"Madrid is very accepting and I was quickly made aware of the inclusive nature that encouraged people to be their true selves throughout the city. For the first time ever I was confronted with tons of people around me who had relationships I always not used to seeing around me at home — relationships I identified more with. It made me feel more comfortable to express myself and my identity — an aspect I was not expecting to explore much abroad."
“In one of my classes I had a profoundly accepting experience. I genuinely felt I had a place in this class and people were really listening to what I had to say. I grew confident in my queer identity and knew I was not alone. I loved our queer-friendly space, and being surrounded by those who see the world the way I do. It makes such a difference.”
"I felt largely comfortable with my sexual orientation while abroad (in Switzerland) and even attended my first pride event in Geneva! It was such an amazing event and a memory I’ll hold dear forever."
“I highly recommend the Gender, Equity, and Sexuality class for anyone who wants to learn more about LGBTQIA+ history, as Scandinavia is rich with our people's history. It helped me to find others who identify like I do and also allowed me to expand my knowledge about the issues affecting my community, both past and present.”
Use the informations on this page to explore considerations, opportunities, and challenges related to traveling abroad as an LGBTQ+ individual.
As you consider and prepare for an international experience, use the following questions as a guide. Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list and you may relate to multiple identities. You are encouraged to discuss these topics in person with an education abroad advisor in your school or college. The Spectrum Center can also provide guidance and resources as you prepare for your experience.
Researching the climate for LGBTQ+ individuals around the world is an important part of deciding where you will travel. Attitudes around sexual orientation and gender identity are constantly shifting on the global stage and it’s essential that you have an understanding of LGBTQ+ rights in your host country.
Explore LGBTQ+ considerations in international travel by exploring the following resources:
Many of the resources available to you on campus are also available during your time abroad. These include but are not limited to, the following: Your education abroad advisor and academic advisor, U-M Counseling and Psychological Services (www.caps.umich.edu), as well as resources offered by your international host institution and your health care provider.
In addition, we also encourage you to find an LGBTQ+ community in your host country. Getting involved in local LGBTQ+ communities is a way to feel a sense of belonging and support, as well as a great way to meet locals, learn more about your host culture, and immerse yourself fully into your host country. In most international cities and universities, you can find resources, meeting places, and social groups for LGBTQ+ students. We encourage you to do research prior to departing and speak to your education abroad advisor to find resources in your host community.
According to the U.S. Government, “some transgender travelers have reported difficulties entering a country on a passport bearing a name and photo that no longer correspond to their gender identity.” To avoid this, several offices on campus offer guidance and financial assistance in updating your name and/or gender marker on your passport. If you would like to update your gender marker, please reach out to the Spectrum Center (spectrumcenter@umich.edu) for guidance.
If you take medication, keep in mind that there are various prescriptions as well as over-the-counter drugs that, although legal in the United States, are prohibited in other countries. Check the legality of your medication with the embassy of the specific country you are traveling to. Even if your medications are legal, for safety reasons, it is recommended to have documentation on the type of drug you are bringing, including your doctor’s prescription, if applicable. Keep in mind that your medication may not be available in your host country. You are highly encouraged to work with your doctor and insurance to secure medication for the entire duration of your international experience. If you cannot do so, speak to your doctor for best steps.
