Trans Hosts on building community, claiming space, and exploring the world authentically
Travel has always been about more than just the places we go...it’s about how we show up, who we connect with, and the freedom to be fully ourselves along the way. For transgender travelers, that freedom can come with added layers of courage, intention, and care—moving through a world that doesn’t always feel safe or certain.
In honor of International Transgender Day of Visibility, we’re proud to spotlight three incredible trans Trova Hosts who are making huge strides in shaping a more inclusive, affirming future for travel. Through their experiences, they remind us that visibility isn’t just about being seen. it’s about creating space for others to feel safe, understood, and empowered to explore the world as they are.
“When we're in a group of queer folks, we feel safe, we feel seen, we feel like we're with family. We had a pretty good feeling that if we could take that essence, and bring it across the world to a beautiful country full of epic adventures and new experiences, that we'd create the most special memories and beautiful bonds with each other."
What does International Transgender Day of Visibility mean to you within the context of travel and exploration?
"Although right now in this country and many others, we're seeing a lot of troubling discourse and debate about the validity and rights of trans people, the truth has always been and will always be: Trans people have always, and will always, exist. In every corner of the globe, in every community, whether or not they're legally or societally recognized, trans people are everywhere.
Visibility is important on every level of that scale - for the trans person whose still discovering their identity to have a mirror in which to see themselves; for the queer person to better see and understand their extended community; for the friend who wants to be an ally to learn and grow alongside us; for the family members who feel fear and shame to unlearn the beliefs that aren't coming from love.
Ultimately, for everyone - and I mean every one of us - to know that the message we are here to share is that your identity is your own. Only you can say who you are and how you feel. And I think that's a universal message, one the whole world needs to hear. When we travel, and I'm able to authentically show up as myself and be that visibility, it's such an honor."
What inspired you to start hosting group queer-friendly trips?
"We've always enjoyed bringing groups of people together with intention. I was a travel nurse for a few years, so as we moved around the U.S. we used our social media to meet friends and it was the absolute best thing to come of the internet for us. We met all our best friends this way, even up here in our now home of Alaska.
There's something really special about being surrounded by your people. The ones who just get it. The connections where you can just tell your story - you don't have to explain it. When we're in a group of queer folks, we feel safe, we feel seen, we feel like we're with family. We had a pretty good feeling that if we could take that essence, and bring it across the world to a beautiful country full of epic adventures and new experiences, that we'd create the most special memories and beautiful bonds with each other.
We're currently off on our 7th group trip and we feel very confident in saying that it is all our dreams come true, and so much more."
What advice would you give to transgender folks who have dreamed of traveling but are nervous to take that step?
"Go with a group! Traveling solo can feel very intimating for anyone, but especially if you have to worry about all the extra things we do. Even if it's just with another friend who can have your back and be a source of comfort, we've found that there's absolutely strength, confidence, and safety in numbers.
On these group trips, in scenarios when I'd usually feel self-conscious or worried (at the hot spring in Bali, the white water rafting locker room in Canada, the cruise ship in Vietnam where they gave us 'men's' and 'women's' traditional outfits to wear, running into the ocean in nothing but our birthday suits on New Year's Eve in Costa Rica), with my people by my side I felt nothing but free and joyful."
What roles can allies play in making trans Travelers feel more supported when traveling abroad?
"If you're traveling with your trans friend or family member, stay close to them when traveling through airport security or immigration checkpoints. Ask how you can support them. Go into the bathroom or locker rooms with them. Speak up if anyone says anything unkind.
Even if you're not traveling together, check in on them. Ask them to share their location and a detailed itinerary with you. Volunteer to be their emergency contact. If you know of any - or if you research any - queer or trans-friendly local establishments where they're traveling, share those! Tell them they look hot in their beach pics.
And whether it's at home or abroad, advocating for the humanity and the rights of trans people. Voting with them in mind. Calling your representatives to demand an end to the legislative attacks on trans rights, especially as it relates to travel in regards to the right to self identification, so trans people can have legal documentation that supports their identity and ensures their dignity & safety."
Resources & Support for Trans Communities in the U.S.
While travel can be a powerful way to experience freedom and connection, the reality is that safety isn’t always guaranteed—especially for transgender individuals navigating different laws, environments, and levels of acceptance across the U.S.
Access to trusted resources and supportive communities can make all the difference, whether you're planning a trip or simply looking for a place to feel secure and affirmed.
