top gay travel destinations in the world

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Here are the 15 gayest travel destinations in the world: report

Get ready to escape with this list of family favorites.

SHUTTERSTOCK/HANNES VAN DER MERWE

Data scientists and researchers at Misterb&b, the world’s largest LGBTQ + travel community, have used the habits of its 1 million registered users to create an index ranking the gayest cities in the world for 2024.

Founder Matthieu Jost created Misterb&b after he and his partner were victims of homophobia and harassment while trying to rent a room during a vacation in Spain.

The company connects LGBTQ+ travelers with rentals and services provided by family and allies in their destinations.

His latest feature, Weere, now allows travelers to connect socially before they travel. Users can chat with locals or make plans with fellow visitors.

You can learn more at misterbandb.com , but keep scrolling to find the 15 gayest cities in the world for U.S. travelers according to Misterb&b.

15. Atlanta – USA

Atlanta’s glimmering nighttime skyline

Image by Shutterstock

Atlanta is the city of hot summer nights and even hotter Southern men.

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14. Miami – USA

Miami’s famed South Beach at night

Miami knows how to party all year long.

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13. Las Vegas – USA

The fountains of the Bellagio in Las Vegas

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas — sometimes.

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12. San Francisco – USA

Sunrise over the skyline of San Francisco

You can find just about any experience in the City by the Bay.

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11. Paris – France

The Eiffel Tower in Paris

The City of Lights is also the unofficial gay city of love.

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10. Puerto Vallarta – Mexico

The gay-friendly Zona Romantica district from above

Puerto Vallarta is Mexico’s gay Pacific paradise.

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9. San Diego – USA

Fourth of July fireworks over San Diego

Enjoy fun, food, and sun year-round in San Diego.

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8. London – United Kingdom

Big Ben and Parliament in London

Oscar Wilde would have reveled in today’s gay London.

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7. Wilton-Manors – USA

The community celebrates Pride in Wilton Manors

Despite the efforts of some, South Florida has a vibrant drag and nightlife scene.

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6. Washington, D.C. – USA

The Washington Monument set against the backdrop of the city's annual cherry blossom blooms

Our nation’s capital will host WorldPride 2025.

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5. Los Angeles – USA

Grand Central Market in downtown Los Angeles

The greater Los Angeles area has everything from a thriving foodie scene to some of the country’s hidden natural treasures.

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4. Chicago USA

Boys Town celebrates Pride

In addition to celebrations during Pride Month, Windy City Santas celebrate the holiday season by going half-naked in public.

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3. Palm Springs – USA

The gay men's clothing-optional Descanso Resort in Palm Springs

Image by Hannes Van Der Merwe

Palm Springs has many clothing-optional resorts for gay men who want to shed their clothes and their inhibitions.

RELATED: Descanso Resort is Palm Spring's sophisticated escape for gay men

2. Fort Lauderdale – USA

Fort Lauderdale beach at night

Fort Lauderdale is known as the Venice of America for its 300+ miles of navigable canals and waterways.

RELATED: Rejuvenate your body and soul at the queer-inclusive W Fort Lauderdale

1. New York City – USA

The skyline of the city that never sleeps

Enjoy a spa treatment at LGBTQ-friendly NYC spas.

RELATED: A guide to NYC’s premier LGBTQ-friendly spas

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The 12 most LGBTIQ+ friendly places on Earth: where to go for Pride 2023

Jun 1, 2023 • 12 min read

Let your pride flag fly at these top destinations around the world © Eugenio Marongiu / Getty

Everybody say "love!" We're headed around the world in pursuit of the very best cities welcoming the LGBTIQ+ community. These are the kinds of places that understand that life's meant for celebrating; whether it be rowdy drag shows that thrill with sass or thumping dance clubs that party on till sunrise.  

Follow us to some of  the most progressive, inclusive and accepting destinations around the world where you can go to really show your pride.

Sydney, Australia 

2023 Pride dates: This year, WorldPride, the global bi-yearly event that rotates between different cities, was held in Sydney  in February. That event coincided with Sydney’s famous  Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras , which is one of the largest LGBTIQ+ celebrations on the planet and takes place during February or March of each year. But that doesn't mean the celebrations are over. You can still find events happening all around the city for Sydney Pride Month in June. 

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  The heart of gay Sydney is the Darlinghurst neighborhood , which is conveniently located near Sydney’s central business district and is easily accessible by the city’s mass transit system.

Though Australia only legalized gay marriage in 2017, the country has long been a welcoming place for the queer community. Sydney is the LGBTIQ+ center of Australasia and the South Pacific and has developed a global reputation for its inclusivity. Not only does the city have excellent LGBTIQ+ nightlife, such as the expansive, three-story  Stonewall Hotel , but it also has a deeply queer culture that celebrates LGBTIQ+ art and history.  The Darlinghurst Bookshop  has been selling queer books, magazines and films since the 80s and the city hosts the yearly  Queer Screen  film festival.

New York, New York

2023 Pride dates:  June 17-25.  NYC Pride  is one of the largest Pride celebrations on the planet. The main festivities, including the parade, will be held during the weekend of June 25. 

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  No LGBTIQ+ visit to New York City would be complete without stop in the West Village . It’s here that the Stonewall Uprising took place during the summer of 1969 after police raided  the Stonewall Inn  and began arresting patrons and bartenders. From here, the modern gay rights movement was born.

Aside from Stonewall, NYC has a deep history and profound connection to the LGBTIQ+ community. From painful moments, like being the epicenter of the HIV pandemic, to joyous ones, like the evolution of Harlem’s ball culture, New York City is a must-visit for all queer travelers.

NYC’s most prominent LGBTIQ+ neighborhood is Hell’s Kitchen . The neighborhood’s 9th and 10th Avenues are loaded with LGBTIQ-owned restaurants, barbershops, cafes and bars. You’ll see rainbow flags flying from windows on virtually every corner. Go-to nightlife spots in Hell’s Kitchen include the wildly popular  Industry  bar, and the campy, country-themed  Flaming Saddles Saloon.

Barcelona, Spain

2023 Pride dates: July 14-15.  Barcelona Pride 's official lineup and event info are still to come.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Barcelona’s L'Eixample neighborhood is one of the biggest LGBTIQ+ boroughs in all of Europe. It’s even been lovingly given the nickname “Gaixample”. Here, you’ll find LGBTIQ+ beauty salons, bookshops, saunas, cafes, bars, restaurants, sex shops and everything in-between.  

Spain has long been at the forefront of LGBTIQ+ rights. The nation legalized same-sex marriage back in 2005 and has since enacted numerous laws that ensure equality and protection for the queer community, including those who are nonbinary and trans.  Platja de la Mar Bella  is Barcelona’s premier gay beach (and it also happens to be clothing optional) with most beachgoers baring it all. Among the numerous other LGBTIQ+ hotspots,  Arena Classic  is a popular lesbian bar that’s a staple to the local community, and  Candy Darling , a Warhol-inspired club, sees partygoers dance nightly until the early hours of morning, sometimes all the way until the sun comes up.

Auckland, New Zealand

2023 Pride dates : Being in the Southern Hemisphere, Auckland  held its  Pride celebration  all through February. But there are still events and celebrations happening in June. 

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Karangahape Road, referred to as “K Road” by locals, is where you'll find most of Auckland’s LGBTIQ+ nightlife. Many Aucklanders make a night of it by starting their evening at  The Eagle  bar, a local, unpretentious watering hole that welcomes a wide variety of members from the LGBTIQ+ community. Later in the night, locals make their way to  Family Bar … which is conveniently located across the street. Family Bar has more of a club vibe, with a bustling dance floor and weekly drag shows.

New Zealand has long been known as a friendly and welcoming country. It has robust anti-discrimination laws and legalized same-sex marriage in 2013. Since then, the nation as a whole, and especially its major cities like Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch , have become known as some of the most LGBTIQ-friendly places anywhere in the world.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

2023 Pride dates:  Puerto Vallarta Pride  was held in May, and is one of Mexico’s biggest Pride celebrations, with a fun mix of locals and visitors alike. Check out local venues to find Pride events during June. 

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Emiliano Zapata (also called Old Town) is where a vast majority of Puerto Vallarta’s queer nightlife is based. However, the entire city is an LGBTIQ+ vacation magnet and it’s virtually impossible to find any section of town that isn’t welcoming.

Throughout the years, Mexico has become more and more LGBTIQ-friendly, and the oceanfront resort town of Puerto Vallarta is one of the nation’s most progressive cities. All the big brand resorts are LGBTIQ-inclusive, and there are even LGBTIQ-exclusive hotels, like the  Almar Resort . For socializing and meeting other members of the community, the options are endless. From the beachy, indoor/outdoor  Mr. Flamingo ; to the comic-book-inspired  Blondies Loft + Slushbar  and even the sleek and trendy  La Noche , there’s no shortage of places to go. Plus, there are all the fantastic beaches , with Playa de los Muertos  known as PV’s “gay beach.”

Amsterdam, Netherlands

2023 Pride dates: August 1-6.  Amsterdam Pride  is one of the world’s more unique celebrations since its parade takes place on boats floating along the city’s famous canals.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Amsterdam is a very progressive city and LGBTIQ+ venues can be found throughout, but a lot of activity is centered within the Reguliersdwarsstraat neighborhood , located at the center of town.

The Netherlands was the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage back in 2001 and has remained one of the most LGBTIQ-inclusive countries on the planet thanks to its numerous anti-discrimination laws and policies that protect civil rights for the queer community.

Cafe 't Mandje  is an absolute staple of the city’s queer scene. It was opened in 1927 by its boisterous lesbian owner, Bet van Beeran. To this day, patrons continue to enjoy the eclectic interior and friendly crowd. If late-night adventures are more your style, check out  EXIT Café , a thumping LGBTIQ+ bar that welcomes everyone from the LGBTIQ+ spectrum and their allies. Best of all, EXIT is open later than most bars in the city, making it perfect for night owls and those looking for an epic night on the town. For first-time visitors, the  Pink Point  info kiosk is a great resource. It’s a dedicated LGBTIQ+ information booth that provides travelers with tips, recommendations and information on all things queer in the city.

London, United Kingdom

2023 Pride dates:  July 1.  London Pride  is the biggest Pride celebration in the UK, and one of the largest in Europe, and the world.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Soho , in London’s West End , has historically been the city’s epicenter of queer life, and to this day, it remains a hub of the city's LGBTIQ+ bars, shops and clubs.

London has been one of the most prominent epicenters of queer culture for hundreds of years, dating all the way back to the city’s 18th-century “Molly Houses”, which were meeting places for LGBTIQ+ people. London remains a massively queer city and is known for its brimming underground LGBTIQ+ scene that can be found at rotating parties, like those put on by  Cybil’s House .

A must-visit for any LGBTIQ+ traveler is the  Admiral Duncan . It’s a chance to learn about queer history, honor the past and find community… all while enjoying a pint. Admiral Duncan was bombed by a Neo-Nazi in 1999 because it’s located in the middle of  London’s largest LGBTIQ+ neighborhood, Soho .

It was a massive turning point for the city. Following the bombing, a giant rally was formed outside the pub and London’s police force promised to do all they could to find the perpetrator. They even staffed a police van outside the bar with openly-LGBTIQ+ officers to help make the community feel safe and more comfortable approaching the police to file reports. To this day, the Admiral Duncan is a symbol of London’s LGBTIQ+ community coming together to grow stronger in the face of adversity.

While in the city, be sure to visit one of the various pubs that serve  PROUD beer , a queer-owned beer company that helps support local charities. Best of all, PROUD is totally cheeky, naming its brew the LGBTQIPA .

Palm Springs, California 

2023 Pride dates:  November 3-5. Thanks to the city’s year-round warm weather,  Palm Springs Pride  takes place much later than most.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  All of Palm Springs is an LGBTIQ-centric neighborhood. In fact, Palm Springs has such a queer presence, that even adjacent suburbs like Cathedral City and Palm Desert are developing their own queer populations, holding their own Pride celebrations.

It’s believed that Palm Springs became an LGBTIQ+ hotspot because of the film industry. During the Golden Age of Hollywood, actors, actresses, directors, producers and agents made Palm Springs their desert escape. Naturally, with the heavy LGBTIQ+ populous within the arts, Palm Springs became a refuge for many who had to hide their sexuality. It became the go-to spot for closeted artists to let their hair down and enjoy themselves. That vibe still exists to this day, with  numerous LGBTIQ+ resorts  dotting the town, many of which are clothing-optional. For a bit of the city’s famed LGBTIQ+ nightlife, be sure to check out longstanding staples like  Chill Bar  and  Hunters .

Toronto, Canada

2023 Pride dates: June 23-25.  Toronto’s   Pride celebration  consists of a parade, parties and a popular street fair that’s a great option for those looking to have a more laidback and kid-friendly Pride experience.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Queen Street has been Toronto’s main LGBTIQ+ destination for decades, perhaps most recognized as the filming location of the US version of the groundbreaking drama  Queer as Folk .

Canada has some of the best protections for LGBTIQ+ people anywhere on the planet. The country as a whole is known for being welcoming and is considered one of the friendliest places on the planet. To visit the bar where  Queer as Folk  was filmed, make a trip to  Woody’s . It’s Church Street’s oldest LGBTIQ+ establishment, dating back to 1989, and remains one of the most prominent staples of Toronto’s queer culture. For something you can only find in Toronto, visit the  Buddies in Bad Times  theater. It’s a queer performance space and cabaret that also transforms into a nightclub during nights when there are no performances.

Tel Aviv, Israel 

2023 Pride dates: June 9.  Tel Aviv Pride  is the largest (and one of the only) Pride celebrations in the Middle East… and it also happens to be considered one of the largest in the world. 

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Tel Aviv doesn’t have a specific “gayborhood”, but instead, is incredibly LGBTIQ-friendly throughout. In fact, the Boston Globe cites Tel Aviv as having 25% of its population identify as gay, literally making it one of the gayest places on Earth.

Tel Aviv is a very strange anomaly. Gay marriage isn’t legal in Israel, yet Tel Aviv has become one of the most progressive, LGBTIQ-friendly cities on the planet. Many say to look at Tel Aviv as its own entity that operates differently from the rest of the country. A great example of this is  Hilton Beach . While it’s technically an “unofficial" gay beach, it’s such a well-known fact that even Tel Aviv’s tourism website bills it as a hotspot for the LGBTIQ+ community. One of the city’s most popular locales for queer nightlife is  Shpagat . The club is renowned for being a welcoming space frequented by people from the entire LGBTIQ+ spectrum, as well as allies. It’s also a great mix of locals and tourists, ensuring that you’ll always be meeting someone new.

Provincetown, Massachusetts 

2023 Pride dates:  June 2-4.  Provincetown Pride  has a diverse lineup of events, including everything from the town’s famous parade to a comedy showcase, 5k race, yoga sessions and more.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  Provincetown (known as P-town) can be seen as the Palm Springs of New England . The entire city is a flourishing queer hotspot. And much like Palm Springs, it was P-town’s connection to the arts that began attracting its large LGBTIQ+ populous.

Located at the very easternmost tip of Cape Cod , P-town has been a summer escape for the LGBTIQ+ community for over 60 years. From the riotous parties at  A-House  to the (technically illegal) nude beachgoers at  Herring Cove Beach , there’s no shortage of fun to be had in P-town. Plan your visit to align with one of the town's many queer festivals, including Bear Week, Girl Splash lesbian weekend, Fan Fair trans week and more.

Berlin, Germany

2023 Pride dates:  June 18-July 23. Berlin's   Christopher Street Day  (June 18) is  Germany’s largest Pride celebration. The annual festival is named in honor of the Manhattan street where the Stonewall Inn is located.

Must-visit LGBTIQ+   neighborhood:  The heart of Berlin’s LGBTIQ+ activity is in Schöneberg , which has had gay and lesbian bars since the 1920s, making it one of the oldest gay boroughs on the planet.

Germany is a progressive nation when it comes to LGBTIQ+ rights, especially in its major city centers. Berlin especially has a fascinating queer history. In the 20s and 30s, queer culture flourished in the city, before being almost eradicated by the Nazis during World War II. After the war, the LGBTIQ community was forced to rebuild from the ground up, ultimately creating the buzzing and beautiful Berlin of today.   

Berlin is famous for being a city where people stay out clubbing until the sun rises the next morning. This is great for clubbers who want to party at Berlin institutions like  GMF . But Berlin has so much more than clubs. Its  Gay Hostel  is a unique lodging opportunity that’s only available to LGBTIQ+ people under the age of 38, creating a safe space where you’re bound to meet some new friends. The city is also home to the  Schwules Museum , one of the only museums in the entire world dedicated to researching and preserving the history of LGBTIQ+ cultures around the world.

This article was first published October 2019 and updated June 2023

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The World’s 30 Best Gay-Friendly Travel Destinations 2020

While any travel destination should offer a wonderful experience for all, the fact of the matter is that this just isn’t the case. Fortunately, myriad destinations around the world are rolling out the red carpet for travelers of all kinds, including those who are LGBTQ+. Below, we’ve highlighted 30 of the world’s best gay-friendly travel destinations for 2020.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The Netherlands has long been known as one of the most progressive and tolerant countries on Earth, and that makes its capital city of Amsterdam an excellent choice of gay-friendly travel destination. Though Amsterdam is not as large of a city as some of its European neighbors, those hoping to experience all of the gay friendliness it has to offer won’t be disappointed booking a hotel in neighborhoods like Kerkstraat, Amstel, or Reguliersdwarsstraat. Here, travelers will find myriad gay clubs, hotels, bars, and even saunas. Amsterdam has a ton of things to see and do, including the heartbreaking Anne Frank House, various art museums, and boat tours of the city’s canals.  

The Caribbean is not really known as a gay-friendly travel destination. Fortunately, there are exceptions, one of which is the beautiful country of Aruba. Book a room at the Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort , an adults-only resort that prides itself on providing a romantic atmosphere for all. When you’re not lounging on the white-sand beach or cooling off in the crystal clear turquoise waters for which Aruba is so famous, be sure to grab a drink or two at Jimmy’s Place, one of Oranjestad’s most famous gay bars.  

Berlin, Germany

Despite the brief Hell that was the Third Reich and World War II, Berlin has a long history of being gay friendly. Today, the city consistently ranks as one of the best destinations for LGBTQ visitors. In addition to the beautiful architecture, the world-class shopping, and the tantalizing food choices, Berlin offers a lively and practically never-ending nightlife scene. Try booking a hotel in the Schöneberg neighborhood, where hotels like the adults-only “heterofriendly” Axel Berlin offer such features as a rooftop hot tub and a solarium-by-day, bar-by-night. And don’t forget to visit SchwuZ Club, one of Berlin’s most famous gay clubs. Check the club’s calendar to ensure you make one of their famous party events, which in the past have included “MadonnaMania” and “Sclagernacktparty” — that is, a naked dance party.    

Cape Town, South Africa

Not only is Cape Town one of the world’s most gorgeous cities, it is also one of the planet’s best travel destinations for LGBTQ travelers. While you’re in Cape Town, you’ll want to experience all that the city has to offer: Table Mountain, Robben Island, wine country, and the Victoria and Albert Waterfront with all of its shops and street performers. Head to the De Waterkant neighborhood for the city’s best gay bars, clubs, and hotels. As you’re deciding on which beach to enjoy, consider Clifton Third, said to be one of the best gay beaches on Earth.  

Chicago, Illinois

If you’ve seen all there is to see in New York or San Francisco, then why not expand your U.S. travel experiences to Chicago? This gorgeous Midwest city is full of picturesque public art installations, historic hotels, and pedestrian-friendly areas like the Riverwalk. There’s also a rapidly growing foodie scene, with more and more celebrity chefs opening restaurants in Chicago every year. If you’re one for nightlife, there are plenty of options. Andersonville is a well-known lesbian community and neighborhood, while Boystown is, as its name suggests, a mecca for gay bars and clubs.    

Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark was the first country in the world to recognize registered same-sex partnerships — need we say more? LGBTQ+ travelers will love exploring all that Denmark’s capital of Copenhagen has to offer. This colorful city is home to Centralhjørnet, the continent’s oldest gay bar at more than 100 years old. Vesterbro is the perfect neighborhood in which to book a hotel. it’s famous for its on-trend fashion scene, gay bars and clubs, and its many organized parties and special events.  

Of all the Caribbean islands, Curacao is most vocal about welcoming guests from the LGBTQ+ community. Indeed, the Curacao Tourist Board has published on its website: “With exceptional gay friendly hotels and attractions, [Curacao] encourages gay and lesbian travelers to visit the island and experience its ‘live and let live’ atmosphere for themselves.” The same website has loads of information about the island’s gay-friendly resorts, hotels, restaurants, and clubs, and can even arrange a same-sex wedding.

Dublin, Ireland

LGBTQ+ travelers shouldn’t let Ireland’s long-time reputation as a strict Catholic country deter them from visiting. Ireland voted to legalize same-sex marriage in 2015, and since then, its capital city of Dublin has established itself as one of the most queer-friendly travel destinations in the world. While Dublin’s famous Temple Bar has always been a favorite hang out amongst all, there are now entire other streets lined with gay bars, hotels, clubs, and saunas. If possible, time your Dublin trip to coincide with the Dublin Pride parade, held each June.    

If you need some convincing about just how gay-friendly is the Rainbow State, consider this: Hawaiian kings once had in their employ a number of aikane , or young male concubines. Today, the Hawaiian islands remain a welcoming place for LGBTQ travelers, and gay-friendly hotels, bars, and beaches operate on every island.  

Asia isn’t exactly known as a super gay-friendly travel destination, but Hong Kong is an exception. Surely a reflection of its long-time British occupation, Hong Kong is quite forward with regard to LGBTQ+ issues. For the best nightlife and most active scene, head to the Central Business District on Hong Kong Island. If you are willing to travel a bit further, then check out Gold Coast Beach and Middle Bay, both of which are gorgeous beaches with a strong gay presence.  

Iceland has been called “one of the most inclusive places on Earth,” and we absolutely agree. Not only are the Icelandic people warm and welcoming to all, but the country is absolutely stunning and makes a great vacation destination. For the ultimate LGBTQ+ Icelandic experience, try to plan your trip to coincide with Reykjavik’s Pride parade, one of the oldest in all of Europe. And don’t forget to take advantage of the country’s many natural sights, including:

• geothermal lagoons
• waterfalls, geysers, and more.  

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles and its surrounding areas have long been considered one of the best vacation destinations for the LGBTQ+ community. The most famous gay scenes can be found in West Hollywood, the San Fernando Valley, and Silver Lake, or at beaches like Will Rogers State Beach near Santa Monica. Myriad restaurants, bars, and hotels throughout the area cater to the LGBTQ+ population, including Roosterfish , one of the most famous gay dive bars in the country.  

Melbourne, Australia

Australia’s second largest city is its most gay-friendly city. To experience life down under, head to the St. Kilda neighborhood. The gay and lesbian communities are active here, and there are tons of nightclubs, restaurants, cafes, and shops to enjoy. The beaches are excellent, too. Try to plan your trip around the Midsumma Festival, a three-week arts and culture festival which takes place from mid-January to early February (or “mid summer” as it would be in the Southern Hemisphere).  

Montevideo, Uruguay

Situated between Brazil and Argentina in South America, Uruguay has been rated the 9th friendliest country on Earth. That friendliness extends to its LGBTQ+ residents and visitors. Indeed, same-sex marriage is legal in Uruguay after only three months of residency. The country’s capital city of Montevideo is especially appealing to gay travelers, as it boasts a number of restaurants, bars, and clubs which cater to the LGBTQ+ community. Usually around September, the city hosts the Diversity March, their version of the Gay Pride Parade.  

Mykonos, Greece

The next international destination on our list of the most gay-friendly travel spots is Mykonos. Besides being welcoming to the LGBTQ+ population, Mykonos is a place of stunning natural landscapes, unique architecture, and a seemingly never-ending party scene. Oh, and if you’re into nude beaches, Mykonos has those, too. Elia Beach is especially popular amongst Mykonos’s gay community, as is Jackie O’Beach, a busy beachside bar complete with a pool, hot tubs, daily drag show, and even a private church for weddings.  

New York City, New York

New York City prides itself on its open-mindedness and inclusive culture. There’s also a ton to see and do. Besides making the expected stops, head to The Stonewall Inn, where the 1969 Stonewall Riots occurred. Other LGTBQ+ landmarks in NYC include:

• the Leslie Lohman Museum
• the Harvey Milk School
• the Lesbian Herstory Archives

For the best gay-friendly nightlife, check out Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, and the West Village.  

New Zealand

New Zealand is another place that prides itself on its inclusivity. In fact, the country was the first in the world to create and use the “Gay/Lesbian Friendly” accommodations label. Travelers interested in seeing some breathtaking natural scenery will have their pick of itinerary options, and with nearly 100 gay-owned home stays throughout the North and South islands, their pick of places to stay, too. For the most exciting nightlife, there’s no question that Auckland is the place to be.  

Nice, France

There’s a growing gay presence in Nice, the French Riviera’s biggest city. Known as a place of luxury, Nice boasts myriad bars, cafes, saunas, hotels, and more that cater to the LGBTQ+ community. This is especially true in the part of the city known as Old Town, and along the Mediterranean waterfront — just look for the rainbow flags! For a beach experience, we recommend Castel Plage and Coco Beach.

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs has long been a favorite travel destination of LGBTQ+ travelers. The city — which is known worldwide for its kitschy and flamboyant local culture — is home to a number of gay-friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, hotels, and shops. Toucans Tiki Lounge and Cabaret has become famous for its delightful drag revue, while restaurants like Eight4Nine Restaurant and Lounge welcome all guests with yummy global-inspired small plates. Gay travelers will have their pick of hotels and resorts, some of which are clothing-optional.  

Puerto Rico

The fact that Puerto Rico is a short flight from the United States makes it an appealing travel destination. But the fact that it’s ranked as one of the most gay-friendly places on Earth makes it a slam dunk. Indeed, as a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico offers travelers the protection of the same anti-discrimination laws that are in mainland U.S., and same-sex marriage is legal. Puerto Rico is home to what has been called “the Caribbean’s only real gay nightlife scene.” That is, of course, referring to San Juan, where travelers will find the Eros club and the Atlantic Beach Hotel and Bar , which is set on a gay beach and hosts a weekly drag show). Other gay-friendly resorts can be found throughout Puerto Rico.  

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio has a lot to offer the LGBTQ traveler, so it’s not surprising that this vibrant Brazilian city consistently ranks as one of the most popular gay-friendly travel destinations in the world. Dozens of hotels and clubs cater specifically to the city’s LGBTQ+ population, while a number of Gay Pride celebrations occur throughout the year citywide. In addition to must-see sites and events like Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Carnival, Rio is home to some of Earth’s most famous beaches, including:

• Ipanema.    

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is practically synonymous with LGBTQ+ culture, and has a long important history of paving the way for gay rights. The City by the Bay is also remarkably beautiful. Gay-friendly restaurants, clubs, hotels, and bars are a dime a dozen in San Francisco. Even so, the area of the city where most of the fun happens is The Castro.  

Sitges, Spain

Located just southwest of Barcelona, Sitges is one of Europe’s most popular gay-friendly beach destinations. The first gay disco in Spain opened in Sitges, followed by a slew of other gay-friendly hotels, restaurants, clubs, and more. The beaches range from clothing-required to clothing-optional, though all are pristine sandy beaches located right on the Mediterranean. Before you go, check out the Sitges calendar of events, because the town is known for its many gay events that take place throughout the year.  

