Name: David Rubin
Company name: DavidTravel
Location: Palm Springs, CA
What inspired you to start traveling?
My parents. Every summer, without my brothers and me, our parents took a 4-6 week international trip visiting a different country. I wanted to go. They agreed that when I was 13, I could begin taking an international trip each year…without them and I did! This planted the seeds for my deep passion for travel.
How did you get into the travel industry?
I was practicing law. I never liked practicing law. A friend gave me the book, “What Color Is Your Parachute?” by Richard N. Bolles. Bolles emphasizes the importance of aligning your career with your passions, values, and skills. In the book, he recommends that readers find a career that brings them joy, satisfaction, and a sense of purpose. This gave me a clear message to create a career for myself in the travel industry.
How do you choose destinations that are safe and welcoming for LGBTQ+ travelers?
With each client, we discuss their interests, passions, and bucket list destinations. Then, we work with our local in-country experts to determine if the destination and clients’ travel goals are likely to be a good, safe and welcoming fit. For example, a gay, bi-racial couple called on DavidTravel to design an “Around the World in 90 Days” honeymoon journey. They wanted to include exploring sites in northern Ethiopia. We discussed this with our local experts in Ethiopia. All agreed that for those 3 nights of the trip, it would be safest and most welcoming for them to self-identify as two business colleagues traveling together and sleep in a room with 2 separate beds. We also were able to arrange for a trusted guide and driver to be with them. With these locals, they could speak openly. They all learned so much from one another. They were comfortable with this advice and loved their visit. In this way, we helped create a safe, enriching environment.
Can you share a favorite queer-friendly destination—and what made it special for you?
Palm Springs, where I live with my life partner, is a favorite queer-friendly destination. The M&Ms (Mountains and Men) and LGBTQ+ community make Palm Springs so special. The soaring mountains here in the desert are magical and uplifting. Plus, it is very comfortable and easy to socialize with so many LGBTQ+ and straight people who live here and visit.
What’s one common misconception people have about being queer and traveling?
For me and our clients, being queer and traveling does not define us. It a facet of who we are.
Have you ever felt unsafe while traveling, and how did you handle it?
Yes, I quickly and cautiously removed myself from place and the situation.
How do you see LGBTQ+ travel evolving in the next few years?
I see savvy travelers who are LGBTQ+ continuing to increase the diversity and breadth of destinations they visit, especially when assisted by Travel Advisors who provide expert guidance to LGBTQ+ travelers.
What are some Must-Have travel gear? Do you have a favorite?
An inflatable neck pillow for planes, vehicles and long waits in airports. Also, my YETI water bottle goes everywhere with me and serves as a great “Don’t F _ _ k with me” warning and potential self-defense weapon!
What are your top 3 bucket list places you still need to see?
Colombia, Mongolia, and Saudi Arabia.
Any advice for people to get the most out of their travel experiences?
Seek to Disconnect from your: devices, work and home. Connect and immerse yourself in being where you are and enjoy!
