🌟 Editor's Note:
I’m Steve, your LGBTQ+ adventure curator. If you’re tired of rainbow-washed travel tips, rigid group tours, or just wondering where to go, you’re in the right place.
This newsletter helps you plan thrilling, queer, safe escapes without the faff. Need help? Email me by hitting reply, or message me on LinkedIn. No bots, just me.
What’s inside this issue
LGBTQ+ friendly cities + nature escapes
My honest take on travelling here solo (and with mates)
What it’s like in winter
Campfire Questions with Chris Blythe
A bold new poll — tell me what you actually want
Main Feature
Here’s what I’ll say about Scandinavia, it’s not trying to impress you, and that’s part of its magic.
Just a quick note before we dive in — when I say Scandinavia, I’m talking about the classic trio: Norway, Sweden, and Denmark.
Each country has its own culture, quirks, and character (obviously), but broadly speaking, you can expect a similar vibe across this part of the world: clean design, calm cities, wild nature, and a quiet kind of queer-friendliness that doesn’t need to shout.
My honest take on travelling here
I’ve done Scandinavia solo and with mates, but not (yet) as part of a couple. That said, I’ve seen how well it works.
Solo? Peaceful. No awkward stares. No one minds if you take up a window seat alone for two hours with a book.
With friends? Brilliant. You take turns being in charge, pack too many snacks, and spend half the time debating whether you should move here.
For couples? From what I’ve seen, it’s ideal. No drama, no crowds, and no one cares if you’re cuddled up on a ferry deck in matching jumpers. It’s low-key romance at its finest.
LGBTQ+ Safety in Scandinavia
This is one of the safest regions in the world for queer travellers.
Legal protection across the board
Same-sex marriage, gender identity rights, public acceptance are all strong
Cities like Stockholm and Oslo are openly LGBTQ+ inclusive without the performative gloss
In rural spots, you’ll find it’s not hostile. People are chill, and you’re free to be yourself without fanfare.
A brief interlude …
I create LGBTQ+ friendly, non-tour-package adventures for couples and small groups. If you’re tired of trying to figure it all out alone, just schedule a free chat with me 👇
What About Winter?
If you’re reading this later in the year, good news: Scandinavia in winter is still a vibe.
Snowy cities, frozen lakes, and candlelit cafés
Queer life shifts indoors: think sauna socials, film nights, and cosy drag shows
The air is cold, but the vibe is warm
Try Mälarpaviljongen in Stockholm, essentially, a floating LGBTQ+-friendly café/bar that turns into a twinkling little hideaway even in the cooler months.
Who This Is For (and Who It’s Not)
Best for:
LGBTQ+ couples or friends who want a relaxed, stylish summer trip
Nature lovers who also want a good flat white
Travellers who like cool design, clean lakes, and good trains
Not ideal for:
Nightlife chasers (unless it’s Pride season)
Budget travellers — it’s not cheap
Fun Fact
Norwegians have a word for quiet summer escape: “friluftsliv”
It means “open-air living” but not just camping or hiking, just... being outside. It’s baked into the culture. You’ll find locals in the woods with a thermos and a blanket, just vibing. Honestly, worth copying
Conclusion: Scandinavia isn’t loud about its brilliance.
It offers something rare in travel: quiet confidence. The kind that lets you move at your own pace, feel completely safe, and maybe even reconnect with a calmer version of yourself.
Quick Campfire Questions
This week, we’re lighting up the campfire with Chris Blythe who I connected with recently.
In this mini-feature, he answers 5 quick questions about travel, identity, and what keeps him coming back for more. Grab a cup of something warm, and join us by the fire.
Where in the world are you right now?
Akron, OH, USA
What’s your go-to travel vibe? (e.g., slow & scenic, thrill-seeking)
Our vibe, as I travel with my husband, is a combination of finding places with natural beauty, an interesting history, and within close proximity to good shopping and dining.
One place you’d go back to in a heartbeat, and why?
Sweden, and I would love to go back again for Saint Lucia, the city is magical at that time. Seeing the groups of girls dressed in the costumes of St Lucia and singing around Stockholm is a really beautiful experience. When I was last there during that time, we were having dinner in the restaurant where the Nobel Prize winners are decided, all of a sudden the lights dim and you hear the singing, the girls came through the restaurant singing as they carry candles. It was so ethereal and wonderful.
What’s your dream adventure, no budget, no limits?
I have fantasized about going to the coasts of Italy, seeing the Italian Riveria, Amalfi coast, basically exploring all around the country. I would want to experience the best hotels and dining. I would love to do part of it on a sail boat, as there's something sexy and exciting about seeing those places from the water.
What’s one myth about LGBTQ+ travel you’d love to bust?
It's best to stay in LGBTQ+ lodging. I think one should do their research wherever they're planning on visiting but there are a whole host of places that offer friendly accommodations and rewarding experiences outside of that badge.
Thanks Chris, anything else you’d like to add?
There is so much to see in the world that by sharing our experiences we can enrich each others lives
Your opinion please… (if you don’t mind)
Quick Q: If you like a bit of adventure without the group tour cringe, which one sounds most useful - A, B, C or D?
- A) A stash of semi-personalised LGBTQ+ itineraries you can steal anytime (low – mid budget)
- B) 1:1 planning and curated help for your next trip (mid budget)
- C) A hosted (by me), curated LGBTQ+ escape. Not a tour. Not a retreat. Small group, flexible schedule, optional meetups, great stays, good vibes (mid-high budget)
- D) Something else that might make travel easier, safer, or just more fun
Outro
That’s a wrap on this week’s issue. If you’ve ever tried to DIY a trip and ended up overwhelmed by tabs, or second-guessing what’s actually safe (or nice) that’s exactly what I help with.
Like this issue? Forward it to a travel-loving friend. Or better yet, let me help plan your next one.