St. Barts is often referred to as the most gay-friendly island in the Caribbean. Whether or not that’s, it is sure to be a safe, welcoming, and beautiful destination for any traveler in the LGBTQ+ community. The local culture is laid back, and most accommodations include an option for private villas. Sounds good to us!

Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv isn’t just gay friendly, it’s been called an “LGBT utopia.” The city is known for its swank cafes, gorgeous beaches, and slew of interesting cultural and historical sites. Must visits include the Hilton Gay Beach, which often hosts swimsuit-optional parties, and Evita, the oldest gay bar in Tel Aviv. Try to match up your visit with the city’s huge annual Pride festival, which attracts people from all over the world.  

Buddhists are well known for their friendly, open-minded nature. And considering Thailand is made up of 95% Buddhists, then it’s safe to say that Thailand makes for a great gay-friendly travel destination. Most gay travelers head to Bangkok, where they find dozens of gay-friendly hotels, clubs, bars, and other establishments. Another popular destination is the southern part of the country, especially Phuket.  

Toronto, Canada

Toronto has the advantage of being both extremely gay friendly and located only a short distance from the United States. There are lots of gay-friendly establishments in The Village, the part of Toronto known for its theater scene, museums, and other cultural sites. A number of events take place in Toronto throughout the calendar year, including Pride Week, the Pride March, and the Dyke March.  

Tulum, Mexico

Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, Tulum is well known for its laid-back beachy vibe. The locale has long been known as a welcoming destination for gay travelers. Indeed, Tulum’s native Mayans were very tolerant of sexual diversity. You won’t go wrong booking at any resort or eating at any restaurant in Tulum itself, though nearly Playa del Carmen does have quite a few exclusively gay bars.  

U.S. Virgin Islands

Like Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands are subject to the same anti-discrimination laws as the mainland United States. Gay travelers can expect a tolerant attitude throughout the islands, though St. Croix is known to be especially welcoming to and popular amongst those in the LGBTQ+ community. For a great gay-friendly resort, check out the Sand Castle on the Beach Resort in Fredericksted.    

Like Hong Kong, Vietnam is one of Asia’s more gay-friendly destinations. In 2016, the country’s new government ended its ban on same-sex unions (though same-sex marriage is still not fully recognized). There’s lots to see and do in Vietnam, and the country has a wonderfully inviting culture in which one will want to immerse oneself. For the best gay-friendly bars, hotels, clubs, and saunas, base yourself in Hanoi.  

Related Resources:

20 Friendliest Small Towns in America

30 Amazing Travel Hacks for Finding the Best Flight Deals

15 Great Travel and Adventure Blogs

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Top 10 LGBTQ friendly travel destinations in the world

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After sheltering in place for more than a year, many Americans all over the country are itching to break free from their homes and travel the world over – especially with all of those credit card travel rewards we’ve been racking up with our pandemic shopping. 

Indeed, the travel bug has hit many of us hard, and as we begin to prepare for a world post-COVID , we are finally beginning to allow ourselves to once again contemplate the prospect of travel. There are the usual challenges of traveling to a new place and learning to navigate new city systems, as well as new travel restrictions and guidelines that are currently regulating international travel .

For members of the LGBTQIA+ community, however, it’s not always as simple as picking a place on a map. When searching for a travel destination , things like tolerance and inclusivity become an issue of utmost importance not only to preserve your relaxation vibes but to protect your safety , as well. There are also varying requirements that can make travel more difficult, such as TSA screenings and special identification requirements.

The LGBTQIA+ community has been long accustomed to the challenge of finding inclusive travel destinations, but every day, all around the world, it is getting better. More and more cities and countries are both embracing and celebrating LGBTQIA+ visitors, creating week-long and even month-long festivals, celebrations, and extravagances all to celebrate the freedom and expression of self.

These are some of the world’s most inclusive LGBTQIA+ travel destinations in 2021, including travel guidelines for international hot spots like Tokyo and Cape Town.

1. Key West, Florida

Welcome to key west’s “one human family”.

More than 250,000 visitors come to America’s most southernmost point, which is known as an LGBTQIA+ haven with tons of LQBTQ+-owned businesses, inns, and B&Bs, including LGBTQIA+-exclusive communities. Revelers fill the quaint streets of Key West at all times of the day and night, with Key West Pride in June and Womenfest in September. Plus, be sure to check out the Tennessee Williams Museum , Key West’s homage to its former openly gay resident and playwright. Rooms average about $200 per night, but there are also options for more affordable accommodations.

2. Providence, Rhode Island

“lgbt providence” lights up the night.

Providence offers a charming downtown with a high population of LGBTQIA+ residents and visitors. It’s an affordable vacation spot , too, with rooms averaging less than $150 per night.

Rhode Island offers a small-town charm all its own. There is fun nightlife with a calendar full of LGBTQIA+ events, and it’s close enough to pop over to nearby Boston for larger LGBTQIA+ events. Don’t miss Rhode Island Pride , which features an evening parade with light-up floats to set the night aglow.

3. Portland, Oregon

America’s leading lgbtq+ haven for pride .

Portland is nestled amongst a mountainous skyline with gorgeous coastline to appeal to the nature-lover . With America’s first openly gay mayor, it’s a city with a thriving LGBTQIA+ urban community that is highly involved in advocacy and legislation efforts. 

There’s plenty to do, too, with tons of regular LGBTQIA+ events and parades. Don’t miss Portland’s signature Peacock in the Park event each June. Rooms are affordable, too, averaging between $125 and $150 per night.

4. Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Enjoy the hrc’s top lgbtqia+ hotspot.

The HRC’s Municipal Equality Index awards Cedar Rapids a perfect score for its community of inclusivity and diversity. With accommodations for less than $100 a night, this Iowa city regularly welcomes visitors from all over the world. 

Famed local hotspot Belle’s Basix has been an LGBTQIA+ staple for more than 20 years, featuring live drag shows every weekend. There is also the family-friendly CRPrideFest , which runs a full week in late June and early July and is a free event with tons of vendors, entertainment, and food to enjoy.

5. San Juan, Puerto Rico 

Visit the tropics here in the u.s. .

San Juan is a nearby oasis that offers a quick tropical getaway with no passport required . Indulge in the LGBTQIA+ beach between Calle Vendig and Condado Avenue, then skip off to a nearby island for the afternoon to enjoy warm hospitality and endless exploration. Take in the vibrant murals that color the streets and tell stories of days past, and explore the many historic sites in town. It’s affordable, too, with rooms averaging around $100 a night. 

6. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Mexico’s go-to lgbtqia+ island tropical escape.

Puerto Vallarta is one of Latin America’s most inclusive LGBTQIA+ communities set amongst some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Your dollar stretches further here, too, with plenty of options for accommodations for under $100 a night. 

Waving rainbow flags dot the Zona Romantica, an area bustling with LGBTQIA+ bars, clubs, hotels, and resorts. Consider visiting in May for Puerto Vallarta Pride , which runs for eight days and brings revealers from all over the world.  

7. Toronto, Canada

Visit “queer west” for toronto pride.

Toronto is Canada’s largest LGBTQIA+ community, offering an entire month-long pride celebration for its Annual Toronto Pride festival lasting throughout June. Immerse yourself in the Village, which offers tons of bars, restaurants, and business with LGBTQIA+ owners – including Woody’s of Queer as Folk fame. There is also an enormous urban cultural scene with May’s Inside Out LGBT Film Festival . 

Rooms start around $125 with pricing fluctuations based on resort or hotel type. 

8. Auckland, New Zealand

The world’s 15th top lgbtqia+ community.

Level 3: Reconsider Travel

This South Pacific island offers gorgeous waterfront fun with its beautiful beaches, but there is an equally-beautiful countryside with exciting volcanoes and rainforests to explore. It’s a progressive cosmopolitan where guests settle in at the popular Caluzzi Bar and Cabaret for leisurely libations and a show. 

Most notably, New Zealand has experienced one of the world’s lower COVID rates , making for a safer international destination than most. Hotel rates are also at record lows right now, averaging around $91/month for an extra affordable getaway. 

9. Tokyo, Japan

High-energy with a quirky anime culture

Also prominently featured on Queer as Folk , Tokyo is a clean, fun, and pulsing city with a super-inclusive and welcoming attitude to LGBTQIA+ visitors. Check out Ni-Chōme, Shinjuku’s LGBTQIA+ hub, and stop by Campy! to say hi to celebrity crossdresser and owner Bourbonne. 

Tokyo also has a huge gaming community that offers experiences unlike any other. Don’t miss the opportunity to discover Tokyo by go-cart dressed up in your favorite Mario Kart gear. However, hotels run on the higher end of our list, averaging between $175 and $200 per night. 

10. Cape Town, South Africa

The Gay Capital of Africa with penguins!

Level 4: Do Not Travel

Regularly recognized as one of the most inclusive LGBTQIA+ communities, Cape Town is known for its gorgeous beaches, an impressive wine country, and even penguins. Catch a cabaret show and wander around the bustling De Waterkant neighborhood , which makes up the heart of Cape Town’s rainbow district.

Rooms average around $175/night with some of the world’s most beautiful resorts. Visit in late February to early March so you can enjoy the 11-day Cape Town Gay Pride festival . 

The bottom line

A vacation can be one of the best ways to relax and unwind after a global pandemic, but it’s important to remember that coronavirus is not over yet. As COVID continues to affect countries differently, there may be new or revised guidelines that can interfere with travel. Before you finalize your travel plans and hop a flight to your next LGBTQIA+ vacation, it’s important to continuously check the State Department’s travel advisories and guidelines. 

Also, give consideration to the time of travel. Many of our top LGBTQIA+ destinations feature special festivals and fun events that can make your vacation more memorable, but they can also affect the cost of travel, such as flights and hotels. Your travel credit cards can help you save money here.

Regardless of when you choose to travel, a stay in one of our best LGBTQIA+ vacation destinations can help you shake off the pandemic blues and recharge your batteries with fun, sun, and plenty of excitement. 

Now, it’s just a matter of which hot spot to visit first.

Lena Borrelli

Contributor

Lena Borrelli is a contributor to Million Mile Secrets, she covers topics on points and miles, credit cards, airlines, hotels, and general travel.

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The world’s most lgbtq-friendly travel destinations.

Traveling the world and learning about other cultures is a rite of passage we should all get to experience if we so choose, regardless of who we are or where we’re from. Unfortunately, members of the queer community face greater obstacles when it comes to choosing LGBTQ travel destinations. They have to be more cognizant of the social climates and attitudes of the countries they want to visit, and they may have to hide their true identities for the sake of their personal safety.

Progress is being made around the world, at least, with more and more countries legalizing same-sex marriage, passing anti-discrimination laws or, at the very least, decriminalizing homosexuality. But there are still clear distinctions between places where LGBTQ people are welcomed, and where they’re not.

Here are some of the most welcoming destinations for LGBTQ travel in the world (in no particular order).

The Friendliest Places For LGBTQ Travel

Scandinavia And The Nordic Region

All five of the Scandinavian countries — Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden — are known for their progressive social and economic views, but a few of these nations are particularly friendly places to visit for LGBTQ travel. Denmark was the first country in the world to recognize same-sex partnerships (in 1989) and is home to one of the oldest gay bars in Europe,  Centralhjørnet .

In 2015, Iceland was ranked number one in Planet Romeo’s Gay Happiness Index . In fact, the four highest-ranking countries in that index are in Scandinavia. Iceland also elected the world’s first openly gay head of state , Prime Minister Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir, in 2009. Five years later, the Icelandic Parliament added “gender identity” to the anti-discrimination section of the Penal Code  (“sexual orientation” was added in 1996).

In additional wins for Scandinavia, Norway was ranked fifth highest in Rainbow Europe’s 2020 index , and Sweden tied with Canada and Malta for friendliest LGBTQ travel destination in the 2020 Spartacus Gay Travel Index .

This small European island nation has risen to number one in Rainbow Europe’s 2020 LGBTI equality ranking , which is based on the laws and policies within each country. Malta got a score of 89.1 percent, with 100 percent representing full equality and respect for human rights. Malta also tied with Canada and Sweden for first place in the 2020 Spartacus Gay Travel Index , which rates countries on categories including anti-discrimination legislation, LGBTQ marketing and murders of queer people. Malta was the first European country to ban conversion therapy. Changing your gender is legal there, but it requires surgery (to “prove” your commitment to transitioning). Some advocates say transgender rights haven’t progressed quite as far as gay rights in Malta. Ironically, it’s a predominantly Catholic country, where divorce only became legal in 2011 and abortion is still outlawed.

Malta’s annual Pride celebration has grown from 80 participants when it launched in 2013 to thousands. In 2019, Malta Pride included a host of events , such as drag lip-syncing, a human rights conference, a boat party and, of course, the Pride march. Year-round, there are a number of LGBTQ bars, clubs and parties, and locals say queer people are welcome pretty much anywhere in the country.

The Spanish government legalized same-sex marriage and gay adoption in 2005, which was relatively early compared to the rest of the world. In 2014, the Andalusian region of Spain passed a law allowing transgender people to legally change their name and gender without a medical diagnosis. That same year, Catalonia increased punishments for people convicted of hate crimes against the LGBTQ community.

In addition to its pro-LGBTQ legislation, some parts of Spain have a very active gay scene. Sitges , a beach town just southwest of Barcelona, has become a popular LGBTQ travel destination thanks to its numerous events and vibrant nightlife — not to mention the clothing-optional beaches. Other Spanish cities with lively gay nightlife include Madrid, Barcelona and Ibiza.

The United Kingdom & Ireland

The United Kingdom comes in at number nine on the Rainbow Europe country ranking. The Gender Recognition Act of 2004 allows transgender people to acquire a new birth certificate and get legal recognition of the gender with which they identify. In 2013, same-sex marriage was legalized in England and Wales, and it became the law in Scotland one year later.

London in particular has a thriving gay scene, including many gay bars and clubs and the U.K.’s only LGBTQ bookstore, Gay’s The Word . Other particularly LGBTQ-friendly cities include Manchester and Brighton in England, Scotland’s Edinburgh and Cardiff in Wales.

In 2015, the Republic of Ireland (not Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom) legalized same-sex marriage in a nationwide referendum , becoming the first country to do so in that manner. It passed with a large majority: 62 percent in favor to 38 percent against. Two months later, Ireland became the fifth country in the world to allow transgender people to change their legal gender based solely on how they self-identify.

Germany, Belgium & The Netherlands

Though same-sex marriage and adoption weren’t legalized there until 2017, Germany is a relatively progressive country, and it’s very welcoming of LGBTQ people. The country was the second most likely (after Spain) to respond “yes” when asked whether homosexuality should be accepted by society in a Pew Research Center survey  of 39 countries. (It should be noted that the Scandinavian countries were not included in this survey.) Germany protects citizens from employment and housing discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity, and allows transgender people to legally change their gender without requiring surgery.

Berlin, Germany, is an extremely popular destination for members of the LGBTQ community due to an abundance of gay bars, clubs, saunas, hotels and more.

Belgium is a very LGBTQ-friendly country, ranking second on the Rainbow Europe index. It became the second country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage in 2003. Both sexual orientation and gender identity are protected from discrimination by law. As of 2018, transgender people can legally change their gender, based solely on self-identification, but critics say the law doesn’t go far enough, as it still imposes a three-month mandatory waiting period and creates other obstacles.

The capital city Brussels is a hub of LGBTQ nightlife and culture, with its gay party scene attracting people from surrounding countries.

The Netherlands has some of the most progressive social attitudes in the world, and Amsterdam considers itself the birthplace of LGBTQ rights. In 2001, the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage. Homosexuality was decriminalized in Amsterdam in 1811 and the first gay bar opened in 1927. Today, Amsterdam’s Pride celebration attracts nearly 500,000 visitors. In 2013, a Dutch law was passed simplifying the process for transgender people to change their legal gender.

It comes as no surprise that Canada made this list, considering its socially liberal politics. According to Lonely Planet , it’s “hands down the most advanced and progressive nation in the Americas for the gay community.” Also, Canada tied with Sweden and Malta for friendliest travel destination in the 2020 Spartacus Gay Travel Index . In 1996, sexual orientation was added to Canadian law as a class protected from discrimination. And in 2017, gender identity and expression was also added. Like the United States, Canada is broken up into different regions, some of which are more progressive than others. Laws related to changing legal gender vary from one province to another.

Uruguay And Argentina

In the 2020 Spartacus Gay Travel Index , Uruguay and Argentina tied for the title of friendliest Latin American country to visit. They’re both among the top nine most gay-friendly destinations in the world.

This comes after Americas Quarterly  gave Uruguay the distinction of being the most gay-friendly nation in Latin America in 2016. In 2009, it became the first Latin American country to allow same-sex adoption , and gay marriage was legalized there in 2013. Uruguayan law protects citizens from discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity, and gay conversion therapy is banned there. In 2009, the government unanimously passed a law allowing transgender people to legally change their name and gender to match their self-identity.

Uruguay’s capital city of Montevideo has a vibrant cultural life and a laid-back attitude. The city has a few popular LGBTQ bars and clubs and an annual gay Pride parade , which attracts over 30,000 people.

In 2010, Argentina became the first country in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage . The government also made same-sex adoption and IVF treatment legal at that time. In 2012, Argentina passed a law allowing citizens to legally change their gender identity without requiring surgery. It was hailed as one of the greatest achievements for transgender people. In addition, conversion therapy has been banned in the country, and gay Argentines are allowed to donate blood.

Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital, hosts a large Pride festival every year with crowds of over 100,000 people. The city is also home to a number of queer  milongas , or tango halls, which are dedicated spaces for same-sex couples and other members of the LGBTQ community to learn the dance and watch live tango performances.

To learn more about how to travel the world safely, check out the Babbel Guide To Solo Female/LGBTQ Travel.

The Best LGBTQ+ Friendly Destinations Around The World

While safety is usually a consideration when traveling, it's typically at the forefront of the minds of those who identify as LGBTQ+. Unfortunately, about 70 countries across the world have laws in place that criminalize queer activity, with punishment ranging from fines to prison time or even the death penalty (via  BBC News ). However, the good news is that LGBTQ+ communities are being embraced in many areas of the world and the acceptance of queer culture continues to grow. In fact, 2020 surveys reveal that 72% of Americans agree that queer people should be accepted, up from 51% in 2002, according to U.S. News . Many other countries also show an increase of acceptance, including South Korea, Japan, Canada, Poland, Argentina, United Kingdom, South Africa, Australia, and Germany. 

Even amidst COVID-19 restrictions in 2021, Gay Pride festivals were celebrated worldwide in more than 107 countries (per  Outright International ). As a traveling queer person, it is important to know which countries are best to be avoided and which ones will embrace you with open arms, for both safety reasons and because you deserve an enjoyable vacation! Let's explore some of the most popular LGBTQ+ friendly places across the world. 

San Francisco, California, USA

San Francisco is well-known for being a liberal city, and as a matter of fact, it's often referred to as the "Gay Mecca" of the world (per  We are Global Travellers ). The city is packed full of gay clubs and bars — it's hard to walk several blocks without spotting a rainbow flag. Not only is San Francisco home to one of the largest Gay Pride festivals in the world, but there are many more queer events worth checking out, like the Fresh Meat Festival, the Folsom Street Fair, Up Your Alley Street Fair, and the Castro Street Fair (via  San Francisco Travel ). 

The Castro Street Fair was actually started by Harvey Milk, the first openly queer politician in the city who has been featured in several books and a popular American film, and takes place in the Castro District, a must-see in San Francisco — it's known as being America's first "gayborhood." The Castro is a colorful and welcoming part of town, with vibrant LGBTQ+ murals and rainbow painted crosswalks scattering the streets. The Rainbow Honor Walk features gold plaques dedicated to the LGBTQ+ individuals that made a huge positive impact on queer rights (per  San Francisco Travel ). 

Mexico City, Mexico

An overwhelming majority of people in Mexico are Catholic, a religion that has notoriously been unaccepting of queer culture. Even though same-sex marriages are not permitted in Mexico, Mexico City took big steps in 2009 by legalizing gay marriage. Then in 2010, the Mexican Supreme Court ruled that all same-sex marriages that occurred in Mexico City were valid and should be honored throughout the country (per  Pew Research Center ). Every June, Mexico City hosts the Pride parade and more than 1 million people gather here to celebrate. It's considered one of the largest Gay Pride events in Latin America, according to  Gay Travel 4 U .

In Mexico City, be sure to visit the Zona Rosa neighborhood, a rich and thriving area of town with a big LGBTQ+ community and many gay bars and night clubs to explore. It's also known as the city's "official gayborhood," according to  Out Traveler . The name "Zona Rosa" translates to Pink Zone, which is a nod to the many buildings in the neighborhood that have been vibrantly painted pink. Zona Rosa boasts many delicious cafes and restaurants, vintage stores, a feminist bazaar, and a three-story night club named Kinky with topless bartenders (via  Appear Here ).

Portland, Oregon, USA

Like San Francisco, Portland is also well-known for being a liberal city that embraces the LGBTQ+ community. "Keep Portland Weird" is the unofficial slogan of the city — the catchphrase has even been trademarked and pasted all over bumper stickers, T-shirts, and signs across town (via  Stumped in Stumptown ). Not to say that being queer is weird, but this phrase showcases how accepting and inclusive Portland is of all types of people, regardless of who they are.

The city has long been involved in gay rights activism and hosts a huge, two-day Pride parade celebration, as well as many other queer events throughout the year. You can find different types of drag shows across town — with Drag Brunch being a huge weekend hit — and there are lots of queer bars and dance clubs to choose from. You can also pay a visit to nearby Rooster Rock, which is known by the locals to be a gay riverside hangout spot. According to Travel Portland , the queer community in Portland is one of the five largest in America, with at least 100,000 people who identify at LGBTQ+. Portland also prides itself on having many locally owned queer businesses and it was the first big city in America to have an openly gay mayor: Sam Adams in 2008.

Auckland, New Zealand

New Zealand has a lot of things going for it: The landscape of this island country is jaw-dropping gorgeous and they are also a leader in gay rights activism. In 2012, new legislation declared non-binary as a legal gender and in the following year, same-sex marriage was legalized (as per  Thrillist ). After you immerse yourself in the beautiful natural wonders of New Zealand, you'll want to head to Auckland, the largest urban area in the country, located on the north island. Auckland is home to New Zealand's Pride festival, which occurs in January because that is prime summertime in the Southern Hemisphere (via the  Lonely Planet ).

For a queer-centered experience in Auckland, you'll want to visit Karangahape Road, also known as "K Road," which is considered the hub of the LGBTQ+ community. Here you'll find many queer bars and night clubs, like The Eagle Bar, The Family Bar, G.A.Y Auckland, and Caluzzi Cabaret, just to name a few. And besides Pride, this area of town also hosts a lot of different queer events year round, including drag shows, art nights, live entertainment, and more.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is recognized as one of the biggest party cities in the world — many clubs literally never close (per Explore ). This city is home to one of the oldest gay neighborhood's worldwide – Schöneberg — where the first gay and lesbian bars opened in the 1920s (via the  Lonely Planet ). In Schöneberg, you can find a queer-only hostel — aptly named Gay Hostel — that only allows gay men under the age of 38 to check in for the night. Other notable queer neighborhoods in Berlin include Kreuzberg, Bergmannstraße, and Mitte (per  Visit Berlin ). 

Berlin's Pride celebration, named Christopher Street Day, pulls in about 750,000 festival goers every year, according to  We Are Global Travellers . Not only does Berlin offer many LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and events, but the city also features a queer museum called the Schwules Museum, which honors and highlights the history of the LGBTQ+ community across the world. Many businesses are open about being LGBTQ+ friendly and a lot of them are owned by queer people themselves.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

According to Discover Puerto Rico , San Juan is the ultimate destination for any vacation for LGBTQ travelers. If you're traveling from the United States, this city can feel like an effortless vacation — because Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, you won't need a passport, you can use U.S. dollars, and it's quite easy to get by with minimal Spanish speaking skills. In recent years, San Juan has taken progressive steps to protect the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. In 2018, trans people were granted the right to edit the gender on their birth certificates, and in 2019, conversion therapy was banned (via  Thrillist ). 

The Condado neighborhood is well-known for hosting annual Gay Pride marches and there's even a beautiful "gay beach" in the area. Condado and Santurce have the best gay nightlife in San Juan, with many bars and clubs notorious for being popular queer hangout spots. Be sure to check out Toxic, SX The Club, Oasis Tapas and Lounge, Tía María's Liquor Store, and La Sombrilla Rosa. And if you're in the mood for drag, Kweens Klub is the place to be. Parties in San Juan typically don't pick up until after midnight, so if you're going out, be prepared for a late night. 

Denver, Colorado, USA

There are many queer-friendly cities across the United States, but Denver often gets overlooked. However, this city is quickly becoming one of the most welcoming and exciting destinations for LGBTQ+ people. As a matter of fact, the River North (RiNo) Art District neighborhood in Denver was just declared one of the top five newest gay neighborhoods across the U.S. by  Passport Magazine . RiNo is home to several popular gay bars and nightclubs, including The Wrangler and Tracks, which hosts many queer events and meet-ups, like "Babes Around Denver." There's also drag queen bingo at Hamburger Mary's or country western line dancing at Charlie's. 

According to Denver The Mile High City , LGBTQ+ individuals are welcome at any and all of the bars in the city. The city also hosts its own Pride Festival, and other annual queer events, like a Queer Film Festival and the Gay Rodeo. This all-inclusive, three-day event is like your classic rodeo with entertaining additions like the "wild drag race" and "goat dressing," as per The Denver Post . What a great excuse to put on some cowboy boots and wear a rainbow flag.

Tel Aviv, Israel

The Middle East has a bad reputation for restricting the rights of LGBTQ+ people. However, the one exception is Tel Aviv.  The Boston Globe  calls Tel Aviv the "gayest city on Earth," noting that at least one-fourth of its population identifies as LGBTQ+. Tel Aviv is also often referred to as a "city that never sleeps" due to its thriving nightlife (via  Explore ). Nestled along the breathtaking coast of the Mediterranean Sea, the city doesn't really have specific gay neighborhoods to visit, but rather, the beautiful beaches are the LGBTQ+ party destination that dreams are made out of. Hilton Beach is known as the area's "unofficial" gay beach, according to  Lonely Planet . 

Tel Aviv Pride takes place in June and is known as one of the biggest Pride celebrations in not only the Middle East, but the entire world. The city markets itself as a hub for gay tourism year-round and it delivers — the entire city is truly LGBTQ-friendly. Be sure to check out the all-inclusive Shpagat nightclub, which is popular with both locals and foreigners.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Not only is Amsterdam a famous vacation destination for being alternative and liberal, it's such a picturesque place to visit. While many people know Amsterdam for its colorful city, romantic canals, and the infamous Red Light District, it is also one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly travel destinations. The Netherlands was actually the first country in the world to legalize gay marriage, and they have continued to pass policies in support of LGBTQ+ rights ever since (per the  Lonely Planet ).

In the summer, Amsterdam Pride is an epic entire week long affair that takes advantage of the city's many charming canals by floating Pride boats in them throughout the city. While the whole city has queer friendly establishments, the hotspot of LGBTQ+ life is in the Reguliersdwarsstraat neighborhood in the center of town. Be sure to visit the Cafe 't Mandje, a queer-owned business known for its unique vibes that's been open since 1927, and the notorious EXIT Café, a LGBTIQ+ bar. The Pink Point information booth is a great first stop upon arrival, which offers queer-focused tips and tricks to help plan your perfect trip.

