gay solo trip

7 LGBTQ+ Destinations Perfect for Solo Travelers Sept. 30 2023 by Lachlan

Traveling solo can sometimes be a scary prospect, but there are actually loads of benefits to exploring a new destination on your own. One of the biggest advantages of solo travel is the freedom to do what you want, when you want. You don't have to worry about coordinating schedules with friends, compromising on activities, or even having an argument over which gay club to hit up in the evening!

When traveling solo, it can also sometimes be easier to connect with LGBTQ+ locals and other travelers, be it organically in a fun local gay bar, through a misterb&b stay with a welcoming host, or even through our chat feature Weere . 

While traveling solo has plenty of advantages, there are some destinations across the globe that are more solo-traveler-friendly than others. So to give you a helping hand for your next independent trip, we've rounded up 7 great LGBTQ+ cities that will leave you feeling right at home in no time!

Sydney, Australia

Okay, depending on where you're coming from, you'll likely have to spend a lot of time traveling on the plane alone to get there - but that can also be fun. Catch up on all the latest movies and strike up a conversation with the person sitting next to you. 

But back to Sydney ! Australia's largest city, Sydney is home to not only one of the world's most beautiful harbors, but also some of the world's friendliest locals! Sydney locals are known for their friendly and laid-back attitude, making it easy for solo travelers to make new friends. Hit up Darlinghurst, Paddington, and Surry Hills (the city's main gay areas) and connect with some LGBTQ+ locals in the area's great bars and cafes.  

Sydney is also a foodie's paradise, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up delicious food and drinks from around the world. Solo travelers can indulge in a variety of cuisines and sample local favorites like seafood, coffee, and of course brunch - avo on toast is an Aussie staple! 

Reykjavik, Iceland

Love the idea of experiencing breathtaking nature in solitude, and finding your inner Zen? Head up north to Reykjavik ! Known for its stunning natural scenery, the city is also recognized for being super LGBTQ+ friendly, with a small but lively queer scene. Reykjavik has an active LGBTQ+ community, and the city hosts an annual Pride festival that attracts visitors from around the world. Even outside of Pride season, you can enjoy several LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and events, making Reykjavik a welcoming and inclusive destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Iceland has a progressive and inclusive culture, rendering it a welcoming destination for solo travelers from all backgrounds. The country is known for its friendly and hospitable people, making it easy for solo LGBTQ+ travelers to connect with locals and make new friends, be it in a bar, cafe, or even during a tour. 

Reykjavik is surrounded by some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, including glaciers, waterfalls, and geysers. Solo travelers can take advantage of organized tours to explore the countryside or head out on their own to hike, bike, or go whale watching.

Bangkok, Thailand

Looking for some solo indulgence with a relatively low price tag? Bangkok is a great compromise, and it's more LGBTQ+ friendly than you might think! The city has a growing LGBTQ+ community and numerous gay bars and clubs, as well as a vibrant street food scene and cultural attractions making it a great place to explore alone. In any case, the liveliness and charming chaos will keep you more than entertained!

Bangkok is an affordable city to visit, which means it's an excellent choice for solo travelers on a budget. Accommodation, food, and transportation are all relatively cheap, allowing travelers to stretch their budgets and enjoy all the city has to offer - we talking some fabulous meals in some local restaurants and of course some shopping!

Bangkok has a vibrant and varied nightlife scene, with everything from rooftop bars to night markets and street food stalls. Solo travelers can enjoy the city's nightlife at their own pace, without worrying about coordinating with others. Bangkok also has a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, with many bars, clubs, and events catering to the community should you wish to have a night (or many) out on the town with LGBTQ+ locals.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is a fantastic destination for solo travelers, and while its infamously wild nightlife may initially be overwhelming, there are loads of other activities on offer should you not wish to hit the clubs. And even if, thanks to the open and inclusive atmosphere of many of the local clubs, you're sure to meet a new group of friends in no time on a night out.  

Berlin is known for its open and accepting culture towards LGBTQ+ individuals, with a large and thriving LGBTQ+ scene. Berlin is famous for its nightlife, with a diverse range of clubs, bars, and music venues to suit every taste. Solo travelers can enjoy the city's vibrant party scene without worrying about coordinating with others - will it be Berghain or KitKat? And when it's time to return home, you can settle into great LGBTQ+ accommodation - the city has plenty on offer through misterb&b! 

If traveling solo is a chance for you to eat what you want, when you want, then you'll be pleased to know the city is also tempting for food lovers. Berlin is a multicultural city, and its food scene reflects this diversity. Traditional German dishes like schnitzel, sausages, and potatoes are still popular, but Berlin's food scene has expanded to include a range of international cuisines, including Turkish, Middle Eastern, Vietnamese, and Korean. These international flavors can be found in many of the city's food markets and street food stalls, as well as in restaurants and cafes.

San Francisco, USA

San Francisco is a great city for solo LGBTQ+ travel, and is regarded as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the world, with a vibrant queer community and a long history of LGBTQ+ activism. The city is known for being a safe and accepting place for LGBTQ+ travelers, with strong anti-discrimination laws and a culture of tolerance and acceptance towards the queer community. 

If connecting with LGBTQ+ locals is a prio while visiting San Fran, then you'll be pleased to know the city offers a vibrant and welcoming LGBTQ+ nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and venues catering to the queer community. The Castro District is particularly famous for its nightlife, but there are also many LGBTQ+ friendly bars and clubs throughout the city. 

San Francisco is also home to many important LGBTQ+ landmarks, which are perfecrt to explore as a solo traveler. These include the Castro District, which has been a hub of queer culture and activism for decades, along with the Harvey Milk Plaza, the GLBT History Museum, and the Pink Triangle Park. A trip to Dolores Park is also a fun activity - pack a beer and something to snack on, and enjoy the lively vibe under the sun with locals (many of whom will likely be LGBTQ+)!

Lima is a dreamy LGBTQ+ friendly destination for solo travelers who are interested in history and culture. The city has a rich history and is known for its museums and archaeological sites. It's also an excellent destination for foodies, with a thriving culinary scene. Peruvians are known for their warmth and hospitality, and solo travelers are sure to feel welcome in Lima. The city has a vibrant street life, with friendly locals and a lively atmosphere.

Lima is known for its incredible cuisine, which combines traditional Peruvian flavors with influences from around the world. The city is home to some of the best restaurants in South America, with a range of options to suit all budgets. Lima has a dynamic street food scene, with vendors selling traditional dishes such as anticuchos (grilled beef heart skewers), churros, and empanadas. The city's markets, such as the Mercado Central and the Surquillo market, are also excellent places to sample local delicacies and buy fresh ingredients.

Lima is generally a safe city for solo travelers, with a low crime rate and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any city, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings. In Lima, there is a growing LGBTQ+ community, with a number of bars, clubs, and queer events. The neighborhood of Miraflores is particularly popular with LGBTQ+ travelers, with several gay-friendly bars and clubs located throughout.

Austin, Texas

Pack your suitcase for one, and book a trip to Austin - it's amazing for a solo trip! The city is revered for its vibrant music scene, delicious food, and eclectic culture, making it a fun and exciting place to explore on your own. Additionally, Austin has several LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhoods, such as South Congress and East Austin, where solo travelers can find LGBTQ+ owned businesses and welcoming community spaces. On top of this, with great LGBTQ+ accommodation on offer with misterb&b, you can find your home-away-from-home in no time.

Austin is known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," and there are plenty of venues throughout the city where you can catch a show. From blues and jazz to country and rock, there is something for every music lover in Austin. The city is also home to many festivals and events throughout the year, including the South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, Austin City Limits Music Festival. 

Exploring a city's local food scene on your own can sometimes be a little unnerving, particularly if you don't like the idea of sitting at a table for one in a restaurant. This is why Austin is a great shout - the food truck scene is one of the city's most popular and unique culinary offerings. Food trucks can be found throughout Austin, serving up a variety of cuisines from all over the world. Naturally they're a convenient option for solo travelers, as they offer quick and affordable meals that can be enjoyed on-the-go - plus the food is delicious!  

Feeling inspired? We hope so! Traveling alone can be a truly enriching experience, and knowing the right places to go will make your time all the more special. So will it be San Francisco? Maybe Reykjavik? Plan your upcoming solo trip with misterb&b today, and experience LGBTQ+ hospitality with a difference.

Love traveling for food? Check out our round-up of great LGBTQ+ cities for food lovers .

Cozy apartments, private rooms and amazing homes: be welcomed by the gay community in over 200 countries

Apartments, rooms, homes: be welcomed by the gay community

Looking for gay local tips? Connect with our gay local community in Sydney with

Wherever you're headed, don't forget to add us on Instagram , Facebook and Twitter and share your travel pictures using the hashtag #ExperienceYourPride . We'll share the best pics with our global LGBTQ+ travel community! Share your host story or  Local Tips  about what to do in your city, and make a video to promote your listing. Interested? Then just email us at  [email protected]  and we'll get back to you.

Who'll be your next misterb&b host in Sydney ?

latest news

don't miss

With misterb&b, experience a more welcoming world. From private rooms and apartments to LGBTQ-friendly hotels, you have the option to stay in the heart of gay districts as well as other neighborhoods in the places you visit. A loft in Soho , a shared room in Barcelona or in the Castro , a gay-friendly hotel in Le Marais or in Chelsea , experience misterb&b in all gay travel destinations ! Activate the connection option on your profile and connect with other misterb&b travelers at your destination city or hotel! Problems with misterb&b ? Please refer to our Help Center. misterb&b is not affiliated, endorsed, or otherwise associated with Airbnb .

Subscribe to our Gay Travel Newsletter here

• Tour Calendar
• Destinations
• Tailor-Made Vacations
• Our Company
• Australia & Oceania
• North America
• South America
• French Polynesia
• New Zealand
• South Africa

Let’s hit the road

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO TRAVEL?

9 Days In Portugal

New 2025 Gay Tours

Over 40 Trips Are Now Live!

Limited Edition Tours

Unique, once-in-a-lifetime LGBTQ+ vacations

Explore our Tours

Where Do You Want To Travel?

Gay Cruises

Small Ship Gay Cruises

Active Tours

Guided expeditions to natural wonders

Cultural Tours

LGBTQ+ tours in over 35 countries

Out Adventures is the world’s premier provider of small-group LGBTQ+ holidays, cultural tours and gay cruises. Choose your preferred Theme, Destination or Trip, and let’s hit the road!

Gay tours by theme, upcoming gay tours, tailor-made vacations, choose your date, choose your destination, tell us what you want to do, travel with us, some from our travellers, amazing experiences.

Amazing experiences – wine tasting, cooking with the Contessa, bridge climb, delicious dinners and food tours.

