The State Department has released a global travel advisory—here’s what you should know.

In preparation for Pride Month, the U.S. State Department made the unusual move of issuing a Worldwide Caution alert specifically for LGBTQ+ travelers and their supporters. This advisory, issued on May 17, urged individuals to "remain vigilant in popular tourist areas, including Pride events and places frequented by LGBTQI+ individuals." It did not specify particular dangers or advise against traveling.

While the State Department usually rates countries based on safety—from Level 1 ("Exercise Normal Precautions") to Level 4 ("Do Not Travel")—this sweeping global advisory is unprecedented. John Tanzella, the president and CEO of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), shared this insight with Dinogo.

According to Tanzella, "The recent worldwide travel advisory from the State Department for LGBTQ+ travelers is an exceptional measure, highlighting the growing emphasis on LGBTQ+ safety globally." The IGLTA, which he leads, offers complimentary travel resources while advocating for equality and safety for the LGBTQ+ community in over 80 countries worldwide.

It's no coincidence that the warning was issued on the same day as the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia, and Transphobia. This day commemorates the moment in 1990 when the World Health Organization removed "homosexuality" from its list of medical diagnoses.

John Clifford, the founder of International Travel Management, a travel agency in San Diego that specializes in trips for LGBTQ+ clients, states that the memo serves as a stark reminder of the state of LGBTQ+ rights both in the United States and globally.

Clifford emphasizes, "We must remain vigilant against violence surrounding our gatherings and celebrations." The advisory from the State Department on May 17 was issued just one week after a joint public service announcement from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, warning of possible foreign terrorist threats to LGBTQ+ events.

In its advisory, the State Department encourages travelers to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, which alerts users to hazardous situations in their destination and assists them in contacting the local U.S. embassy during emergencies. Additionally, the State Department offers a web page designed for LGBTQ+ travelers, providing vital safety tips and information about U.S. embassy locations.

Tanzella advises travelers to "consult with LGBTQ+ travel experts and local Pride organizers to understand the specific safety issues at their chosen destination." For example, Madrid Pride and Pride events in many major cities provide a travel hub with current visitor information, such as parade routes, meeting points, and potential risks.

Meanwhile, Clifford suggests checking maps that display data visualizations of LGBTQ+ safety by country, available from the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA World), a global organization advocating for queer human rights. Clifford notes, "These maps will help travelers understand how certain laws affect queer individuals worldwide."

A 2023 index evaluated the safest countries for LGBTQ+ travelers, taking into account factors such as civil rights, protective measures, and anti-discrimination laws. Leading the rankings are Canada, Sweden, the Netherlands, Malta, Norway, Portugal, and Spain, while the United States is placed 25th overall.

Although it’s advisable to utilize local resources, engage with people on the ground, and assess your own risk tolerance, Tanzella encourages travel in June. He states, “This advisory underscores the importance of informed travel but does not diminish the joy and significance of celebrating Pride across the globe.”