Lesbian Travel: Finding Your Place in the World as a Lesbian Traveller

Creating safe spaces for women

by Ginny Lunn, Joint Owner, Walking Women

I sit here in Zurich looking at these magical mountains, reflecting on travelling as a lesbian. This is a topic that I am often asked about. It is so important to provide opportunities to be able to be openly gay and travel safely.

It feels like this is the time to write about travelling as a lesbian and why lesbian holidays are part of what WalkingWomen offers – and has always offered since the company began 24 years ago.

Lesbian travel isn’t just a niche market for us; it’s a profound commitment to our roots and to every woman who still seeks safe spaces. Our approach is inclusive of all women, and we continually strive to collaborate to bring rich experiences to our guests but also to be able to suggest other experiences if ours are not right. For those looking for different experiences, we are here to help connect you with the perfect adventure, ensuring everyone finds a holiday that feels right for them.

Feeling safe living in Zurich

I am very lucky I am to be in a country where same-sex marriage between women is possible and in a city where I have never felt intolerance. I can be open and safe as a lesbian.

But sadly, this is not the case everywhere. We live in a world where 41 countries still criminalise ‘lesbianism’ and where we are still subject to arrest or threat of arrest. We still feel discrimination in workplaces, in families and in our day-to-day life.

I reflect on my own life and on what being gay means for me as a traveller. I grew up in a small rural village and saw no one like me. As soon as I could, I traveled to explore and to find myself and my place in the world. To be able to travel and have freedom to explore and experience without fear of prejudice and discrimination – to feel safe and supported is so important.

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