For LGBTQ+ students, studying or traveling abroad is more than an adventure; it’s a chance to grow, explore, and build community across borders. But let’s get real: one of the most stressful parts of that journey is finding housing that feels safe, welcoming and comfortable.
Whether you're booking a place for a semester abroad, a short-term internship, or a summer trip, the housing you choose matters; not just for comfort, but for your safety and well-being. Unfortunately, not every listing or landlord is LGBTQ+ friendly, and some destinations may carry legal or cultural risks depending on your identity.
Here’s how to navigate the housing search smartly, with your safety and peace of mind at the center.
1. Start with the Legal & Cultural Landscape
Before booking anything, get familiar with the LGBTQ+ laws and social norms in your destination. In some countries, being openly queer or trans can lead to real danger, whether through official policies or unspoken discrimination. Knowing this context helps you assess risk and make more informed choices about where (and with whom) you stay.
Websites like Equaldex and ILGA World provide up-to-date maps of LGBTQ+ rights around the world. Pay attention not only to legality but also to cultural attitudes—just because something is legal doesn't mean it's widely accepted.
2. Look for LGBTQ+-Friendly Listings
When you’re in a place that’s new to you, it helps to know that whoever you’re staying with (or renting from) understands and respects your identity. Some platforms now allow you to filter for LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations or, at the very least, you can spot clues in the listing: inclusive language, previous reviews from LGBTQ+ travelers, or hosts who openly identify as allies.
Even if the platform you're using doesn’t have a queer-specific filter, read between the lines. Look at how the host describes themselves and their space. Do they make you feel seen, or does something feel off? Your gut instinct matters here.
3. Read the Reviews, Carefully
Reviews aren’t just for figuring out if a place has good Wi-Fi or if the shower runs hot. For LGBTQ+ travelers, reviews can be a goldmine of subtle clues. Look for reviews from people like you: queer folks, solo travelers, women, trans travelers - and see how they describe their stay.
Did the host make them feel welcome? Were there any weird interactions or moments of tension? Did the neighborhood feel safe to walk through at night? Don’t just skim for stars—read the substance. You also have misterb&b to help, because when you’re searching through our listings, you know you’ll find a safe and comfortable space.
4. Research the Neighborhood, Not Just the Room
You might find a beautiful, affordable apartment, but what’s going on outside the front door? Before booking, research the neighborhood’s safety, public transportation access, and cultural climate. A quiet residential street in one city might be lovely, while in another, it could mean isolation, poor lighting, or limited resources nearby.
Use Reddit, local Facebook expat groups, or travel blogs to get real perspectives. Ask: Would I feel safe coming home here late at night? Would I feel okay holding someone’s hand here? You deserve to feel secure both inside and outside your living space.
5. Avoid Red Flags in Listings
There are the usual housing red flags, like poor communication, no photos, vague descriptions, but as an LGBTQ+ traveler, there are some extra ones to watch for.
Be cautious of:
-Hosts who insist on gender-specific rules or question your gender identity.
-Listings that require you to “act straight” or “respect conservative values.”
-Properties with surveillance or excessive rules that might feel invasive.
If something feels uncomfortable even before you book, listen to your gut! There are plenty of better, safer places out there.
6. Ask Questions Before You Book
Don’t be afraid to message a host or landlord directly before you commit. You don’t need to come out or disclose anything personal, but asking a few thoughtful questions can tell you a lot.
Try asking:
-“What’s the neighborhood like for solo travelers or students?”
-“Are there any LGBTQ+ friendly cafés or spots nearby?”
-“I’m part of an international student group—would it be okay to have friends over occasionally?”
Their tone and openness in response will give you a sense of their vibe, and whether you’ll feel comfortable under their roof.
7. Have a Backup Plan
Even with all the preparation in the world, things can still go sideways. Maybe the place isn’t what was advertised. Maybe the host makes you feel unsafe. Maybe the city just doesn’t feel right.
Build in a Plan B. Keep a list of emergency contacts (your school’s program director, your embassy, a friend in-country), and have another place you could crash for a night or two if needed. It’s not about being paranoid, it’s about being prepared.
8. Don’t Underestimate Comfort
Safety is essential, but comfort matters too. You're not just looking for a roof - you’re looking for a place to exhale. A space where you can unwind after a long day of navigating a new language, a new school, or a new city. A space that doesn’t make you feel like you have to shrink or pretend.
So yes, prioritize location and safety - but also think about what makes you feel at home. Natural light? A desk to write? A cozy kitchen to cook in? Feeling good in your space is part of your mental health, especially when you’re far from your support system.
9. Lean on Your Community
Before you book, talk to other LGBTQ+ students who’ve studied or traveled in your destination. Ask your university’s study abroad office if they have past students willing to connect. Reach out in LGBTQ+ forums or online spaces. Community knowledge is powerful, and people are usually happy to share what worked (or didn’t) for them.
10. Trust Yourself
Ultimately, no review or map or policy can replace your own intuition. If a place feels right, go for it. If something feels off - even if it looks great on paper - move on. You deserve more than “just okay.” You deserve to feel safe, seen, and welcomed.
Because where you live while you’re abroad will shape your experience. It will be the backdrop of your late-night calls home, your morning routines, your stories, your growth. Choose a place that holds you, not just houses you.
Loved this? Check out 5 Steps to Keep Safe While Traveling Abroad As an LGBTQ+ Student
Cozy apartments, private rooms and amazing homes: be welcomed by the gay community in over 200 countries
Apartments, rooms, homes: be welcomed by the gay community