The Inca trail was an incredible experience.

I had such a great time with the Group and Ale. Group was super friendly and Ale was amazing, funny and such a fantastic guide and person. The Inca trail was an incredible experience. Overall the trip was great and highly recommended. 

Gus & Justin R

Amazing. Our Guide was very fun and knowledgeable. She made the trip seem seamless and was a great resource of information.

This is a must-do adventure!

The Rwanda Gorilla Trek was easily one of the most beautiful, spectacular, exceptional moments in my life! To be so close to these magnificent creatures was incomprehensible and life-changing. The Golden Monkeys were phenomenal as well. This is a must-do adventure!

It exceeded all expectations

This was my first Out Adventures experience, and it exceeded all expectations. The team, the boat we were on, the places we visited, and the other travelers were all just wonderful. I would highly recommend Out Adventures!

Once in a lifetime adventure

Once in a lifetime adventure everyone should experience, surrounded by a great group of people. Outstanding organization and communication from the Out Adventures representatives so there was nothing I had to worry about once the trip was booked.

Christopher R

Everything was excellent and ran smoothly.

The experience, the accommodations, the people, and the food – Everything was excellent and ran smoothly

Epic, amazing, and a trip I'll remember forever.

Epic, amazing, and a trip I’ll remember forever. Loved, loved loved our guides and camping in the middle of the Serengeti was an experience I will never forget.

Featured Posts

Everything you need to know about ancient roman homosexuality.

Ever wondered about how gay the Roman Empire and its Gods really were? As it turns out, super gay. But it’s complicated. Read More

Gay Europe Vacations Are So Hot Right Now

With centuries of art and history to peruse, and nightlife as flamboyant as Lady Gaga’s wardrobe, it’s no wonder travellers are clamoring to get to Europe. Read More

Was Lawrence Of Arabia Gay? Hollywood’s Love Affair With Jordan

Uncover the homoerotic history of archaeologist TE Lawrence who inspired Lawrence Of Arabia, the 1962 movie that put Jordan on the map. Read More

‘Support For The Cuban People’ LGBTQ+ Tours For Americans

Our Support For The Cuban People tour is designed to satisfy the requirements and documentation for Americans to visit legally, as well as provide a comprehensive perspective on Cuban art, cuisine, history, and daily life. Read More

Mykonos, Greece: Why You’ll Love This LGBTQ-Friendly Paradise

Greece was one of the first places on Earth to embrace gay stuff way back in the 7th century BCE, and today, it's home to Mykonos, one of the most LGBTQ-friendly islands in the world. Read More

Ooooooookavango Where The Wind Comes Sweeping Down The Delta

We're flexing our musical muscles, (sometimes terribly) and defying gravity to visit 525,600 creatures on a sassy safari sojourn to Botswana's Okavango Delta. If you're a fan of broadway, this blog's for you! Read More

Forest Bathing Is A Surging Trend, But What Is It?

People are going out to forests and doing... what?! This new hobby is making a splash with nature lovers worldwide. Read More

99% Of People Have Never Travelled To This Hidden Kingdom

It’s relatively small, landlocked, filled to the brim with tradition and veiled in an aura of mystery and spirituality. Read More

Gay Cruises 2025: A Definitive Guide

This handy (and sassy) guide will help you decide which gay cruise to embark on in 2025. Read More

7 Highlights Of Our Gay River Cruise Down The Mekong

From the temples of Angkor to palatial residences and gondola boat rides, our 13-day Mekong Gay River Cruise is the ultimate sampler of Southeast Asian culture! Read More

Stays That Slay: Namibia

Namibia is a land of unbridled beauty, and we've handpicked the most exquisite hotels and game lodges for our Skeleton Coast Expedition. Read More

Tired Of Bear Runs? These Bear-friendly Trips Don’t Involve Running

From the northern lights to the southern hemisphere, these guided gay tours are the bear run alternatives you never knew existed! Read More

Are You A Travel Top? You May Be Missing Out.

If you've ever organized a trip, you know how much of a hassle it can be to deal with messy travel logistics. There's a better way to travel that you may be missing out on. Read More

Costa Rica is a Down-low Hotspot for Gay Tourism

Costa Rica gay tourism might be the best-kept secret; dazzling nightlife, lush jungles, pristine beaches and a volcano! Read More

Why New Zealand is the gayest place on Earth

Small but mighty, little gay NZ punches above its weight in regards to LGBTQ+ rights and happiness. Read More

Homosexuality In Japan: A Surprisingly Colourful History

Japan has a fascinating homosexual history, from open-minded Buddhists to promiscuity, alleged sex cults, and even Gay Samurai. Read More

The World’s 10 Greatest LGBTQ-Friendly Countries for Travellers

Our fearless leader Rob offers his list of the most gay friendly countries in the world. Do you agree with his list? Read More

To invite friends or fly solo? An Out Adventurer on the pros and cons of both.

Breaking down common anxieties and concerns many solo travellers feel joining a gay group tour. Read More

Dance of the 41: The Drag Ball That Shook Mexico City.

Read all about the 1901 drag ball that shook conservative, Catholic Mexican society to its core. Read More

Tango’s Fascinating And Queer History

Tango can be traced back to Buenos Aires' poorest neighbourhoods where immigrants, former-slaves, pimps and—yes—LGBTQ people popularized it. Read More

Gay Guide: Melbourne

Written by a former Melbournian, this gay guide focuses on where to go, eat and sleep in Australia's second-largest city. Read More

Meet Ancient Egypt’s First Gay Couple. Allegedly.

Among the pyramids we visit on our upcoming Egypt cruise lies the necropolis Sakkara. Herein awaits the tomb of (likely) Egypt's first gay governors! Read More

• Gay Tailor-Made Vacations
• The Gay Travel Blog
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Booking Conditions
• Newsletter Sign Up
• [email protected]
• Toll-Free (CAN/US): 1-866-360-1152
• International: +1-416-531-8795

By using our website, you agree to the Out Adventures Privacy Policy which includes Out Adventures' practices regarding personal data and cookies.     I AGREE

Be the first to know!

Subscribe to our gay travel newsletter and receive exclusive content including new tour announcements, hot promotions, and the best gay travel information out there!

What type of travel are you interested in?*

Thank you for signing up for our Lesbian Travel E-News!

We need to confirm your email address. To complete the subscription process, please click the link in the email we just sent you, and add [email protected] to your address book so our informative and inspiring newsletters land front and centre in your inbox.

- The Out Adventures Team

• Traveller Login

Tips for Solo LGBTQ+ Travelers

Whether you don’t have friends who can accompany you on a trip or prefer to travel alone, traveling solo is a great way to experience the world.

Although there are always things to consider when traveling alone, if you’re vacationing solo while being part of the LGBTQ+ community, there’s more to consider to ensure a fabulous and safe experience.

Are you an LGBTQ+ traveler planning a solo trip?

Keep reading for travel tips to ensure you have the best time during your stay without worrying about traveling alone.

Stay at LGBTQ+-focused Properties

Not only can you ensure a safe travel experience as a solo traveler by booking with properties that cater to the queer community, but you can also connect with other LGBTQ+ travelers. Your safety is a top priority, and LGBTQ+-friendly resorts and hotels understand that. If price is a concern, look for LGBTQ+-friendly hostels. They’re an affordable option for traveling alone and are another great opportunity to connect with other queer travelers if interested.

Do an LGBTQ+ Tour

One of the most popular ways for LGBTQ+ travelers to explore the world without a travel companion is to book an LGBTQ+ tour. Rainbow Getaways recommends Vacaya and Atlantis Events for gay men and Olivia Cruises for lesbian women. While these cater to specific niches within our community, they are a fantastic way to travel without going out alone.

These tours usually have a single supplement, but finding a roommate in Facebook groups is easy. This helps save money, and you'll have someone to experience your vacation with.

Stay in Gayborhoods

Research your destination city to find the gayborhoods. While tourist areas are often LGBTQ+-friendly, nothing beats staying in the heart of where the local queer community lives. Not only are you likely to find queer-owned accommodations, but you will be surrounded by bars, restaurants, and shops that cater to the queer locals. This will make it easier for you to blend in and give you a better opportunity to connect with other LGBTQ+ people during your travels.

Share Your Itinerary

When you’re traveling alone, make sure you’re in regular contact with friends and family back home so they know that you’re safe and where they can expect to hear from you next. Sharing your itinerary and your phone's location with your loved ones back home can also give you peace of mind knowing that you’re not truly alone on this journey.

Be Mindful of Using Apps

In a previous post, we discussed tips for using the apps while traveling . While the apps are great for meeting new friends or for something more, make sure you’re prepared before you open them and start swiping.

Know the laws of your destination ahead of time and give yourselves some anonymity by nixing the face pics from your profile until you’re ready to meet up. Regardless of whose hosting, meet somewhere in public first to reduce any risk, and make sure you know your resort’s guest policy before you bring someone back to your room.

Bring Personal Protection

When you’re traveling alone, having a form of personal protection, such as pepper spray, can give you an added layer of safety during your travels. According to TSA , one 4 fl. Oz container of mace or pepper spray is permitted in checked baggage (provided it’s equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge) but not in a carry-on. If you’re traveling light, research your destination about the laws surrounding purchasing mace or pepper spray.

Also, it’s best to bring your own condoms if you plan to hook up while traveling. You don’t want to bring any unexpected souvenirs home.

If you want more information about traveling solo when you’re LGBTQ+, schedule a consultation with Rainbow Getaways , and we’ll help you with everything you need to know.

Rainbow Getaways proudly helps travelers of the LGBTQ community (and our allies) research, plan, and book incredible vacations where you feel confident and comfortable enjoying and exploring your destination. We plan each vacation to meet your specific needs, so you'll have an experience just as unique as you.

• Solo Travel
• LGBTQ+ Travel

Recent Posts

Tips for using the “Apps” while traveling

Vacaya vs Atlantis Events: Which is right for you?

Tips for Traveling to a Non-Inclusive Destination

Table of Contents

Gay solo travel: 10 reasons of embarking solo to the jungle gayborhood.

• September 29, 2023

Jungle Gayborhood

Embarking on a journey of gay solo travel is a transformative experience, one that promises self-discovery, adventure, and a deeper connection with the world around you. In the heart of Costa Rica, Jungle Gayborhood is a sanctuary where the LGBTQ+ community can find both solace and celebration. Dive into a world where every moment is a testament to the beauty of exploration, both outward and inward, and discover the magic that awaits when you choose Jungle Gayborhood for your gay solo travel adventure.

1. Experience Authentic Self-Expression in Gay Solo Travel

At Jungle Gayborhood, gay solo travel means immersing yourself in an environment where you can be unapologetically authentic. It’s a place where the LGBTQ+ community is celebrated, and every traveler can truly be themselves.

