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Hello Wonderous Travelers!
Pride month may “technically” be over for most, but for us here in Portland, Oregon it is just beginning. Portland celebrates their Pride parade on July 21st, but you best believe the celebrations will be happening all month long! So in order to ramp up the excitement, we are thrilled to present to you the top 10 LGBTQ+ friendly travel destinations around the globe as we embrace diversity and inclusivity in today’s post.
As we commemorate the LGBTQ+ community’s resilience, history, and achievements, we invite you on a journey to explore vibrant destinations that honor and celebrate love in all its forms.
** Disclaimer: I am using LGBTQ+, queer and gay interchangeably to include the community as a whole without any specific gender identity sited. It’s important for us to note that no matter where you travel, you have to keep your wits and street smarts with you at all times. No country or place is perfect. Please do your own research to see if any of these places fit your vibe and travel style. **
1. New York City, USA
New York City stands as a beacon for the LGBTQ+ community, offering a vibrant tapestry of landmarks, events, and a welcoming community. The iconic Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village marks the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement in the United States, making it a must-visit historical site.
Neighborhoods like Chelsea, Hell’s Kitchen, and the West Village are renowned for their queer friendly establishments, creating a sense of belonging for residents and visitors alike.
Recommended Activities and Places to Visit:
- The Stonewall National Monument: Pay homage to LGBTQ+ history at this historic site. Located in its original location since 1969 and now houses the visitor center for anyone who wants to truly immerse themselves in the history of the rebellion. Reserve tickets ahead of time by clicking here!
- Christopher Street: Explore the heart of the LGBTQ+ rights movement in the West Village. Located in this area is Christopher Park with the Gay Liberation and the Stonewall Monument. There are plenty of queer bars and other establishments to support!
- Broadway Shows: Enjoy a dazzling night of theater in the iconic Theater District near Times Square in Manhattan!
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam has a rich LGBTQ+ culture and history, making it a top destination for travelers seeking inclusive and vibrant experiences. Known for its progressive attitudes towards LGBTQ+ rights by decriminalizing homosexuality in 1811 and with the organization, COC Amsterdam, being a frontrunner in advocating for equality and acceptance since 1946.
The city’s openness and tolerance have established it as a welcoming haven for the queer community, with a long-standing reputation for embracing diversity. Click here to learn more about Amsterdam’s history on uplifting LGBTQ+ rights.
Recommended Activities and Places to Visit:
- Reguliersdwarsstraat: This street in the city center is lined with LGBTQ+ friendly bars, clubs, and cafes. This is characterized as the “Gay Captial of the World” because even when most places on the world weren’t safe for LGBTQ+ individuals, this hub lent solace to all who needed a places to find their community. Here is an official historic walking tour that the city of Amsterdam put together so you can hit the most popular monuments showcasing the city’s LGBTQ+ history.
- Amsterdam Gay Pride: The renowned Amsterdam Gay Pride parade takes place on the famous canals in August.
- Drag Shows and Cabarets: Amsterdam boasts a vibrant drag scene with numerous shows and cabarets. Check out The Queen’s Head and Taboo Bar for regular drag performances!
3. Barcelona, Spain
In Barcelona, you’ll find an empowering sense of acceptance and inclusivity, ensuring that every traveler, regardless of their identity, feels welcomed and valued. Whether exploring historic sites, enjoying the nightlife, or participating in LGBTQ-centric events, Barcelona offers a uniquely enriching and affirming travel experience.
The lively scene thrives in the Gaixample area of the Eixample district, known for its welcoming bars, clubs, and cafes. Popular queer friendly beaches like Barceloneta Beach, Mar Bella, and Ocata Beach offer relaxing and sunbathing spots. Barcelona’s commitment to LGBTQ+ rights is showcased during events like Barcelona Pride, which celebrates equality and diversity with colorful parades, parties, and cultural activities. Click here to learn more about what Barcelona city has to offer for for LGBTQ+ tourism.
Recommended Activities and Places to Visit:
- Attend Barcelona Pride Parade: Join the vibrant and colorful Barcelona Pride Parade, held in June, which features a lively procession of floats, music, and dancing through the streets of the city.
- Explore Gaixample: The area offers a wide variety of gay-friendly bars, shops and restaurants.
- Visit a queer literature bookshop: Barcelona has a bookshop that specialize in queer literature called Antinous. We definitely recommend checking them out and supporting this local small business when visiting!
4. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Puerto Vallarta is a tropical gem on Mexico’s Pacific coast, widely celebrated for its warm embrace of the LGBTQ+ community. Known as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in Latin America, this lively beach town offers a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every traveler feel at home.
With its inclusive attitudes and numerous LGBTQ+ friendly establishments, Puerto Vallarta is an ideal destination for those looking to relax, explore, and immerse themselves in a vibrant community. The Zona Romántica, or Romantic Zone, is the heartbeat of the LGBTQ+ scene, renowned for its colorful streets, lively nightlife, and charming beachfront views.
Recommended Activities and Places to Visit:
- Playa de los Muertos: This popular beach is a sunny haven for LGBTQ+ travelers. Relax, swim, and socialize at the Blue Chairs Resort, a well-known LGBTQ+ friendly resort.
- Zona Romántica: Wander through this charming neighborhood packed with LGBTQ+ friendly bars, clubs, restaurants, and shops. The area comes to life at night, offering endless entertainment options.
- Vallarta Pride: Held every May, Vallarta Pride is a week-long celebration filled with parties, parades, and cultural events that honor and celebrate LGBTQ+ diversity and culture.
Our receptionist, Frey Soares, travelled to Puerto Vallarta for her girlfriend’s birthday in January and wrote all about it! Click here to check it out!
5. Bangkok, Thailand
Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, exudes an inclusive atmosphere and offers an array of LGBTQ+ friendly attractions that cater to travelers from all walks of life. Known for its open-mindedness and acceptance, Bangkok welcomes LGBTQ+ visitors with open arms, creating a safe and welcoming environment for all.
Thailand just became the first Southeast Asian nation to legalize same-sex marriage! Thailand’s Senate voted 130-4 which is a overwhelming landslide!
Recommended Activities and Places to Visit:
- Bangkok Rainbow District: Explore the gay friendly neighborhood of Silom and Soi 2, which is affectionately known as the Bangkok Rainbow District. This area is home to numerous LGBTQ+ owned businesses, bars, cafes, and clubs that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.
- The Stranger Bar: This LGBTQ+ owned bar in Silom is a popular hangout spot known for its friendly ambiance, diverse crowd, and lively entertainment, including drag shows and themed parties.
- Bangkok Pride: Join the annual Bangkok Pride festival, a colorful and spirited celebration of diversity, equality, and LGBTQ+ rights.
6. Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is renowned for its natural beauty and vibrant culture, but it’s also celebrated for its diverse and thriving queer community. The city is a model of acceptance and inclusion, with a progressive attitude towards LGBTQ rights and an array of activities and venues that cater to gay travelers.
South Africa stands out as a beacon for LGBTQ+ travelers in Africa. With equal treatment preserved in law and recognition of same-sex marriage, it truly celebrates inclusivity. Plus, South Africa Tourism actively encourages LGBTQ+ visitors, making it an inviting and welcoming destination for all. However, it’s always wise to stay informed about both local laws and the current social climate. Be sure to read up and check your government’s latest travel advice for a smooth, worry-free experience.
Recommended Activities and Places to Visit:
- Explore vibrant Waterkant: Often referred to as Cape Town’s “gay village.” This chic and trendy area is filled with LGBTQ-friendly cafes, bars, boutiques, and art galleries.
- Wine Tours and Tastings: Head to the Cape Winelands for LGBTQ+ friendly wine tours and tastings. Companies like “Pink Umbrella” offer exclusive tours that focus on the region’s acclaimed wines, ensuring an enjoyable and relaxed experience for queer travelers.
- Clifton 3rd Beach: Known as the unofficial gay beach of Cape Town, Clifton 3rd Beach is a beautiful spot where LGBTQ+ travelers can relax, sunbathe, and socialize. The picturesque setting and friendly atmosphere make it a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the coastal beauty.
7. Toronto, Canada
Toronto is known for its lively and diverse gay scene, making it one of the most welcoming cities for queer travelers in North America. With its inclusive neighborhoods, vibrant events, and robust support services, Toronto offers LGBTQ+ travelers a safe, welcoming, and exhilarating experience.
Whether you’re enjoying the nightlife, taking part in impactful cultural events, or simply exploring the city’s diverse landscapes and communities, Toronto is a place where you can truly be yourself and celebrate your identity.
Recommended Activities and Places to Visit:
- The Gay Village (Church-Wellesley Village): This iconic neighborhood is the heart of Toronto’s gay community. The Village is home to a wide array of LGBTQ+ friendly bars, clubs, cafes, and shops, offering a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere year-round.
