#  BGLTQ Student Tips 

 



##  BGLTQ Student Tips 

 

 

       ![Collage of people leaning out of small doors on bright walls](/sites/g/files/omnuum9021/files/styles/hwp_21_9__1920x825/public/2025-10/Li_Ruiyi_2021_People_Italy.jpg?itok=FKjxDh_j) 

 

 



 

 



 

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## Things to do before you leave

- Consult the[ Global Support Services](https://www.globalsupport.harvard.edu/travel-tools/lgbtq-travel-guidance-resources) resource page.
- Request a 1:1 consultation with a member of our Global Support Services'[ International Safety and Security team](https://www.globalsupport.harvard.edu/about/contact-us).
- Research cultural norms and the climate surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity.
- Check local laws and societal practices regarding BGLTQ issues, “same-sex” sexual behavior, and expressions of BGLTQ identity and community.
- Find local BGLTQ media sources to learn more about your country/region.
- If housing involves a homestay or other shared living arrangement, ask the coordinator about a BGLTQ-friendly placement.

## Things to think about

- How open will I be about my sexual and/or gender identity(ies) with my, peers, friends, host family, etc.? Will I be “out” to my program staff? How might this impact my interpersonal relationships?
- How important is it for me to find other BGLTQ individuals and friends while abroad? How will I go about finding them? What types of social media or phone applications can help me meet other BGLTQ individuals in my city?
- What language do they speak in my country? How will I be comfortable or what pronouns will I prefer if the language is characterized by gender-specific words?
- Do I need any documentation related to my gender identity at security checkpoints? How will I be prepared in case I get stopped or hassled?
- What types of safer sex supplies are available for purchase in my country? Do I need to do anything ahead of time or bring anything with me in order to protect and maintain my sexual health while abroad?
- What are my safety needs and perceptions, and how can they best be met?

## Additional Resources

- [Havard Global Support Services](https://www.globalsupport.harvard.edu/travel-tools/lgbtq-travel-guidance-resources)
- [Office of Culture & Community](https://dso.college.harvard.edu/office-culture-community)
- [Department of State’s LGBT Travel Information page](http://www.travel.state.gov/content/passports/english/go/lgbt.html)
- [NAFSA Rainbow Special Interest Group](http://www.rainbowsig.org/)
- [National Center for Transgender Equality - Air Travel Tips for Transgender People](https://transequality.org/issues/travel)
- [International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission](http://iglhrc.org/)
- [International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association](http://ilga.org/)
- Consult Out & About Travel Guides for travel tips and articles. Report cards on the “gay-friendliness” of destinations are also available.
- Travel guides, including the Lonely Planet or HostelWorld series, often include specific information for BGLTQ travelers.