2. Dive into a Community Tailored for You

Jungle Gayborhood isn’t just a retreat and boutique hotel; it’s a community. For those embarking on gay solo travel, it’s essential to find spaces where you can connect with like-minded individuals. Here, you’ll find a vibrant community eager to share stories, experiences, and create lasting memories together. The Jungle Gayborhood functions as a retreat center and a boutique hotel. You can book solo stays or join us for a transformative retreat. Book your private stay or see a list of upcoming retreats .

3 . Benefit from a Supportive LGBTQ+ Community

The magic of Jungle Gayborhood lies in its community. As you embark on your journey, you’ll never feel alone. The supportive environment ensures that every traveler finds a space to connect, share, and grow, surrounded by individuals who truly understand.

4. Revel in Costa Rica’s Natural Splendors During Your Gay Solo Travel

Costa Rica is a land of unparalleled beauty, and the Jungle Gayborhood is your gateway to its wonders. As you embark on your gay solo travel adventure, you’ll be greeted by the melodious calls of exotic birds, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the soothing sounds of flowing rivers. Every step is an opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form.

5. Dive into Diverse and Transformative Activities for Gay Solo Travel

Jungle Gayborhood ensures that every day is filled with excitement and enrichment. Begin your mornings with rejuvenating yoga sessions amidst the serene backdrop of the jungle. Seek spiritual enlightenment with our guided experiences . Or simply set out on an adventure, exploring the dense jungles and discovering its hidden treasures.

6. Find Personal Growth and Inner Peace in Gay Solo Travel

Jungle Gayborhood offers more than just a getaway; it’s a sanctuary for self-discovery. Engage in spiritual retreats or find tranquility by the river, ensuring your journey is as inward as it is outward.

8. Celebrate Your Identity in a Space of Inclusion

One of the joys of gay solo travel at Jungle Gayborhood is the celebration of diversity . Every guest is valued, and the inclusive environment ensures everyone feels seen and cherished.

9. Create Memories that Last a Lifetime

The essence of gay solo travel is in the memories you forge. At Jungle Gayborhood, every experience, be it a shared laugh or a mesmerizing sunset, becomes a cherished memory.

10. Because You Deserve It

Above all, the best reason to experience gay solo travel at Jungle Gayborhood is that you deserve it. You deserve a space where you can be unapologetically yourself, where you can explore, grow, and celebrate life on your terms. Jungle Gayborhood is that space.

Gay Solo Travel: A Personal Journey of Discovery

Gay solo travel is not just about visiting a new destination; it’s about embarking on a personal journey. At Jungle Gayborhood, we understand the profound impact of such experiences. Traveling solo allows you to move at your own pace, make spontaneous decisions, and truly immerse yourself in the moment. Without the influence or preferences of a travel companion, you get to decide every aspect of your trip, from the activities you partake in to the moments you choose to savor.

One of the most enriching aspects of gay solo travel is the opportunity to meet new people and build lasting connections. Jungle Gayborhood is a hub for the LGBTQ+ community, attracting travelers from all over the world. This melting pot of cultures, backgrounds, and experiences ensures that every conversation is a chance to learn something new. Moreover, the shared understanding and commonalities within the LGBTQ+ community make it easier to forge deep, meaningful connections.

Empowerment and Independence in Gay Solo Travel

There’s an undeniable sense of empowerment that comes with navigating a new place on your own. Every decision you make, every challenge you overcome, adds to your confidence and self-reliance. Jungle Gayborhood provides a safe and supportive environment for you to flex your independence muscles. Whether it’s trying out a new activity, exploring the local area, or simply spending a day pampering yourself, the choices are endless and entirely up to you.

A Chance for Self-Reflection

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s rare to get moments of quiet introspection. Traveling solo offers ample opportunities for self-reflection. Jungle Gayborhood, with its serene surroundings and dedicated spaces for relaxation, is the perfect place to introspect and realign with your inner self. Whether it’s journaling by the beach, meditating in our gardens, or simply gazing at the stars, the resort offers countless moments for soulful contemplation.

Affirmation and Validation

In many parts of the world, the LGBTQ+ community still faces discrimination and prejudice. Jungle Gayborhood stands as a beacon of acceptance and validation. Here, you are not just accepted but celebrated. Every aspect of the resort, from its policies to its events, is a testament to our commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. For many, a stay at Jungle Gayborhood is a deeply affirming experience, a reminder that they are valued and cherished.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. is jungle gayborhood just a resort.

No, Jungle Gayborhood is more than just a resort. The Jungle Gayborhood functions as a retreat center and a boutique hotel . You can book solo stays or join us for a transformative retreat. It’s a vibrant community where gay solo travelers can connect, share stories, and create lasting memories together.

2. What natural attractions can I explore during my gay solo travel at Jungle Gayborhood?

Jungle Gayborhood is your gateway to the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica . You can explore lush jungles, serene rivers, and other natural wonders during your stay.

3. How does Jungle Gayborhood support personal growth and introspection?

Jungle Gayborhood is designed as a sanctuary for self-discovery. With spiritual retreats , tranquil surroundings by the river, and serene spots in the jungle, it provides the perfect backdrop for meditation, reflection, and personal growth.

4. What kind of memories can I expect to create during my gay solo travel at Jungle Gayborhood?

At Jungle Gayborhood, every experience is an opportunity to create cherished memories. From sunsets and shared stories to transformative personal experiences, you’ll leave with a heart full of moments that will stay with you forever.

or want to host your own retreat ?

Rainbow Progress Tracker

Related Posts

Divine Intimacy: The Liberating Power of Authentic Connection

Divine Intimacy: The Liberating Power of Authentic Connection A men’s sacred sexuality retreat* *Gay, bisexual, and queer cis- or trans-men of any age, body shape, race, and background are welcome. Straight-identified men are welcome with the understanding that there will be intimate contact with other men, though you will be able to establish your own […]

Personal Wellness Retreat – Week of May 20-24

Overview of the Jungle Gayborhood Personal Retreat Experience Embrace the Wilderness Within: Your Journey to Self-Discovery Nestled in the heart of the lush jungle, the Jungle Gayborhood invites you to a transformative retreat designed to rejuvenate your spirit and ignite your passions. Our personalized retreat packages offer an exceptional opportunity to reset and explore what […]

Personal Wellness Retreat – Weekend of May 17-20

Jungle Gayborhood - LGBTQ Boutique Hotel and Retreat Center in Costa Rica

Stay in touch.

Stay up2date with upcoming events and retreats

Why This Gay Man Prefers to Travel Solo

Plus, a few places he won't travel to

As a travel journalist, rare is the opportunity to bring along my husband or friend—a “plus one” trip as we say in the biz—on a work assignment due to logistics, finances (especially finances!), or other reasons. That means I'm usually flying solo. To some, who have “awww”ed when I share this caveat in conversation about my work, this sounds like a bummer. But honestly, I’m a solo traveler at heart. 

Sure, I love taking vacations and sharing incredible (and sometimes compensated experiences) with my husband at least once a year. Still, I learned early on that I simply prefer traveling this way. (Plus, he actually loathes airports and air travel minutiae to the point that merely going through TSA screenings earns me an angsty, unhappy “I don’t want to do THAT again for a while," and he’s a Guy Fieri to my Andrew Zimmern when it comes to adventurous eating.)

The epiphany occurred during my early 20s when I took a trip to Europe with a gay best friend. Upon arrival at London Heathrow, I was excited to delve into U.K. culture and, since we were famished, lunch. My friend pointed to a McDonald’s and insisted, “let’s go there.” 

“WHAT?!” I thought and blanched aloud. “We’re in London! Let’s eat something London-y. We flew all this way. How about we get lunch at a pub or something? There’s a fish and chips shop right there!” 

“No,” he insisted sternly. “I want McDonald’s. McDonald’s will make me happy.” 

And he stormed into the McDonald’s and ate the same (insert expletive) meal he could’ve back home. Things only got worse in Paris. And then by the time we arrived in Amsterdam, we basically split up during the days, and once home, our friendship dissolved (and he could eat all the friggin’ McD’s he wanted). 

My next trip to Europe was solo, and my experiences backpacking there for three weeks without being tethered to someone with an American fast food fixation proved intoxicating and invaluable. I had freedom of choice for activities and meals; the chance for spontaneous adventures or encounters; the perk of booking a single seat (there’s almost always a single seat available for everything, from theater to restaurants with bar seating or chefs tables, to transportation); I could stop to take photos without someone nagging or feeling I was holding them up, and vice versa; and the ability to forge new friendships and adventures without a potential third wheel. In Antwerp, Belgium, a local noticed me eating alone, poring through a guidebook, and sparked up a conversation, and half an hour later I was taking my first ever motorcycle ride, clung tightly to his waist, en route to try my first unfiltered white beer (still my favorite). Plus, it helped me develop independent skills, like reading maps and navigating schedules that would prove useful when bringing someone along.

I should clarify that my “solo” travels are actually not completely solo, given how much time I’ve spent with locals or fellow tourists. Sometimes I’ll force myself to clear a day for playing things completely by ear, especially when it comes to a major city, and there are alleys and streets filled with hidden gems to explore at my own pace. (Conversely, one of my Taipei friends always takes me to hidden places like queer-owned art bookstores tucked down laneways I’d never find otherwise.) 

Smartphones (and local SIM chips) represented a utilitarian game-changer, especially for gay men, thanks to gay social apps like Grindr. Truth be told, I’d used gay websites to make connections worldwide for years and learned that there are country and region-specific ones to check out in some cases.

Israel’s Atraf , for example, on which some young gay men—including aspiring drag queens—use a photo bearing arms in military gear in their profiles. Japan’s 9Monsters conveniently provides real-time Japanese-English translation in its chat feature and adds a "kawaii" (read: cute) quirk by assigning a creature type (e.g., Muscle Wolf, Athlete Kong, and Chubby Piggy) to you and those you connect with. In Mainland China, where the internet firewall blocks certain apps and websites from functioning entirely, Blued rules and boasts in-app Chinese-English translation.

There are dangers to these apps, however, including people who might do you harm. Being assaulted is especially a danger in virulently homophobic countries and regions such as Russia’s Chechen Republic. David France’s gripping Oscar-nominated 2020 documentary, " Welcome to Chechnya ," chronicles its repugnant anti-gay purge and torture of LGBTQ people who often are baited, ambushed, and tortured via these apps. 