- Toronto Pride Festival: The pinnacle of Toronto’s LGBTQ+ events, the Pride Festival features a variety of activities, including the Pride Parade, Dyke March, Trans March, and numerous parties, art shows, and performances.
- Inside Out LGBTQ Film Festival: Celebrate queer cinema at Inside Out, which showcases films by and about the community. The festival provides an important platform for queer storytelling and artistic expression.
8. Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik, the charming capital of Iceland, is renowned for its progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights and its inclusive, welcoming atmosphere. Iceland has been at the forefront of equality, being one of the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage and appoint an openly gay head of state.
The city’s vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals make it a standout destination for the community. Reykjavik reflects this spirit of acceptance and diversity, providing a safe and open environment for travelers to explore and enjoy.
Recommended Activities and Places to Visit:
- Check out Skólavörðustígur: Also known as Rainbow Street! A perfect place to take a photo of the city’s most prominent landmarks, Hallgrímskirkja.
- Gay Bar Crawl: Kiki Bar is the top gay bar in the city, known for its lively atmosphere and unforgettable nights. Just next door, you’ll find Bravo, another fantastic spot that’s perfect for barhopping. While Gaukurinn isn’t exclusively a gay bar, it’s a hotspot for drag shows and other thrilling events that you won’t want to miss!
- Experience Iceland’s Thermal Bath: There are two rejuvenating geothermal baths that are close to Reykjavik — the Blue lagoon and the Sky lagoon. There’s nothing more relaxing than experiencing a naturally hot bath in Iceland!
9. Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is not only famed for its beautiful beaches and iconic landmarks but also for its exuberant LGBTQ culture. The city is a hotspot for vibrant celebrations, none more thrilling than the Rio Pride Parade, held annually in the heart of the city. This spectacular event draws thousands of participants and spectators, turning Rio into a colorful festival of love, equality, and acceptance. The parade features lively music, dancing, and floats, creating an electrifying atmosphere that showcases the city’s commitment to LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.
Recommended Activities and Places to Visit:
- Corcovado and Christ the Redeemer: Tour one of Rio’s most iconic landmarks. Experience the breathtaking views and spiritual significance of Christ the Redeemer with guides who provide a welcoming and insightful experience.
- Farme de Amoedo Street: Located near Ipanema Beach Posto 8 and Posto 9, this street is the epicenter of Rio’s gay nightlife. Lined with bars, cafes, and shops, it’s a vibrant area where you can relax during the day and enjoy a lively scene at night.
- Nightlife Spots: Most queer bars are located in the vibrant neighborhoods of Copacabana, Lapa, and Ipanema. Just look for the rainbow flags outside to spot the LGBTQ+ friendly establishments.
10. Sydney, Australia
Sydney is renowned for its iconic landmarks, stunning beaches, and a vibrant LGBTQ+ culture that makes it a welcoming destination for travelers from around the world. The city boasts several gay-friendly neighborhoods, events, and attractions that celebrate diversity and inclusion.
Recommended Activities and Places to Visit:
- Darlinghurst: Known as the epicenter of Sydney’s queer scene, Darlinghurst is home to a myriad of LGBTQ-friendly bars, clubs, cafes, and shops. Oxford Street, in particular, is famous for its gay venues.
- Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras: One of the most significant Pride events in the world, Sydney Mardi Gras is a spectacular celebration of love, diversity, and acceptance.
- Sydney Opera House: While not exclusively LGBTQ+ related, the Sydney Opera House is a must-visit landmark that often hosts queer events and performances. Its inclusive programming and stunning architecture make it a symbol of Sydney’s diverse cultural landscape.
Final Thoughts About Pride
As we journey through these incredible destinations, it’s evident that the world is becoming more inclusive and welcoming to the LGBTQ+ community. Each city has its unique flair, vibrant pride culture, and history of acceptance, making them must-visit spots for travelers seeking to celebrate love in all its forms.
At Willamette International Travel, we believe in the power of exploring new cultures and embracing the beauty of inclusivity. We’re here to help you craft the perfect itinerary that celebrates your identity and ensures unforgettable memories!
And, if you’re in Portland, Oregon, don’t forget to get out there and celebrate equality and justice for all on July 21st! We hope that you all have a happy and safe Pride!
Resources
Australia and New Zealand Uncovered
Ready to show your true colors? Contact our excellent travel experts at 503-224-0180 or email inquiry@wittravel.com.
