Creating space for connection, authenticity, and a little bit of magic.
Why We Started SideQuests:
We’ve always believed the best parts of any trip aren’t in the itinerary.
They’re the unplanned conversations. The shared meals. The “holy sh*t, I didn’t know I needed this” kind of moments.SideQuests was born out of a simple question:
What if LGBTQ+ folks had a space to travel that felt like chosen family from day one?
What started as two husbands traveling the world and building community online has grown into a travel company with heart — one that values vulnerability, joy, and curiosity as much as plane tickets and passports.
Hey there,
I started SideQuests because I wanted something I couldn’t quite find anywhere else.
I wanted travel that wasn’t just about checking places off a list or racking up stamps in a passport—I wanted travel that meant something. I wanted space to breathe, to belong, to meet people who saw the world a little differently, and who were also trying to figure themselves out in the process.
The truth is, I think many of us—especially queer folks—spend a lot of our lives feeling like we’re not quite on the “main quest.” Like the world didn’t write a story for people like us to fully belong in. So we improvise. We explore. We take the long way. We go on… side quests.
And somewhere along the way, we start to realize: the side quest is the story.
That’s what SideQuests Travel is all about. These aren’t just group trips—they’re intentional, joyful, messy, hilarious, soulful journeys with people who want more than a vacation. People who want to show up fully, laugh until they cry, sit in silence under strange skies, and leave changed.
Our groups are mostly LGBTQ+, but we don’t lead with labels. We lead with heart. And curiosity. And a bit of magic.
So if you’ve ever felt like you were searching for your people—your party—this might be it.
Let’s go somewhere beautiful together.
With warmth and wonder,
Matthew Schueller
Founder, SideQuests Travel
Our Values
Authentic Connection
We create space for real relationships to form—between travelers, with local communities, and with yourself.
Inclusive Community
While most of our travelers identify as LGBTQ+, we welcome anyone who shares our values of openness, curiosity, and respect.
Responsible Travel
We partner with local businesses, minimize our environmental impact, and ensure our presence benefits the communities we visit.
Transformative Experiences
We believe travel should change you. Our trips are designed to challenge, inspire, and create space for personal growth.
Thoughtful Curation
Every element of our trips is intentionally selected to create a journey that balances discovery, connection, and joy.
Safety & Support
We prioritize both physical safety and emotional well-being, creating brave spaces where you can fully be yourself.