I made a very conscious decision years ago to avoid destinations where my life and safety would be at high risk: I partly owe this decision to my father, who hammered into me over the years, “you have too much to live for to lose it all by going into a war zone!” Consequently, I won’t go to Iran or Yemen, where they still may execute you for being gay . Further, I have little interest in many places where anti-LGBTQ violence or legislation is an issue. Jamaica can wait , thank you.

Yet, I have visited a few countries, such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, where homosexuality is illegal. Why? In Singapore’s case, it’s a frustrating, dusty legislative fossil, Section 377A, that the old political guard keeps on the books to appease the aging conservative base. (They stopped actively enforcing the code after a series of entrapment operations and much public outcry.) As a result, Singapore's tourism office doesn't officially promote anything LGBTQ, which sucks for me, and no doubt, some staffers. Despite this, Singapore is a clean, safe and diverse destination where gays can have a, well, gay ol' time. There's a highly visible Pride-style event, Pink Dot , dedicated to changing hearts and minds, while a lively LGBTQ nightlife scene exists. But there’s no imminent threat of violence or prison thanks to one’s sexuality.

Malaysia’s situation is much stickier. There, laws are colored by Islam, and politicians routinely vilify LGBTQ people. During a preposterous 2012 episode, the government issued guidance on how to spot homosexuals , V-neck shirts being a telltale sign. The following year saw a government-funded, anti-gay musical titled “Abnormal Desire” in which lightning strikes and kills you for succumbing to queer impulses—this production went on to tour schools. Over a seafood-heavy dinner that year in Kuala Lumpur, a handful of my Malaysian friends who work in the arts rolled their eyes over LGBTQ acquaintances who actively participated in the production. Funny, yet not so funny when you consider the self-loathing, familial rejection, and suicides these kinds of things can ultimately cause among Malaysian youth.

I do keep returning to Kuala Lumpur and Kuching—the latter is located on Malaysian Borneo, and its creamy, non-fishy iteration of laksa (a soup) is my addiction—thanks to my "foreigner privilege." A Kuching friend once told me that as a non-Muslim visitor from the West, I could basically skirt the rules, at least when it pertains to being gay. I couldn't confirm that advice (nor recommend testing it), seeing as I still wouldn't dare kiss anyone publicly in a place where same-sex PDAs are considered taboo or might invite public displays of hatin' (I'm looking at you, Poland ). One irony that's always puzzling: Some countries are vehemently legally anti-gay, but men holding hands is okey-dokey. Go figure.

As for Indonesia, certain regions are downright dangerous due to their enforcement of Shariah law, and others completely safe. To wit, early 2021 saw an Aceh province gay couple receive 77 lashes in public , while the island of Bali is a chilled-out LGBTQ haven with gay-owned guesthouses and villas, and far removed in every way.

I’ll admit to feeling on edge while visiting the capital city of Jakarta in 2010, which I have mixed feelings about (the traffic ranks among the top three worst I’ve experienced, joining Manila and New Delhi). My travel writing aside, I was there as a guest of Q Fest, an LGBTQ film festival organized by the bravest and most beautiful Indonesians, as co-writer of a gay rom-com titled BearCity . That year, fundamentalists threatened to bomb screening venues, including ones affiliated with international consulates, which resulted in hasty last-minute cancellations and changes. Also, my hotels’ checks for bombs when a vehicle entered the properties proved moreso unnerving.

Despite that, I savored incredible cuisine, discovered a vibrant arts and social scene, and forged lasting friendships (nothing like being the targets of crazed fundamentalists to bond over!). Would I go back? Actually, no, but that's down to the godforsaken traffic; ask anyone who spent six hours in a taxi merely transferring from the airport to their hotel, especially if it was raining and flooding at the time, which happens, and there are few structurally sound sidewalks to speak of.

Taking inventory, some of my most vivid, special travel memories are, in fact, when I was completely alone—especially meals. As much fun as sharing a meal can be, I love to work while I eat. It fuels my output, my brain is optimized, my senses are sharp, and my laptop has joined me for innovative, mind-blowing food worldwide. (One exception: While at Amsterdam’s two Michelin star &samhoud places in 2015, I was told to put it away, as laptop use was considered distracting to other diners. The restaurant closed in 2020, and I blame hyper-sensitive diners who can't mind their own business—it's not like I want them to shut up because their conversation is ruining my meal.)

It's also an opportunity to plot my course. At Tokyo’s Florilege , I was able to research galleries and map my itinerary via iPhone between stunning courses and a juice pairing (there may or may not have been some 9Monsters chats going on too)—one of the best meals and experiences of my life. Ditto for Merida, Mexico's K'u'uk , where Yucatecan cuisine and flavors receive a futuristic, theatrical treatment.

If you see me dining solo there again or anywhere else, don’t even consider thinking I’m missing out. I'm not. But do drop me a hello on Grindr!

My Adventures in Pride: LGBTQ+ Festivals Around the World

Learning to Surf Also Taught Me a Lot About Myself

20 Solo Trips in 2020: I Traveled Solo During COVID-19

7 Ways to Make Friends While Traveling Solo

15 Travelers Talk About Traveling to Countries Unsafe for LGBTQ+ People

I Went on a 60-Day Duolingo Streak Before My Trip to France—Here's How It Went

How to Stay Calm When Your Child Is Traveling, According to TripSavvy Parents

"I Felt Seen": Visiting Family in The Gambia as a Black Bisexual Woman

How BeReal's Unfiltered Posts Are Changing the Face of Travel Social Media

8 Solo Travel Experts Share Their Best Tips

Is It Safe in Colombia?

Is It Safe in Sweden?

Is It Safe in Barbados?

The Unexpected Perks of Solo Travel

Tips for Traveling Solo With a Tour Group

Is It Safe in Peru?

No products in the basket.

The best travel destinations for LGBTQ+ travellers

Updated On 9th May, 2022

If you’re looking for the best gay friendly travel destinations or the best LGBTQ+ friendly places to visit, this is the blog post for you. With a frightening number of countries still criminalizing homosexuality , finding safe travel destinations poses challenges for LGBTQ+ individuals. Fortunately, the number of places that punish them for existing is growing smaller, and there are many locations that embrace gay and queer travelers with open arms.

If you are looking for your next vacation getaway, here are some of the best travel destinations for LGBTQ+ travelers that are definitely worth checking out. We couldn’t fit them all on one list, so this is very much just a starting point – let us know in the comments below if there are more LGBTQ+ friendly travel destinations that you would add to this guide! 

Other travel guides you might find useful…

• The best things to do in Australia
• Europe: the ultimate bucket list
• The best things to do in New Zealand  
• The best things to do in Canada

The best LGBTQ+ friendly travel destinations...

1. san francisco, california, usa.

The first place on our list of best LGBTQ+ friendly destinations is San Francisco. San Francisco might be one of the best known queer-friendly cities, sometimes called the the  “ Gay Mecca ” of the world. Indeed, every queer should visit the city at least once. The enourmous gay clubs and rainbow crosswalks on Castro Street are packed any night of the week with drag queens and party goers, and the city boasts some of the world’d largest Pride and Leather events. In addition, there are many gay bars and organizations throughout the city, with a large and politically active queer community. 

If you are not into clubs, there is plenty of sightseeing to do, as well as many excellent restaurants and museums. Attractions include the massive Golden Gate Park, the bustling Ferry Building, and the seaside shops on Pier 39 or Fisherman’s Wharf. You can also find uniquely quirky accommodations and shopping, as well as food options to fit every budget. While the city is home to many queer artists and activists, there is a growing population in the surrounding cities, particularly across the bay in Oakland. Among other attractions, here you can find the historic White Horse Inn, one of the oldest gay bars in the United States.

See all the best things to do in San Francisco here.

2. Guadalajara, Mexico

While Puerto Vallarta is known as one of the gay capitals of Mexico and features on many lists of best LGBTQ+ destinations, the community tends to be focused on retired gay men. Just a few hours inland, Guadalajara–known as the “ San Francisco of Mexico ”–boasts a larger, younger, and hipper LGBTQ+ community. As the second largest city in Mexico, you can find travelers and expats from all over the world, including the largest population of Canadians outside of Canada. There is a cluster of gay bars, drag shows, and clubs in the Gay Village near the historic Zona Centro that are reminiscent of San Francisco’s Castro District, which a chance to get a post-dancing snack at the rainbow-draped Tacos Gay afterwards. However, there are gay bars and thriving nighlife neighborhoods all over the city, such as the one around Avenida Chapultetec.

Often overlooked as a tourist destination, Guadalajara is significantly more affordable than the more popular and coastal locations in Mexico. As the second-largest city in the county, it has modern accommodations while still maintaining a more “authentic” Mexican culture. The beautiful and historic city has many sights to explore, with incredible architecture and fountains. Visit the stunning cathedrals with their stained glass windows, such as the Catedral in Zona Centro and the Expiatorio. There are numerous museums, bars, and restaurants with incredible and affordable cuisine, as well as ample shopping opportunities. You can also take day excursions to the neighboring areas, such as Tequila or Lake Chapala.

See all the best things to do in Mexico here.

3. Portland, Oregon, USA

While Portland is probably best known for rain, bridges, stripclubs, and food cart pods, there is a thriving LGBTQ+ community in the city. It’s not difficult to find queer bars, drag shows, sports leagues, community organizations, art, and queer-owned businesses. The city has a long history of gay rights activism, and was one of the first major cities to repeal anti-gay legislation and elect an openly gay mayor. Their annual Pride parade is a part of a two-day festival, and there are numerous queer-focused events all year long. On sunny days, you can also find many gay folks hanging out in the clothing-optional sections of Collins Beach. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit for LGBTQ+ travellers!

Portland is also known for its excellent food and craft breweries, and there are numerous opportunities to explore. The numerous food cart pods offer clusters of delicious food and beverage options at reasonable prices. There also are stunning parks, gardens, and scenic areas, such as the Crystal Springs Rhododendron Gardens and Washington Park. The moderate temperatures and ample rain makes for some truly lush greenery. You can also find some incredible art and science museums to check out, or simply walk or bike around the city to enjoy the views. It is an affordable option whether you are looking for nightlife, nature, or cultural attractions.

4. Berlin, Germany

Berlin has long been a refuge for LGBTQ+ individuals, dating all the way back to the 1920s. Today, it’s one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in Europe: there are Pride Week events, gay bars, clubs, and parties, queer cinema, a gay museum , and more. The largest event of the year is Christopher Street Day ( CSD Berlin ), where up to 750,000 people march, celebrate, and demonstrate on the streets. While many of the queer-oriented venues can be found in the gay neighborhoods such as the Rainbow District, you are sure to find events throughout the city. There are also numerous businesses that are queer-owened or advertise themselves as LGBT friendly. 

