Foreign Office issues WARNING for LGBT travellers visiting the US
AN UPDATE posted by the UK’s Foreign offices advises LGBT travellers to be wary when visiting certain states in the US.
LGBT travellers warned they need to be aware of new anti-gay laws in North Carolina and Mississippi
The foreign travel advice, posted this week, on local laws and customs in the US warns that recent legislation passed in North Carolina and Mississippi could lead to the discrimination of a number of British travellers.
In North Carolina, a law was passed in March requiring transgender people to only use public bathrooms that correspond to their biological sex.
Popular tourist destinations in North Carolina include Charlotte, Raleigh and Wilmington but the new laws are predicted to deter travellers from the state’s sandy beaches, national parks and populous cities.
The House Bill 2, also know as the bathroom law, has met strong opposition from activity groups and a number of high profile celebrities including Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr and Pearl Jam, who have cancelled their shows in protest.
Charlotte in North Carolina will see a decline in tourism revenue, experts predict
North Carolina's sandy dunes and beaches are a major tourist attraction
Pearl Jam, on their Facebook page, posted:”“The HB2 law that was recently passed is a despicable piece of legislation that encourages discrimination against an entire group of American citizens.”
Cirque du Soleil has also cancelled their performances in the state.
In Mississippi from July, businesses and religious groups will be allowed to deny certain services to members of the LGBT community.
LGBT travellers often face discrimination in other countires
The Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau reported a loss of $2.4m (£1.6m) in business last week.
The Foreign Office has reminded LGBT travellers to thoroughly research their destination's local laws and customs before they book any holiday. There are a number of countries were showing affection in a same-sex relationships can lead to severe consequences.