In partnership with @thegoldonqueers, we’re proud to support The Trans Continental Pipeline with a $500 donation—an organization dedicated to helping trans people relocate from unsafe areas to safer, more supportive communities.
Explore resources & support TCP here →
"Traveling and exploration hasn't always been the easiest for me due to the lack of confidence of who I was, and many hidden anxiety driven thoughts tied with my identity and self expression. However, as I get older and more aligned with myself, I realized how much has changed...in a good way."
What does International Transgender Day of Visibility mean to you within the context of travel and exploration?
"TDOV has paved the way for my life and my journey alone. Because of those that came before me, I'm able to feel more confident and open about who I am, and sharing my transition, and just being open as a trans man in general.
Traveling and exploration hasn't always been the easiest for me due to the lack of confidence of who I was, and many hidden anxiety driven thoughts tied with my identity and self expression. However, as I get older and more aligned with myself, I realized how much has changed...in a good way.
Traveling is something I've always wanted to do, and wasn't able to find that confidence to do so, until now. TDOV helps shed light on our community and the discrimination that many of us face. Without it, I don't know if we'd be able to travel as freely as we do now."
What inspired you to start hosting group queer-friendly trips?
"I love to travel and want to travel more. But, more importantly, I just wanted community. Being able to meet my followers and others in my community is something I don't take for granted. When this opportunity arose, I knew I had to take advantage!"
What advice would you give to transgender folks who have dreamed of traveling but feel nervous to take that step?
"I know traveling isn't easy, but if you have the money and time to do so, I highly recommend doing it. Time is our most valuable asset, and we can never get it back, so that's why I like to make the most of my younger years while I still can. It might be nerve racking at first, but you get over that very quickly. If it's something you always dreamt of doing, then I say do it because why not? It's your life and you deserve to live it exactly how you want and dream!"
"Through my work and my journey, I hope to inspire others in my community to do the same. Trans people deserve to travel the world without fearing for their safety...I truly believe we all deserve to see the beauty of the world as our true selves."
What does International Transgender Day of Visibility mean to you within the context of travel and exploration?
"Transgender Day of Visibility has always been an important day for me, especially as a trans artist. I've dedicated my entire career to raising awareness for my community through my photography.
Being visible as a trans person in this world is necessary right now. Our existence has become political. Our rights are being taken from us across the country. The world needs to see trans people living their life authentically.
I’ve always dreamed of traveling the world, but I never imagined I’d get to do it as the man I always knew I was. Now that I am, I’m finally living that dream. Through my work and my journey, I hope to inspire others in my community to do the same. Trans people deserve to travel the world without fearing for their safety."
What inspired you to start hosting group queer-friendly trips?
"I first fell in love with traveling when I studied abroad in 2019 during college. Being in another country completely on my own allowed me to explore my identity and ultimately helped me find myself. I came out as trans a year later and since then found a passion for documenting the world through my lens.
My passion for traveling and exploring different parts of the world as the man I always wanted to be, inspired me to give my community the safe space to do that same thing. I truly believe we all deserve to see the beauty of the world as our true selves."
What advice would you give to transgender folks who have dreamed of traveling but feel nervous to take that step?
"I would tell them that the world is much more beautiful when you're exploring it as your true self. Travel has a way of opening your eyes... It allows you to connect with people, learn from different cultures, and often discover new parts of yourself along the way.
I was terrified the first time I left the country by myself. But it was the best decision I ever made for myself. And I understand traveling as a trans person right now may seem terrifying. And those fears are valid. But if you have the means to do it, take the jump. There is so much beauty out there in other countries around the world that you deserve the freedom to see, just like any other person on this Earth."
Trans Visibility in Travel and Beyond
Travel has the power to expand not just our horizons, but our empathy, for ourselves and for each other. The voices shared here are a testament to the importance of visibility, the strength of community, and the impact of showing up authentically, even when it isn’t easy.
As we reflect on Transgender Day of Visibility, we’re reminded that creating a more inclusive world, at home and abroad, is a collective effort. We all have a role to play in making travel safer, more welcoming, and more human for everyone.
To the Hosts who shared their stories: thank you for your openness, your leadership, and the spaces you continue to create for others to feel seen.
Ready to Find Your People?
If you’ve been craving community, and wanting to explore the world in a safe and welcoming way with people who feel like home, consider joining one of Sam, Liam, or Samuel's trips—they're excited to welcome you with open arms.
Adventure’s waiting. ✈️ 🏳️⚧️