In addition to the nightlife, the city has a rich history which makes for great sightseeing. Walk around under the fragrant linden trees enjoying the incredible architecture, visit museums, the Bradenburg Gate, or what remains of the Berlin Wall. At the Chekpoint Charlie Museum, you can see the old guardhouse and Cold War relics at what was the most famous crossing between East and West Berlin. On the eastern side of the city, you can still find the famous and adorable hat-wearing Ampelmännchen (“little traffic light men”)  on the pedestrian crossing lights. There are also endless opportunities to enjoy traditional German cuisine, beer, wines, and spirits, and the excellent public transportation makes it easy to get around.

See all the best things to do in Berlin here.

5. Kona, Hawaii, USA

Kona lies on the western side of the island of Hawai’i, commonly referred to the “Big Island” to avoid confusion with the state of Hawaii. It is the location of the island’s main airport, and you can find plenty of queer events and nightlife without leaving the city. There is a Pride festival, gay bars and organizations, and a number of of queer-friendly businesses in this tropical locale, making it one of the best gay friendly destinations. For a relaxed vacation, enjoy some drinks on the beach, hike under the mango trees, or explore the city’s many shops and restaurants. 

However, the “Big” Island is not that big, and there are abundant sightseeing opportunities on the whole island. You can see the live volcano Kilauea at Volcanoes National Park, one of the island’s many stunning waterfalls , or the moon up close at the Mauna Kea Summit Observatory. On the east side of the island, Hilo offers many sites and attractions as well, including the not-to-be missed Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden . The western side of the island is drier, but is better known for its snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. You will need a car to get around, and can easily drive across the island in a day, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos of stunning roadside views or exploring lava tubes. While there, don’t miss the chance to attend a traditional luau with Hawaiian food, hula dance, and fire performances.

6. Denver, Colorado, USA

Denver is a lesser-known LGBTQ hot spot that is growing in popularity as a queer travel destination which attracts people all over the world. In fact, it’s River North (RiNo) neighborhood was named of one the country’s top five emerging gay neighborhoods . Some of the more popular annual events include the Pride Festival, a Queer Film Festival, and the Gay Rodeo. In addtion, the city abounds with queer-centered nightlife and events, inlcluding gay bars, dance clubs, and drag shows. The city is also well known for it’s excellent craft beer–but be aware that alcohol might hit you differently at the elevation of the “Mile High City!”

Denver is known as a friendly, affordable, easily walkable, and cultural city. There is an an abundance of amazing food, parks, tourist attractions, and festivals. However, Colorado is a beautiful state if you’re looking to explore beyond the Denver-Boulder Metro area. Depending on the type of vacation you are looking for, you can find national parks for hiking and camping, museums, concerts, and more. For the more adventurous, a scenic drive through the Rocky Mountains offers incredible sightseeing opportunities, as long as you are mindful of the weather and road conditions in the colder months. You can even see part of the Grand Canyon, if you’re up for a longer road trip.

7. Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Playa Del Carmen in the Mexican Riviera Maya is another up-and-coming LGBTQ+ hot spot . Formerly a small beach town, the small city has exploded with resorts and nightlife, to become one of the most popular places to visit in Mexico . While the city currently only has two official gay bars–both of which cater primarily to gay men–there are many drag shows, lesbian brunches, and gay-centered events to be found. Since many of the events are more “underground,” the best way to find them is to connect with other LGBTQ+ folks in the area via queer Facebook and WhatsApp groups. The city’s annual Pride Parade is a small one, but is reminiscent of the event’s original roots, where everyone is welcome to join the march for gay rights. In additon to the parade, there are numerous events during the entire Pride Week in June. 

The primary tourist season for the area is Thanksgiving through New Years, but you can find travellers from all over the world at any time of the year. There are accommodation opportunities for every budget, from all-inclusive resorts to backpacker hostels. The city is packed with bars, restaurants, night clubs, beach clubs, and shopping on the main tourist strip, Avenida Quinta. There are also tons of outdoor activities, such as stand-up paddle boarding, snorkeling, and kite boarding. The city is easily accessible for pedestrians and bicyclists, and visitors can take advantage of the inexpensive BiciPlaya rental bike stations. Enjoy a meal with your feet in the white sands while gazing at the turquoise Caribbean waters, or take excursions to visit cenotes , ruins, or the other quirky coastal cities, such as Akumal or Tulum.

Explore all our Mexico blog posts here.

8. Montevideo, Uruguay

Uruguay is the smallest country in South America , but is is also the most progressive. Nestled between the more well-known tourist destinations of Brazil and Argentina, it has some of the the oldest and strongest legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals on the continent. The city is known for being culturally diverse and egalitarian, with many gay-focused events, organizations, and venues, as well as queer-owened businesses. Diversity month is celebrated every September, which ends with a March for Diversity. 

Not only is Montevideo one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations, but it’s a great place to explore. The vibe of the cosmopolitan city is vibrant and laid-back, with some truly beautiful beaches. As the capitol city, it is an excellent base to explore the rest of the small county with day trips. While it is less “touristy” than other Latin American countries, it is one of the safest, and offers many excursions and activities. Whether you are looking for nightlife, historical attractions, or time in nature, you are sure to find activities you enjoy. Options include hot springs, horseback riding, museums, wildlife watching, and more.

Check out more of our South America blog posts here. 

9. Bangkok, Thailand

Thailand is known for being one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Asia, and is especially welcoming to transgender people. In fact, it has one of the largest transgender communites in the world, as many from Southeast Asia and elsewhere flock there to escape discrimination and for gender reassignment surgery. In Bangkok, trans men and women are a part of the mainstream, and are commonly seen working in shops, restaurants, hotels and elsewhere. It is also the home of the annual Miss International Queen, the largest transgender beauty competition in the world. The gay scene in Bangkok offers something for everyone, whether you are looking for wild nightlife or luxury spas. You can find X-Rated night shows on the Soi Twilight strip, but there is also gay cabarets, drag shows, merman shows, speakeasies, karaoke, saunas and more. There is also ample opportunity for shopping, cuisine, and sightseeing. Be sure not to miss some of the historic cultural attractions, such as the Grand Palace and Emerald Buddha Temple. 

The best way to find interesting things to do in Bangkok is by exploring the chaotic city rather than by looking for attractions online. It is also easily accessible to beach resort towns such as Pattaya or Phucket. In addition, you could take day trips to some of the famous markets and Buddhist temples. Public transportation makes it easy to get around, and inexpensive rideshare apps can get to you places the buses don’t reach. All in all it is an affordable travel destination with excellent food and a seemingly endless number of activities.

See our top tips for travelling in Thailand here.

10. Tel Aviv, Israel

While the Middle East is generally not known for being especially safe for LGBTQ+ travelers, Tel Aviv is the exception. It’s known for being a hotspot for gay tourists, with a thriving community, nightlife, world-class cuisine and beautiful beaches on the Mediterranean Sea. While some of the surrounding cities are more conservative, Tel Aviv has become known as the “gay capital of the Middle East,” with the largest Pride Parade in the region. The gay nighlife revolves around massive parties rather than particular bars, and the beach in front of the Hilton is known as the city’s unofficial gay beach. 

It is estimated that a quarter of the Tel Aviv’s population identifies as LGBTQ+, and they are able to enjoy legal protections and public displays of affection without fear. While city is known for being more open-minded and accepting than some of its neighbors, gay travelers shouldn’t be discouraged from visiting other parts of the country. You can easily take daylong excursions to see the historical sites in Petra, or to float in the Dead Sea. There are also culinary, art and boat tours, as well as markets, natural wonders, and wildlife.

11. Brighton, UK

Brighton is referred to as the LGBTQIA+ capital of England, and as well as being one of the  best places to visit in the UK  in general, it’s an absolute must visit on this list of LGBTQ+ friendly places to visit. The whole city is friendly and open-minded, with frequent events across the city as well as the infamous Brighton Pride, one of the largest Pride festivals in the UK, and the Trans Pride Festival, which take place every summer. Kempton is the area which is the heart of the LGBTQIA+ community and celebrations, so definitely look into staying there if you’re going! 

• See our guide to visiting Brighton here. 
• Check out all the most colourful streets in Brighton here.

12. Auckland, New Zealand

New Zealand is not only absolutely beautiful, but one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in the world. Auckland is often overlooked as a travel destination (I mean, it’s pretty hard to compete with the stunning natural beauty in other parts of New Zealand), but it’s a cosmopolitan city in a very liberal country and a great place to visit for LGBTQ+ travellers. It hosts a small but vibrant gay nightlife, as well as plenty of things to do in the city. And hey, it’s a great base for exploring the beaches, volcanoes and other nature that surround this beautiful city! 

• See our guide to Auckland here. 
• See all the best things to do in New Zealand here.

13. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

The gay scene in Amsterdam is one of the largest in Europe, making it one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations. In 2001, the Netherlands was the first ever country to legalise same-sex marriage and is one of the most progressive countries in the world. Many of the gay bars and clubs are centred in the areas of Reguliersdwarsstraat, Amstel and Kerkstraat, and you cannot miss the famous Canal Parade during Pride. 

See all the best things to do in Amsterdam here.

14. Vancouver, Canada

With mountains on its doorstep, Vancouver Island next door, and many things to do in the city… who wouldn’t want to go to Vancouver? And what’s more, like many cities in Canada, is a great destination for LGBTQ+ travellers. As well as exploring the city’s “gayborhood” of Davie Street, there’s also The Drive, a bohemian area popular with the lesbian community. In Vancouver you can find a rainbow pedestrian crossing at Davie/Bute Street, enjoy a LGBTQ history walking tour , celebrate Whistler Pride (one of the biggest LGBTQ+ ski events), as well as Vancouver Pride, the biggest gay pride festival in Western Canada. 

• See our summer guide to Vancouver here.
• See all the best things to do in Canada here.

It’s an unfortunate fact that there are many places in the world that are not the safest for LGBTQ+ travelers, and visiting a gay-friendly destination is not a guarantee of a vacation that is free from discrimination or harassment. If you are unsure of a destination that you wish to visit, it is wise to do some research before planning your trip, to ensure that you are more likely to enjoy a worry-free vacation. Finding gay-friendly travel destinatons provides unique opportunities to not only create happy memories, but to make new queer friends from all over the world. 

More LGBTQ+ travel destinations for you to consider...

Despite the difficulty that many LGBTQ+ travellers have when visiting different parts of the world, this list of LGBTQ+ destinations is by no means exclusive. Here are some more links to blog posts you might like to read to get inspired… 

• The best things to do in Dublin
• A guide to Melbourne, Australia 
• The best things to do in St Kilda, Melbourne, Australia
• The best things to do in Barcelona
• A guide to Sydney, Australia
• The best things to do in London, England

What LGBTQ+ inclusive places to visit are on your bucket list?

