Everyone loves a good vacation, but finding the right destination can be a real hassle. For women and LGBTQ+ people, it’s not just about looking for beautiful beaches, amazing restaurants, and plenty of attractions. Choosing the wrong tourist destination can place a solo female traveler or an LGBT couple in real danger.
Of course, people should be able to travel wherever they please. That said, ignoring concerns about personal safety is not a good option. Instead, check out one of these five best tourist spots that support gender equality and/or LGBTQ+ rights to plan the perfect, stress-free vacation.
1. Ecuador
Ecuador, home to the Galapagos island and the famed Tortuga Bay, has been coming up in the world index of gender equality. It’s also one of just five countries in the world with a constitution that protects equal rights for all citizens, regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation, which means that trans women are also able to reap some of the benefits of increases in gender equality. Women who want a truly relaxing vacation where they won’t feel harassed or threatened can find a vacation rental in Tortuga Bay any time of the year.
2. Iceland
Iceland is the best place on Earth when it comes to gender equality. For the past 11 years in a row, this island nation has topped the Global Gender Gap Index. Although this World Economic Forum measurement refers to how Icelandic women are treated in terms of politics and daily life, female visitors will also enjoy being treated with the respect they deserve.
3. Italy
When it comes to tourism, in particular, Italy is one of the top contenders for supporting local women. The nation’s Pink Route program, which has been promoted by the Committee of Female Entrepreneurs as representatives of the Chamber of Commerce of Piacenza, is designed to enhance support for women working in the tourism sector. That means visitors will find it easy to support local women-owned businesses, as well.
4. Canada
Canada isn’t just a great place to visit for women. It’s also at the forefront of queer politics, not just at the national level but at a local level, as well. Canada is one of just a handful of countries that allows residents to change gender without surgery, and a 2019 poll indicated that over 90% of Canadians are comfortable with LGBTQ people, which makes daily life much more pleasant, as well.
5. Denmark
This article has saved one of the best for last. Denmark is one of the top performers on the Global Gender Gap Index as well as the first country in the world to take the important step of legally recognizing same-sex partnerships. Copenhagen, in particular, is a must-visit city for female and queer travelers, so don’t forget to spend a few nights in this amazing city that’s also listed among the top destinations for American ex-pats.
Start Planning Now
Ready to see new places and new faces without having to worry about gender inequality and harassment? The five countries on this list offer just a taste of what’s out there, so while it’s never wise to throw caution to the wind completely, everyone who wants to see the world can do so without too much worry as long as they do some research first and stick to safe areas.