Manchester, United Kingdom

In 2013, the U.K. passed the same-sex marriage act, legalizing gay marriage throughout the country (per  Thrillist ). The government has also passed many anti-discrimination laws, including The Equality Act 2010, to help protect people from being discriminated against at work (via  Gov.UK ). Many cities in the U.K. host Pride festivals, with London Pride pulling in more than 1 million participants — although Brighton Pride along the English coast brags that it is "the UK's biggest LGBTQ Pride festival," according to the  Lonely Planet . 

The city of Manchester gets the queer gold-star though, since it not only hosts a noteworthy Pride event, but throws many other LGBTQ+ celebrations during the year, including the Sparkle Festival, Queer Contact Arts Festival, and Drag Fest U.K. The Gay Village near Canal Street is the queer hotspot you'll want to visit in Manchester. It's home of many queer-owned bars, night clubs, restaurants, and other small businesses, including Richmond Tea Rooms, G-A-Y club, Vanilla lesbian bar, The Rembrandt, The Goose, and Churchills. The city even offers a gay heritage guided tour.

Montevideo, Uruguay

If you've ever dreamed of visiting South America, Uruguay is the place to go. This open-minded country has embraced the LGBTQ+ community for a long time: Same-sex acts have been legal since 1934, LGBTQ+ anti-discrimination laws were passed in 2004, and same-sex marriage was legalized in 2013 (per  The Luxury Travel Expert ). Montevideo is the capital city of Uruguay, situated right along the coast, with beautiful beaches and awe-inspiring views, and it's well-known for being a queer-friendly destination. 

Ciudad Vieja houses many of the city's oldest historic buildings, as well as the town's thriving night life for the queer community (via  Travel Gay ). While Montevideo isn't considered a huge party city, there are plenty of queer-centered venues to choose from. Chains Pub is a popular spot for drinks and dancing, and Il Tempo is a bumping bar with amazing drag shows. There's also the Toronto Sauna, which is only open to gay men and offers alcoholic beverages, a sauna, steam bath, and jacuzzi hot tub.

Ibiza, Spain

According to Ibiza Spotlight , this beautiful Mediterranean island off the coast of Spain is known as one of Europe's top LGBTQ+ hotspots. Ibiza is a world renowned party destination, featuring all-day pool parties and festival-like events in clubs going all night long, every day of the week (per  Explore ). Ibiza's gay neighborhood is centered in the colorful street of Calle de la Virgen and you'll find most of the queer bars and clubs in Ibiza Town, Dalt Vila and Figueretas. 

Ibiza Gay Pride started in 2015 and continues to be a big celebration every summer. For the ultimate gaycation, consider visiting in mid-June when Pride takes over the town for more than one week of queer-focused events like drag shows, DJ sets, live musical entertainment, film screenings, theatre, street celebrations, and more (per  Ibiza Spotlight ). But really, it's hard not to have fun in Ibiza any day or night of the year.

This small European island in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea is both gorgeous and LGBTQ+ friendly. In fact, recently Malta has been deemed the most progressive place in Europe regarding rights for queer people. According to Rainbow Europe , Malta places first out of all the European Union member states when looking at discrimination, human rights, and equality. After Marie Louise Coleiro Preca was elected president in 2014, seemingly overnight many progressive bills supporting LGBTQ+ rights were passed, including laws recognizing civil unions, adoption rights for same-sex couples, outlawing conversion therapy, and the ability for trans people to change their gender identity on legal documents (via  TIME ).

When traveling through Malta, make sure to visit the iconic Pembroke Beach, the "unofficial" gay meet-up spot. Just be prepared, it is also a notorious gay nude beach. As for LGBTQ+ friendly bars and clubs,  Matador Network  recommends checking out Michelangelo, queer-owned Maori, and The Birdcage Lounge, which features fun drag shows and unique cabarets.

Winnipeg, Canada

Canada has a reputation for being one of the kindest countries out there, and they sure live up to the name. According to the Gay Travel Index of 2021, Canada ranks number one as the most gay-friendly travel destination. The countries are ranked based on a wide-variety of legislation, as well as discrimination factors, including death sentences and murders. Canada, Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver are all great LGBTQ+ friendly choices — however, Winnipeg takes the (queer) cake with its rich history in gay culture.

Pride Winnipeg started in 1987 and still remains a huge annual production as a 10-day celebration. Glen Murray became the first openly gay mayor elected to office in 1998 and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights opened in 2008 (via  Matador Network ). The notable gay neighborhood to visit lies in eclectic Osborne Village, which houses a city staple gay disco called Club 200, and Fame Nightclub, frequented for its next-level drag shows and gay themed events.

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The Most LGBTQ+ Friendly Places to Travel in the World

Olivia marcus.

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The insatiable urge to pull your suitcase out from under your bed arrives each summer.  Though your nine-to-five may not come with an official summer break, you probably deserve one. So go ahead: set your OOO request, book a flight, and pack those rainbow shorts you bought for Pride because it’s time to hit up one of the friendliest LGBTQ+ travel destinations for a little R&R.

Whether you’re looking to spend a week dozing off on a lounge chair next to a crystal-clear ocean or you’re ready to find out how late you can stay out at a nightclub, there are plenty of destinations that will fit your dream itinerary. Most will even give you the opportunity to do both. 

While places like Tel Aviv, Amsterdam, and Berlin are known for their huge Pride celebrations throughout the months of June and July, all the destinations mentioned below have LGBTQ+ pride woven into the fabric of their modern culture. These locations are just as safe as they are vibrant. For additional context, we’ve included quotes from travelers who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Take their positive personal experiences as an excuse to jet set ASAP.

Keep reading for the 14 most LGBTQ+ friendly places to travel this summer and beyond.

Tel Aviv, Israel

Between the stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and everpresent gay pride, Tel Aviv should be at the top of your must-visit list. In Israel, same-sex couples are protected against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, can adopt, and can serve openly gay in the military. However, however, Israel does not recognize same-sex marriages performed domestically (or any other non-religious marriage). According to Tourist Israel, 25 percent of the population is estimated to be LGBTQ+, so you can expect to see Pride openly celebrated. Tel Aviv just celebrated the 25th anniversary of its annual Pride parade, the biggest pride event in the Middle East, with over 200,000 attendees. 

According to traveler Michael Kay, “There was an energy, a vibrancy unmatched compared to any other city I had visited. It immediately became a safe space. And today, as an openly gay man, it’s where I’ll be spending my next Pride.”

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is known for its nightlife, which definitely extends to the LGBTQ+ travel experience in the city. Berlin has an extensive list of gay clubs, bars and saunas, making Berlin one of the best gay capitals of the world. Schöneberg is the official gay district in Berlin and has been so since the 1920s. Berlin celebrates Pride (known as Christopher Street Day) throughout July with over 200 events throughout the month. With over 500,000 people in attendance each year, Berlin’s Pride parade is one of the biggest celebrations throughout Europe. 

Montreal, Québec, Canada

Canadians have a reputation for being friendly, and based on how positive the reviews of LGBTQ+ travel experiences are in Montreal, it seems to ring true. Montreal is Canada’s second biggest city and has a rich French heritage (steak frites, anyone?). The city is known for its dining scene and the 12-block stretch of bars and rainbow flags in the Gay Village. 

According to traveler Blane Foster, “Montreal exuded gay energy from nearly everywhere, not just the gay village. And I don’t have words for that bathhouse… top tier gays!”

Traveler Bianca M. also has rave reviews for Montreal: “Montreal feels like it doesn’t matter who you are, what you wear, what you look like. It’s like they compensate the cold winter with the most loving, caring personalities.” 

Ibiza, Spain

Ibiza may be a small island, but it has a big reputation as an LGBTQ+ hot spot. If you’re looking to spend some time lounging in the sun in one of the island’s many hidden coves or dancing the day away at a beach club, Ibiza might be the vacation destination for you. The Spanish island has accommodation options that range from budget-friendly rooms to luxurious ocean-front villas, plus a wide range of activities besides partying (though there’s plenty of it). 

London, England

You don’t have to be a fan of the royals to have a great time in London. The LGBTQ+ community is woven into London’s culture, making it an ideal urban travel destination. Soho is considered the “gay hub” of London and is filled with gay shops, bars, clubs, and restaurants. If you’re looking for an edgier scene, East London is the place to go—you can even join some of London’s drag queens on stage for a night of karaoke. 

According to traveler Anya Kapustianyk, “I just spent three months in London and it’s really great as a queer person, especially East London, like Hackney.

Mexico City, Mexico

Mexico City is one of the most populated cities in the world, and with lots of people, comes lots of things to do. Between the cuisine, shopping, art, nightlife, and cultural happenings, there’s something for everyone to experience in Mexico City (known more popularly as CDMX). In 2010, Mexico City was the first capital in Latin America to legalize same-sex marriage and same-sex couples’ adoption. If you’re not in town for the CDMX Pride celebration in June, you can still discover queer artists, exhibits, and nightlife. 

According to traveler Shannon Del Prince, Mexico city had, “Lots of cool underground raves full of queer people and club culture. There are definitely areas that can be unsafe (like any big city), but that’s more just in general. I feel like because there’s a large population of queer people there, so I didn’t feel like a target as a queer person (which is definitely the case in some countries).”

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is widely considered  the  gay capital of Europe. You can spend the day enjoying Amsterdam’s exquisite selection of museums, operating your own motorboat on the canal, smoking in the local coffee shop,s and dining at LGBTQ-owned bars and restaurants. There’s also a robust offering of nightlife with clubs, bars, and shows. If you’re looking for something a little relaxing, be sure to hit one of the city’s famous saunas. 

According to traveler Blane Foster, “Amsterdam could be a gay paradise. Just don’t try space cakes before you fly out of Schiphol airport.”

Brighton, England

Brighton recently got a facelift, which makes the historical seaside town a trendy beach destination for travelers. According to the 2021 census, almost 11 percent of the Brighton population ages 18 and up identify as gay, lesbian or bisexual which means LGBTQ+ tourists will fit right in. Naturally, one of the top activities in Brighton is sunbathing, and if you really  want to avoid tan lines, you can do so on Brighton’s official nude beach.

Traveler Sarah Jarque-Deakin, who is from the U.K., put her experience visiting Brighton quite simply, “Brighton is very gay.”

Tokyo, Japan

While many Japanese people are accepting of LGBTQ+ identity and relationships, the cultural norms and legality surrounding queerness is still relatively conservative. Same-sex activity is legal in Japan, however, sex-same couples are not afforded the same rights as heterosexual couples, such as same-sex marriage. In general, Japanese culture values privacy and you won’t see displays of public affection, regardless of identity. That being said, Tokyo has a thriving gay scene even if it may not seem as apparent as other cities. There are over 300 gay bars that come alive at night. The Shinjuku Ni-chome neighborhood has a strong gay community and is a must-add to your Tokyo itinerary.

Montevideo, Uruguay

Uruguay has historically been accepting of the LGBTQ+ community and is one of the most gay-friendly countries in Latin America. Homosexuality was legalized in 1934 and gay marriage became legal in 2013. Montevideo is a coastal town where half of the country’s population resides. Same-sex couples are common and you’ll likely notice displays of affection in public. Montevideo has a great architecture and arts scene, a host of gay clubs and bars, and plenty of space to relax on the beach. This safe and friendly city would make for an excellent vacation destiantion.

Mykonos, Greece

If the viral video of Lindsay Lohan dancing at her beach club in Mykonos wasn’t enough to convince you to take a trip to the island, who knows what would be? Mykonos is a stunning island in Greece with clear blue water, layers of white buildings, and an array of places to party. Get your TikTok ready to recreate the “bus, club, another club” audio because you can go non-stop. On the contrary, if you just want a place to relax, Mykonos has a strong portfolio of relaxing boutique hotels that will make you never want to leave the property. 

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for the LGBTQ+ Mexican population and international travelers alike. You can spend the day lounging on a gay beach with a spicy margarita, partying at a dance club, taking a sunset boat tour or exploring the historical towns.

According to traveler Lawrence Cardenas, “The Romantic Zone is like its own little gay city where everyone is gay. I have never seen as many gay men in one place, and it really makes you feel safe and encourages you to be free.”

Prime time to visit is between October and June when the weather isn’t too hot.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

The capital of Argentina is known for its grand architecture, steamy temperatures, and nightlife flair. Buenos Aires was the first city in Latin America to legalize civil unions and has a reputation for being a fun LGBTQ+ travel destination. The nightlife at gay clubs is known to be a little wild (you might want to look into a tango lesson before you book your flight). But don’t worry, you don’t have to be a nightlife aficionado to enjoy Buenos Aires; the art museums and restaurants will keep you plenty busy.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain and has a bustling LGBTQ+ culture in addition to its UNESCO heritage sites, ocean views, and art history. Spain is one of the most progressive countries in the world when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights and that is reflected in daily life. Barcelona hosts its own LGBT festival in June and is quickly overtaking Ibiza as the  gay destination in Spain. Checkout the “Gaixample” district for the city’s most popular gay bars and nightlife spots. 

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10 Up-and-coming Destinations Around the World For LGBTQIA+ Travelers

From small, coastal towns to major metropolises, these are the rising hotspots for LGBTQIA+ travelers.

As some of the earliest queer-inclusive destinations in the world, places like Palm Springs, Fire Island, P-Town, Rio de Janeiro, and Puerto Vallarta will forever hold a special place in the hearts of LGBTQIA+ people . What they possessed then and now were an inclusive spirit of love and compassion where travelers could express themselves and experience a particular locale with dignity and respect.

Today’s queer travelers, whether planning a weekend away or globetrotting halfway across the world, are seeking out new destinations with similar qualities. First and foremost, they take notice of places offering better protections for LGBTQIA+ people , but they also look to experience the nuances of a destination’s local queer community, recent investments in queer-owned business, the number and caliber of queer events, and on-the-ground activism. These are a few up-and-coming LGBTQIA+ destinations travelers are flocking to for these reasons, and more:

Ogunquit, Maine

You’ll notice something welcoming when you drive into this quintessentially cute, coastal Maine town for the first time: Pride flags adorn many of the homes and queer-owned businesses, and there’s a solid sense of community and comradery. The enchanting village of Ogunquit further lures LGBTQIA+ travelers with a bustling downtown, home to an eclectic mix of fine restaurants, B&Bs, art galleries, trendy and traditional beach shops, and jewelry stores. On its outskirts, you’ll find a museum dedicated to American art that boasts views from its building and grounds overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, as well as Ogunquit Playhouse , a charming and history-packed theater.

In Ogunquit, LGBTQIA+ nightlife centers itself on Main St. at Mainestreet . Not your average resort town gay bar, the lively watering hole is host to tea dances, live performances, and some of the more notable drag shows in New England. A sophisticated piano bar and lounge that doubles as a restaurant, The Front Porch , is another main draw and just steps away.

Travelers acquiring their OGT bumper stickers tend to lay up their feet at the stately Cliff House , a large, fashionable resort spread across 70 oceanfront acres on the breathtaking Bald Head Cliff. Further afar in Kennebunkport, a nearby and highly frequented stop for visitors crawling up the Maine coastline, is the Yachtsman Hotel & Marina Club and Hidden Pond Resort , which are high on style and under LGBTQIA+ management.

Tel Aviv, Israel

When it comes to the Mediterranean, Mykonos has long been a crowd-pleaser of the queer jet-set and circuit party crowds. But with recent, increased direct flights from the U.S. and a boom in high-style hotels like The Setai , The Norman , and The Lighthouse , LGBTQIA+ travelers are discovering a welcomed alternative in Tel Aviv.

The city’s unrivaled beach culture with dynamic, Bauhaus-heavy architecture at its backdrop is reason enough to visit, but LGBTQIA+ travelers find themselves attracted to Tel Aviv most for its open, inclusive, and bohemian spirit.

Prior to the COVID-19 crisis, Israel was already seeing record-breaking tourism numbers, attracting Ricky Martin, Andy Cohen, and Neil Patrick Harris as its recent, notable gay guests of honor at Tel Aviv Pride. While that celebration undoubtedly lives up to the hype in this extroverted city, travelers should also consider touching down for Purim in March. A feast for the eyes, the Jewish holiday is marked with lively parties spilling out onto the streets and lots of queer attendees dressed in lavish costumes that rival even the best Halloween celebrations in New York and West Hollywood.

Atlanta, Georgia

Thanks to a surge of new LGBTQIA+ travelers in the last year, The Big Peach’s boomtown nature is growing in popularity with the queer community, with no signs of slowing down. “Atlanta is one of those cities that has a surprisingly robust number of LGBTQ-welcoming hotels and attractions,” says Jason Heidemann, Editor of the Orbitz Blog .

Many travelers here are increasingly drawn to the city’s popular Pride weekend festivities, with hotel bookings growing double digits during 2019, according to the travel bookings platform. “Look for it to trend again next year when the IGLA convention will be held there in 2021,” Heidemann adds.

Other popular Atlanta events with LGBTQIA+ folks include Black Pride Weekend , the largest of its kind in the U.S., with a roster of events and themed parties, comedy shows, brunches, booze cruises, and boat rides, all which take place over Labor Day weekend.

Rancho Mirage, California

Palm Springs’ slightly upscale and affluent neighbor, Rancho Mirage is known for its country clubs and resorts, like the iconic Sunnylands and posh Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage . It tends to draw a slightly older, more sophisticated — but not stuffy — crowd.

With demand for real estate and vacation rentals at an all-time high in Palm Springs, and thanks to a resurgence in local art and interest in mid-century modern design principles found all throughout the Coachella Valley, Rancho Mirage and neighboring Palm Desert are seeing spikes of interest as alternative options. The weather, with 300 annual days of sunshine in the region, doesn’t hurt either.

Seneca Falls, New York

With a societal spotlight on gender and racial equality, LGBTQIA+ travelers, organizers, and allies alike are increasingly making pilgrimages to Seneca Falls, NY to show their solidarity with individuals and movements dedicated to broader equality and justice.

In town, visitors first pay dues at the National Women’s Rights Historic Park , site of the first Women’s Rights Convention, as well as the home of suffragist Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Outside of town, LGBTQIA+ travelers can find the Equal Rights Heritage Center in nearby Auburn, plus plenty of Finger Lakes leisure-time activities to keep them entertained, like the Seneca Wine Trail and Cayuga Lake Wine Trail.

A brand new art and design-centric hotel that’s a short drive away, Lake House on Canandaigua , should also be on the radar. It has plans to offer queer couples fall foliage and other themed getaways as well as Pride-themed events later this year.

St. Barth’s

Lauded for privacy, exclusivity, and safety, not to mention some of the most pristine beaches and turquoise waters in the world, LGBTQIA+ travelers are increasingly finding themselves drawn to this little Caribbean island’s big, welcoming spirit. With ties to France and the Netherlands, St. Bart’s became one of the first Caribbean islands to legalize same sex marriage by proxy in 2013, and the country also offers protections against discrimination for LGBTQIA+ people.

Its queer positivity can best be seen on display at Saline Beach, located on the island’s southern coast, an increasingly popular LGBTQIA+ and nudist beach, as well as at Hotel Manapany . Recently acquired and revamped in late 2019, this eco lodge-style property is the island’s premier gay-friendly resort in favor with couples seeking luxe accommodations. Discerning foodies and oenophiles are also drawn to the island’s top tier food scene, which is highlighted during the St. Barts Gourmet Festival , a popular event taking place each November.

Houston, Texas

Queer travelers to Texas, often regarded as a conservative state, have already favorited LGBTQIA+-friendly Austin on their travel bucket lists, but there’s another Lone Star hidden gem hiding in plain sight: Houston.

Texas’ largest city, and the most diverse city in the U.S. , is a cultural melting pot that will surprise and delight LGBTQIA+ visitors thanks to an incredibly diverse dining scene, arts institutions, impressive performing arts centers and theaters, botanical gardens , and now, even a “unicorn” dessert bar that will speak to the most decadent of queer tastes.

Home to the largest LGBTIA+ community in Texas and one of the first destinations to market to gay travelers through a dedicated LGBTQIA+ visitor website over a decade ago, it’s easy to see why Houston's Pride celebration already draws some 750,000+ people each year from every corner of the globe. The city’s gayborhood of Montrose is dotted with bars and queer-packed eateries, easily rivaling the Castro or Chelsea in a uniquely charming Texan way where, yes, cowboy boots are recommended.

Guadalajara, Mexico

Guadlajara’s proximity to both Puerto Vallarta — arguably Mexico’s most popular queer playground — and the Tequila Valley have positioned it as a stop on many LGBTQIA+ itineraries as of late.

Just as high-strung Mexico City is to New York, Guadalajara is Mexico’s equivalent of LA, complete with great year-round weather and a more relaxed atmosphere. Queer travelers who spend their PTO time in this trending destination find a vibrant city bursting with museums and Spanish colonial architecture, with many boutique hotels such as the Villa Ganz housed in mansions of historical significance.

A highly regarded international film festival and the Guadalajara Book Fair attract intellectual types… who don’t mind a good party. Storied for its nightlife, Guadalajara’s seductive club with pulsing music and Vegas-style lighting, Babel , and California’s Bar , where the cantina meets the dance floor, are two of the more popular LGBTQIA+ options in town.

Budapest, Hungary

While some of Hungary’s laws are still repressive towards LGBTQIA+ people, the country’s large capital city of Budapest has long maintained itself as a progressive outlier, noted for being one of the friendliest spots for queer travelers in all of Eastern Europe. Easy, low-cost direct flights also make Budapest a favorable add-on leg for any Euro adventure, something LGBTQIA+ travelers have taken note of. According to Orbitz , the charming and surprising city — famed for its rich history and sightseeing oppourtunities at the Hungarian Parliament building and Buda Castle — saw a 20% increase in searches by queer travelers between 2018 and 2019.

Discerning travelers might notice “the scene” is not as prevalent in Budapest as other gay-friendly European cities, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of points of interest for the LGBTQIA+ crowd. Tourists are likely to find these at Magnum , a provocative gay sauna; qLIt , a lesbian community organization (also a magazine) that hosts improv and trivia nights, table tennis competitions, and more; and, at Why Not Cafe & Bar , a Budapest institution known for karaoke and the place most travelers will start their night before moving on to Alterego , the rowdy, subterranean club with midnight drag shows.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

This family-friendly, seaside Delaware town is pure Americana, and well established on the radars of queer people living in Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City. But Rehoboth's ease of accessibility coupled with well-rounded character and positive word-of-mouth poises it to bring in travelers from beyond the Eastern seaboard in years to come.

“LGBTQIA+ travelers can find more flexibility and options for accommodations in Rehoboth Beach, compared to other gay-friendly destinations,” says Bryan Barbieri of EOS Hospitality, which operates the town’s premier luxury hotel option, the Bellmoor Inn & Spa . “The supply of hotels and short term housing rentals is enough to support the demand which allows for travelers to have options when it comes to budget, style, and a decision to splurge or save,” he adds.

Queer haunts of note that are at their peak in the summer include Blue Moon , Aqua Grill , Purple Parrot , and Diego’s Bar , but the destination is also working hard towards extending its season well past summer and giving LGBTQIA+ travelers opportunities to visit in different seasons, Barbieri adds. “Those who have done Carnival in Provincetown or Fantasy Fest in Key West should definitely not miss the Sea Witch Festival in October, which includes costumes, parades, and parties that everyone should experience at least once in their life.”

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The world’s most LGBTQ+-friendly cities, according to LGBTQ+ travellers

From São Paulo to Stockholm, these are the best cities for queer travellers around the world – according to people who know them best

Happy Pride Month, one and all! It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and to celebrate, we asked Time Out’s LGBTQ+-identifying writers and editors to tell us all about their favourite city on the planet. The resulting list covers all four corners of the globe, from the beaches of Brazil to the creative hub of Glasgow ’s Southside. These are cities with a vibrant queer community, cities that support and protect  LGBTQ+ citizens and visitors, and  cities that are notable hubs for LGBTQ+ life in their respective countries and regions. So, what are the world’s most LGBTQ+-friendly cities? While we couldn’t possibly name them all, these are some of our favourites.

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The world’s most LGBTQ+-friendly cities

1.  New York City, USA

Sticking to just one LGBTQ+ scene in New York is like doing drag in the middle of the day: it’s possible but not advisable. I’ve had equally fun nights out hitting up the piano bar circuit of Duplex, Marie’s Crisis and the Monster in the West Village, bopping to top 40 at Hell’s Kitchen bars like Rise and Industry and dancing all night to house and techno at Brooklyn hot spots like Good Room, Elsewhere and 3 Dollar Bill. I’ve also found that it’s a good policy to check out what one-off LGBTQ+ events are happening at Knockdown Center in Queens.

2.  Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

I’ve called Puerto Vallarta in Jalisco, Mexico (the unofficial LGBTQ+ capital of Latin America) home for two years. I arrived on the last day of pride in 2021 and headed straight to the lesbian-owned-and-operated bar, Elixir Mixology . I instantly felt accepted and decided to make Puerto Vallarta my homebase. Same-sex marriage has been legal in Jalisco since 2016, and Puerto Vallarta has been a queer destination since the 1960s when Elizabeth Taylor moved to town and gay travelers began flocking to the area. Emiliano Zapata is the town’s gayborhood where many LGBTQ+ events take place, including Vallarta Pride , BeefDip , and nightly drag shows.

3.  London, England

London ’s streets are drenched in queer history: they’ve been stalked by Virginia Woolf and Oscar Wilde, hosted secret gay coffee houses, and fought over by generations of activists. But what I love about its LGBTQ+ scene is that it's anything but stuck in the past. While this country was losing its mind over the corrie naish, I was watching drag kings rip into an outdated institution at Dalston alt-cabaret haven The Glory. London's brand new LBGTQ+ Community Centre offers classes in decolonising queerness or comfort activism, while bookshop The Common Press puts intersectionality first. And if you want an old-school night on the tiles? Soho's buzzing, storied gay district is still pretty hard to beat.

4.  Melbourne, Australia

I’ll never forget the morning of November 15, 2017, when the results of Australia’s same-sex marriage equality came in. We’d won. Nerve-wracking doesn’t come close to describing the painful few months that preceded our victory – but the one thing that held us together? Community. In many ways, the struggle for our rights made Melbourne ’s queer community even stronger. The LGBTQ+ scene reflects the city’s creative, slightly rebellious personality, especially in the arty inner northern neighbourhoods of Fitzroy and Collingwood. Smith Street, has become the northside’s unofficial LGBTQ+ nightlife village, but it’s not just about partying. On any night of the week, you could catch a subversive drag king show at Beers for Queers at the The Fox Hotel, a poetry reading at Hares and Hyenas bookshop, a queer pottery throwdown at Pink Ember Studio, comedy at Pride of our Footscray or visit a neurodiversity-friendly space at Beans Bar. If you visit in May, don’t miss the annual Kylie Birthday Ball at Sircuit Bar , where queer Melbourne’s patron saint is celebrated.

5.  São Paulo, Brazil

Even though I don’t speak Portuguese, people in São Paulo have been so welcoming each time I visit! The vibe of the city is exciting, especially for queer visitors. LGBTQ+ activism has shaped the character of the city, where being visible is key to dispelling homophobic attitudes in a country that can still be dangerous for queer people. Queer creativity is thriving; visit LGBTQ+ library in Frei (‘Gay’) Caneca Street, or see a spectacle in Blue Space Drag Club . Try to plan a visit in June for the world’s biggest Pride march, which attracts over 2 million people.