Where is are your favourite gay friendly travel destinations ? Anything you’d add to this list of LGBTQ+ friendly travel destinations?

Brandi Ivy is a freelance writer and avid solo traveler. She is a native Californian currently living by the beach in Mexico with her rescue cats.

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

Pin and save this blog post for later…

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

Shop the google map legends

Search by adventure type, active travel, backpacking, budget travel, love and relationships, once in a lifetime, packing tips, solo travel, weekend getaways, where's mollie newsletter, travel shop, search by destination, other posts that you may like....

A guide to exploring Edmonton, Alberta

A weekend at Lake Windermere, The Lake District

My dream VW van conversion – Ep.5: Finishing details

35 best things to do in Leeds, UK

How to prepare for South East Asia | Visa, Insurance and Jabs

Dinner and cocktails at Pont St, Belgravia

Sunsail – Day 4 – Freesail (Mystery Bay). Day 5 – (Pighadi). Day 6- Back to Base (Sunsail Regatta)

A complete guide to skiing in Perisher

A Backpacker’s Guide To Taupo, New Zealand

Privacy overview.

Limited Availability Book Now

Welcome to VACAYA, a vibrant and inclusive travel community, where every journey is a celebration of diversity, love, and freedom to explore the world authentically as your true self.

If you need assistance, we’re just an email or phone call away. Our V Team vacation planners can be reached via phone at +1.718.504.0404 or through SMS chat here on our website Mon-Fri 10am-4pm ET. Outside of those hours, feel free to send us an email at [email protected] .

Remember… even when our offices are closed, you can book online 24×7 by clicking any of the big pink BOOK NOW buttons for your desired trip. Then, simply follow the prompts. If you already know which trip you’d like to book, start HERE . Over 99% of our guests book using our online reservations system. You’ve got this!

Choose Your Experience

BIG-SHIP CRUISES

Each Ship Is Ours. All Ours.

All-Inclusive Redefined.

View All Experiences

Vacaya is the first  large-scale adults-only vacation company on earth built for the entire lgbtqiapk community and their straight ally friends.

VACAYA – Gay & LGBT+ Cruises & Resort Vacations Reimagined

VACAYA completely reinvents the all-gay cruise and all-inclusive gay resort concepts by opening up the experience to lesbians, bisexuals, trans persons, queer men/women, those questioning their sexuality, intersex, asexual, pansexual, and polyamorous individuals, as well as gay men who’ve enjoyed the typical gay cruise experience. VACAYA is the only large-scale adults-only vacation company on earth built for the entire LGBTQIAPK community and their straight ally friends. VACAYA offers fun easy vacations with customized itineraries, personalized service, tailored entertainment, welcoming activities, friendly parties, and transformative moments. Shared experiences with like-minded LGBT+ adults and friends give us a new perspective on the world and remind us how lucky we are to be alive. VACAYA charters the entire ship or resort so we have the freedom to express our individuality, make personal connections, celebrate life, rev up, or simply relax… together. Our mission is to fulfill the vacation dreams of all adults who believe “love is love” while giving back to the community and immersing our guests in the cultures and places we visit around the world.

All-Inclusive Resorts – Staying at a VACAYA Oasis all-inclusive resort delivers a truly relaxing and exhilarating vacation because nearly everything is included for one incredible price. Our resorts offer scores of daytime activities, exclusive nightly entertainment, gourmet restaurants, exquisite turquoise waters, and sun-soaked beaches. But that’s only the beginning. These are places where we come together and feel part of a bigger family. With so much included, all that’s left to do is have fun and enjoy the value! Occasionally, we’ll offer something altogether different with VACAYA Oasis and we’ll be sure to list all that’s included/not included on the trip’s VALUE page.

LGBT+ Cruises – Life on the open water is about savoring the good times, finding beauty in the details, appreciating friends, and discovering new ones. Sailing the seven seas is about leaving the ordinary behind. It’s the moments we spend connecting, laughing, and living life to the fullest. Its possibilities are endless and exciting. Sensual. Life changing. These experiences connect us to each other. They open our minds and unify our rhythm.

This is the spirit of VACAYA. open sea. open mind.

THE MOST INCLUSIVE VACATION COMPANY ON THE PLANET!

Savings & Offers

Connect. love. share., exclusive access.

Pin It on Pinterest

Share this page, privacy overview.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Budget Travel » LGBTQ Travel: A FABULOUS Guide to Gay Travel in 2024

LGBTQ Travel: A FABULOUS Guide to Gay Travel in 2024

We’re going to start this LGBT travel guide off a little differently than any old post. We’re going to start with a story .

*cue dramatic music*

Baby Indi, aka your caffeine addicted author, left home at 18. I booked a one-way ticket and swapped small town Australia for the delightful chaos of Ho Chi Minh City. Bold move for someone who still got lost in her four-street town.

With no phone, no map, and no iota of Vietnamese, I stopped for coffee in an alley. The first foreigner I’d seen in five days sat next to me. We got to talking and I thought things were going well. Then they asked:

“So you’re a lesbian right? Aren’t you afraid of travelling gay? ” I barely knew how to travel, wasn’t entirely sure I was a lesbian, and I didn’t really know how to give them an LGBTQ-friendly spiel… A gay travel guide assortment of tips and advice… Their questions really threw me. Should I be afraid to be a gay traveller?

Luckily, I kept travelling . I’ve never liked questions I couldn’t answer, so I started collecting dots and figuring out just how “difficult” it was to travel queer.

I learned that you’ve got to call a spade a spade and admit that sometimes being an LGBT traveller is not easy. But I also know that travelling can be the best gift to give yourself while trying to figure out which booties you like bumping and how to live a life that is still not considered “normal”.

Also, there are some super smashing gay friendly cities to fill the inspiration cup along the way. 😉

So buckle up, queer fam – this is everything I’ve learned so far and everything I wish I’d known before I went travelling. This is The Broke Backpacker’s LGBT Travel Guide!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Experiences of LGBTQ Travellers – A Challenges and Inspiration Sandwich

Best lgbtq travel destinations, lgbtq travel safety – how cautious do i need to be, lgbt travel guide – bonus tips and advice, faqs of gay travellers, wrapping up the lgbt travel guide.

For this article, I interviewed several other badass LGBT travellers. I have included their insights throughout this piece.

A common theme in the interviews was the sticky topic of labels. Labels are a bit of a funky one. They can feel very claustrophobic. It can also feel like you’re making it easier for someone else to understand you – and then they still don’t.

Also, it might be obvious to some, but there is  so  much more to someone than who they choose to smush. I feel like I’m a scrappy dirtbag, a sailor, and history nerd with a propensity for saying fuck at inappropriate times. Oh, and  then  I also happen to date men and women, sometimes at the same time (although to be honest, monogamy is my preferred arrangement these days).

But everyone I interviewed agreed that no matter which LGBTQ+ letter described us best, there are some common challenges (and rewards!) to being a gay traveller.

Hitting the road as a solo traveller is always going to be daunting. Hitting the road as a couple will always have its moments of drama. But whether you are backpacking alone, or with your partner, if your sexual orientation and/or gender presentation is not considered “normal” there are going to be unique challenges.

At one end of the scale, to put it bluntly, you could be beaten up. Or arrested.

Moving along the sliding scale of discrimination, as a gay traveller, you may face various forms of judgement depending on where you are in the world.

Perhaps it’s a little optimistically nihilistic of me, but I choose to remember that hometowns and family members aren’t always the most accepting rays of sunshine either.

There will, unfortunately, be people in every country who cannot find it in themselves to understand someone who is different from them. But you go ahead and live your best life anyway.

Besides, the transformative experience of travel is something undeniable. I also think it’s especially powerful for those of us who are gay. We weren’t handed the same script as everyone else. There is no “normal” for us – we have to write our own manifestos .

But instead of that being alienating, I think that’s a hidden superpower! Sorry, I’m not signing on to a 9-5 job and pretending to care about taxes. It’s just not part of the gay agenda.

Introducing the best hostel in Indonesia – A safe place for every traveller!

Hell yeah, you heard right! There are many great places in Indonesia, but none of them can live up to Tribal Bali .

A unique coworking hostel for those that want to travel the world while working from their laptops. Make use of the massive open-air coworking spaces and sip on delicious coffee.

Need more work inspiration? Staying at a digital nomad-friendly hostel is a really smart way to get more done whilst still enjoying the social life of travelling… Mingle, share ideas, brainstorm, make connections and find your tribe at Tribal Bali!

But most importantly, Tribal is a place for open-minded and friendly travellers. Diversity and respect are two of the big core values that the hostel represents. No matter where you come from, what you look like or what you prefer, Tribal will welcome you with open arms!

Solo LGBTQ+ Travel

Going on a solo backpacking trip is all about freedom – and the consequences of that freedom. It can be little things like choosing the exact place you want to eat for breakfast. Or big decisions like saying, “to hell with it, I’m gonna live on a sailboat !”. There are no negotiations with anyone else!

BUT, you trade security for freedom when you travel alone . This gritty growth zone is the ultimate reward from solo travel. You get to break free from your old self and see just how diverse the world truly is.

A Nugget of Wisdom from a Cutie Interviewee

“(Coming from a small city) I had a very specific impression of what it meant to be gay… there wasn’t any nuance. Travelling alone was like realising oh, this is it. Even just little things like seeing two men (in Barcelona) holding hands in public and no one batting an eye. Immediately I was like, I want to live here forever.”

I want to stress that solo experiences will differ depending on which LGBTQ letter you most strongly identify with. Your gender, and your presentation of that gender, will also shape your experiences.

Even a small thing from my own travels drove this point home for me. The more feminine I look outwardly, and the ‘straighter’ I behave, the fewer comments and judgement I get about my sexuality. But then the less masculine I look, the more comments and fear that is directed toward me about being a delicate little girl travelling all alone who is going to DIE. So much for badass solo female travel …

Travelling as a trans person, or as a gender non-conforming person, is not something I have experience with. I’m not going to speak for someone else’s experience.

However, I do believe that it is not so much your sexuality or gender presentation itself that bothers people – it’s how far from the ‘norm’ you appear to deviate. Another way of saying this is: (unfortunately) the more you look like stereotypes of the gender binary, the less discrimination or judgement you will face.

Travelling Together When Gay

There will be differences in the challenges – and rewards – of travelling as a partnership or group of friends depending on the same factors above. I’ve found that judgement comes less from your sexuality directly and more from how you present yourself. People are so damn afraid of anyone non-conforming!

A Nugget of Sad Reality From Another Interviewee

“(In a rural Australian town) it didn’t matter that I knew other gay people in town. Obviously, we exist. But if (as a lesbian), I was to hold my girlfriend’s hand in public I’d worry about getting spat on. Or at least, some kind of comment.”

