Misterb&b

Misterb&b is the world’s largest short-term rental marketplace dedicated to serving the gay community in a time when travel can pose problems for LGBTQ+ individuals. For example, since 2017, there has been a 29 percent increase in hate violence-related homicides of LGBTQ+ individuals in the United States, with almost one murder per week. Abroad, homosexuality is illegal in a third of the world and punishable by death in eight countries.

The founder of misterb&b experienced the potential dangers that come with international travel as a member of the gay community when he and his partner booked home-share accommodations in Barcelona, and then discovered the host was “extremely homophobic.” They left the accommodations immediately, but this brought to light a larger issue.

So, misterb&b was born. Created and incubated in Silicon Valley, it now operates with 200,000 hosts in more than 135 countries. Here’s how it works.

Misterb&b connects gay hosts and guests by bringing marketplace users together across the globe. Beyond the housing and accommodations opportunity, hosts and travelers can meet via networking and tourism events. It helps gay travelers find popular and safe gay bars and clubs and upcoming gay events like parties, clubs, concerts, exhibitions and festivals. For the hosts, they now have an easy way to earn money from their spare space.

In time for the holidays, misterb&b also just launched its gift cards. The brand says it’s the perfect gift for the LGBTQ+ traveler in your life, or a great thing to add to your wishlist for yourself.