6.  Glasgow, Scotland

Glasgow ’s gay scene is not small, but there is a special place tucked south of the river that’s a haven for LGBTQ+ introverts like me, where just by quietly walking around you feel like you belong. The Southside’s independent bookshops and coffee shops open a space for queer creativity to flourish, and helped to shape my bisexuality. I felt heard and seen the very first time I stepped foot in Category is Books , a small, independent and purposefully queer bookshop. I like to soak up the welcoming energy of busy Victoria Road after an oat flat white from Short Long Black Coffee, and head to the Glasgow Zine Library, a space that gave my bisexual poetry a collective platform to exist.

7.  Vienna, Austria

We stumbled onto Vienna ’s queer scene by accident. After a friend’s wedding, my partner and I returned to the Parkhotel Schönbrunn. Built in 1787 as an imperial guesthouse, it’s a stately establishment – so the new rainbow lights caught us off guard. So did the queer glam crowd packing the lobby. We’d found the Rainbow Ball, an LGBTQ black tie waltz that’s the unofficial start of  Vienna’s gay calendar . At 2am, we made the only possible choice: we joined in and danced until sunrise. The only downside? The DJ had terrible taste in music and played English-language Christmas songs (in May)!

8.  Johannesburg, South Africa

Growing up as a queer African with a love for travel was not an easy feat, but Johannesburg became a safe haven for me. It’s where the first African pride march was held in 1990 and since then, the queer movement has continued to grow in South Africa, with the annual October Jo’burg pride now dubbed the Pride of Africa . I usually spend my days exploring the adjoining neighbourhoods of Melville and Illovo, where most of the city’s gay nightlife is. To really get acquainted with Johannesburg’s queer scene, I recommend Babylon Bar and Beefcakes .

9.  Bristol, England

The city where I shakily set foot in my first ever LGBTQ+ club, Bristol will always hold a special place in my heart. Back then, we used to party at the now-defunct Wonky – an early blueprint for Sink the Pink, according to its Bristolian founder Glyn Fussell – but as the years have passed, this inclusive, experimental spirit has held fast. From the incredibly niche Bristol Bear Bar to the trashy-but-dependable OMG, there’s something for everyone here, and in June beloved London night Big Dyke Energy is set to take over clubbing institution Lakota for a big all-dayer. I also love Modern Queers – the quarterly LGBTQ+ Bristol-based newsletter which cheers up my doormat with its pale pink paper.

10.  Auckland, New Zealand

​​Auckland is truly a jewel in New Zealand’s queer scene. I spend most of my time at the bars of Ponsonby – the whole place practically pulsates with energy. Or sometimes I’ll explore the art-infused thoroughfare of Karangahape Road, or ‘K-road’ as it’s affectionately known. Once Auckland’s red light district, the road is now a hub of gay bars and clubs and fabulous drag shows. (Make sure to catch the talented and unapologetic performers at Caluzzu Cabaret ). In Auckland, it’s easy to lose yourself in the warm embrace of the city. I’ve certainly found a place I can truly call home.

11.  Santiago, Chile

Santiago has been my hometown for years and is where I came out in 2016. I’ve seen and lived through a lot of progress in terms of LGBTQ+ rights. Last year, marriage equality was finally legalised! Chile’s capital is a haven for the country’s queer communities who may not experience the same tolerance in other parts of Chile. As a result, there’s an active LGBTQ+ community and plenty of queer spaces. Check out the bustling lesbian hangout Chueca in the trendy Barrio Italia neighbourhood, or explore entire streets packed full of gay clubs in the leafy downtown Bellavista district.

12.  Berlin, Germany

Berlin ’s Schöneberg is one of the world’s oldest queer districts, and every July – along with the rest of the city –  it largely shuts down, as crowds of over 1 million take to the streets for the city’s Pride parade. As an LGBTQ+ capital, Berlin knows how to go big. But whether it’s drag shows and English-language pub quizzes at the Tipsy Bear in Prenzlauer Berg, leather-clad men at Schöneberg’s Prinzknecht , or trans and non-binary night in Kreuzberg’s Möbel Olfe , the city knows how to welcome you among friends. No matter who you are, Berlin loves you back.

13.  Buenos Aires, Argentina

Buenos Aires is preceded by its reputation as a gay hotspot. After all, it’s the capital of Argentina: a country which introduced same-sex marriage in 2010 and has legally recognised gender self-identification since 2012. The city’s hate crime laws offer protection against discrimination based on gender identity and sexuality, leading to a visible queer contingent on the city's streets. I went to Buenos Aires to ease the sting of heartbreak and, once there, found myself among welcoming friends of friends who were relatively new to the city but knew all of the best queer haunts. Together, we visited LGBTQIA+ cultural centre Batacazo Cultural , a trans-feminist, self-run space that runs queer milongas (tango parties) every week, and danced to reggaeton and Anitta at Glam Disco in Recoleta. During the days, I visited MALBA to see Las Dos Frida by Las Yeguas del Apocalipsis , and was hugely moved to see such a vivid record of the artistic duo.

14.  Montreal, Canada

Montreal is renowned for being an exceptionally LGBTQ+-friendly city. It offers a welcoming environment with inclusive legal protections, a diverse and accepting community, and vibrant LGBTQ+ neighborhoods like the Gay Village. The city also hosts one of the largest Pride festivals, LGBTQ+ organizations providing resources and support, a cultural scene that highlights queer artists and events, specialised healthcare services to enhance to community’s well-being… I could go on. Though challenges may persist, Montreal is a fantastic place to be LGBTQ+.

15.  Barcelona, Spain

A pioneer in the fight for LGBTIQ+ rights (it was the first Spanish city to hold a demonstration in 1977), Barcelona is today one of the world’s capitals of tolerance. The ‘Gaixample’ – the Eixample Esquerre enclave where most of the city’s queer-friendly venues are concentrated – continues to fly the flag for the LGBTQ+ community in the city, led by the incombustible Candy Darling : a bar open every day that hosts exciting events. In Poble-sec, La Federica and La Raposa are institutions, while La Casa de la Pradera celebrates its 12th anniversary in the Raval this year. The city’s effervescent drag scene can be witnessed on the Ravalada Drag Tour , and the Maricxs party offers the perfect mix between techno music and queer culture.

16.  San Francisco, USA

Growing up, I lived half an hour away from San Francisco , and the city quickly stole my heart. Since the late 1960s, the Castro neighbourhood has been a colorful beacon of hope for queer travellers. Follow along the rainbow-paved road to discover LGBTQ+-owned vendors, speakeasies, pubs, restaurants, and bars. On a weekend night, the places to be are Lookout , the Cafe , Toad Hall , or Beaux . Most of these spots host drag nights and Sunday morning brunches that may get a little out of hand – in the best way possible!

17.  Adelaide, Australia

I was born and raised in Adelaide , a city that has come, cartwheeling, out of the closet. It’s shaking off its conservative roots and ‘city of churches’ label and becoming a place that’s fluid, fun and flamboyant. While overlooked for its size, the LGBTQ+ community owes a lot to the city – with South Australia being the first state to decriminalise homosexuality in 1975. And the LGBTQ+ spirit is felt even more because of Adelaide’s small size. Within its convenient square-mile, CBD heart, there are drag parties, lesbian bars, the Rainbow Walk, and the annual queer Feast Festival. Mary’s Poppin and My Lover Cindi are LGBTQ+ venues that celebrate queer life, along with the city’s arts and cultural festival circuit. 

18.  Athens, Greece

Queer parties in Athens may be the most comfortable parties I know. Filled with and organized by political activists, parties like Draga Drouga and QReclaim (held in the recently closed Communitism ) have a unique history: they are heavily defined by anger over the transphobic killing of activist and drag queen Zackie Oh in 2018. The LGBTQI+ scene in Athens is still constantly developing but it’s incredibly vibrant and artistic. Squats and universities routinely host art shows, drag performances or vogueing competitions, while clubs like BeQueer offer a welcome escape.

19.  Leeds, England

Not only did I grow up in Leeds , but it’s also the city I found myself and my identity in. From Leeds Pride  to open mic nights, LGBTQ+ bars, venues, and clubs; the city is brimming with a vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Feeling like drinks and a cabaret? Check out Viaduct Showbar , for performances by drag artists, tribute acts, or just a good old dance. If you’d prefer to sit down and eat, also located in Freedom Quarter — known as the heart of the Leeds LGBTQ+ scene  —  is Fibre , a bar that hosts a Bottomless Drag Brunch every Saturday afternoon. For something a little more lowkey, try one of many spoken word and open-mic nights; I recommend That’s What We Said , which is open to speakers of marginalized genders this July at Hyde Park Book Club.

20.  Stockholm, Sweden

From Moxy’s queer women-only party to Pride Park where I danced at a silent disco, I’ll never forget Stockholm Pride. I witnessed bondage demonstrations, and swooned while Kool and the Gang sang ‘Celebration’. Sweden has a proven track record of supporting the LGBTQ+ community: in 1972 it was the first country to allow gender changes and same-sex couples have been able to marry since 2009. I felt very welcome as a pansexual woman in the ‘open city’ while sipping champagne at the gay-owned Mälarpaviljongen bar and performing ‘Mama Mia’ with holograms of the iconic bandmembers at the ABBA Museum.

21.  Hyderabad, India

This south Indian city offers plenty of safe spaces to be queer. The  People’s Choice Cafe is queer-owned and welcomes everyone, while  LGTBQIA+ movie nights , queer fests, Pride parades, and  DragVanti – a space to discover India’s drag culture – make up a fun and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ travellers. Hyderabad hosted India’s first-ever drag convention and is the proud home of India’s very first queer magazine, where the LGBTQ+ community can express themselves and celebrate their identities. The city even has a queer support and legal aid center . Despite instances of homophobia and transphobia, Hyderabad’s diverse culture offers the queer community a home away from home.

22.  Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Sun-drenched beaches, samba rhythms, and a queer scene that sizzles like a caipirinha on a summer’s day: Rio de Janeiro is pure magic. From the legendary Copacabana to the pulsating beats of Ipanema, Rio embraces LGBTQ+ travelers and locals with open arms. The Gamboa neighborhood is my favourite: I love the dazzling drag shows at Rio Scenarium . You’ll also find great nights out at Bar Bukowski and the LGBTQ+ parties at Seven Cruising Bar and Pink Flamingo. Rio dances to its own rhythm, and it’s an irresistible paradise for LGBTQ+ souls who seek a little extra sparkle in their lives.

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Gay United States Uncovered: Top Destinations And Tips For Queer Travelers!

Posted on Last updated: December 7, 2023

Categories Gay Destinations

Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.

From the neon hues of San Francisco’s Castro to the vibrant beats of New York’s Greenwich Village, the expansive land of the free houses a universe of experiences for the LGBTQ+ community. The story of Gay United States is a tumultuous yet triumphant tapestry woven with threads of political activism, civil rights milestones, and passionate pride parades.

It’s a nation where Harvey Milk once ignited a movement and where the echoes of the Stonewall riots resonate even today. This dynamism makes the Gay United States a thrilling realm of exploration for queer travelers, promising tales of resistance, celebration, and love at every turn.

Dive deep, and you’ll unearth the electric nightlife that has become synonymous with cities like Miami , Los Angeles , and Chicago .

The nighttime revelry of Gay United States isn’t just about neon-lit bars or fabulous drag shows; it’s a reflection of a community that thrives under the moonlight, dancing away past struggles and embracing the promise of a brighter tomorrow. Every club beat, and every glittering float at pride events tells a story of the resilience of a community that has faced adversities but continues to shine brilliantly.

Yet, the heartbeat of the Gay United States isn’t merely found in its jubilant parades or bustling bars. It’s discovered in the lived experiences of its queer citizens: same-sex couples enjoying picnics under the vast Montana sky, transgender youth finding acceptance in the supportive communities of Minneapolis , and non-binary individuals expressing themselves freely in the bohemian alleys of Portland .

These everyday stories form the lifeblood of a nation that, while still grappling with challenges, has made significant strides toward equality and acceptance.

For wanderers with a penchant for history, the US offers myriad landmarks: places where pivotal moments for LGBTQ+ rights unfolded, institutions that have chronicled the community’s journey, and spaces where love has always transcended boundaries. From the National LGBTQ+ Wall of Honor in New York to the GLBT Historical Society Museum in San Francisco , there’s a wealth of exploration awaiting the curious traveler.

So, why does the Gay United States magnetize LGBTQ+ travelers from all corners of the globe? It’s because of its unique blend of historic sites, party hubs, tranquil retreats, and a sense of community that binds diverse stories together. Whether you’re seeking solace, celebration, or solidarity, the vast expanse of the Gay United States invites you with open arms and a promise of unforgettable memories.

History Of LGBT Rights In The United States

The history of LGBT rights in the United States can be traced as far back as the 1920s when the first documented gay rights organization was founded. However, the movement for LGBTQ rights gained significant momentum in the 20th century. This section will provide a brief overview of the events and organizations that have shaped the history of LGBT rights in the United States.

One notable event in the history of LGBT rights is the Stonewall Riots, which took place in 1969 at the Stonewall Inn in New York City . This violent demonstration against police raids and discrimination is now considered a pivotal moment in the modern gay rights movement. Since then, various groups and movements have formed to advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ community.

During the 1950s and 1960s, the homophile movement emerged, consisting of organizations such as ONE, Inc., and the Daughters of Bilitis. These groups aimed to challenge societal norms and promote the rights and dignity of the LGBTQ community. Anti-sodomy laws, which were in place in many states, were often used to discriminate against and persecute members of the LGBT community. It wasn’t until 2003 that the US Supreme Court invalidated these laws in Lawrence v. Texas.

In 1953, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed an executive order banning gay and lesbian individuals from federal employment, further highlighting the discrimination faced by the LGBTQ community. This order remained in effect until it was overturned in 1975.

The American Psychiatric Association played a significant role in changing societal attitudes toward the LGBTQ community when it removed homosexuality from its list of mental disorders in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) in 1973. This important step led to the gradual acceptance of LGBTQ individuals within society.

The 2010s saw notable advancements in same-sex marriage rights. Legalization occurred on a state-by-state basis until the Supreme Court’s landmark decision in Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015, which legalized same-sex marriage across the United States.

Efforts to combat discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity have also been an essential part of the LGBTQ rights movement. In 2020, the Supreme Court ruled in Bostock v. Clayton County, Georgia , that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 applies to cases of employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

It’s important to note that situations surrounding LGBT rights can change rapidly, and information can become outdated. Readers should seek current advice before traveling and be aware of potential risks. Remain vigilant and be aware that bad actors exist everywhere. Local perspectives on LGBT rights can differ from those afforded to tourists. Reaching out to relevant LGBT advocacy groups such as the Human Rights Campaign , Lambda Legal , or GLAAD can provide further information and resources.

The LGBT Legal Situation In The United States

In the United States, LGBT rights have undergone significant progress in the past few decades, with changes in federal and state laws, as well as landmark cases in the US Supreme Court. However, it is crucial to remember that situations can change rapidly, and it is essential to stay vigilant and consistently seek current advice.

Federal Law and US Supreme Court Decisions: Some of the most critical advancements in LGBT rights have resulted from notable Supreme Court cases. In 2003, the court struck down remaining state sodomy laws in Lawrence v. Texas , effectively decriminalizing same-sex sexual activity. A monumental victory for same-sex couples came with Obergefell v. Hodges in 2015, when the court ruled that same-sex marriage was a constitutional right, making it legal across all 50 states.

Anti-Discrimination Laws and Protections: The legal landscape for discrimination protections varies across the country. Presently, 22 states have employment protections for LGBT individuals, and 20 states have hate or bias crime protections. The Equality Act, a comprehensive federal legislation aimed at providing nationwide anti-discrimination protections, has recently passed in the US House of Representatives but still faces challenges in the Senate.

Adoption Rights: Same-sex couples have the legal right to marry and adopt children in the United States. Following the ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges , adoption rights for same-sex couples have been recognized, though local adoption rules and regulations may still vary by state.

The Armed Forces and the U.S. Military: Since the repeal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy in 2011, LGBT individuals have been allowed to serve openly in the U.S. military. Furthermore, the ban on transgender individuals serving in the military was lifted in 2021.

It is indispensable to understand that the legal situation concerning LGBT rights in the United States may differ for local people versus tourists. Tourists should take note of relevant local laws and remain vigilant.

Active national organizations and advocacy groups, such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) , work tirelessly to advance LGBT rights and monitor legal developments.

The LGBT Social Situation In The United States

Discrimination against the LGBTQ community in the United States remains a persistent issue despite significant progress made in recent years. Both local community members and tourists alike can face challenges related to their sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression. It is essential to stay informed and vigilant, as situations can change rapidly, and individual experiences can vary.

LGBTQ individuals in the United States may encounter discrimination in various aspects of their lives, such as employment, housing, and education. They may also experience hate crimes, harassment, and bullying. Transgender youth, in particular, may face increased challenges and risk of suicide.

Public opinion on LGBTQ issues has evolved in recent years, with a majority supporting equality and same-sex marriages. A Gallup poll conducted in 2020 indicated growing acceptance of LGBTQ rights. However, conservative and religious freedom groups continue to resist these changes, sometimes resulting in rhetoric or legislation that threatens LGBTQ rights.

Despite this, the LGBTQ community continues to advocate for their rights and work towards equality. Organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign contribute to this effort, focusing on issues like public accommodations, family rights, and the protection of LGBTQ youth.

To ensure personal safety, LGBTQ individuals should remain cautious and updated on current events related to LGBTQ rights both locally and nationally. It is also beneficial to connect with relevant LGBTQ advocacy groups for support and resources. Additionally, it may be helpful to identify safe spaces, such as LGBTQ-friendly businesses and establishments, as a precautionary measure.

Trans Rights In The United States

Transgender individuals face a range of challenges and discrimination in the United States. Although there have been significant advancements in recent years, they continue to experience disparities in rights and protections compared to their cisgender counterparts.

At the federal level, there has been slow progress in terms of protections for transgender individuals. The landmark 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges case granted same-sex couples the right to marry, but it did not address wider issues of discrimination based on gender identity. However, recent changes to the Equality Act under President Joe Biden’s administration have expanded the protection of transgender people from discrimination in multiple areas, such as housing, education, and public services.

One important aspect of transgender rights is protection against hate crimes and harassment. The Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act, signed in 2009, expanded hate crime law to include crimes motivated by a victim’s actual or perceived gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. This federal legislation helps in prosecuting and punishing those who commit acts of violence against transgender individuals.

In the context of education, transgender youth face unique issues, including the ability to access appropriate facilities and participate in sports. Title IX, a federal law that prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational programs, has been extended to protect transgender students. However, controversy surrounding these policies continues, often fueled by fear and misinformation.

Transgender individuals looking to serve in the military have faced a long and complex struggle. Following the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy in 2010, various administrative restrictions on transgender service members were removed. In 2021, President Biden signed an executive order lifting a ban on transgender individuals serving openly in the U.S. military, providing a more inclusive environment for all members of the armed forces.

Employment discrimination is another critical issue for transgender rights. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin in employment. In the 2020 Supreme Court case Bostock v. Clayton County, the Court expanded the definition of “sex” to include sexual orientation and gender identity, providing greater protection for transgender employees.

Anti-discrimination laws and federal agencies play a critical role in safeguarding the rights of transgender people in the United States. Nevertheless, it is important for transgender individuals to be aware of the ongoing challenges, including potential changes in legislation and enforcement on a state-by-state basis. Vigilance and connection with local LGBTQ advocacy organizations can help provide necessary support and advocacy for transgender rights in the community.

The Future For The Queer Community In The United States

As the United States continues to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and equality, it can be observed that recent policy initiatives and legislative efforts indicate a promising future. Following President Biden’s Proclamation on LGBTQ+ Pride Month in June 2021, his administration has championed LGBTQ+ equality as a focal point for policy changes and reforms.

In Congress and state legislatures, an increasing number of bills are introduced to promote and protect LGBTQ+ rights, including the Equality Act. Though there have been instances of bills restricting LGBTQ+ rights, the overall trend indicates positive progress. Advocacy groups, such as the Human Rights Campaign and Lambda Legal, actively lobby and drive initiatives in favor of LGBTQ+ people.

However, it is essential for individuals to remain aware of the changing landscape, as situations can change rapidly, and the information available may be outdated. To ensure personal safety, one should keep up-to-date with local laws and seek advice from trustworthy sources before traveling or relocating.

While the future of LGBTQ+ equality may appear promising on a national level, progress may differ among local communities and for various demographics, such as residents versus tourists. To protect personal rights and create a more inclusive environment, individuals can engage with local LGBTQ+ advocacy groups and collaborate on initiatives focused on equality and education.

In conclusion, the United States demonstrates significant progress towards LGBTQ+ equality, but vigilance and active participation of local communities and individuals is vital to ensure their rights are protected and promoted.

Protect Yourself While Travelling In Gay United States

In the United States, LGBT rights have come a long way over the years, with many strides made to ensure equal rights for everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation and gender identity. However, it is important to protect yourself as situations can change, and there may be bad actors, whether you are a local or a tourist.

Discrimination and Legal Protections Anti-discrimination laws have been enacted, such as The Equality Act, which passed the US House of Representatives in February 2021, aiming to protect against LGBT discrimination in various aspects of life. While it hasn’t passed the Senate yet, these protections are essential for ensuring the human rights of LGBT individuals. The federal Fair Housing Act further helps protect against sex discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity, in housing situations.

Education, Employment, and Housing In education, employment, and housing, it is important to be aware of your rights and report any instances of discrimination, violence, harassment, or bullying you encounter. Mishandling of your privacy may also be a concern, so it is crucial to know your rights concerning confidentiality and how your information is treated.

Public Accommodations and Services Public accommodations, such as restaurants, hotels, and retail stores, are required to treat everyone equally, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. In case you face any discrimination, it is helpful to be knowledgeable about state and federal laws and seek remedies accordingly.

Health and Safety In the face of violence or harassment, either in person or online, take appropriate measures to safeguard yourself. Remain vigilant at all times and consider reaching out to supportive networks and legal systems if necessary.

LGBT Advocacy Groups There are numerous LGBT advocacy groups that can assist in providing information, support, and resources to help navigate any challenges you may face. Some of these organizations include the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and Lambda Legal.

As situations can change and information may become outdated, it is essential to stay updated on current events and legal developments. Always consult reliable sources and seek current advice before making decisions related to travel or other matters related to LGBT rights in the United States.

Best Gay Destinations In The United States

Ah, the vast and varied landscape of the United States, a tapestry of cultures, stories, and unparalleled experiences!

As we set forth on this curated journey to unearth the best gay destinations in the United States, we embark on an inclusive celebration of cities that have painted their own unique strokes on the canvas of Gay United States. Every metropolis, with its distinct vibe and flavor, contributes to the vivid spectrum of LGBTQ+ narratives that make the U.S. such a captivating destination.

In this compilation, we’ve chosen to spotlight these cities in alphabetical order, ensuring each locale gets its well-deserved moment in the spotlight without the confines of hierarchy. After all, the beauty of Gay United States lies not in ranking, but in the rich diversity and individual charm that each city offers.

Whether you’re drawn to the glittering coastal gems or the unsung heartland heroes, this guide promises a myriad of experiences that beckon LGBTQ+ travelers with a promise of warmth, wonder, and welcomeness.

GAY ALBUQUERQUE

Darlings, let me whisk you away to Albuquerque or, as the in-crowd calls it, AluQUIRKY! Immerse yourself in a city that marries history with neon-lit vibrancy, where the echoes of ancient civilizations meet the fabulous beats of a thriving gay scene. With each twist and turn, you’ll find Albuquerque’s allure is in its eclectic blend of past and present, making it an unmissable gem for every queer wanderer seeking adventure and authenticity.

GAY ASHEVILLE

If you’re yearning for a blend of boho-chic vibes and mountain majesty, then Asheville, North Carolina , is your haven of fabulousness! Nestled amidst the mesmerizing Blue Ridge Mountains, this vivacious city isn’t just picturesque; it’s a roaring crescendo of culture, creativity, and queer camaraderie. With every twisty trail and artisanal ale, Asheville whispers, “Be bold, be you, and belong.”

Prepare to be dazzled by the allure of Gay Aspen, where the shimmering snow-kissed peaks meet a cosmopolitan vibe like nowhere else! It’s not just the breathtaking vistas that’ll leave you spellbound but the magnetic fusion of high-octane mountain adventures and a pulsating LGBTQ+ friendly scene, making it an unparalleled retreat for the modern queer nomad.

Whether you’re carving your path on the slopes or sashaying down the boulevards of this mountainous haven, Gay Aspen promises a rendezvous with the extraordinary, serving both the thrill-seekers and the cosmopolites with equal panache!

GAY ATLANTA

Oh, honey, let’s paint the town peach in fabulous Atlanta! This southern belle of a city, fondly dubbed the “Gay Capital Of The South,” isn’t just a hub of mouth-watering soul food and heartwarming hospitality. Dive deep, and you’ll discover a glittering gay scene buzzing with passion, creativity, and that iconic Southern charm, making Atlanta an unmissable, sultry dance of queer celebration amidst the broader backdrop of the Deep South.

So, whether you’re here for a hot minute or planning to stay, prepare to be dazzled and embraced by Atlanta’s vibrant LGBTQ+ tapestry.

GAY ATLANTIC CITY

Grab your sequins and shades because Atlantic City is calling your name! With its glittering casinos, resurgent queer scene, and a history that’s as fabulous as a drag queen’s wig, this New Jersey gem is the ultimate playground for LGBTQ+ travelers. From its 1950s heyday as a gay haven to its modern renaissance, Atlantic City serves both nostalgia and newness, perfect for those who want to bet on love and luck and live their best gay life.

Honey, if you’re looking to find the glittering heart of Texas, search no further than fabulous Austin! Embracing all with its eccentric vibes and a rhythm that pulsates with queer energy, this city is where cowboy hats and glitter boots dance together under the same neon lights, proving that the whole town truly is a fabulous, sprawling gayborhood.

So, dust off those dancing shoes and let the dynamic and diverse beat of Austin woo you into its inclusive embrace. Are y’all ready for this vibrant Texan gem?

GAY BALTIMORE

Allow me to introduce you to the sassy cultural mosaic that is Baltimore! A stone’s throw from Washington DC, this glittering queer haven pulsates with a vibrant LGBTQ+ heartbeat, with whispers of iconic filmmaker John Waters in its historic streets. Beyond the sizzling gay nightlife, Baltimore tantalizes with its rich tapestry of history, from ancient Native American hunting grounds to colonial marvels.

Dive into this delightful queer playground and watch as Baltimore unveils its charismatic charms and fabulous secrets, ensuring every LGBTQ+ wanderer leaves with stories they’ll never forget.

Pack your bags and put on those fabulous shoes because historic Boston is calling! With its storied past steeped in revolution, Boston has transformed into an LGBTQ+ beacon of hope and progressiveness, reminding us all of the city’s continuous journey for change.

From the cobblestone streets that once echoed revolutionary cries to the contemporary havens championing queer culture, Gay Boston beckons with a harmonious blend of history and modernity, proving that while we’ve come a long way, darling, the party is far from over!