I’ve been lucky that there have never been overt threats of violence made toward me relating to my sexuality. When I was living and travelling in Central America , two of my gay friends faced more overt threats of violence from small sections of the community (mostly borrachos late at night). But in many ways, they were very accepted too.

Nobody questioned their cross country quest on a motorbike, or whether they would be safe alone on the road. Well, of course, their mamas worried! I suspect that because the two friends I have in mind were typically masculine looking, they didn’t face the same judgement they might have if they were more feminine presenting.

Travelling in an LGBTQ group is not all compromising schedules or judgemental comments. You get to bond with your nearest, dearest, and most fabulous – all while travelling the world! There is also an extra sense of security. To this end, even finding a travel buddy can be a great way to make memories with someone special as well as feel a little safer.

A group of people – no matter what their orientation – checking into a hotel raises fewer eyebrows than a same-sex couple. Maybe the real gay agenda is uniting enough gays to safely check into a hotel in a foreign country.

The best place for gay travel? Well, that depends on your type! 😉

Let’s face it, there is nothing quite like some steamy cross-room eye contact with a chiselled stranger in a foreign country. One minute, you’re sipping wine and pretending you speak the language better than you do. Nek minnit… giggity.

Whether you want to swan through classy restaurants, luxury LGBTQ hotels, and secluded beaches – or you just want to PARTY HARD – there are gay-friendly cities for you!

However, as I wrote this, I reflected on why there are safe spaces and gay cities in the first place – even why we have Pride in the first place. Gay Pride commemorates the Stonewall Uprising of 1969 . Gay Pride commemorates LGBTQ resistance to the violent police enforcement of immoral ‘morality laws’.

The New York cops raided a gay bar – as was typical of the time. They checked the sex of drag queens. They roughed up those who had gathered in a safe space. They violated our community and expected compliance. Yeah, fuck that. The uprising that followed marked a turning point for LGBT rights in the USA.

Our moments of joy and our spaces of inclusion have been fought for – tooth and nail. Then, when they couldn’t arrest us, they ignored us.

Again, fuck that . There was nothing to be gained hiding behind closed doors while misinformation allowed the AIDS crisis to spiral out of control. No, we stepped up and advocated for ourselves. We created community.

To that end, joy itself became an act of resistance . Existing as your unedited, loud, proud, gay-ass self gives those around you permission to be themselves.

So there is no reason for you to not claim your space as an LGBT traveller in some of the world’s best gay cities.

#1 Wellington, New Zealand

Wellington makes the top of my list for gay travel partly because there isn’t a whole lot of dedicated gay bars and LGBTQ+ spaces. There is a small and thriving scene, but Wellies (as the locals call it) is so welcoming and diverse that you don’t need to restrict yourself to LGBTQ places to feel safe .

There’s no need to worry about whether or not you can hold your partner’s hand in the street here!

The city is alternative, funky, and has more coffee shops per head than New York! There are some truly epic hikes to be done around the area (try the Pinnacles Loop track where they filmed some of Lord of the Rings). Plenty of accommodation options around Wellington too, from the budget-friendly right up to the ooh-la-la . Also, museum nerd or not, you have to see the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongawera!

Wellington really has a bit of everything. It’s a beautiful city and, if you can get past the miserable weather (summer notwithstanding), you might find yourself wanting to stay here forever.

#2 Melbourne, Australia

What is it about great gay cities and good coffee? Melbs (as the locals call it) is another city that thrives on coffee, art, and craft beer. It might get a bit overshadowed by Sydney’s showy Madi Gras parade, but the gay travel scene in Melbourne is still epic.

The best things to do in Melbourne are interwoven into the fabric of this progressive city. So, while you can find cheeky speakeasies and gay bars all over Melbourne, you don’t have to stick to one area of the city to have a gay ol’ time!

You should try and time your trip with the Melbourne Comedy Festival or the Melbourne Fringe Festival. No one does comedy quite like Australians.

And let’s face it: if you come here single, the Aussie accent can prove hard to resist. Or so I hear…

#3 Bangkok, Thailand

Have you heard the saying that anything goes in Bangkok? I’d say there’s never been a truer aphorism! Bangkok is a very liberal city – and even more so for foreigners.

Alongside incredible street food, golden temples, and floating markets, there is also incredible nightlife. You can find a party that suits your style. There are burlesque clubs (I’m looking at you Maggie Choo’s!) and drag shows, as well as parties that go well past dawn.

Far from what many still believe, gender has never been binary. Across cultures, and throughout history, there have existed those who don’t fit into ‘male’ or ‘female’.

Thailand is known for having a thriving scene full of kathoey , or ladyboys. I think this is partly due to Thailand’s broad acceptance of LGBT folks – as well as the low cost of medical and gender reassignment surgery.

Now, I didn’t go to Bangkok looking for sex shows, kinda shady dance clubs, or taking drugs with three beautiful ladyboys – and yet, thanks to my terrible sense of direction, that’s exactly what happened (sorry mum!).

There is so much intrigue and adventure to be had in Thailand with or without a soiree of Bangkok’s red-light district! But, it is quite a safe city in which to experiment in certain pleasures.

There is also the classic backpacker scene, which most definitely means booze, babes, and a total lack of worldy inhibitions. Book a place to stay in Bangkok , find a place to party, and the rest will fall into place.

As a gay traveller, you’re spoilt for choice in Bangkok!

#4 Barcelona, Spain

This is where the sexy eye contact with a sexy stranger anecdote came from. The many colourful neighbourhoods of Barcelona are known for brimming with a burning passion, vibrant art, cobblestone streets, fantastic wine… and an epic gay scene!

This city was the birthplace of the Spanish Pride movement and today is home to bars, beaches, and boulevards that are LGBTQ friendly. The balmy weather, the sexy locals, and the tolerance of the city means it is consistently ranked as one of the best gay cities in the world!

How could you say no to tapas, paella, and red wine while sharing a kiss with your partner on a beach?

There are even beaches specifically for LGBT folks.

Also, for the art nerds like me, the streets are literally shaped by Antoni Gaudi. His modernist architecture gives Barcelona its classic building style that has been the backdrop for many romantic proposals.

Barcelona is definitely a more refined place to travel to – but that certainly doesn’t mean you won’t be in for a good time.

#5 Berlin, Germany

To me, Berlin is the grungier counterpart to Barcelona’s sleepy Spanish siesta take on LGBT travel. There’s way less sunshine – and a little more hedonism. But sometimes you need a little bit of that in your travels. 😉

I’ve been to Berlin twice. The first time I spent all day bawling at the Holocaust museum and shaking at the Berlin Wall monument. I was grappling with how such horror affected the psyche of a city.

The second time I went to Berlin, I got my answer. I think that you have to respond to sadness with an overwhelming embrace of life at its ‘most’. That’s how I explain what happens when the sun sets and the techno takes off.

There are clubs and bars galore, as well as cheeky substances on offer to enhance your night. Being gay in Berlin isn’t going to be about restraining your sexuality – but maybe it’ll be about restraining yourself in other ways (like, how about we limit it to three orgies per night?).

Again, I wasn’t exactly looking for sex clubs. And yet, my incessant curiosity and patent disregard for following directions lead me to drinking liquor out of a plastic bag and waiting for my new friend to finish her shift at a very kink-friendly club.

Berlin is a lot to take in; it’s a big city filled with diverse areas and a whole lot of history. But it’s definitely somewhere you can feel safe as an LGBTQ traveller.

#6 Riga, Latvia

Eastern Europe has a mix of Catholic and Communist values when it comes to gay rights. That is to say: it’s not known for being exactly accepting.

Riga – and Latvia at large – has tried to define themselves as the opposite of these values. It has an alluring and classy art nouveau scene with some truly stunning architecture. As a reaction to the values of many of its neighbours, there’s also thriving nightlife!

There are a few gay bars, but it’s not a huge scene. That being said, Riga is quite open-minded and LGBTQ travellers aren’t likely to face open discrimination.

We don’t always go travelling to go from bar to bar though! There is so much more to Riga that will make you fall in love with it. The buildings are incredibly ornate and look straight out of a gothic novel – House of Blackheads is insane!

Plus, you can try your hand at learning Latvian. It’s not the easiest language to learn on your travels , but damn if it isn’t fun to try and pronounce uz redzesanos (goodbye).

#7 Mexico City, Mexico

Viva la Mexico! I would argue that this could very likely be the best gay city in the world . There is a heady mixture of sinful nightclubs, low key dining, and incredible art and history. Mexico City itself is quite liberal – it was the only place in Central America you could get an abortion and was the first Latin American city to legalise gay marriage!

Transgender people have also been able to legally change their pronouns since 2008. Guess that’s why it’s Mexi- can and not Mexi- can’t .

Zona Rosa is the famous gay neighbourhood in Mexico City – and you should definitely visit. Be prepared to PARTY, though! There is also an incredible crafts market here where I found a good deal on amber, but you can find almost anything .

If you are looking for something a bit more chill, I had an amazing time Couchsurfing in Roma. There is still a good gay scene here, but it’s a bit more laid back – think more good coffee and fine wine.

Mexico City can be quite confronting. There is extreme wealth and poverty side by side. There is an element of criminality that can’t be ignored. However, there is such an energy to the city and the locals are so overwhelmingly welcoming that I think it should be at the top of your gay travel list!

#8 Medellin, Colombia

Medellin has truly transformed from the murder capital of the world to one of the most welcoming cities in Latin America – and the world – for gay travellers. Brimming with colourful neighbourhoods and areas , Medellin offers EPIC food, endless fun, and people so beautiful that if you’re not bi… you might just try. 😉

The Pride festival is not to be missed here! It’s an epic show of support in true Latina fiesta style. The locals of Medellin are super welcoming – especially to foreigners. While Colombia is still quite a conservative country, gay marriage is legal and so is same-sex couples adoption.

The Flower Festival held in August is not something to be missed. And neither is a street food indulgence – I mean the churros, empanadas, even the perfectly barbequed corn. They are all amazing!

And Colombians – of both genders – really know how to dance. I was left wondering if I was born with two left, unsexy feet!

#9 Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is the unofficial gay capital of Africa. Along with torrents of captivating coffee, the best gay cities always seem to have scrumptious wine of the vine – and Cape Town doesn’t disappoint .

There is incredibly beautiful scenery around alongside some great hiking to be done around the edges of the city.

Cape Town is also a great place to learn to surf… or even swim with great white sharks. That could be a romantic surprise for your not-so-confident-in-the-water friend! Be sure to check out the nearby penguin colonies too.

