Out is so IN!

So proud of Mark Jason Williams, co-author of Out in the World: An LGBTQIA+ (And Friends!) Travel Guide to More Than 120 Destinations Around the World. 

His fabulous National Geographic travel guide was released just before June (I think). I may be a bit late for Pride Month, but I’m celebrating in July and every month afterwards because the book is that beautiful on my coffee table. 

Mark and I have been in the same writing group for years. Confession: I haven’t met his co-writer Amy B. Scher because I was out of town for all of the book’s New York-based events. However, I feel like I know her because of the kind-hearted, upbeat, and helpful entries. Anyone who works this well with Mark, a certified nice person, must also be terrific. 

As writers, Mark and Amy are like opposing muscle groups — equally strong and well-balanced. Think of travelers’ hamstrings and quadriceps that keep them trekking from small towns to classic cities

Each entry includes a “when to go,” “where to stay,” and “what to know” info box as well as thoughtful suggestions for people in the LGBTQIA+ community and their allies. It’s a wonderful travel guide for everyone, but the specific details are ones that I as a straight woman don’t have to consider in such depth. 

I had no idea that Argentina was one of the most progressive countries in South America, where queer people can legally marry and change their gender under the protection of anti-discrimination laws. 

Nor did I know that Kyoto, Japan, has a tolerant culture, even though visitors might not spot openly queer lifestyles. Mark and Amy note that “PDA is considered impolite in Japan, so follow cultural standards.” Oh, I would love to go in March to see the cherry blossoms or in July to see the float parades.

I did know that Chicago is gay friendly. I lived near Hollywood Beach for four years, hanging out as an ally at Roscoe’s Tavern on Sunday nights. I used to stop at Women & Children First in Andersonville because it was so close to my dance studio. So well done, Mark and Amy, for capturing the vibe so accurately, not just the club scene but the family scene too.

I am grateful for this book and sad it’s taken so long. As Mark said on Good Morning, America, maybe the world wasn’t ready.

“If you have a queer friend or a loved one,” Mark said on the program, “tell them what makes them special, not just in June, but every day.”

This book is a celebration of loved ones and beautiful places.