GAY BROOKLYN

Honey, if you haven’t dipped your toes into the glittering waters of Gay Brooklyn, you’re truly missing out on a queer utopia! Brimming with a rich tapestry of history intertwined with an avant-garde zest, Brooklyn is the sanctuary where vintage charm melds seamlessly with trailblazing LGBTQ+ trends.

So, whether you’re in the mood for a sassy drag brunch in Bushwick or a tranquil sunset saunter along the DUMBO waterfront, Gay Brooklyn serves it all with a side of sass and unmatched flair. Prepare to be bewitched because this borough doesn’t just set the trends; it’s the gold standard of queer jubilation!

GAY BUFFALO

Let’s talk Buffalo! This Queen City, shimmering in New York State, isn’t just about those famous wings – it’s a dazzling cocktail of rich history, architectural marvels, and a sizzling gay scene that’s been setting hearts aflame since the 80s. With streets that seem to sing and dance in queer celebration all year round and a backdrop that’s a masterpiece of design, Buffalo isn’t just a destination, darling; it’s an LGBTQ+ revelation waiting to be explored with flair and fabulousness!

GAY CHARLOTTE

Pack your finest and get ready for a Southern soiree unlike any other! Charlotte, a shimmering gem in the South, beckons LGBTQ+ travelers with its radiant mix of evergreen charm and unstoppable queer energy. With nights as dazzling as its skyline, gay Charlotte isn’t just another pit stop; it’s the epitome of Southern hospitality draped in rainbow colors, setting the gold standard for what a queer haven should truly feel like.

GAY CHATTANOOGA

Honey, if you think the South is all about sweet tea and slow twangs, Chattanooga is ready to serve you a delightful surprise with a side of fabulousness! This gem, snugly tucked amidst the Appalachian Mountains, isn’t just bursting with scenic allure and a beacon of vibrant culture and culinary zest.

Chattanooga’s heart beats in sync with artsy rhythms, tantalizing flavors, and an under-the-radar queer scene that’s as warm as a Tennessee sunset. Dive into this unexpected haven, and let Chattanooga’s charm embrace every shade of your rainbow.

GAY CHICAGO

If you haven’t let the infectious rhythm of Gay Chicago sweep you off your feet yet, what are you waiting for? With Boystown’s sparkling allure and Andersonville’s welcoming embrace, Chicago is not just a windy city but a whirlwind of queer celebrations, delicious deep-dish delicacies, and architectural marvels waiting to be explored.

Pack those glittery boots and dance to the heartbeats of one of America’s most underrated LGBTQ+ paradises. Don’t just catch the breeze; let Gay Chicago blow you away!

GAY CINCINNATI

Let Cincinnati, Ohio — the sparkling gem of the Midwest — be your next decadent escape! With a legacy of its first gay bar in 1945, Gay Cincinnati has since blossomed, offering an eclectic array of nighttime haunts, rich architectural wonders, and a culinary scene that’s as diverse as our community.

From the irresistible allure of historic Over-the-Rhine to the iconic Cincinnati-style chili that’ll tingle your tastebuds, this city truly marries tradition with progression. So, strap on your most fabulous heels, immerse yourself in the vibrant hues of Queen City, and let Cincinnati’s embracing queer spirit whisk you away on an unforgettable adventure!

GAY CLEVELAND

Darlings, let’s spill the tea: if you think Cleveland is all about rock ‘n’ roll and rust-belt charm, you’re missing half the story! Come for the Gay Games and the historic Leather Stallion Saloon, but stay for a city that’s a dazzling mosaic of queer culture, world-class museums, and lip-smacking corned beef. Trust me, honey; Gay Cleveland is not just any pit stop; it’s a queer haven waiting to be discovered—one where every night feels like a performance worth a standing ovation!

GAY COLORADO SPRINGS

If you’re yearning for a blend of rugged beauty and a touch of queer resilience, look no further than Colorado Springs!

Set against the canvas of Colorado’s spellbinding mountains, this gem might wear its conservative badge with a mix of military pride, but beneath it lies a heart of gold — a tenacious LGBTQ+ community and allies championing change, ensuring that every visitor, no matter their stripe, feels the embrace of this city’s evolving warmth. So, buckle up, and let’s paint the town rainbow amidst its scenic splendors and tantalizing culinary treats!

If you’re craving a dash of Southern charm blended with a rainbow burst of queer culture, look no further than Dallas! In this Texas titan, you’ll find cowboys and drag queens dancing in harmony, and the pulsating heart of the Oak Lawn gaybourhood gives you nightlife zestier than a jalapeño margarita. The ‘Big D’ proves that the best things come in fabulous packages, and darling, this city is shimmering proof that love, diversity, and a dash of glitter can transform any place into a queer paradise.

Honey, if you’ve got the Rockies in your eyes and some sass in your step, then Denver is calling your name! A harmonious blend of cowboy charm and queer pizzazz, Gay Denver surprises and captivates, turning those mountainous backdrops into a stage for one of the USA’s most vivacious LGBTQ+ playgrounds. So, slip on those boots, slap on some glitter, and let Denver’s high-altitude allure whisk you into its warm, inclusive embrace.

GAY DETROIT

Darlings, let’s talk Detroit! A city pulsating with raw energy, where iconic history meets electrifying nightlife, Detroit is an LGBTQ+ traveler’s dream wrapped in industrial charm. Dive into its decadent drag scene, twirl under the neon lights of Gigi’s, and by day, immerse yourself in the cultural embrace of the Detroit Institute of Arts – all before unwinding in the luxury of the Motor City Casino Hotel. Trust me, in the heart of Motown. Gay Detroit doesn’t just hum; it roars!

GAY EUREKA SPRINGS

Let’s spill the tea on Eureka Springs, Arkansas – the unlikely starlet of the South and a glittering haven amidst the Bible Belt! From its vibrant ‘Diversity Weekends’ to streets adorned with pride flags and LGBTQ+ art, Eureka Springs isn’t just any quaint town—it’s the shimmering heart of gay fabulousness in a region you’d least expect. So why keep wandering? Grab those sparkly boots, and let’s waltz through America’s gayest small town, where every corner promises acceptance, allure, and an unforgettable adventure!

GAY FIRE ISLAND

If there’s an Eden for the LGBTQ+ souls, it’s undoubtedly Fire Island! Just a stone’s throw from the bustling streets of NYC, this shimmering oasis offers not just sun-kissed beaches and playful waves but also a legacy of queer liberation that resonates in every sunlit corner.

Here, amidst the wooden pathways and starlit soirees, you’ll find a heartbeat that syncs with the rhythms of acceptance, freedom, and love. So, why just hear about the legendary parties and iconic moments? Slip into those fabulous beach outfits and make your own memories at this utopia of unabashed authenticity.

GAY FORT LAUDERDALE

if you’re seeking a sizzling gay haven, look no further than Fort Lauderdale, where the rainbow doesn’t just touch the ground – it paints the town! Envision a place where the sun kisses both the shimmering beaches and the hearts of countless queer souls, crafting a vibrant tapestry of community, pride, and unapologetic flamboyance.

In Fort Lauderdale, every day feels like a Pride parade, and every night, an invitation to revel in its legendary LGBTQ+ nightlife. Dive in, darling, and let this fabulous Floridian gem sweep you off your feet!

GAY HOLLYWOOD

If you’re seeking a destination dripping with glitz, glamour, and a sprinkle of rainbow magic, Hollywood in the heart of Los Angeles awaits you with open arms! This iconic locale, where dreams become a reality and the stars align (both on sidewalks and in the sky), isn’t just the birthplace of cinema; it’s a veritable playground for the queer community.

Dive deep into the pulsating heart of Hollywood, and you’ll find a vibrant mosaic of LGBTQ+ hotspots, from electrifying gay bars where the party never ends to chic hotels that scream opulence. And trust me, honey, once the allure of Hollywood captures your queer heart, you’ll be smitten for life!

GAY HONOLULU

Aloha, darlings! Dive into the tropical allure of Gay Honolulu, where the shimmering sands of Waikiki Beach beckon by day, and the effervescent glow of the nightlife calls when the sun sets. Amidst the harmonious hum of waves and vibrant luaus, Honolulu stands as a luxurious LGBTQ+ haven, intertwining the essence of aloha with the free spirit of queer culture; believe me, honey, this radiant city is where the rainbow meets the ocean in an explosion of fabulousness!

GAY HOUSTON

Oh, honey, when you’re dreaming of cowboy boots, big dreams, and even bigger hearts, let Gay Houston be your shimmering southern star! A glittering beacon in the heart of Texas, where the Montrose beats like a rainbow-colored heart, Houston effortlessly mingles that down-south charm with an urban cosmopolitan flair that rivals global gay meccas. Dive into this exhilarating fusion of cultures, where rodeo meets runway, and where, beneath those wide-brimmed hats and sparkling city lights, acceptance and unity dance a sultry Texas two-step.

GAY INDIANAPOLIS

If you’ve been snoozing on Indianapolis, it’s time to wake up and smell the vibrant culture brewing in the heartland! Beyond the roaring engines of the Indy 500 and amidst the golden landscapes, this Midwestern gem sparkles with an electrifying gay scene that dances between historic charm and modern allure. Whether you’re sipping cocktails in a chic LGBTQ+ pub, drifting over the city in a romantic hot air balloon, or being serenaded by the autumnal symphony of its parks, Indianapolis welcomes you with a fabulous embrace that’s simply irresistible.

GAY JACKSONVILLE

Honey, pack your most fabulous sunglasses because Jacksonville, Florida , is beckoning! With its sun-kissed beaches and a pulsating queer heart, Jacksonville is the perfect blend of Floridian charm meets LGBTQ+ revelry. Dive into this southern gem, and you’ll soon discover why it’s the latest buzz in the Gay USA circuit: from sashaying through its artsy districts by day to shimmying in its inclusive nightlife spots by night, Jacksonville is the unmissable gaycation waiting to be explored!

GAY KANSAS CITY

Darlings, if you’re looking for an unexpected gem that fuses heartland charm with a progressive spirit, Kansas City is calling your name! With its vivacious nightlife, iconic drag shows at places like Missie B’s, and an ever-evolving cultural tapestry that stands tall in its embrace of the LGBT+ community, Kansas City isn’t just on the map, it’s lighting it up in rainbow hues. Dive into this bustling metropolis, where acceptance isn’t just a policy but a way of life, and discover why Kansas City is the dazzling yet underrated star in the glittering constellation of gay destinations.

GAY KEY WEST

If you’re hunting for a sizzling paradise infused with an ever-evolving gay legacy, look no further than the glittering shores of Gay Key West! With its vibrant history of queer pioneers transforming it into an LGBTQ+ haven juxtaposed against azure waters and candy-colored homes, Key West is an alluring tapestry of acceptance and tropical luxury. Dive into a world where acceptance isn’t just a buzzword but a lived experience, where every sun-kissed lane and sultry soirée screams: “Be you, unapologetically!”

GAY LAS VEGAS

If you’ve ever dreamt of basking in neon lights while sipping on world-class cocktails and dancing your heart out to iconic beats, Gay Las Vegas is your glittering playground!

This vivacious city, once seen through a straight-laced lens, has now unfurled its fabulous wings, welcoming LGBTQ+ wanderers from across the globe with a promise of unforgettable adventures, star-studded residencies, and an acceptance that resonates down the iconic Strip. Dive into this oasis of glamour and liberation, where every corner bursts with rainbow-hued energy, and the mantra is clear: Be bold, be you, and let the dice roll!

GAY LINCOLN

Oh, honey, if you think the Midwest is all cornfields and conservatism, prepare to have your sequins blown away by Lincoln, Nebraska—a little gay haven just waiting to dazzle you! Imagine stepping into a city where the queer pulse is as alive as the beat dropping in its fabulous gay dance clubs, a place that serves you history with a twist (from saltwater flats to the tech revolution), all while rallying its LGBTQ+ community together like a glorious, gay Kool-Aid—yes, the original, darling!

GAY LONG BEACH

Allow me to whisk you away to the sun-soaked splendor of Long Beach, a jewel where rainbow hues shimmer brighter than the Cali sun! In a world where every gay destination claims to be the next big thing, Long Beach seductively whispers, “Why strive for the spotlight when you can shine effortlessly?”

With its intoxicating blend of vintage charm, architectural wonders, and a gay scene that’s as vivacious as a glitter-filled soirée, it’s no wonder this city-by-the-sea has become the go-to haven for those in the know. Step aside, WeHo and Castro; Long Beach is here, and it’s fabulous, fierce, and unapologetically thriving!

GAY LOS ANGELES

Honey, if you’re searching for the ultimate blend of glitz, glam, and all things queer, look no further than Gay Los Angeles – a shimmering oasis where the rainbow flag flutters amidst the palm trees, and every boulevard feels like a runway. Bursting at the seams with star-studded allure and a queer scene so vibrant it could outshine the Hollywood sign, Los Angeles beckons LGBTQ+ travelers with the promise of dreamy sunsets, iconic LGBTQ landmarks, and nights in WeHo that you’ll reminisce about for eons!

GAY LOUISVILLE

Pack those stylish boots and ready your palate because Louisville, Kentucky , is calling! Dripping in sultry Southern allure and bursting with a queer vibrancy that would make any LGBTQ+ heart sing, Louisville effortlessly marries its iconic horse-racing heritage with a rainbow-kissed nightlife.

Whether you’re sipping world-famous bourbon, trotting down to the legendary Kentucky Derby, or dancing the night away in its pulsating gay clubs, Louisville promises a whirlwind of memories. So, why hear about it when you can live it? Strap in for a fabulous ride!

Darlings, if you’re yearning for a sultry soiree on sun-kissed shores, let the intoxicating allure of Maui sweep you off your feet! Marrying its pristine natural beauty with a burgeoning queer scene, Maui is where the spirit of aloha intertwines seamlessly with the rainbow flag, making it a dazzling gem in the crown of the Gay United States.

Whether you’re sashaying along its pristine beaches or grooving to the beats of its vibrant nightlife, Maui promises an unforgettable escapade for every LGBTQ+ wanderer. Honey, if paradise had a postcode, it would undoubtedly be Maui!

GAY MEMPHIS

Brace yourselves for a symphony of soul, rhythm, and rainbow-hued vibes in Memphis! Dance to the hypnotic beats of Rock N’ Roll and sashay through the very streets where legends like Elvis left their indelible mark, all while relishing the city’s vibrant queer spirit. With a history as rich as its barbecue and gay haunts that sparkle with Southern charm, Gay Memphis is a Tennessee treasure where the past waltzes with the present, inviting every LGBTQ+ traveler for an unforgettable soiree.

Dive headfirst into the vibrant allure of Gay Miami, a sun-kissed paradise that seamlessly blends the sultry rhythms of its diverse cultures with a passion for unbridled celebration. Whether you’re sashaying through its iconic art-deco boulevards or surrendering to the infectious beat of its legendary nightclubs, Miami promises an intoxicating escapade that captivates the soul and ignites the spirit. Darling, Miami isn’t just a destination; it’s an exuberant dance of life that awaits your every move!

GAY MILWAUKEE

Allow me to let you in on a shimmering secret in America’s heartland: Gay Milwaukee. This vivacious Midwestern gem, with its intoxicating fusion of classic charm and innovative flair, has transformed into an avant-garde haven for the LGBTQ+ community.

Bursting with festivals, dazzling art spaces, and an unexpectedly vibrant gay scene, Milwaukee promises an allure that rivals even the most celebrated gay capitals around the world. So, don your most fabulous attire and dive into a city that’s reinventing the Midwestern gay experience. Cheers to Milwaukee – where the beer flows, hearts glow, and queer spirits soar!

GAY MINNEAPOLIS

If you’re searching for a romantic escape that dazzles with a unique blend of urban chic and natural splendor, set your sights on Minneapolis! This jewel in America’s heartland is not just a kaleidoscope of glittering lakes and sky-piercing towers; it’s a gay utopia where love flows as freely as the Mississippi River and LGBTQ+ vibes resonate in every corner. With every heartbeat of its vibrant arts scene to the sultry rhythms of its gay nightlife, Minneapolis beckons lovers to bask in its embrace and revel in its radiant queer energy.

Honey, let’s dive deep into the heart of Dixie and get charmed by the undeniable allure of Mobile, Alabama ! This Gulf Coast darling not only serves you a heavy dose of Southern hospitality and decadent culinary delights but twirls you around with its vibrant gay scene and trendsetting boutiques. Trust and believe Mobile is where the past marries the present, creating a dazzling dance of history, culture, and queer fabulousness that will leave your heart full and your bags even fuller!

GAY MYRTLE BEACH

Darlings, let’s spill the tea on a seaside gem that’s serving sun, fun, and a splash of queer magic: Myrtle Beach! Don’t be fooled by her humble façade; beneath those sun-kissed dunes lies a pulsating heart that embraces every shade of the rainbow, making her a sizzling hotbed for LGBTQ+ wanderlust. Whether you’re voguing beside the iconic SkyWheel or sashaying down ‘The Grand Strand,’ Myrtle Beach is that underrated diva who’ll serve you history, adventure, and a dollop of fabulousness on a silver platter!

GAY NASHVILLE

Dive into the dazzling enigma that is Gay Nashville: It’s where Southern charm meets an unapologetic queer heartbeat, crafting a mesmerizing musical journey that promises both twangs of tradition and pulsating modern vibes. From the legacy of Dolly Parton to neon-lit nights that sing tales of acceptance, this city is a radiant testament to the harmonious dance of the past and the present. Honey, if you’re looking for a place where cowboy boots tap alongside stilettos, where music, acceptance, and sparkle meld seamlessly, then Nashville’s waiting with open arms and a sassy wink!

GAY NEW ORLEANS

Let the magnetic allure of Gay New Orleans enchant you! A city where sultry jazz notes blend seamlessly with the beats of your heart and the vibrant tapestry of cultures promises an experience as rich as a Creole dish.

Dive into this melting pot of history, art, and unrestrained passion; a city where every corner pulses with life and acceptance, beckoning LGBTQ+ souls to sashay down Bourbon Street, lose themselves in euphoric festivities, and relish the joy of being unapologetically fabulous. In New Orleans, every day is a celebration of life, love, and the enduring spirit of queerness.

GAY NEW YORK CITY

If you’re looking to dance to the beat of the world’s most fabulous drum, there’s only one city that beckons with electric allure: New York City! With its iconic gaybourhoods and an infectious spirit that’s bolder and prouder than anywhere else on the planet, Gay New York is not just a destination; it’s an experience, an emotion, a sashay down the runway of world-renowned queer culture.

From the historic cobblestones of Greenwich Village to the avant-garde festivities in Brooklyn’s House of Yes, every corner of this metropolis pulsates with pride and passion. Honey, pack your sparkliest ensemble because NYC is calling—and trust me, you’ll want to answer!

GAY OGUNQUIT

Honey, if you’re looking to be swept off your feet by New England’s magic, then Ogunquit, Maine, is your ultimate LGBTQ+ coastal romance! Picture this: a dreamy stroll down the Marginal Way, every step echoing the town’s vibrant gay legacy, while the symphony of crashing waves, passionate art scenes, and tantalizing cuisines beckons your senses. Darling, Ogunquit isn’t just a destination; it’s where your queer fairy tale comes to life.

GAY OKLAHOMA CITY

If you’re thinking Midwest and craving a slice of queer magic, let Oklahoma City surprise you! Often overlooked, this Southern belle has been secretly brewing a fabulously inclusive scene, blending rich tradition with a fresh, vibrant LGBTQ+ pulse. From the art-infused havens like the 21c Museum Hotel to the electric energy of Angles, there’s a sparkling gem in this city waiting for every glitter-hearted traveler. So, pack those sparkly boots and let OKC’s southern charm sweep you off your feet!

GAY ORLANDO

If you thought Orlando was just about fairy tales and roller coasters, think again! Peel back the pixie dust, and you’ll unveil a shimmering Gay Orlando pulsating with Latin beats, exuberant pride events, and neighborhoods buzzing with cosmopolitan verve.

This sun-soaked city not only knows how to throw a legendary party, but it stands as a testament to love’s enduring spirit, proving that even in the shadow of tragedy, love and unity dance on. So, pack your sequins and dancing shoes because in Gay Orlando, the dance floor awaits you, and honey, it’s fabulous!

GAY PALM SPRINGS

Dazzling desert dreams come alive in Gay Palm Springs, a shimmering oasis that magnetically draws the LGBTQ+ community into its sun-kissed embrace. From its retro-chic pulse and iconic mid-century architecture to a bustling nightlife that rivals global gay hotspots, Palm Springs isn’t just a destination; it’s a flamboyant declaration that the best party on Earth is happening right here, right now. Darling, pack those shades and shimmering swimwear; this desert gem awaits your fabulous arrival!

GAY PHILADELPHIA

Honey, if there’s a place where history meets hedonism, it’s Gay Philadelphia! This city is a fabulous fusion of iconic landmarks and flamboyant nights, where the bells of liberty harmonize with the beats of electric LGBTQ+ dance clubs.

With streets kissed by rainbows and tales of historic bravado, Philly isn’t just the cradle of American democracy; it’s a gay haven where every queer soul finds its rhythm. So, pack those glittery boots and join the parade because in Philadelphia, every cobblestone echoes with pride, and every corner invites you to embrace and celebrate your authentic self.

GAY PHOENIX

Honey, throw out those preconceptions and let’s spill the tea on Gay Phoenix! This sun-drenched oasis isn’t just about the scorching temps; it’s sizzling with a queer scene that will leave even the most seasoned jet-setters in awe.

Rising like a fabulous phoenix from the desert, this sprawling metropolis offers a unique blend of sunshine-soaked days and electrifying nights, proving that there’s more to Gay Phoenix than meets the eye. Prepare to be dazzled because this desert darling is on fire and waiting for you to dive into its radiant embrace!

GAY PITTSBURGH

Allow me to spill the tea on a glittering gem in the Rust Belt! Pittsburgh, often lauded for its industrial prowess, is bursting with queer energy and shimmering vibes that make it a must-visit destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Dive deep into the Warholian wonders of the Andy Warhol Museum by day and by night, sashay your way to the Blue Moon Bar, where drag queens reign supreme and the spotlight never dims. Amidst the steel and bridges, the heart of Gay Pittsburgh beats with passion, warmth, and fabulousness, ensuring every LGBTQ+ wanderer leaves with a story they’re dying to tell.

GAY PORTLAND

Ah, honey! If you’re searching for a city that’s a kaleidoscope of quirky, chic, and unabashedly queer, then Portland, Oregon , is your glittering gem. Marrying its iconic landscapes with a nightlife that’s as vibrant as a sequined jumpsuit, Gay Portland dazzles and dances to its beat – an anthem of love, acceptance, and sassy flair.

Whether you’re here for the tantalizing burlesque shows or the ethereal embrace of Mother Nature, this eccentric enclave is bound to leave a sprinkle of its fabulousness on your heart. Dive in, darling, and let Portland’s authentic rainbow hues illuminate your queer journey!

GAY PROVIDENCE

Pack your finest and set your sights on Providence, Rhode Island — a city that shimmers with queer energy and wraps you in a rainbow embrace like no other! Providence emerges as an unexpected beacon of LGBTQ+ celebration, where every corner pulsates with inclusivity, history, and unparalleled charm.

Not just a historical gem, this city is a glittering fusion of arts, gastronomy, and unabashed pride. So, darling, if you’re yearning for a destination that dazzles by day and electrifies by night, strut on down to Providence — where every day feels like a fabulous Pride parade!

GAY PROVINCETOWN

If you’re seeking a flamboyant fusion of history, art, and queer culture, then Gay Provincetown is your ultimate destination! An iconic haven at the tip of Cape Cod, ‘P-Town’ isn’t just a town; it’s an experience brimming with exuberance and a rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ stories that have left indelible marks on its sands. From its pulsating summer fiestas to its tranquil winter allure, Provincetown is a shimmering gem that promises not just a getaway, but a glorious embrace of everything fabulously queer.

GAY RALEIGH

Honey, if you’re chasing a Southern charm with a queer twist, let Raleigh be your next sojourn! This North Carolina gem dazzles not just with its radiant LGBTQ+ spirit but with a tantalizing blend of vibrant nightlife, drool-worthy eateries, and the ever-glowing warmth of Raleigh Pride. So, whether you’re dancing the night away or sipping cocktails in a chic bar, Gay Raleigh beckons you with open arms and a promise of unforgettable memories.

GAY REHOBOTH BEACH

If you’re hunting for that shimmering blend of sun, sea, and unadulterated queerness, look no further than Rehoboth Beach! Nestled in Delaware’s embrace, this petite coastal gem might boast a modest year-round headcount, but come summer, it metamorphoses into a scintillating LGBTQ+ haven, shimmering with charisma and allure. Trust me, the effervescence of Gay Rehoboth Beach, teeming with over 200 gay-owned businesses and beaches that sparkle with pride, is an East Coast secret you simply can’t afford to miss!

If you’re yearning for a splash of desert dazzle intertwined with mountain mystique, then look no further than Reno, the Biggest Little City in the World! While its LGBTQ+ pulse may play coy, once you’re in the know, you’ll discover an oasis of vibrant gay haunts and a digital tapestry of queer connections waiting to embrace you.

Amidst the shimmer of casinos and whispers of gold rush tales, Reno beckons the wanderlust-driven souls with its blend of history, nightlife, and the irresistible allure of Lake Tahoe’s splendor. So why wait? Reno is that fabulous gem, waiting to be unfurled and cherished by every vivacious traveler like you!

GAY SACRAMENTO

Darlings, if you’re searching for an under-the-radar gay haven with a sprinkle of history, culture, and politics, then Sacramento is your golden ticket! Nestled in the heart of California, this vibrant capital city serves you not just political realness but a flourishing gay scene in the Midtown neighborhood—especially around the fabulous Lavender Heights.

With an eclectic blend of queer-owned businesses, riveting annual LGBT festivals, and a rich tapestry of history and diversity, Gay Sacramento is an unsung gem that guarantees a kaleidoscopic experience you won’t soon forget.

GAY SALT LAKE CITY

Honey, if you haven’t sipped the splendidness that is Gay Salt Lake City, you’re in for a vivacious surprise! Nestled between towering peaks and a deeply-rooted history, Salt Lake City spins a tale where queer vitality thrives amidst natural wonders and cultural sanctuaries.

Here, alpine vistas share their space with shimmering disco balls, and you’re just as likely to be swept off your feet by a charming drag queen as by the view from a mountaintop. So, don those hiking boots by day and glittery heels by night, and dive headfirst into this dazzling dichotomy that only Gay Salt Lake City can offer!

GAY SAN ANTONIO

Let me spill some tea: San Antonio is Texas’s shimmering queer jewel that too often plays coy beneath the shadows of other well-known LGBTQ+ hotspots.

But make no mistake; Gay San Antonio is the eclectic fusion of Texan swagger and vibrant gay life, where the sparkle of the River Walk meets the beats of fabulous queer fiestas. A confluence of history, sass, and undeniable charm, this city wraps you in a sultry dance – promising wild nights, rich cultural tapestries, and the kind of southern hospitality that’ll make you swoon!

GAY SAN DIEGO

If you’re craving a destination that’s a potent cocktail of sun, sass, and sumptuous vibes, Gay San Diego is where you need to set sail! Shimmering beyond its past, this coastal haven is a radiant confluence of surfer allure, culinary wonders, and queer energy so infectious; it’ll make your heart skip a beat.

