In this episode of Spill the Tea, host Jason Blitman chats with Alicia Valenski, author of Lonely Planet’s LGBTQ+ Travel Guide, about her journey in creating an inclusive, community-driven resource that highlights 50+ destinations ideal for queer travelers. Alicia shares insights into her interview process with LGBTQ+ insiders and how the book goes beyond standard travel advice by weaving in personal stories and practical tips. Their conversation also explores the unique challenges and joyful moments of writing this groundbreaking guide, which aims to offer both safety and celebration for queer communities around the world.

Alicia Valenski is an American travel writer and the author of The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide with Lonely Planet. With a journalism degree from Penn State, Alicia cut her teeth as a writer and editor at the Charlotte Observer before rising to the lofty heights of senior editor at theSkimm. Now, she’s navigating life in the Netherlands with her partner, their dog, and a GPS that’s forever confused by the country's endless bike paths.

Alicia writes about the ups, downs, and sideways adventures of being a bisexual, neurodivergent expat, all with a generous dose of honesty, humor, and heart. When she’s not exploring new places or sharing her stories, she’s probably lost in a good book, perfecting her napping skills, or rewatching one of her favorite TV shows for the umpteenth time.

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