Travel constraints on stigmatised LGBTQ+ Indians

This study integrates travel constraints and stigma to understand how stigma informs travel constraints of LGBTQ+ Indians. In doing so, it contributes perspectives from a collectivist society helping to nuance literature on LGBTQ+ travel. Seventeen qualitative interviews were conducted with LGBTQ+ who had an interest in travel. The findings highlight one's lived experience in India, combined with previous travel experiences, informed unique notions of social, structural and internalised stigma. This in turn contributed to real and perceived travel constraints. Intrapersonal constraints included the need for heightened vigilance, self-blame, and compulsion to fit in. Interpersonal constraints comprised of concerns for safety, bringing dishonour to the travel group, and restrictions/exclusions from accessing services. Finally, structural constraints included gender identification documents and cost. Video. For a video summary of this paper, please visit: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CWxNnJdlZKA_-x1mhCZh6d3kHEl88yJy/view?usp=sharing.