Dive into the vibrant tapestry of the Hillcrest district, where rainbow flags sway in rhythm with the Cali breeze, and every nook seems to whisper tales of pride and celebration. Amidst the golden beaches and soulful sunsets, let San Diego’s irresistible charm wrap you in a fabulous embrace, and trust me, honey, you’ll wonder why you didn’t arrive sooner!

GAY SAN FRANCISCO

When we utter the magical words “Gay San Francisco,” every fiber of fabulousness within you should be on high alert! This isn’t just any city; it’s a glittering haven of acceptance, activism, and unapologetic celebration.

Think of San Francisco as the shimmering North Star on the global LGBTQ+ compass – a divine intersection of history, culture, and revolutionary spirit. For those seeking to revel in a world where being queer isn’t just accepted but celebrated with gusto, San Francisco offers an invitation wrapped in a rainbow flag and sealed with a sassy wink. Dive in, and let’s toast to the queer utopia that’s been setting the gold standard for decades!

GAY SAN JUAN

Oh, honey! San Juan isn’t just a stopover, it’s THE queer tropical dream. Imagine sashaying down cobbled streets, framed by Spanish colonial wonders, only to end up dancing the night away, surrounded by vivacious locals and fellow LGBTQ+ wanderers. From its pulsating beats to its rich historical tapestry, Gay San Juan invites you to don your most fabulous beach attire and immerse in a city that’s equal parts historic charm and modern queer celebration.

GAY SANTA CRUZ

Let’s talk Santa Cruz! Where the Pacific kisses golden sands, and counterculture thrives, Santa Cruz emerges as a sun-soaked utopia. Mingle with Silicon Valley moguls and hippy dreamers alike in this bohemian haven, and while the nightlife might not mirror Vegas’ dazzle, the town’s vibrant gay community promises events that shimmer with authenticity and pride. Dive deep into its charm and find yourself dancing to the rhythm of waves and acceptance in Gay Santa Cruz.

GAY SANTA FE

Honey, if you’re craving an intoxicating mix of art, history, and queer energy, look no further than the sun-kissed Santa Fe! Dubbed the “second gayest city” in the USA, Santa Fe isn’t just a melting pot of cultures; it’s a pulsating hub where every alleyway and adobe building exudes a spirit of acceptance, artistry, and unparalleled allure. From its buzzing queer scene to the labyrinth of galleries that celebrate creative genius, Santa Fe wraps you in a bohemian embrace that’s simply too fabulous to resist!

GAY SARASOTA

If you’re looking for a sun-kissed, culturally rich, and undeniably queer-friendly getaway, let Sarasota seduce you with its radiant charm. Beyond its sultry beaches and tantalizing gay nightlife, this Floridian gem beckons with a tapestry of history, adventure, and vibrant LGBTQ+ celebrations – a riveting blend that ensures Sarasota is far more than just a fleeting summer fling; it’s a passionate love affair waiting to unfold.

GAY SAUGATUCK

If you’re searching for a hidden gem that glitters with gay allure, look no further than the enchanting Saugatuck, Michigan! With a heart that beats passionately for its LGBTQ+ community, this petite beachside haven boasts over 140 queer-friendly establishments and the iconic Dunes Resort, ensuring every visit is sprinkled with fabulousness and flair.

Meanwhile, as you saunter through its historic streets or bask in the sun-kissed embrace of the world-renowned Oval Beach, you’ll quickly realize that Saugatuck’s charm transcends labels, offering a slice of paradise for every kind of traveler. Get ready, honey, because Saugatuck is serving some serious sizzle!

GAY SAVANNAH

Pack your sequins and southern charm because Savannah is the unsung gay belle of the ball you’ve been waiting to dance with! Imagine sipping a mint julep along the historic River Street, where queerness is as woven into the cityscape as the Spanish moss hanging from the trees, especially during their radiant Savannah Pride in October. From Forrest Gump’s iconic bench at Chippewa Square to an 18th-century backdrop that’s just begging for your Instagram moments, Savannah is a gay travel paradise hidden in a historical daydream.

GAY SEATTLE

Honey, if you’re dreaming of a city where innovation marries fabulousness, and progress walks hand in hand with pride, then look no further than Gay Seattle! Bursting at the seams with diverse neighborhoods, it’s Capitol Hill that steals the limelight, serving as the pulsating heart of LGBTQ+ life — from its myriad queer cafes to its flamboyantly fabulous nightlife.

Add in the city’s unwavering embrace of individuality and its natural beauty, and Seattle emerges not just as a destination but a vibrant experience, ever-evolving and unapologetically queer. Dive into this enchanting dance of diversity; Seattle’s calling, darling!

GAY ST. LOUIS

Honey, if you think the shimmering Gateway Arch is the only sparkle St. Louis has to offer, you’ve got another think coming! Beyond its emblematic moniker as the “Gateway to the West,” St. Louis emerges as a vivacious haven of LGBTQ+ revelry and camaraderie.

The rhythm of jazz might have put the city on the global map, but it’s the infectious beat of Gay St. Louis that keeps the heart pulsing, promising nights of unbridled joy, dancing, and delightful encounters. Dive deep into the queer nooks and crannies of this Midwestern jewel, and you’re bound to discover that when the sun sets, the true colors of Gay St. Louis shine brightest.

GAY ST. PETERSBURG

Pack your sunglasses and your sassiest swimwear because St. Petersburg, Florida, is calling all fabulous travelers to bask in its perennial sunshine! With a glittering gay scene that might just outshine its legendary 360 sun-soaked days a year, this coastal gem marries its rich tapestry of history with an audacious LGBTQ+ spirit that rivals even the most iconic pride celebrations.

Dive into the vibrant queer nightlife, and then indulge in its storied past, tracing back to ancient indigenous cultures and flamboyant Spanish explorers. In St. Petersburg, every sunray is a spotlight, and darling, it’s your time to shine!

Honey, pack those bags and prepare to be dazzled because Gay Tampa is the Floridian gem you’ve been missing out on! With its seductive blend of pioneering gastronomy, buzzing GaYbor district nightlife, and sultry sandy retreats, Tampa is ready to serve you sun-kissed adventures and memorable nights, making it an unmissable LGBTQ+ haven on Florida’s radiant Gulf Coast.

Let’s jet-set to Toledo, Ohio — an underrated queer haven where fabulousness meets rich history! Nestled in the heart of the rock and roll state, Toledo dazzles not just with its vibrant gay scene but also its profound roots from ancient civilizations, iconic art havens, and the shimmer of the glass industry.

Whether you’re swaying to beats in a trendy gay club or basking in the glow of the Toledo Museum of Art, this gem promises an unforgettable blend of culture, camaraderie, and charm. Honey, pack those glittery boots; Toledo’s calling!

Honey, if you’re seeking an eclectic fusion of rich history, radiant nightlife, and dazzling desert landscapes, let’s tango in Tucson! This Arizonian gem, shimmering under the vast Southwestern skies, surprises and sizzles with its bustling gay scene, inviting you to indulge in both its vibrant City of Gastronomy delights and its queer party vibes. So pack your dancing shoes and your adventure spirit, and let Gay Tucson enchant you with its unique blend of old-world charm and contemporary zest.

Let’s raise the curtain on Gay Tulsa, the unexpected gem of the Midwest! Beyond its jazz riffs and the allure of Route 66, Tulsa sparkles with an LGBTQ+ scene as vibrant as its art deco skyline, promising every queer traveler a delightful mix of history, culture, and electric nightlife.

Dive deep, and you’ll find that beneath its oil-rich legacy, Tulsa beats with a passionate gay heart, offering everything from sultry art galleries to thumping dance floors. So why not indulge? After all, in Gay Tulsa, every day feels like a fabulous parade, and honey, you’re always the star!

GAY WASHINGTON DC

Dive into Gay Washington, DC and unearth a treasure trove of queer delights that rival any major metropolis! From the pulsating beats of Dupont Circle to the avant-garde thrills of Adams-Morgan, DC isn’t just about politics—it’s a vivid tapestry of diversity, acceptance, and non-stop celebrations, waiting for every queer traveler to revel in its glory. So, put on those glittery boots, and let’s strut down the corridors of DC’s unparalleled LGBTQ scene!

GAY WEST HOLLYWOOD

Let’s get one thing straight: West Hollywood is the dazzling queer jewel of California. Bursting with vibrant gay bars, iconic LGBTQ+ landmarks, and an undeniable energy, “WeHo” is where history meets hedonism, and honey, it’s fabulous!

Dive deep into its storied past—from the sacred grounds of the Tongva tribe to the glittering rise of the Sunset Strip—and then sashay through the streets, where the modern beat of gay life plays on. Whether you’re sunbathing in Santa Monica or chasing those Hollywood dreams, a trip to Gay West Hollywood promises endless enchantment with a touch of sass!

GAY WEST PALM BEACH

Honey, if sun-soaked fantasies of hunky men in banana hammocks paired with pristine beaches set your heart aflutter, then West Palm Beach is calling your fabulous name! Dive into this sultry Floridian jewel where culture, nightlife, and golden sands flirtatiously dance together, ensuring that every LGBTQ+ wanderer leaves with a heart full of memories and a tan to die for.

GAY WILTON MANORS

Honey, if you’re scouting for an underrated queer haven bathed in sunshine, then let Wilton Manors lure you in with its sassy charm! Dubbed the “second gayest city in America,” this Floridian gem boasts a pulsating LGBTQ+ scene, rich indigenous history, and a spirited vibrancy that dances to the tunes of the legendary Stonewall Riots. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail in a fabulous bar or hopping on a train for a coastal escapade, Wilton Manors promises a dazzling kaleidoscope of queer adventures and sun-kissed memories.

If you’ve yet to indulge in the vibrant allure of Queens, New York, then prepare for a sensory extravaganza! Bursting with Latin flair and an effervescent gay scene, Queens beckons with the raw authenticity of its neighborhoods and a culinary tapestry that’s nothing short of intoxicating. Unapologetically eclectic, this borough promises an immersive journey of discovery where every corner serenades you with tales of diversity, passion, and unbridled joie de vivre.

11 under-the-radar LGBTQ beach destinations

Beach culture has been an integral part of LGBTQ travel for decades, since the emergence of now world-famous gay resort meccas like Provincetown, Massachusetts; Mykonos, Greece; Key West, Florida; Sitges, Spain; and Brighton, England.

These days, queer travelers flock to dozens of enticing beaches, from secluded spots where you're free to sunbathe au naturel to festive party playgrounds flanked by world-class resorts and gay nightlife districts.

Some of the world's most amazing beaches are still relatively unknown — at least, internationally. Try one of these 11 LGBTQ-favored seaside getaways as you plan your next coastal adventure.

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Kauai, Hawaii

The least populated and most ruggedly spectacular of Hawaii 's four largest islands, Kauai is hard to beat if you're looking to commune with nature or laze on a tranquil beach with nothing but the sound of the surf as your soundtrack. Two of Kauai's popular LGBTQ beaches — Lydgate Beach Park and Paliku Beach — can be found on the lush eastern (or windward) shore.

Centrally located Lydgate Beach Park draws more sizable and eclectic crowds and offers close proximity to plenty of fun options for post-beachcombing cocktails. There's also a section enclosed by jetties that's ideal for swimming.

If it's complete serenity you're after, head to Paliku (aka Donkey) Beach. The magic begins with a stroll from the parking area through the Tree Tunnel, a gently sloping pathway beneath a canopy of verdant vegetation. Once you reach the stunning golden sand you can bliss out for hours, often in near solitude — just keep in mind that the rough surf here makes swimming treacherous.

Paliku Beach is an especially enjoyable place to decompress after hiking the spectacular sea cliffs of Kauai's Napali Coast or the otherworldly red-clay bluffs of Waimea Canyon.

Related: Book this, not that: Hawaii resorts edition

Zipolite, Mexico

Set amid the towering sea stacks and rocky ramparts of Mexico 's dramatic Oaxacan coast, Zipolite sits along a string of minimally developed beach villages — there's not a high-rise or internationally branded resort in sight.

Bohemians, yoga enthusiasts, surfers and free spirits have been vacationing here and in neighboring Mazunte for years, and although it's far less touristy and pricey than Puerto Vallarta or Tulum, this former fishing village offers a growing number of stylish boutique hotels such as El Alquimista and Hotel Noga.

Many queer visitors come to experience the inclusive vibes and surreal beauty of Playa del Amor, a clothing-optional, horseshoe-shaped sandy cove nestled between cliffs and massive boulders. All day long, and especially at sunset, this compact beach on the eastern edge of town offers a delightful mix of socializing and seclusion, while an unpretentious beach bar dispenses micheladas and fresh coconuts.

Fringed with palapa-roofed ceviche restaurants, Zipolite's main beach stretches along the crashing surf for another mile or so and is every bit as gorgeous. Several airlines make the 75-minute flight from Mexico City to Puerto Escondido and Huatulco, which are each about a 90-minute drive from Zipolite.

Related: 14 of TPG's favorite points hotels on the beach in Mexico

Durban, South Africa

Cape Town may receive more international attention, but South Africa's third-largest city is arguably more appealing for a beach vacation. The consistently warm waters of the Indian Ocean make this LGBTQ-welcoming city ideal for swimming, surfing, bodyboarding and sunbathing, and the tropical climate is mild year-round, though it can get muggy during Durban's wet summers (from October to April).

This lively and diverse port city on South Africa 's east coast has plenty of oceanfront hotels and is just an hour or two by plane from Johannesburg and Cape Town. Durban is fringed by a stretch of breathtaking beaches known as the Golden Mile, with lively North Beach just a few minutes' drive from the gay cafes and bars of the colorful Morningside neighborhood.

Just a short drive up the coast you can mingle with locals and laze in the sun at LGBTQ-popular Virginia Beach (next to a small, private airport) when you're not lounging on the section of sand adjacent to Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve in the affluent town of Umhlanga.

With several upscale hotels within walking distance of the beach and the town's Instagram-worthy Whalebone Pier, Umhlanga is an appealing base for exploring the region. You'll find everything from five-star beach hotels to budget-friendly outposts from brands like Hilton and IHG.

When it's time to satiate your appetite, be sure to sample a bunny chow, a local street food consisting of a loaf of crusty bread hollowed out and filled with spicy curry. Durban is home to one of the world's largest concentrations of Asian Indian immigrants, so it's packed with superb Indian restaurants.

Lisbon, Portugal

Although Spain is where several of Europe's most iconic gay beach destinations (we're looking at you, Sitges and Ibiza) are located, neighboring Portugal is rapidly gaining ground in popularity, with the hilly and historic capital, Lisbon, leading the charge.

One of Europe's top vacation values, Lisbon offers a heady mix of vaunted restaurants, well-preserved Roman ruins, buzzy art museums and inviting queer bars. The latter are set mostly along the quaint cobbled lanes of the Bairro Alto district.

This dynamic metropolis at the confluence of the Tagus River and the Atlantic Ocean is just a half-hour drive from Beach 19, the country's most beloved LGBTQ sunbathing locale. This beautiful clothing-optional beach is set against gentle dunes and occupies an undeveloped span of the Costa da Caparica, which is blessed with sunny and generally dry (at least, from March through September) weather.

Looking for refreshments? From Beach 19, you can walk just 10 to 15 minutes south to the breezy beach bars of Fonte da Telha.

Related: Traveling to Portugal: 7 things to know before you go

Ogunquit, Maine

While Provincetown may be New England's better-known LGBTQ beach destination, this charming, historic, seaside village on the coast of southern Maine has its draws. Set along a jagged, rocky swatch of shoreline that looks like it belongs in a Winslow Homer painting, this dapper village of clapboard bed-and-breakfast accommodations and eateries has been an artists' colony since the late 19th century.

The exceptional Ogunquit Museum of American Art and the Ogunquit Playhouse, which presents acclaimed summer stock musicals, carry on the village's rich artistic tradition.

The queer beach scene here is relaxed and fun, and from the south end of the long and sandy beach it's just a 10-minute walk to the town's gay bars and restaurants. You can also stroll along Marginal Way, a paved pathway along the granite ledges that fringe the ocean, to Perkins Cove, a quaint fishing village that abounds with lobster shacks.

Should you crave a bit more variety, you're in luck: A few more beaches and an acclaimed dining scene can be found just 45 minutes up the coast in Portland, Maine.

Bali, Indonesia

Thailand — and Taiwan, to a lesser degree — are undoubtedly better known and more established among Asia's LGBTQ beach destinations, but blissful Bali 's gay cachet has risen rapidly in recent years. This mountainous, volcanic island slightly smaller than the state of Delaware is famed for its biodiversity and artistic traditions, not to mention its bounty of posh spa resorts.

The only Hindu-majority province in Indonesia, Bali has a relatively welcoming attitude toward the LGBTQ community. This is especially apparent near the southern tip of the island around the Seminyak resort area and just to the north at gay-friendly Batu Belig Beach.

You'll typically encounter plenty of queer vacationers sunning and swimming in these parts, and there are several swanky gay-favored spa resorts nearby, including the W Bali and The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa. In the evening, the scene moves a couple of miles inland to Seminyak's Jalan Camplung Tanduk quarter, which is home to festive gay clubs like Mixwell Bar and BaliJoe Bar.

Related: Off the beaten path in Bali: 10 ways to see the island beyond the beach

Santa Catarina Island, Brazil

This sunny, verdant island in southeastern Brazil stretches 33 miles and offers some of the most alluring beaches in the country, along with an abundance of stylish resorts, from full-service Il Campanario Villaggio Resort in the tiny beach town of Jurere to the stylishly intimate Hotel Boutique Quinta das Videiras in Florianopolis. The latter is close to Praia Mole, a crescent-shaped beach backed by emerald hills that LGBTQ sunbathers flock to.

Although Santa Catarina Island has become a favored gay weekend getaway among those seeking a less party-driven alternative to pulsing Rio de Janeiro, which is less than 90 minutes away by plane, you can still find opportunities here for revelry. In Florianopolis, there's dancing until dawn on weekends at Jivago Social Club, Conca Club and other queer nightspots.

Another bonus: This lush island, which is roughly twice the size of Martha's Vineyard, offers gorgeous hikes through the rugged mountains of Sao Joaquim National Park and the otherworldly sands of the Joaquina dune field.

Related: 5 expert tips when booking award travel to South America

Portland, Oregon

A progressive hub of craft coffee and beer, indie arts, shopping, hiking and biking, Oregon 's largest city lies 80 miles inland but is nevertheless close to a pair of captivating queer sun spots: Collins Beach and Rooster Rock.

Collins Beach lies 25 miles north of downtown Portland on placid Sauvie Island. While it's a pretty drive by car, fans of cycling might consider renting a bike and pedaling here, stopping to gather sweet marionberries and juicy peaches at one of the island's colorful farm stands.

Rooster Rock State Park is 25 miles in the opposite direction from Portland and is set beneath the sheer and lushly forested cliffs of the Columbia River Gorge. From the parking area, follow the signs east to the officially sanctioned clothing-optional stretch of sand — the thicket of rainbow flags and beach blankets will clue you in that you've arrived. Rooster Rock's array of secluded nooks and crannies make it ideal for those seeking a quieter and more private day at the beach.

Marseille, France

Much of France 's LGBTQ beach scene is centered around Nice and the adjacent French Riviera, but this colorful port city is where you'll find the country's oldest gay beach, Mont Rose. Adjacent to the scenic fishing village of La Madrague and accessible via a 45-minute bus ride south from central Marseille, this picturesque expanse of craggy ledges draws a predominantly gay male crowd, and nude sunbathing is popular.

Marseille's gritty reputation, which was solidified by its starring role in the Oscar-winning 1971 crime thriller "The French Connection," has softened a bit over the years. In 2013, this diverse city featuring a lively queer scene hosted EuroPride.

You'll find a handful of appealing accommodations, including the luxe C2 Hotel and the old-world, yet chic, Hotel Maison Montgrand Vieux Port, in or near the charming Old Port district, which is also home to several gay bars and restaurants specializing in bouillabaisse, Marseille's most celebrated dish.

Related: 10 of the best points hotels in France

Port Douglas, Australia

Home to Australia 's most famous LGBTQ hotel, the Turtle Cove Beach Resort, as well as the gay-owned Pink Flamingo Resort and a bevy of vacation rentals, the former gold-mining hub of Port Douglas is one of the Southern Hemisphere's premier gay beach retreats. It's just a 45-minute drive from the small city of Cairns (which is a three-hour flight from Sydney ) at the northern tip of Queensland.

Port Douglas' Four Mile Beach is the stretch of sand to prioritize, as it overlooks the turquoise waters of the Coral Sea and features stunning golden sand to walk at sunrise or sunset.

Those keen on scuba diving and/or snorkeling will love that the town offers direct access to the Great Barrier Reef, while hikers and wildlife enthusiasts flock here to explore the natural wonders of the Daintree Rainforest. For a sneak preview of this beautiful little slice of paradise, hop onto YouTube to seek out Kylie Minogue's bubblegum-pop video "It's No Secret," which was filmed entirely on location in Port Douglas in the late '80s.

Related: Luxury on the Great Barrier Reef: A dreamy trip to the InterContinental Hayman Island

St. Petersburg, Florida

No city in Florida has experienced a more dramatic renaissance during the past couple of decades than St. Petersburg, which now buzzes with superb art spaces (including the striking Salvador Dalí Museum), hip restaurants, a newly rebuilt pier extending into scenic Tampa Bay and the trendy and LGBTQ-popular Historic Kenwood retail and entertainment district.

With 35 miles of sugary white sand beaches fringing the Gulf of Mexico, surrounding Pinellas County is also a fantastic destination for a relaxing seaside vacation.

The area's calm waters are ideal for swimming, kayaking and fishing, and there are a couple of spots with a pronounced queer presence. You'll find more of a party vibe at Sunset Beach, a haven for LGBTQ beachgoers on Treasure Island. The beach is a short drive from a number of stylish accommodations, such as The Saint Hotel and Hotel Zamora.

A bit more tranquil and beckoning to a slightly more mixed crowd, Pass-a-Grille Beach sits adjacent to the historic village of the same name. It offers several inviting seafood restaurants with waterfront terraces that are perfect for sunset cocktails.

Related: 13 of the best beaches in Florida

Passing Thru Travel

Safe Havens: Top 10 LGBTQ+ Travel Destinations

Posted: March 24, 2024 | Last updated: March 24, 2024

Embarking on LGBTQ+ travel opens a world of vibrant communities, inclusive events, and welcoming destinations celebrating diversity and freedom of expression. From bustling metropolises known for their groundbreaking rights movements to tranquil retreats offering an open-minded atmosphere, the world is full of destinations that cater to the LGBTQ+ traveler.

The LGBTQ+ Community

Image Credit: Shutterstock / lazyllama

Traveling as a member of the LGBTQ+ community can be a powerful experience. It’s an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, explore the richness of global LGBTQ+ culture, and celebrate identity in spaces designed to be welcoming and safe.

The destinations highlighted in this guide are renowned for their progressive attitudes, vibrant LGBTQ+ scenes, and significant cultural contributions to the global LGBTQ+ community. From the historic streets of San Francisco to the sun-drenched beaches of Mykonos, each destination offers a unique blend of attractions, events, and community spaces that cater specifically to LGBTQ+ travelers.

1. San Francisco, USA

Image Credit: Pexels / Pixabay

San Francisco is often hailed as the LGBTQ+ capital of the world, thanks to its pioneering role in the rights movement and its vibrant community. The Castro district, in particular, is a beacon of LGBTQ+ culture, with rainbow flags adorning many buildings, numerous LGBTQ+ bars, shops, and cultural institutions.

The city’s history is rich with milestones, including the election of Harvey Milk, one of the first openly gay elected officials in the U.S. San Francisco also hosts one of the largest and most renowned Pride celebrations globally, drawing visitors from all corners of the earth.

2. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Harry Beugelink

Amsterdam stands out for its long-standing tradition of tolerance and acceptance, making it a haven for LGBTQ+ travelers. The city was home to the world’s first gay bar and hosts an array of LGBTQ+ events throughout the year, including the famous Amsterdam Pride, known for its unique canal parade.

The vibrant Reguliersdwarsstraat street is the heart of Amsterdam’s LGBTQ+ nightlife, offering various bars, clubs, and cafes. Amsterdam also prides itself on its cultural offerings, with numerous museums and institutions exploring LGBTQ+ themes and history.

3. Berlin, Germany

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Patino

Berlin’s reputation as a leading LGBTQ+ destination is well-earned, with its progressive culture, extensive history, and dynamic nightlife. The city’s LGBTQ+ scene, centered around the Schöneberg district since the 1920s, offers a vast array of bars, clubs, and cafes, catering to a diverse spectrum of the community.

Berlin is also home to the Schwules Museum, one of the world’s first museums dedicated to LGBTQ+ history and culture. Events like the Berlin Pride (CSD) and the queer arts festival, Berlinale, highlight the city’s ongoing commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and expression.

4. Toronto, Canada

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Spiroview Inc

Toronto is celebrated for its multiculturalism, which extends warmly to the LGBTQ+ community. The Church-Wellesley Village is the cultural hub for LGBTQ+ Torontonians, hosting lively bars, restaurants, and shops.

Toronto Pride, one of the largest Pride celebrations in the world, transforms the city into a vibrant festival of diversity each June. Additionally, Toronto’s LGBTQ+ Film Festival, Inside Out, and numerous community events throughout the year, demonstrate the city’s inclusive spirit.

5. Sydney, Australia

Image Credit: Shutterstock / CandyRetriever

Sydney is not only Australia’s largest city but also its most LGBTQ+ friendly, hosting the world-renowned Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. This annual event, taking place in February and March, features a parade, parties, and cultural events that draw visitors from around the globe. Beyond Mardi Gras, Sydney offers beautiful beaches, an iconic opera house, and a lively LGBTQ+ scene centered in the Darlinghurst and Newtown neighborhoods.

6. Barcelona, Spain

Image Credit: Shutterstock / eldar nurkovic

Barcelona combines a rich cultural heritage with a lively contemporary LGBTQ+ scene. The city’s Eixample district, known locally as “Gaixample,” is home to a vibrant community, with LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and shops dotting its grid-like streets.

Barcelona Pride and the Circuit Festival are major annual events that celebrate the city’s diversity with parades, parties, and cultural activities. Barcelona’s architecture, Mediterranean beaches, and gastronomy offer a well-rounded travel experience.

7. Copenhagen, Denmark

Image Credit: Pexels / Daniel Jurin

Copenhagen is famed for its design, gastronomy, and as a pioneer in LGBTQ+ rights. The city’s historic LGBTQ+ district, centered around Studiestræde, offers a mix of bars, cafes, and shops.

In August, Copenhagen Pride showcases the city’s commitment to LGBTQ+ rights with a week-long celebration. The city’s bike-friendly streets, green spaces, and historic landmarks, including the Tivoli Gardens and Nyhavn, add to its charm.

8. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Image Credit: Pexels / Wesley Souza

As the first Latin American city to legalize same-sex marriage, Buenos Aires is a beacon of LGBTQ+ rights in the region. The city’s LGBTQ+ nightlife is concentrated in the Palermo and San Telmo neighborhoods, offering many bars, clubs, and cultural events. Buenos Aires Pride takes place in November, celebrating the community with a parade through the heart of the city.

Additionally, the Argentine capital is renowned for its tango culture, which includes LGBTQ+-friendly milongas (tango dance events) where visitors can experience the country’s iconic dance in an inclusive environment.

