remains a primary concern for 79% of LGBTQ+ travellers. Beyond financial factors, 74% prioritize destinations where they can be their authentic selves. Specific considerations include:
- 70% evaluate local LGBTQ+ legislation and rights.
- 66% assess the acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals compared to their home country.
- 68% consider news reports about LGBTQ+ travellers’ experiences.
These factors significantly influence travel decisions, with 62% canceling trips to unsupportive destinations and 80% choosing destinations seen as LGBTQ+ friendly. Nearly half (47%) prefer visiting well-established LGBTQ+ tourist spots, while 42% are open to locations where their presence could promote social acceptance. Additionally, 84% are more likely to book experiences inspired by LGBTQ+ pop culture.
Pre-Flight Preparations
To mitigate potential discrimination, 68% of LGBTQ+ travellers select specific seats in advance, with 56% having had negative experiences related to their identity during flights. Furthermore, 59% express concern about sitting next to strangers.
Adopting Travel Personas
To avoid unwanted attention, 62% of LGBTQ+ travellers modify their appearance and behavior, and 59% create alter-egos to navigate different environments safely. This strategy helps them feel secure (43%) and adapt to cultural sensitivities (52%).
Progress in the Travel Industry
Despite these challenges, LGBTQ+ travellers acknowledge improvements in the travel industry, with 84% feeling more comfortable due to increased inclusivity. Positive interactions include:
- 94% feel comfortable checking in at accommodations.
- 92% have positive correspondence with accommodation hosts and airlines.
- 95% have good interactions with hospitality professionals like tour guides and taxi drivers.
Travellers also seek features such as filters to identify welcoming properties (37%).
Booking.com’s Commitment to Inclusivity
Booking.com’s Travel Proud programme, launched in 2021, offers free inclusive hospitality training to help accommodations better understand and support LGBTQ+ travellers. The program is available in 11 languages and now includes Japanese and Thai, with over 50 Travel Proud-certified properties in Singapore.
The company also partners with the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association and supports the Global Equality Fund and the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center. These partnerships reflect Booking.com’s dedication to advancing LGBTQ+ rights and creating a more inclusive travel environment for everyone.
