The latest Booking.com survey on LGBTA+ travel in 27 countries and regions including Japan finds that LGBTQ+ travelers still face large challenges in traveling.
According to the survey results, 36% of Japanese LGBTQ+ travelers(59% globally) have experienced discrimination when traveling, and the ratio rose from 25% (58% globally) last year. 32% of Japanese LGBTQ+ travelers(41% globally) have created an alter-ego to safely navigate different environments while traveling.
When choosing a destination, 46% of Japanese LGBTQ+ travelers(63% globally) believe that being able to be their authentic self on their trip is important. 28% of Japanese LGBTQ+ travelers(51% globally) consider whether the destination is more, or less accepting of LGBTQ+ people than their home country.
34% of Japanese LGBTQ+ travelers(43% globally) have cancelled their trips with in the past year because a selected destination is unsupportive of its LGBTQ+ residents. 44% of Japanese LGBTQ+ travelers booked travel to a LGBTQ+-friendly destination in the last 12 months.
Once the destination has been decided, LGBTQ+ travelers are taking additional proactive steps to mitigate concerns about potential discrimination while flying. 30% of Japanese LGBTQ+ travelers(36% globally) expressed apprehension at the idea of being seated next to a stranger in fear of their reaction or behavior towards them. 35% of Japanese LGBTQ+ travelers(46% globally) tend to select a specific seat in advance to minimize interaction with others for fear of discrimination.
In traveling, 29% of Japanese LGBTQ+ travelers(40% globally) modify aspects of their appearance and behavior to avoid potential discrimination or unwanted attention.
