Traveling as an LGBT couple can be a thrilling adventure filled with unique experiences, cultural exchanges, and sometimes challenges. Understanding the dynamics of LGBT travel is essential, especially when considering that various countries have diverse attitudes toward same-sex relationships. In this article, we’ll delve into the journey of Auston and David, a gay couple who decided to travel the world together, learning from their experiences, tips, and insights.
Meet Auston and David: A Journey Begins
Auston and David’s love story began in 2005 at Arizona State University when they were just 23 years old. After dating for a year, they tied the knot in 2010. Their quest for adventure took them from the comforts of their life in the U.S. to a nomadic lifestyle that began in 2012.
The couple initially planned a year-long trip but ended up making Spain their home base, where Auston now works as a freelance engineer and travel writer. Their blog, Two Bad Tourists, serves as a platform to share travel tips, stories about festivals, and information on gay-friendly destinations, creating a valuable resource for other LGBT travelers.
Inspiration Behind Their Travels
Travel has always been a passion for Auston, inspired by the idea of exploring different cultures. David, too, had his share of international experiences through volunteer work in countries like Mexico and Tanzania. This shared enthusiasm for travel propelled them to save diligently for their journey, despite the challenges they knew they would face.
After moving to Chicago, they began to formulate a plan for their year-long adventure. As they saved money, they cut unnecessary expenses like dining out and cable TV, and even held garage sales to declutter their belongings.
- Strict budgeting: Cutting down on luxuries.
- Garage sales: Selling items to boost travel funds.
- Using flight points: Scoring round-the-world tickets at a fraction of the cost.
Financial Planning for Long-Term Travel
Auston and David’s financial strategy was meticulous. They aimed to save around $35,000, which ultimately lasted them nearly 11 months on the road, despite their original plan of one year. Their budgeting involved creating a savings goal and tracking their monthly expenses closely.
For those aspiring to embark on similar journeys, Auston offers key advice on saving:
- Identify your priorities: Focus on what matters most.
- Eliminate daily expenses: Small sacrifices can lead to significant savings.
- Plan early: Start saving at least a year in advance.
Staying on Budget While Traveling
Managing finances while traveling can be tricky, especially for couples who may have different spending habits. Auston identifies himself as the saver, while David tends to be the spender. Navigating these differences required open communication and compromise.
To keep their budget in check, they often opted for budget accommodations, cooked their meals, and utilized public transportation. Pre-drinking before going out was also a common practice to save on nightlife expenses.
Traveling as a Gay Couple: Facing Prejudice
While Auston and David encountered limited discrimination during their travels, they took precautions in countries with strict anti-LGBT laws. For instance, they avoided wearing their wedding rings in certain areas to prevent unwanted attention. In countries like Ghana, they crafted stories about being friends rather than a couple to navigate social interactions more smoothly.
However, they emphasize that being gay should never deter anyone from traveling. They recommend that LGBT travelers educate themselves about the cultural norms of their destination and remain respectful of local customs, especially in conservative regions.
Advice for LGBT Travelers
For those in the LGBT community looking to explore the world, Auston offers invaluable advice:
- Research destination laws: Understand how LGBT individuals are treated.
- Stay aware of your surroundings: Be cautious in public displays of affection.
- Utilize resources: Websites like Travel.state.gov can provide essential updates on LGBT rights worldwide.
Challenges and Rewards of Being a Nomadic Couple
Traveling as a couple can strengthen relationships but also bring its unique set of challenges. Auston noted that constant movement made it difficult to establish routines, leading to moments of stress. However, the experiences they shared and the memories created helped reinforce their bond.
Now living in Spain, they face new challenges, such as navigating visa applications as a same-sex couple. Auston reflects on how their marriage’s legal status complicates matters, highlighting the disparities faced by LGBT couples even in expat life.
The Simplest Part of Their Journey
Ironically, the most straightforward part of their transition to nomadic life was letting go of their possessions. Once they decided to sell everything, a sense of freedom washed over them. With only what they could carry, they embraced the adventure without the burden of material belongings.
Living in Madrid has been particularly enjoyable for them, offering a vibrant gay community and plenty of welcoming accommodations for LGBT travelers, making it easier to feel at home.
Final Encouragement for Aspiring Travelers
Auston stresses the importance of recognizing travel as a possibility rather than an impossibility. Many people express a desire to travel but feel constrained by work, school, or family obligations. He encourages individuals to reevaluate their priorities and consider how they can make travel a reality.
With practical tips, such as house swapping to reduce accommodation costs and using travel credit cards to earn miles, Auston inspires others to embrace the idea of travel. His final message is clear: challenge yourself to explore the world, as the opportunities are within reach for those willing to seize them.
To learn more about Auston and David’s adventures, visit their blog, TwoBadTourists.com, where they share a wealth of resources and insights for LGBT travelers.
