What does it really mean to feel seen, safe, and celebrated as an LGBTQ+ traveler? How can understanding other people’s travel experiences help us feel more connected, wherever we go?

Alicia Valenski is an American writer, editor, speaker, and author of the groundbreaking new LGBTQ+ travel guide with Lonely Planet that explores 50 of the most queer-friendly destinations around the globe. Now living as an expat in the Netherlands, Alicia brings a unique and deeply personal lens to her work as an autistic, bisexual woman and passionate advocate for inclusive travel.

In this episode, Alicia shares her top seven LGBTQ+ destinations. We talk about what it means to feel truly comfortable in a place and why inclusive travel benefits everyone.

Alicia talks about growing up in a small town, navigating cultural expectations, and finding the courage to live differently. Her journey shows how traveling with intention can change not just your perspective but your life. The insights she shares about creating safe spaces for the most marginalized groups offer a powerful reminder: when a place works for those often overlooked, it works better for everyone, including solo travelers, women, and anyone who's ever felt out of place.

Have you ever visited somewhere you immediately felt like you belonged? Where was it, and what made it feel that way? I'd love to hear about it, and I hope you’ll share by sending me an audio message.

Tune In To Learn:

Why Alicia and her partner chose the Netherlands as their home base, and what makes Dutch culture feel “just right”
How growing up in a conservative area shaped Alicia’s perspective on travel, identity, and chosen family
Why moving abroad was both a logistical challenge and an act of self-acceptance
Why travel is different for LGBTQ+ folks, and how “feeling welcome” can’t always be assumed
Advice for queer travelers who are new to travel and how to stay safe while still being yourself
The story behind her LGBTQ+ travel book, and why it centers diverse voices within the community
Her top 7 queer-friendly cities
Tips for navigating sensory overload while traveling as a neurodivergent person
And so much more

Resources:

Sign up for our FREE newsletter
Visit Alicia’s website
Grab the Lonely Planet LGBTQ+ Travel Guide
Alicia’s article in Attitude Magazine
Everywhere is Queer app
transequality.org
ILGA world maps
Equaldex
Moonlight experiences
Quouch

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