Greece a Favorite Honeymoon Choice for LGBTQ+ Couples

Photo source: Weddings2Greece.

For more than a decade, Greece has been among the world’s favorite honeymoon destinations for LGBTQ+ couples, according to Kuoni’s first LGBTQ+ honeymoon report.

Source: Kuoni

In addition to Greece, Italy, Canada, the US, Australia and Thailand, newlyweds are extending their options to less ‘tolerant’ destinations such as the Maldives, Dubai, the Caribbean and East Africa relying on research and advice from trusted travel experts.

Referring to Greece, which leads the Top 10 list, Kuoni’s report notes: “Honeymoons in Greece are a firm favourite and it’s easy to see why with miles of jaw-dropping beaches and those unforgettable clear and oh-so-warm waters. The vibrant hotspots of Mykonos where you can dip into the cool gay scene and the cool, white-washed boltholes in Santorini are top of the list. And even better: both have private pool suites in boutique hotels or tucked away villas that you can have to yourselves”.

According to a Kuoni-commissioned survey of 1,013 people who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community, LGBTQ+ couples are still hesitant to travel to destinations where inclusivity is still slow.

More specifically, according to the luxury tour operator:

– more than half or 57 percent of all respondents seek out LGBTQ+ friendly destinations, with many same-sex couples planning a honeymoon having done their own research before speaking to a travel company

– 56 percent of those polled said that it was either “important” or “extremely important” to have LGBTQ+ inclusive accommodation while traveling

– 44 percent of LGBTQ+ travelers prioritize the overall destination experience regardless of LGBTQ+ acceptance levels

– 64 percent of those surveyed said there was “likelihood” or “extreme likelihood” they would recommend LGBTQ+ inclusive travel services to their friends or community

Photo source: IGLTA.

– more LGBTQ+ couples wish to explore diverse destinations including those traditionally considered less LGBTQ+ friendly

– a considerable number of those polled said they would prefer villa accommodation, which would ensure privacy in countries without marriage equality.

Meanwhile, as part of its drive towards inclusivity, Kuoni announced “Kuoni Promise”, highlighting the company’s commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusivity.

“With LGBTQ+ travel, the talk can often turn reactive quite quickly – boycotting certain destinations and so on. In reality, the conversation is much more nuanced than that, so we give our customers the information to make educated choices and navigate those issues in a very individual way with our staff,” said Kuoni Managing Director Mark Duguid.

The poll for Kuoni’s report was conducted between June 23-27.