9. Provincetown, Massachusetts, USA

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Dee Browning

Provincetown, located at the tip of Cape Cod, is a small coastal resort town with a big reputation as an LGBTQ+ haven. Known affectionately as “P-Town,” this destination is celebrated for its beautiful beaches, art scene, and welcoming atmosphere.

Provincetown has a rich history of LGBTQ+ culture and is famous for its lively Commercial Street, where galleries, shops, and restaurants buzz with activity. The town hosts numerous events throughout the year, including the renowned Provincetown Pride, Carnival, and Women’s Week, drawing visitors from all corners for celebrations and community gatherings.

10. Tel Aviv, Israel

Image Credit: Shutterstock / Ruslan Paul

Tel Aviv stands out in the Middle East as a beacon of LGBTQ+ rights and culture, boasting a vibrant community and one of the region’s largest Pride parades. The city’s LGBTQ+ life is centered around Hilton Beach, while the Shenkin Street area offers an array of LGBTQ+-friendly cafes, bars, and shops.

Tel Aviv Pride, taking place in June, transforms the city into a colorful celebration of diversity, with parties, cultural events, and a beach parade that attracts visitors from around the globe. Beyond Pride, Tel Aviv’s rich history, Mediterranean beaches, and dynamic nightlife offer an appealing destination year-round.

The Bottom Line

Image Credit: Shutterstock / PeopleImages.com – Yuri A

As you plan your travels, remember that LGBTQ+-friendly travel lies in supporting the communities you visit—whether through patronizing local LGBTQ+ businesses, participating in Pride events, or simply being an ally and a respectful visitor. The world is full of destinations waiting to be explored, each offering a chance to connect with like-minded individuals, celebrate love in all its forms, and create unforgettable memories.

So, pack your bags with an open heart and an adventurous spirit, ready to enjoy the experiences that await. Whether you’re seeking the party of a lifetime, a cultural immersion, or a peaceful retreat, the world’s top LGBTQ+ travel destinations offer something for everyone. Embrace the journey, for every step you take is a step towards a more inclusive and understanding world. Happy travels!

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The post Safe Havens: Top 10 LGBTQ+ Travel Destinations republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Nuva Frames.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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Gay travel guide: The best places to visit in Greece

LGBTQ+ travel is all about inclusivity, which is great because when you visit Greece, you truly get it all. Bustling city streets, islands full of queer nightlife, and quaint beachfront romance can all be part of your gay Greek travel experience.

Stunning landscapes and legendary hospitality prove that the inviting local culture is as warm as the sun-drenched beaches. From ancient history to vibrant modernity, you don’t need an archaeologist to discover the best places to visit in Greece.

Is Greece LGBT-friendly?

Greece offers a rich cultural tapestry that’s as diverse as its landscape. While this guide will focus on gay-friendly Greek destinations, there are places where LGBTQ+ travelers may not be as welcomed. It’s essential to familiarise yourself with local laws and customs.

Typically, small islands and rural locations in Greece are more conservative than touristic islands and large cities. While this is true in even the most progressive countries, it’s important to note that the Greek Orthodox Church has a significant influence on society. The church has also made its opinions on gender identity and sexual orientation well known with a clear opposition to LGBTQ+ rights.

Despite opposition from the church and some politicians, Greece recently became the first Orthodox nation to recognise same-sex marriage. The same legislation grants parental and adoption rights to same-sex couples.

While anti-discrimination laws in Greece protect LGBTQ+ locals and travelers, incidents of violence against the community continue to occur. Within a month of the celebrated bill confirming LGBTQ+ marriage and parental rights, an attack on two transgender people in Thessaloniki overshadowed the historic legislation. The advancement of gay rights in Greece doesn’t mean safety and acceptance are universally guaranteed across the country, especially for transgender travelers.

Exercise caution and discretion in smaller towns and conservative areas that are less touristy. While the public is generally open-minded, public displays of affection can draw unwanted and negative attention in many areas of Greece.

While it’s rare you will need them, here are some emergency numbers to keep handy while visiting Greece.

• Emergency: 112
• Ambulance: 166
• Tourist Police: 171

The best places to visit in Greece for gay travelers

I'm thrilled to recommend my favorite Greek destinations. From the well-known to local hidden gems, I have curated this list of the best places to visit in Greece with the LGBTQ+ traveler in mind. Of course, our community is as diverse and unique as the destinations themselves, and I’m certain there is something for all of us.

Thessaloniki

Greece’s second-largest city, Thessaloniki, is easily one of the best places to visit in Greece for any gay traveler. It quickly developed a reputation as one of Greece’s up-and-coming gay destinations and is especially popular with the lesbian community. Visitors of all backgrounds make their way to Thessaloniki for the laid-back atmosphere and coastal vibes that will put you instantly at ease.

The city is known as a cultural centre of Greece, is capital of the Macedonia region, and boasts a large student population. As you may imagine, this type of city boasts a popular nightlife, but there are stunning beaches in Thessaloniki and incredible sites from Roman, Byzantine, and mediaeval history.

Thessaloniki Pride is the highlight of the LGBTQ+ calendar in Thessaloniki. In 2024 the event is expected to break attendance records as Thessaloniki will be the official Euro Pride host city. The city won a bid to host the event in 2020, but it was sadly canceled that year.

With pent up anticipation, Thessaloniki is ready to launch Euro Pride on Friday 21 June with a long-awaited opening ceremony concert and full, ten-day calendar of festivities. The main event of Euro Pride will be the parade, fair, and closing concert on Saturday 29 June.

The Greek capital needs no introduction. Athens is steeped in history, art, culture, cuisine, and it’s as iconic as its namesake, Athena, herself. While it’s an obvious pick for a list of the best places to visit in Greece for gay travelers, it’s far from a basic one.

History lovers should climb the Acropolis and stand in awe of the Parthenon and ancient Greek monuments. The cobblestoned neighborhood below, Plaka, sits in the shadow of the Acropolis and feels like a small village with adorable cafes and cute shops. Do some souvenir shopping, stop for a meal, or visit one of the tavernas in this adorable part of the city.

If you’re looking for gay nightlife in Athens, head to Gazi, a neighborhood known for bars, cafes, and nightclubs that cater to the LGBTQ+ community. Athens is a natural starting point and a destination in Greece where the acceptance and progress of modern Greece resonates the strongest.

Since 2005, Athens has hosted a lively Pride Celebration in Klafthmonos Square. Athens Pride 2024 is slated for 14-16 June, one week before Euro Pride in Thessaloniki begins. Everyone loves a combo deal, and this makes 2024 perfect for visiting Greece’s capital and second-city for back-to-back weeks of Pride.

Long considered a playground for the gay community, Mykonos is the most popular Greek island for the LGBTQ+ tourists. The vibrant nightlife, open-minded locals, and picturesque landscape are the reasons why.

Chora, or Mykonos Town, the island’s capital and hub of attractions, is the place to stay if you want to be in the centre of the scene. It’s everything you imagine a Greek island city to be - a maze of streets lined by whitewashed cubic houses with bright blue wooden doors.

No trip to Mykonos is complete without a trip to Elia Beach. You’ll see why it’s named among the best gay beaches in Mykonos, Greece if not all of Europe. If you’re looking for a party you can find a plethora of beach bars including at LGBTQ+ venues. The gay nightlife in Mykonos is just as enticing, or you can sit in the shadow of the iconic Mykonos Windmills along Little Venice as the waves of the bay crash onto the walkway.

Finding gay and gay-friendly accommodation is not a problem in Mykonos, but expect to pay a premium on the island. This is especially true during late August when the party scene is flooded with LGBTQ+ tourists, especially gay men visiting the XLSIOR Festival. This international gay party attracts over 30,000 visitors and is taking place 22-28 August 2024.

It may not have the gay nightlife of Mykonos, but Santorini is a vibrant island paradise that should be atop your travel list. Santorini is a naturally formed volcanic island with breathtaking topography jutting up from the Aegean Sea. Popular with couples, the island is world-renowned for its sunsets and the best can be viewed from the northern city of Fira.

Santorini is home to ancient ruins, wineries, and colorful beaches. From the volcanic eruption that formed the island, different layers were exposed and gave way to the famous Black Beach, Red Beach, and White Beach. It won’t take long for you to see why Santorini is one of the best places to visit in Greece.

The stunning island of Sifnos is getting increasingly popular with travelers but until recently it maintained hidden gem status, known only to Greek locals. In fact, I never would have known about Sifnos until I tagged along on that family vacation with my Greek friend.

Despite its increased profile, Sifnos is one of the best places to visit in Greece for mellow island vibes and a relaxed atmosphere. Sifnos is an ideal escape for couples, rainbow families, and travelers seeking an affordable Greek island getaway.

On Sifnos, you’ll find remote beaches, cosy fishing villages, and well-maintained hiking trails. It’s also a great island to sample Greek cuisine. There are traditional tavernas and restaurants all over Sifnos and ample nightlife, especially in Apollonia, the island’s largest city. Don’t forget to visit local shops for souvenirs from Sifnos, because the island is famous for its pottery.

Even if it isn’t as well known to the gay community, Crete is one of the best places to visit in Greece. It’s full of exquisite dining, shopping, and history, so it truly has something for everyone.

LGBTQ+ travelers can feel safe in Crete, but exercise caution outside of the main cities. Still, Crete is full of resorts, beaches, and bars that welcome queer visitors. The main cities of Heraklion and Chania are especially LGBTQ-friendly destinations.

For couples, consider the city of Elounda, it’s one of the most romantic places in Crete.

How do I plan a gay holiday in Greece?

Before you sashay away to your Greek holiday, you may feel overwhelmed. LGBTQ+ Greece has been millennia in the making, and you’ve only been planning this trip for a minuscule portion of that time. Fear not - trip planning can often seem intimidating, but with some help, it can be an Aegean Breeze.

To ease your mind let’s cycle through some planning tips and address the most frequently asked questions about travel to Greece. Soon you’ll have everything sorted and a packed itinerary with the best places to visit in Greece ready to be discovered.

When is the best time to visit Greece?

It will come as no surprise that peak season, from mid-June through August, is the busiest tourist season in Greece. During this period, you should expect peak crowds, the warmest temperatures, and prices that match the increased demand.

The shoulder seasons, just before and after peak season, often provide great weather, lower crowds, and more affordable prices on flights and accommodation. Consider the periods of April through early June or September and October for shoulder season. You’ll enjoy outdoor activities without the summer heat and historical attractions with lower crowds.

Winter season from November through March offers mild temperatures with few crowds. Greece isn’t known as a winter destination, although you can enjoy ski resorts in the northern mountains. In this period you’ll experience a different side of Greece that many tourists don’t bother exploring.

Since ancient times, Greek culture has been full of celebrations and festivals. Lucky for you, this hasn’t changed and festivals are a great time to book a trip to gay Greece. Greek cultural, music, and religious festivals are held throughout the year and in June 2024 you can head to Thessaloniki Pride, which marks 2024 Europride.

How do I get to the best places to visit in Greece?

Most travellers from abroad begin their Greek holiday in Athens International Airport, but some of the most popular islands like Santorini and Mykonos have their own airports.

Once you arrive, you’ll discover that getting around is just as exhilarating as spending time in the best places to visit in Greece. You’ll find the Greek public transportation system reliable, organized, and convenient.

Trains and buses connect much of mainland Greece and ferries connect travelers to the sunny Greek islands. Be sure to plan ahead and pre-purchase transportation when possible. This is especially important when travelling between islands where there may be limited ferries or flights per day.

Even far-flung Greek destinations are reachable without a car, but a car hire is often the most efficient way to travel around Greece.

How do I use money in Greece?

In 2001 Greece adopted the Euro, which is convenient if you’re visiting other countries on the Euro. If it’s your first time visiting the country or you haven’t had a Greek vacation in some time, you may be wondering, “do I need cash in Greece?” The short answer is yes, but you can get by with a debit or credit card in most cases.

Card payment was not as common when I first visited Greece, but over the last decade, it’s become the most popular form of payment. Tipping is also customary in Greece and it’s expected to leave a 10-15% tip for excellent service. Having some cash handy for smaller establishments and tips is wise.

How do I prepare for a vacation in Greece?

English is widely spoken among the younger generations and staff you may encounter during your vacation in Greece. Still, learning some basic phrases will enhance your time in Greece and show that you’re embracing the local culture. The Greek people are warm and friendly, so greeting someone with “kalimera” (good morning) or “kalispera” (good afternoon) can go a long way.

Stay up to date on the local weather forecasts before you travel to Greece and pack accordingly. Summer weather in Greece can be incredibly hot, even at night. If you plan to visit churches, monasteries, or other sacred places during your trip to Greece, you’ll need modest clothing for these sites.

Remember to stay well-hydrated, especially in the summer sun or when consuming alcohol. You don’t want to miss a day of Pride fun in Thessaloniki because drinking in the June sun left you dehydrated. Tap water in Greece is safe to drink, but bottled water is also available for those who prefer it.

Follow these tips, bookmark this LGBTQ+ travel guide of the best places to visit in Greece, and you’ll have a Greek trip for the ages.

For more gay-friendly travel advice check out LGBTQ+ travel page.

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21 top pride parades and celebrations in the u.s..

Explore the biggest gatherings and unique events celebrating LGBTQ communities from coast to coast.

Top Pride Parades and Celebrations

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Many U.S. cities celebrate Pride with exciting parades, marches, festivals and more.

On June 28, 1969, in the New York City neighborhood of Greenwich Village, police raided a popular gay bar: the Stonewall Inn. Fed up with the frequent raids and harassment from law enforcement, both patrons and local residents began to fight back, leading to six days of protests and clashes between LGBTQ people and police.

The world-famous Stonewall built on years of LGBTQ activism. Similar homophobic and transphobic persecution by police had previously sparked other uprisings in the U.S., such as nearly three years earlier in San Francisco at Gene Compton's Cafeteria, or a decade before in Los Angeles' Cooper Do-nuts.

On the anniversary of Stonewall in 1970, activists held a march known as Christopher Street Liberation Day in New York to commemorate the uprising on that very street a year before. This parade drew thousands of marchers and prompted other cities to hold Pride events, which evolved into annual celebrations in June.

Recent years have seen an increase in violent assaults and state legislation threatening the rights and legal protections of LGBTQ communities across the U.S. With gay and trans rights under immediate threat, this year's Pride events are more than just celebrations – they're intended as acts of unity by LGBTQ community members and allies.

Here are the top destinations to champion and celebrate Pride nationwide in 2023.

New York City: June 25

Every year New York City throws one of the biggest Pride celebrations in the world. In 2019, the city was chosen to host WorldPride, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Stonewall and bringing an estimated 5 million people to New York to partake in its Pride events.

This year's NYC Pride theme is "Strength in Solidarity." The theme "highlights the cultural significance of the LGBTQIA community within the fabric of modern society, while acknowledging every individual's uniqueness and ability to wield tremendous power when united with others," according to NYC Pride.

Join revelers on the streets of Manhattan at the city's signature Pride March on June 25, then celebrate with the community at many other Pride events and experiences throughout the weekend. Attend Bliss Days, a celebration of queer women with live music and dancing; walk the streets of New York for the annual PrideFest street fair; take your youngster to Youth Pride; or dance at the yearly Pride Island music festival, which is headlined by singer Christina Aguilera this year.

Check out NYC Pride's website for more information.

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Providence, Rhode Island: June 17

Providence is a city with a small-town vibe and a vibrant arts community. Its first Pride event was held in 1976 after a court ruling allowed the gay community to march through the city. About 75 people marched in that parade. Today that number has grown to 125,000-plus attendees to its annual PrideFest.

The 47th Annual Rhode Island PrideFest & Illuminated Night Parade will take place on June 17. During the day, you can enjoy more than 250 nonprofit vendors, live entertainment and plenty of food. This Providence festival is one of Rhode Island's biggest festivals with more than 100,000 attendees yearly.

The Rhode Island Pride Illuminated Night Parade is New England's only nighttime LGBTQ parade. Paradegoers can expect to see buildings and floats light up as participants make their way through downtown Providence after dusk.

For more details, consult the Rhode Island Pride website .

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Provincetown, Massachusetts: June 3

Located at the northern tip of Cape Cod , Provincetown is rich in history. This seaside town is the site where the Mayflower first landed in 1620 and serves as one of the oldest continuous art colonies in the U.S.

For more than half a century, the city has been hailed as an LGBTQ-friendly destination. Provincetown boasts plenty of gay bars, beaches and year-round Pride events to welcome LGBTQ travelers. One of the city's famed events is the annual Pride Rally – accompanied by the "Sashay" to Tea dance event – that takes place in the heart of town.

Looking for other ways to celebrate Pride around the area? Check out the Provincetown Business Guild's first annual Pride Festival. The free invite includes music, food and local vendors. Get a good laugh at the Queer Comedy Showcase at Town Hall or visit the Provincetown Pride Center for the "Flag in the Map" exhibition, which focuses on stories and photographs from queer people all around the world. Dance the night away at the Pride Underwear Party or the Official Pride Dance Party at A-House, or take a run or walk at the Feet Over Front Street 5K event.

Coinciding with Pride is the Womxn of Color Weekend, which celebrates queer women of color. Attend workshops, parties and shows throughout the weekend.

Check out the Provincetown Business Guild's website to learn more.

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Boston: June 10

Boston – or "Beantown," as it's affectionately nicknamed – is rich with U.S. history as well as LGBTQ history. In 1978, attorney John Ward established the GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders, formerly known as the Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD), in Boston. The city is also home to Wicked Queer, originally called the Boston LGBT Film Festival, which was founded in 1984; it's among the longest-running LGBTQ film festivals in North America.

This year's Pride celebration will take place on June 10 with a parade and festival. It's the first in-person celebration in four years and comes with a few changes. The city's Pride event will now be managed by Boston Pride For The People after the original Boston Pride organization was dissolved in 2021. The festivities are set to be nonstop with live entertainment, vendors and food.

There are plenty of activities going on in Boston throughout Pride Month as well. The Trans Resistance March & Festival will take place on June 3 and the Boston Dyke March will be held on June 9. The neighborhood of North Shore will host its Pride Parade & Festival on June 24.

Boston Urban Pride Weekend begins on June 29 with its Youth Pride Event, and festivities will continue on June 30 with the Mr. and Miss Gay Urban Pride Pageant along with Pitch Black, "the annual All Black Affair." A health summit and pool party will take place on July 1. The weekend concludes on July 2 with a music and arts festival and Detox "The Finale."

For more information, visit the Boston Pride For The People website .

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Baltimore: June 24

Located about 40 miles from Washington, D.C., Baltimore is considered one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the U.S. Its historic Mount Vernon neighborhood was considered one the area's biggest gay havens before that sentiment expanded to other neighborhoods too. Queer filmmaker John Waters, known for movies such as "Hairspray" and "Pink Flamingos," is a Baltimore native. The city is also home to one of the oldest Pride events in the U.S.

Baltimore Pride has been running since 1975. This year's Pride theme is "One Heart, One Love, One Pride," in honor of "the contributions made to society by sexual and gender minorities." Hosted by the Pride Center of Maryland, several events will be held during the week of June 17 to 25.

Attend the 15th annual Twilight on the Terrace on June 16 to socialize at a gala and dance under the stars. On June 17, the neighborhood of Mount Vernon will mark Pride with music, food and vendors. History buffs may want to attend Ridin' The Rail: Baltimore Pride at the B&O Railroad Museum on June 23.

The main event of the week – the Baltimore Pride Parade – takes place on June 24. Continue your Pride revelry at the city's Block Party after the parade. The weeklong recognition ends with Pride in the Park on June 25. Enjoy live music featuring festival headliners rapper Remy Ma and R&B singer K. Michelle alongside food and drag performances.

Looking for other things to do outside of the official weeklong celebration? Baltimore Trans Pride weekend, hosted by Baltimore Safe Haven, begins on June 2 with the 2023 Trans Pride Kickoff Ball. The Baltimore Trans Pride Grand March and Block Party are set for June 3. Enjoy live entertainment, food and drinks. The festivities conclude with two after-parties for those 21 and older.

Find more details on the Baltimore Pride and Baltimore Safe Haven websites.

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Washington, D.C.: June 10

Courtesy of Capital Pride Alliance

Washington, D.C., in many ways constitutes a living historical destination. The U.S. capital is the place where laws are made, presidents reside and museums sit at almost every turn. D.C. is also a destination filled with LGBTQ history. 

Founded in 1971 as the Gay Activists Alliance of Washington, D.C. – and later changing its name to the Gay and Lesbian Activists Alliance – GLAA is one of the oldest continuously active LGBTQ civil rights organizations in the U.S. Another historic milestone for LGBTQ activism, the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights, was held on D.C.'s National Mall in 1979.

What started as a one-day block party in 1975 has grown into a massive celebration at the annual Capital Pride Parade and Pride Festival, with a turnout of more than 450,000 participants in 2022. "Peace, Love, Revolution" is the theme for this year's Capital Pride. The 1.5-mile parade will take attendees through the historic streets of Washington on June 10, honoring LGBTQ history and the evolution of queer communities. While the parade is ongoing, the Capital Pride Block Party will be having its daylong celebration.

The subsequent Capital Pride Festival and Concert, set for June 11, will provide partygoers with three stages for entertainment as well as food, beverages and 300-plus advocacy exhibitors. Headliners for this year's festival include singers Idina Menzel, Debbie Gibson and Shanice. While the festival and concert are free, there is an option to purchase VIP and PIT passes.

Looking for more to do? See fireworks at the fourth annual Pride on the Pier, which takes place at the Wharf in the southwest portion of the city on June 10. You can also chill out by the pool at the Pride Rooftop Pool Party on June 8 or at the Capital Trans Pride Pool Party on June 10 – or dance the night away and enjoy drag performances at RIOT!, the city's official opening Pride party on June 9.

Washington, D.C., has been chosen as the host city for WorldPride in 2025.

Check out the Capital Pride Alliance's website for more information on this year's Pride events.

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Norfolk, Virginia: June 24

Located about 50 miles from Williamsburg , Norfolk is the epicenter of the Hampton Roads region and a destination full of LGBTQ history.

In 1976, there was a raid at a nightspot known as the Pantry. Its manager and 11 clubgoers were arrested on numerous charges including lewd conduct. Those defendants became known as the "Pantry 12" after fighting and successfully having their charges dismissed. The following year in 1977, a massive protest broke out at Norfolk's Scope Arena, where singer Anita Bryant was performing. Bryant was under fire after launching a "Save Our Children" campaign in response to a gay rights ordinance in Dade County, Florida, which granted LGBTQ people housing and employment protections.

The first community Pride event in the Hampton Roads area was a potluck picnic in June 1986 held by the Mandamus Society. The group, which would later be known as the Hampton Roads Pride, has been hosting annual summertime Pride events since 1997.

This year's Pride theme is "Break Free 23." The celebration will expand its focus beyond the Norfolk area to also collaborate with the six other Hampton Roads cities such as Virginia Beach and Newport News, as well as beyond the Tidewater area to ensure LGBTQ voices are breaking free to be heard.

In the historic Norfolk neighborhood of Ghent, the district will be hosting a Ghent Pride Party at the Palace Shops on June 20. Partygoers can enjoy food and cocktails from local restaurants, a silent auction, and live music.

Running since 2011, the city's Pride Boat Parade takes place on June 24 along with the city's PrideFest. See boats decked out in Pride decor sail along the Elizabeth River at Town Point Park. PrideFest, taking place at the same park, is Norfolk's biggest one-day festival and will be full of food, live entertainment and family-friendly activities.

Check out Hampton Roads Pride website for more information.

Athens, Georgia: June 3

Courtesy of Athens Pride & Queer Collective

Located about 70 miles away from Atlanta , Athens is known for several LGBTQ milestones.

It was here that the B-52s got their start. Another rock band also came from Athens – R.E.M. Both bands feature queer members. Additionally, in 1971, University of Georgia students created the Committee on Gay Education, which later evolved into the Lambda Alliance – an officially recognized student organization.

In 1989, the Boybutante AIDS Foundation was created to provide support to those living with HIV and AIDS and to the community. The foundation runs a yearly Boybutante Ball. Gay, Lesbian or Bisexual Employees Supporters (GLOBES) was created as a support group for staff at the University of Georgia in 1994. The organization would later set the framework for other LGBTQ events with the creation of its yearly potluck picnic. Fast forward to 2022, when the city held its first Pride parade.

Put on by the Athens Pride & Queer Collective, the 2023 Athens Pride Parade will take place on June 3. See floats and LGBTQ groups make their way through downtown Athens as they celebrate queer communities. Then, attend the post-parade festival to enjoy live entertainment, nonprofit vendors and food.

To learn more, visit the Athens Pride & Queer Collective website .

Paducah, Kentucky: June 3

Courtesy of Laura Schneider

Paducah, Kentucky, is situated between the Tennessee and Ohio Rivers and is the halfway point between St. Louis, Missouri , and Nashville, Tennessee . In recent years, the designated UNESCO Creative City has made headway in establishing a more supportive environment for LGBTQ communities.

In 2018, Paducah became the first western Kentucky city to pass an anti-discrimination ordinance. The city is also home to the Cinema Systers Film Festival, which is the only all-lesbian film festival in the U.S. In 2022, Paducah held its first Pridefest. Almost 2,000 people were in attendance for the inaugural event.

The second annual Paducah Pridefest will be held on June 3. According to the organizers, expect bigger and better this year. Former "American Idol" contestant Noah Davis will be the music headliner. Festivalgoers can also enjoy performances by drag artists Roxxxy Andrews and Heidi N Closet, both of "RuPaul's Drag Race" fame, as well as Landon Cider from "The Boulet Brothers' Dragula." The fest will also have live music from local entertainers, food and vendors. Paducah Pridefest does request a suggested donation for entry to the festival.

For more information, check out the Paducah PrideFest's Facebook page .

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Columbus, Ohio: June 17

Ohio's capital and biggest city is one of the fastest-growing and most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the country. As such, Columbus holds the second-largest Pride march in the Midwest. Second only to Chicago Pride in the region, Columbus welcomes over 750,000 spectators to its Pride festival and march.

With the "Purpose. Passion. Power." theme, this year's Pride intends to remember how the Stonewall uprisings set the framework for Pride and represents the purpose of Pride protests. The theme also encompasses the passion in LGBTQ communities to make strides forward and the power people have to effect change no matter the circumstance.

The Stonewall Columbus Pride March takes place on June 17. Last year's march drew more than 17,000 participants to the streets of city. If you're looking for a good view of the march, revelers can watch the event from one of the three eateries that make up Pride on High. Proceeds from Pride march viewing areas go to local LGBTQ charities. The Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival, set to be held on June 16 and 17, will feature more than 200 vendors, two performance stages, a wellness area and a dance area.

Check out the Stonewall Columbus website for more information.

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Detroit: June 11

Pride events were established to celebrate – but also to fight for LGBTQ rights. The state of Michigan made headlines in March 2023, when Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed into law an amendment to the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act. With this legislation, LGBTQ Michigan residents will now be explicitly protected from discrimination on the basis of sex and gender identity.

Like many cities after Stonewall, Detroit had an uprising of its own. The Motor City's first Pride march was held in 1972. The march has gone through its own evolution since then and expanded to include a PrideFest celebration. In 2003, the festival was given its current name: Motor City Pride. The celebration has more than 50,000 participants yearly.

The Motor City Pride Festival takes place on June 10 and 11 and will include live music, drag performances and food trucks. There is a $5 entrance fee to attend the celebration; children younger than 12 get in free. The Motor City Pride Parade is slated for June 11 and is free for all to attend.

