I've Been to 50 Countries-but Choosing a Queer-friendly Honeymoon Was the Hardest Trip Yet

"Choosing a honeymoon destination felt far harder than any assignment. This wasn't just another trip. As a queer woman, the list of potential destinations narrowed quickly."

"We wanted the classic beach honeymoon: rose petals on the bed, a champagne bucket upon arrival, and a private villa where we could lie around for a week doing very little."

"The Maldives were out, where homosexuality is outlawed. Parts of Indonesia were out. Bali might feel open and relaxed to tourists, but the laws on the books still say otherwise."

"Some friends agreed right away; others couldn't see why I was so concerned, offering reassurances like, 'These resorts are private. No one cares. You'll be fine.'"

Selecting a honeymoon destination proved challenging due to safety concerns for a queer couple. Desired elements included a classic beach experience with privacy and comfort. However, many potential locations were ruled out due to laws against homosexuality, such as the Maldives and parts of Indonesia. Reactions from friends varied, with straight friends understanding the concerns while some queer friends downplayed them. Public displays of affection felt normal in familiar environments, but the need for safety influenced destination choices significantly.

Read at Travel + Leisure