Looking for more to do in Detroit for Pride? Take the Detroit Historic Pride walking tour with Detroit History Tours. Guests will learn more about LGBTQ history in the city. The tour company offers this excursion for a few days throughout June.

The Ruth Ellis Center – a social services agency for LGBTQ youth named after the activist who lived to be one of the oldest openly gay Black women in the world – is holding a Catfight for the Crown event on June 2.

For more details, visit the Motor City Pride website .

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Chicago: June 25

Steve Long | Courtesy of Northalsted

With stunning architecture, vibrant nightlife and plenty of places to grab a bite, Chicago is a traveler favorite year-round – and yet another destination full of LGBTQ history and culture.

The Windy City is where the first gay rights organization in the U.S. was established: The Society of Human Rights was founded by Henry Gerber in 1924. His former home, the Henry Gerber House, has become the second National Historic Landmark designated for its association with LGBTQ history – Stonewall was the first. Chicago is fittingly home to the biggest Pride parade in the Midwest, which will occur on June 25 this year.

The parade on average sees more than 1 million spectators in attendance; it runs through the Boystown neighborhood, which in 1997 Chicago declared the "official gay village." Expect to see colorful floats, decorated vehicles and marching bands celebrating Pride.

You'll also find several other events taking place around the city during Pride Month. The weekend before the parade (June 17 to 18), for example, brings the lively Chicago Pride Fest. About 60,000 festivalgoers attend the event each year for music, food, drag shows and arts and craft vendors. There is a suggested donation at the gate to enjoy the festivities. You can also take in the energetic atmosphere at Pride in the Park, the annual outdoor music festival that will be held at Grant Park on June 23 and 24. Enjoy performances from music artists such as Zedd, Years & Years and Zara Larsson at the 2023 event.

Also happening on June 24 is Navy Pier Pride, which will feature family-friendly activities, food, educational programming and music. Those who love staying active can sign up for the 40th Annual Pride Race 5K and 10K on June 25.

Check out the Chicago Pride website for more information.

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Minneapolis and St. Paul: June 25

Courtesy of Meet Minneapolis

The Minneapolis – St. Paul metropolitan region has its own share of LGBTQ history. In 1975, Minneapolis became the first U.S. city to pass a nondiscrimination ordinance; since then, the area has cultivated a reputation as one of the friendliest cities for LGBTQ people in the country – and even earned the distinction of being one of the "gayest" U.S. cities. The Twin Cities' massive Pride parade is one of the biggest in the Midwest and nationwide. 

Twin Cities Pride held its first parade in 1972. The march this year starts on Hennepin Avenue in downtown Minneapolis and ends in Loring Park on June 25. Afterward, the festivities continue at the Twin Cities Pride Festival, which starts on June 23 and features music performances, a variety of food and drink, and LGBTQ vendors.

Several family-friendly events are happening during Pride Month in the Twin Cities area, including the Minnesota School Outreach Coalition's Youth Pride on June 3, the St. Paul Pride Festival on June 10 and Pride Family Fun Day on June 18. These events will include live entertainment, activities and food.

To learn more, consult the Twin Cities Pride website .

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New Orleans: June 10

New Orleans is a year-round LGBTQ-friendly destination where art, culture, food, music and history collide. The city is home to Café Lafitte in Exile, one of the oldest gay bars in the U.S., and Fat Monday Luncheon, one of Louisiana's oldest organized LGBTQ events. Visitors will find plenty of things to do in the "Crescent City" for Pride Month – or at any other time of year.

Before the Pride parade commences, spend the day at New Orleans PrideFest, a block party where guests can partake in food and entertainment. Travelers may like that the NOLA Pride Parade is not a daytime celebration but rather one at night, taking you through the Marigny and French Quarter neighborhoods. See extravagant floats, dance troupes and musical ensembles parading the streets – not to mention all the rainbow flags.

Looking for other Pride events in NOLA? The French Market District will be having "A Picnic for All Y'all!" on June 3. The theme for this year's event is "Drag Brunch." Enjoy live drag performances, music and food. The 2023 LGBTLOL Queer Comedy Fest takes place June 1 to 4. Catch a laugh at one of the New Orleans comedy venues. Patrons can purchase full-fest passes or single-show tickets. You can also attend one of the many events during New Orleans Black Pride Weekend from June 8 to 11.

Visit the New Orleans Pride website for further details.

See more of New Orleans: Things to Do | Hotels

Houston: June 24

Courtesy of Houston First Corporation

Houston's nicknames reflect many aspects of the city's history. Whether you know it as the "Bayou City" for its multiple rivers, "Space City" for its role in space exploration, or just simply "H-Town" for its culture and entertainment, Houston has it all for travelers. Bigger is better in the Lone Star State, and Pride events are no exception. Houston Pride is one of the biggest Pride celebrations in both Texas and the U.S.

Last year, around 850,000 spectators attended the Houston Pride Parade. The 2023 parade takes place at night on June 24 around the downtown area by the city hall. Enjoy tricked-out vehicles and floats, with flags in rainbow and various other color combinations to represent different LGBTQ communities.

Pride Houston 365 has made some changes to this year's Pride activities. The annual festival, which usually takes place before the parade, will not be held this year. "We have elected to have a Celebration Parade only this season. There are a lot of factors at play. Pride Houston is dedicated to renewing the trust of the Houston LGBTQIA+ community," the organization said in a statement posted to Instagram in January.

Instead of the festival, a Pride Market will take its place on June 4. There will be live music, food and drinks, a beer garden, and vendors. Looking for more to do outside of the parade and market? See the latest fashion styles at the official Pride fashion show, Rock the Runway, on June 22. Then, dance the night away at the Eden 2023: Official Pride Girl+ Party on June 23 or the Rich's at Rise after-party on June 24.

Check out the Houston Pride 365 website for more information.

See more of Houston: Things to Do | Hotels

San Antonio: June 24

Courtesy of visitsanantonio.com

San Antonio's LGBTQ history has evolved over the years, from the drag performances of the 1930s to the city's Pride march becoming a jampacked monthlong celebration of the LGBTQ community.

This year's Pride theme is "Just Say Gay." The festivities are set to take place on June 24. By day, enjoy live entertainment, a PRIDE wedding, a health fair and food at the Pride Bigger Than Texas Festival. Admission is $12 for ages 12 and older; after June 15, the cost increases to $15. Pets are allowed at the festival but must be leashed for the duration of attendance. At night, cool down while watching participants in Pride Bigger Than Texas Parade. The parade is free to attend.

There are plenty of other ways to celebrate Pride in San Antonio . June 10 is the Bud Light Pride River Parade & Celebration. The event was created by Visit San Antonio as a way to promote the city that embraces LGBTQ communities. Enjoy a day of live performances at the Bud Light Pride Celebration & Stage Entertainment before attending the parade. The march runs twice: once in the Downtown portion of the River Walk, then again on the side of the River Walk Museum.

The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts will be honoring Pride with two performances. On June 15, see the show "Pride Anthems," which details the fight for LGBTQ equality through music from artists such as Donna Summer, George Michael, Madonna and Lady Gaga – to name a few. On June 28, the center will host "An Evening with George Takei." The actor and activist will be discussing his acting career, his childhood in Japanese American internment camps and his activism for LGBTQ rights.

The San Antonio Zoo will be holding its third annual Night Out at the Zoo on June 16. The zoo has family-friendly activities for all ages as it celebrates Pride.

For more information, visit the Pride San Antonio website .

See more of San Antonio: Things to Do | Hotels

Santa Fe, New Mexico: June 24

"This is where seasoned gays come to center themselves, but not in a boring way," said the LGBTQ magazine The Advocate in 2011 when Santa Fe was deemed the second gayest city in the U.S. The UNESCO Creative City is the oldest capital in the U.S. and has one of the largest art markets in the country as well. With a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, Santa Fe remains a popular LGBTQ destination.

This year, the city celebrates the 30th anniversary of Pride as well as its parent organization, the Santa Fe Human Rights Alliance. Pride festivities begin on June 3 with the Disco Inferno party, where revelers can dance the night away in their best disco or retro outfits. History buffs will enjoy the Pride30 Santa Fe LGBTQ History Walking Tour on June 10, where you can learn about the queer history of Santa Fe. Afterward, hop on The Pride Train for a night of celebration. If you're looking for fun for all ages, Meow Wolf and the Human Rights Alliance will be hosting Planet Taz: A Queer Prom on June 14.

Fast forward to June 24, as Santa Fe celebrates Pride30 with its annual Pride Drive Parade and Pride on the Plaza. See cars, trucks, motorcycles and floats as they make their way around its parade route. Afterward, enjoy live music as paradegoers dance the afternoon away at Pride on the Plaza. If you want to keep the celebration going, attend the Diversity Rocks the Block party or see a drag revue at Pride After Dark. Festivities wrap up on June 25 at the After Burn T-dance party.

For more details, consult the Santa Fe Human Rights Alliance website .

See more of Santa Fe: Things to Do | Hotels

Denver: June 25

When you think of Denver , what probably springs to mind is the nearby Rocky Mountain National Park or the urban atmosphere of the city with its numerous breweries and museums. But Denver also has an energetic LGBTQ scene with multiple gay-friendly bars, hotels and Pride events.

The annual Denver PrideFest weekend is the largest Pride event in the Rocky Mountain region, typically drawing more than 525,000 participants to its festivities. The 2023 PrideFest will feature drag performances from Marcia Marcia Marcia and Salina EsTitties, both featured on "RuPaul's Drag Race," in addition to New Orleans rapper Big Freedia. The Coors Light Denver Pride Parade takes place later in the day on June 25 and allows visitors to enjoy marchers, dancers and floats down Colfax Avenue, the longest commercial street in the U.S.

The city has numerous other events to help you celebrate Pride amid its two-day festival. Meow Wolf will be hosting several events including "We Are Here. The Drag Guide to Pride" on June 15 and 16 and "The Storybook KiKi Ball" celebrating the vogue dance movement on June 17. Want to take your celebration outdoors? Hit Coors Field for the Colorado Rockies' Coors Light Pride Night on June 9 or run the Denver Pride 5K to raise money for LGBTQ programming at The Center on Colfax on June 24.

Check out the Denver Pride website for more information.

See more of Denver: Things to Do | Hotels

Los Angeles: June 11

Los Angeles is home to one of the largest populations of LGBTQ people in the U.S., and the city has played a huge role in gay rights history. One of the first lesbian publications, Vice Versa, was published in the late 1940s in Los Angeles . The first Supreme Court case that dealt with homosexuality and First Amendment rights – One Inc. v. Olesen in 1958 – centered on the Los Angeles government's attempt to censor a gay magazine. LA was also at the epicenter of one of the earliest organized LGBTQ protests after the police raid at The Black Cat Tavern in the Silver Lake neighborhood. It's only fitting that the city holds one of the largest Pride parades in the country.

Start the festivities at LA Pride in the Park, held in the 32-acre Los Angeles State Park from June 9 to 10. You can see performances by rapper Megan Thee Stallion and singer Mariah Carey. The festival will also have food, cocktails, vendors and LGBTQ exhibitors. On June 11, become a paradegoer at the annual LA Pride Parade. Marvel at floats, twirlers and performers as they make their way down the parade route.

Adrenaline-seekers can relish Pride with other attendees at Universal Studios Hollywood during the "Pride Is Universal" after-hours event on June 8. Enjoy rides and attractions around the park in addition to live entertainment and food.

Visit the LA Pride website for further details.

See more of Los Angeles: Things to Do | Hotels

San Francisco: June 25

In the 1960s Life magazine deemed San Francisco the "gay capital" of the U.S. because of its emerging LGBTQ communities. The city's Castro neighborhood was one of the earlier "gayborhoods" in the U.S. and was home to Harvey Milk, who in 1977 was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors as the first openly gay elected official in California history. Decades later, the city remains one of the most LGBTQ-friendly destinations.

The San Francisco Pride festivities include one of the biggest Pride parades in the country, with about 500,000 people in attendance. Expect to see LGBTQ community members and allies make their way down the parade route on June 25. The parade is set to have numerous groups and exhibitors participating, and the accompanying two-day Pride celebration (June 24 to 25) will feature multiple stages and venues to enjoy live music and entertainment.

Also happening this same weekend will be the 31st San Francisco Dyke March on June 24 and Soul of Pride San Francisco Black Pride taking place on both weekend days.

Among other Pride Month events in San Francisco, celebrate with LGBTQ locals and visitors alike at the Queer Prom 2023 on June 3 or enjoy an evening of live music with the debut performance of the International Pride Orchestra on June 22.

Check out San Francisco Pride's website for more information.

See more of San Francisco: Things to Do | Hotels

Seattle: June 25

No list of Pride celebrations would be complete without Seattle , another one of the most gay-friendly cities in the country. Located east of downtown Seattle is Capitol Hill, considered the epicenter of the city's LGBTQ scene. The neighborhood boasts a lively nightlife with numerous gay bars and nightclubs – as well as rainbow-painted crosswalks to help you celebrate Pride year-round alongside the many events in the "Emerald City."

The celebration starts on June 3 with Seattle Pride in the Park. Enjoy family-friendly activities, food trucks and dance stages. The city's main Pride event – the Seattle Pride Parade – is set for June 25 and considered the largest march in the state of Washington. The parade typically brings up to 300,000 participants and spectators. With its 2023 theme of "Galactic Love," the parade will march down Fourth Avenue in the downtown area.

The celebrations continue at PrideFest, a weekend festival held in Capitol Hill on June 24 and at the Seattle Center the next day. Both locations provide beer gardens, food and activities for the family to enjoy.

To learn more, consult the Seattle Pride website .

See more of Seattle: Things to Do | Hotels

Frequently Asked Questions

Pride Month commemorates the triumphs and tribulations of LGBTQ people, whether through parades, marches, workshops, memorials, art and music, or the many other forms these Pride celebrations take. It also brings awareness to ongoing issues within all the different communities that make up the LGBTQ acronym.

In June 1999, former President Bill Clinton declared June to be Gay and Lesbian Pride Month. In 2009, when former President Barack Obama was in office, it became known as LGBT Pride Month. Today the nationally recognized observance throughout the month of June is referred to as LGBTQ+ Pride Month by President Joe Biden.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Suzanne Mason is a travel editor with a love of adventure. Give her a destination with a robust history or a beach, she'll be right there. Mason previously volunteered with the Human Rights Campaign. She used her stance on equality and research to curate this article.

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• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
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Here are the 15 gayest cities in the world for 2024

Get ready to escape with this list of family favorites.

SHUTTERSTOCK/HANNES VAN DER MERWE

Data scientists and researchers at Misterb&b, the world’s largest LGBTQ + travel community, have used the habits of its one million registered users to create an index ranking the gayest cities in the world for 2024.

Founder Matthieu Jost created Misterb&b after he and his partner were victims of homophobia and harassment while trying to rent a room during a vacation in Spain.

Jost created Misterb&b to connect LGBTQ+ travelers with rentals and services provided by family and allies in their destinations .

His latest feature, Weere, now allows travelers to connect socially before they travel. Users can chat with locals or make plans with fellow visitors.

You can learn more at misterbandb.com , but keep scrolling to find the 15 gayest cities in the world for U.S. travelers according to Misterb&b.

15. Atlanta – USA

Atlanta’s glimmering nighttime skyline

Image by Shutterstock

Atlanta is the city of hot summer nights and even hotter Southern men.

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14. Miami – USA

Miami’s iconic South Beach at night

With hotspots like the art deco South Beach, gay Miami knows how to party all year long.

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13. Las Vegas – USA

The fountains of the Bellagio in Las Vegas

Sin City is quickly becoming a glittering gay desert destination.

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12. San Francisco – USA

Sunrise over the skyline of San Francisco

You can find just about anything you desire in the City by the Bay.

RELATED: Commando’s Guide to gay San Francisco

11. Paris – France

The Eiffel Tower in Paris

The City of Lights is also the unofficial gay city of love (and sexy gay Parisians).

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10. Puerto Vallarta – Mexico

The gay-friendly Zona Romantica district from above

Puerto Vallarta is Mexico’s gay Pacific paradise.

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9. San Diego – USA

Fourth of July fireworks over San Diego

You can find just about any experience in the City by the Bay.

8. London – United Kingdom

Big Ben and Parliament in London

Oscar Wilde would have reveled in today’s gay London.

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7. Wilton-Manors – USA

The community celebrates Pride in Wilton Manors

Despite the efforts of some, South Florida has a vibrant drag and nightlife scene.

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6. Washington D.C. – USA

The Washington Monument set against the backdrop of the city's annual cherry blossom blooms

Our nation’s capital will host WorldPride 2025.

RELATED: Capital Pride 2023 – a celebration of love, diversity, and star-studded performances

5. Los Angeles – USA

Grand Central Market in downtown Los Angeles

The greater Los Angeles area has everything from a thriving foodie scene to some of the country’s hidden natural treasures.

RELATED: California's Channel Islands NP is a grueling but rewarding wind-swept paradise

4. Chicago – USA

Boys Town celebrates Pride

In addition to celebrations during Pride month, Windy City Santas celebrate the holiday season by going half-naked in public.

RELATED: Stuff your stocking with these 55+ pics from Sidetrack Chicago Santa Speedo Run

3. Palm Springs – USA

The gay men's clothing-optional Descanso Resort in Palm Springs

Image by Hannes Van Der Merwe

Palm Springs has many clothing-optional resorts for gay men who want to shed their clothes and their inhibitions.

RELATED: Descanso Resort is Palm Spring's sophisticated escape for gay men

2. Fort Lauderdale – USA

Fort Lauderdale beach at night

Fort Lauderdale is known as the Venice of America for its 300+ miles of navigable canals and waterways.

RELATED: Rejuvenate your body and soul at the queer-inclusive W Fort Lauderdale

1. New York City – USA

The skyline of the city that never sleeps

Enjoy a spa treatment at LGBTQ-friendly NYC spas.

RELATED: A guide to NYC’s premier LGBTQ-friendly spas

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These are the best places to stay in the world for 2024, according to tripadvisor.

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Choosing your next vacation isn’t just about where you visit, but where you stay.

To help travelers book the vacation possible, Tripadvisor , one of the biggest online travel agencies, revealed its  2024 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Awards  — including the list of the world’s best hotels .

The list ranks destinations that received a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over the past year — out of 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieved the milestone.

New York City is still one of the top tourist destinations in the world, so it’s no shock that three of the top stays in the US are right here in Manhattan: The Luma Hotel in Times Square, The Bryant Park Hotel and Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel Collection, also in Times Square.

But although many people agree NYC is the greatest city in the world, none of its hotels made the list for the best stays on a global scale.

The top hotel in the world is the Hotel Colline de France in Brazil, according to Tripadvisor.

The luxurious stay was highly rated for its “sophistication and comfort” shown through its glamorous rooms and luscious spa.

The live piano music played at breakfast and complimentary sparkling wine were also nice touches.

“The hotel’s sensational design and warm atmosphere make it a unique choice for an elegant, yet cozy, getaway,” Tripadvisor said.

Best hotels in the world

• Hotel Colline de France, Brazil
• OBLU SELECT Lobigili, Maldives
• La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa, Vietnam
• Adiwana Suweta, Indonesia
• Iberostar Grand Packard, Cuba
• Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa, Maldives
• La Siesta Classic Ma May, Vietnam
• Secrets Akumal Riviera Maya, Mexico
• Padma Resort Ubud, Indonesia
• Sofitel Mexico City Reforma, Mexico

The top hotel in the US is the Shore Hotel in Santa Monica, California, according to Tripadvisor.

The pet-friendly hotel stands out with its beautiful view of the ocean and eco-friendly but slick design — its proximity to the Santa Monica Pier also helps to attract guests.

Travelers also raved about the variety of food options, including the in-room breakfast options and the poolside bar.

“A stylish atmosphere and attention to detail ensure a fab stay for you and your furry friend,” Tripadvisor said.

Best in the US

• Shore Hotel, Santa Monica, California
• Luma Hotel Times Square, New York
• FivePine Lodge & Spa, Oregon
• The Bryant Park Hotel, New York
• Hotel Emma, San Antonia, Texas
• The Loutrel, South Carolina
• Lotte Hotel Seattle, Washington
• Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, Illinois
• Ironworks Hotel Indy, Indiana
• San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter on the River Walk, Texas
• The Lodge at Woodloch, Pennsylvania
• Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, Autograph Collection, Hawaii
• Casablanca Hotel by Library Hotel Collection, New York

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I've been to 54 countries and have lived in 10. These 5 underrated places are worth the trip.

• Kate Boardman has visited 54 countries around the world and lived in 10, including the US.
• She's enjoyed spots like France and Bali but says people should visit underrated places like Oman.
• In Guatemala, she climbed an active volcano, and in Ecuador, she swam with hammerhead sharks.

This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Kate Boardman , a 36-year-old former teacher and current content creator from Massachusetts who has lived and traveled all over the world. The following has been edited for length and clarity.

I first lived abroad when I was 15, when I participated in an exchange program in Germany. I lived there for a year, attending school and staying with a host family.

That was my first exposure to living overseas and truly immersing myself in other cultures. From there, the travel bug hit me hard. It inspired me to study international business in France while I was at university, and future trips after that.

I've been to 54 countries and lived in 10, including the US. The sense of freedom and self-growth that comes from traveling is unbeatable. I also love being able to see the world in a different way.

The most popular destinations are popular for a reason.

Everyone talks about Paris, London , Bali — all travel destinations that are super popular, in part thanks to social media.

I visited Bali in early 2012 and saw it expand firsthand. There was a lot of construction — with many beach clubs being built — and it became overcrowded by foreigners. It's led to locals being priced out of their homes.

I also think spots like Cancun are super overrated; there are way cooler places to visit in Mexico. Many tourists spend a week in an all-inclusive resort and think that's fun — but that couldn't be more unattractive to me.

Obviously, there's still beauty in places that are oversaturated and famous. But I think that there's an excitement that comes from experiencing places that are off the beaten track.

It's often in those places that you can have the most surprising experiences.

I was treated like family in Iran

I would say my favorite country that I have visited is Iran. I went in 2018 and was there for 10 days.

Normally, when I'm traveling, I backpack alone and stay in hostels as a solo traveler. However, in Iran, if you're American, Canadian, or from the UK, in order to get permission to enter the country, you need a set itinerary and a licensed travel guide.

It was a very coordinated trip and a bit more challenging to visit, but it was so rewarding because I was welcomed with the warmest hospitality.

One of the unique aspects of this trip was how close my guide and I became. He went above and beyond, inviting me over to his family's house for dinner, where I got to meet and hang out with his friends and family. It was truly special.

Because I had a guide, everything was kind of set for me in Iran. He arranged different accommodations, including a road trip through the country, where we stayed in various cities at different guesthouses.

It only cost me around $1,000.

The nature and landscape of Iran are absolutely beautiful and amazing. The sights, attractions, and history are mind-blowing. You've got these gorgeous mosaics everywhere. All of the architecture had my jaw dropping in awe while walking around.

The food is also delicious, and the markets are incredible, each filled with gorgeous textiles, jewelry, turquoise, and rugs.

I would totally visit there again. I hope the political situation changes because that would definitely be one of my group trip destinations. I think it's just incredible.

Georgia took me by surprise

Georgia is just one of those countries that's not on a lot of people's radar. And then they go there and they're like, 'Whoa, that's awesome. Why didn't I know about this before?'

I knew very little about Georgia before I visited in 2018. I spent only five days in the country, but I was completely blown away.

I stayed in Tbilisi, which is the capital city. It's a really beautiful, trendy, and artsy kind of city. It has amazing wine and incredible food.

Probably one of my favorite things about the trip is that I stayed in this hostel called Fabrika . It was an old Soviet Union sewing factory that they turned into a super cool, industrial, hipster hostel.

In Tbilisi, I also went on a pub crawl throughout the Old Town, which featured a bunch of underground cellars and bunkers that have been turned into trendy nightclubs and bars.

During my time in the country, I took a trip out to the countryside to an area called Kazbegi, which is absolutely stunning. There were gorgeous and breathtaking mountains, hills, and massive churches.

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In the city, I also had a Turkish bath, which is a big thing in Georgia. I got a full scrub down.

Guatemala has something for everyone

When most people from the US think about going to Central America, they're focused on Mexico or Costa Rica. Guatemala seems to be a place that kind of gets overlooked.

But life is great in Guatemala.

You've got beautiful weather all year round, the jungle, rainforests, and the Caribbean's white sand beaches, while the Pacific side has its black sand beaches. It's got a little bit of everything.

I first lived in Guatemala in 2021, where I worked as a teacher at an international school. They provided housing in Guatemala City. However, after I finished working for them, I moved to a beach town on the Pacific coast and lived there for about six months.

I've traveled there on other occasions too, staying for periods of four or five months.

The typical salary for a Guatemalan is about $500 a month, with a good salary being $1,000. I would say that $2,000 a month is more than enough to live there extremely comfortably.

There are a lot of digital nomads moving there, especially to Antigua — an old colonial town with a lot of charm, cobblestone streets, and painted buildings.

There's just so much to do in Guatemala; it's so magical.

The biggest must do is hiking the active volcano called Acatenango . Sometimes, you can see it erupting right from its base camp. There's not many places in the world where you can experience that.

Another good place to visit is El Paredon, a super up-and-coming hippie surf town. The surfing is great, and you've got these black volcanic sand beaches. It's just a really laid-back place.

Lake Atitlan is also an incredible spot. It's surrounded by volcanoes and several Mayan villages, each with its own personality and vibe.

Oman's deserts are magical

Oman is in the Middle East, bordering the United Arab Emirates and Yemen. I've been there three times between 2016 and 2018.

The country is culturally rich, and the capital city, Muscat, is really beautiful. It has old traditional marketplaces and gorgeous architecture — the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is definitely worth checking out.

The deserts there are incredible, so doing a desert trip is a must. I camped out in the desert with the locals, rode camels, and drove Jeeps over the sand dunes.

Having tea and watching the sunset in the desert was magical too.

Oman also has wadis, which are basically big canyons in the middle of the desert with swimming holes. There, you'll find bright turquoise water contrasting with the orange rock.

The country's islands are also beautiful and incredible for snorkeling. They look like you'd be in the Caribbean, but you're in the Middle East.

The Galapagos Islands are truly like nowhere else in the world

I visited Ecuador last year for about six weeks. I was leading a gap year program with a group of high school students. We split our time between the Galapagos Islands and the mainland, which consisted of cities and the Amazon.

Because Ecuador has incredibly unique biodiversity that doesn't exist anywhere else in the world, The Galapagos Islands are an absolute must. I've never seen such incredible wildlife in my life; so many species exist only on those islands.

While visiting The Galapagos, my group went snorkeling with 50 to 100 hammerhead and Blacktip sharks. We also swam with sea lions and saw giant tortoises.

Another amazing aspect of Ecuador is learning about the Inca culture. My group did a homestay and lived with a family for about 10 days and learned about their way of life.

We experienced how connected they are with Mother Earth, whom they refer to as Pachamama, and learned about their traditional medicine: They grow their own food and seek out plant medicine when they're sick, rather than relying on processed foods.

Learning about and sharing their way of life was truly special.

I want to show people how to travel the world

There are many beliefs people have about different countries and cultures, sometimes considering them too dangerous, expensive, or unattainable.

I want to inspire more people to explore, step out of their comfort zones, and experience more of the world. I am hosting group trips with the goal of bringing people to these countries and showing them why they are so life-changing.

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