I will say that the lived reality of some gay South Africans does not match their fairly progressive legislation. Even though gay marriage is legal here, there is still resistance to queer folks in parts of the country. However, as an LGBTQ foreigner – especially in the progressive areas of Cape Town – you are unlikely to face discrimination. Many businesses openly display rainbow flags, and there is a concerted effort to promote equality amongst large sectors of the local communities.

#10 Tel Aviv, Israel

Tel Aviv is a paradox within a paradox . The most accepting city of LGBTQ rights within a notoriously divisive country within an even more infamously unaccepting region of the planet.

But, the Tel Aviv Pride is known to be rambunctious and full of life! There are many amazing bars that are LGBTQ+ friendly, and you are likely to feel right at home when partying with Israelis. Because once the bass starts to wobble at an Israeli throwdown, there is only shalom.

There are many gay bars in Tel Aviv that range from low key gardens, to epic nightclubs. It’s also a fascinating city full of complex history and holy sites. (Yes, even in Israel’s “Sin City” there are holy places!)

So, as a foreigner, you are unlikely to face discrimination in Tel Aviv. In fact, you’re probably going to have an amazing time eating hummus and partying all night. But you probably won’t be able to escape this feeling that gay spaces in Tel Aviv aren’t exactly representative of the country as a whole. But in no way is Tel Aviv either.

On Tel Aviv, From Another Interviewee

“The reason it is so full of life is that it has had to resist pressure from within Israel and across the Middle East. Throughout Israel and beyond there is pervasive resistance to ‘queer’ lifestyles. I love to be out in ‘gay Tel Aviv’ because it is a break from the constant pressure to conform.”

Like I said at the beginning of the article, I’m not going to tell you that you shouldn’t go somewhere . I’m not going to tell you how you should or shouldn’t travel in these places either. Ultimately though, there are countries in the world where it is more dangerous to be an LGBTQ traveller.

The penal code of some countries explicitly criminalises acts of buggery – with punishments varying from death to prison sentences to fines. On top of that, there are cultural and religious perceptions of ‘queerness’ that range from acceptance to contempt.

However, I think it’s important to recognise that even within countries that are considered safe for LGBT travellers, there are ALWAYS people that won’t accept you. Many of us come from families that don’t fully accept us. And even within countries where being gay is a literal crime, gay people still exist. Life is murky soup and no matter where you go, you will find that people are people.

Perception is Everything

“That reminds me of being in Greece with a girl I was seeing… she got really scared I s’pose for being out together and holding hands at night together because of all the men just standing there on the corners. I didn’t feel like they were looking at us like they wanted to attack us, so I think it depends on the person (as to how comfortable you are).”

The most comprehensive article on LGBTQ travel safety I found was this list of the 150 Worst and Safest Countries for LGBTQ travel ; the article made the link between many countries which have “anti-gay” legislation and their status as former British colonies. Add that to the dirty laundry list of colonialism – widespread criminalisation of non-hetero activities and the breeding of stigmas that still lingers to this day.

When thinking about the regions of the world and how dangerous it would be to travel gay there, I thought about this question: what would happen if I held the hand of my same-sex partner in public in this area?

If no one would blink an eye – I think this is a pretty accepting area. If there may be some eyebrows raised and judgement passed, but ultimately little risk of violence, then it’s amber. If there is a threat of violence or holding hands could be seen as criminal, this is a red area for gay travellers.

There is no easy way to generalise whole countries. As we know, some of us come from green zone countries and yet still face homophobia from our families or communities. Conversely, some places that are likely safe for LGBTQ travellers are not safe for LGBTQ locals.

And within countries that on the whole are unaccepting, there are still some of the best gay cities to be found. Mexico is a good example of this. Even though it is a country that can be quite conservative and overtly violent toward LGBTQ travellers and locals, Mexico City is one of the safest and most enjoyable cities for gay travellers in the Americas!

Also, some countries in South America, for example, might seem like they wouldn’t be considered ‘safe’ countries. I would argue that somewhere like Brazil will add elements of danger to your travels, but they won’t necessarily stem from your sexuality.

Gay or straight, walking through a favela in the early hours of the morning will lead to you fighting street dogs at best and at worst… Let’s just say there is an element of common sense to all travel.

Tl;dr? Life is murky soup: use common sense.

How to Travel in the ‘Red’ Areas (some ideas from one queer to another)

And on the topic of common sense…

• Sometimes masking is your safest option. As one friend glibly put it to me: “There’s no problem travelling gay – you just pretend you’re straight.” But in all seriousness, if you find yourself in an unsafe area – in any country – sometimes it’s best to just play the game.
• Travel with someone else anywhere you don’t feel safe. There is strength in numbers should something go terribly wrong. But another person can be all the confidence boost you need when travelling somewhere you don’t feel super safe in.
• Always let your mum (or a friend) know where you’re going and when you expect to be back. That way, if you are alone and the worst does come to pass, there are people in the know who can raise the alarm.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

There are general safety tips that apply to ALL travellers.

Things like not showing off your sexy, shiny new watch and locking your valuables away… It’s always worth keeping an eye on the weather before you head out and go on a hike you’ve never done before… And for veteran backpackers, these things become second nature.

However, I do want to highlight a couple of extra safety tips that are unique to the queer travel community.

Down to the Fun Stuff

Hook up apps are da bomb ! They are a tried and tested method to find love and sex on the road . Where else can you find the best bars to go to and also chat with cute-ass strangers? But I’m gonna lightly drizzle on this parade.

If you do use dating apps in countries where there are legal or violent repercussions for being gay, a quick word of warning: the police and other vigilantes have been known to use apps to lure other gay men to icky ends.

Do I think this is fucked up? Absolutely.

Do I get riled up for a twenty-minute rant about why the fight for LGBTQ rights is far from over and then voice memo it to my colleague at 8.30 in the morning? Fucking oath I do. (But he loves it.)

BUUUUT… do I still think that Grindr can be a super fun way to meet people on the road? Hellz yeah!

The same goes for casual sex. The backpacker life and hook up culture go together like good wine and gay cities. There’s a fair bit of experimenting and the odd romance on the road that makes you believe in love again. Why shouldn’t gay travellers indulge in the same sexy smush times?

You just gotta do it safely. Safe sex is good sex.

Yes, safe sex includes raspberry-flavoured condoms but it also involves some genuine sensitivity, open communication, and the odd moment of vulnerability. Free love is about love as much as it is about sex, so be kind to each other.

Also, sex toys are considered illegal in several countries. This is something worth knowing before your bag gets searched at the airport and suddenly old mate from customs is wielding three of your double-ended dildos! (Was that one a personal anecdote?)

Travel Insurance – The Not So Sexy Essential

When your sense of direction is as shit as mine is, you find yourself in some interesting travel situations. Sometimes it’s in the back room of a sex club in Bangkok; sometimes it’s assisting a sailor to extract a botfly from his own leg and trying not to vomit in your mouth.

Basically, the best travel can get weird . To cover your butt while you’re out adventuring – I’d highly recommend getting some travel insurance.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

What to Pack for LGBTQ Travel

Along with the usual essential travel items , there’s a few extra items that you don’t want to forget! If you’re taking PrEP, or hormone medication, make sure you have enough to last through your trip. These are not often readily available throughout the world.

As I mentioned before, sex toys are illegal in many countries . They have been used in some instances as evidence that a gay or transgender person was intending to work as a sex worker in that travel destination.

Do I call bullshit? Yup. This is likely discrimination through and through. But call a spade a spade, know the risks, and hide your sex toys well.

Also if you are travelling as a transgender or gender non-conforming person, getting through airport security – no matter what country – can be an extra challenge. Things like having paperwork from your doctor explaining why you might be travelling with needles, or having a passport photo that looks as close to your appearance as possible can make it a little easier. I’m going to pass the mic to this excellent breakdown of the challenges trans folk face with the TSA.

Top Tips LGBTQ Travellers Wish They Could Tell Their Younger Selves

• Hook up apps aren’t just for hook ups! The best bars, the most secluded hikes, and even some of the best street food can all be found by having a chat on hook up apps. Also, not to be crass, but you can also find certain substances on there too if you’re so inclined. It’s not all bang city!
• But they are still good for hook ups. Duh! Especially when you are new to a place, one way of meeting people is a cheeky swipe of Tinder or Grindr.
• Don’t be afraid of the world . “I wish I had been less afraid,” is the phrase that came up again and again when talking with other LGBTQ travellers about their first time on the road. The world is not as scary as we make it out to be and you’ll always find your tribe.
• Travel provides the anonymity to find yourself . Sexuality is a complicated beast and it’s hard to listen to yourself and what you truly want over the din of other people. Sometimes you have to become a ‘no one’ and unwatched by friends and family to give yourself the space to learn more about yourself as a traveller, as a gay person, and as a human on this crazy planet.
• GO TRAVELLING SOONER. This is the NUMBER ONE tip for gay travellers. You can always come home (or find a home). But leaving and discovering the world and your place in it rewards you 1000-fold. Go travelling as soon as you can. Whether that means hitchhiking for the first time , or backpacking around Europe, or a road trip up the coast of your home country. Just go travelling sooner.

The top questions gay travellers always want to know!

Can I still travel alone if I’m gay?

Of course you can! And I’m a huge advocate of solo travel for LGBTQ folks as well as anyone else. Will you always be comfortable? Probably not. You can do your best to be safe, and you can do all the ‘right’ things, but ultimately there is risk. Nonetheless, I think you should still travel alone as an LGBTQ person. Fear should not be a limiting factor in your growth or adventure.

What’s the funniest thing that’s happened to you as a gay traveller?

So many little moments of hilarity spring up when travelling but this one comes to mind: I was in a market in New Delhi, India, on a sort-of-not-quite-but-definitely-a-date that lesbians are fond of. She began haggling hard with one of the vendors for a scarf while I sat on the milk crate. Shopping, unfortunately, has never really been my thing. Two other young Indian guys were waiting for their girlfriends in nearby market stalls. I started chatting to one of them who realised I was also waiting for my girlfriend, like he was. Once that penny dropped, he kept showing me photos of his brother and his brother’s husband in America and suggesting the best underground gay bars in New Delhi! I guess it wasn’t so much funny as incredibly sweet. Life is murky soup: people are always people.

Will travelling LGBT be dangerous?

It’s most likely not going to be dangerous! Especially if you pick a destination that is known for being welcoming to LGBTQ travellers. You could learn salsa in Medellin or hike in Portugal or party it up in Bangkok! And even if you do push into countries that aren’t known for being LGBTQ friendly, there are no guarantees that you will face danger. But you may find yourself editing the way you present yourself to the world at times.

How do I deal with people who don’t accept me as gay?

A good friend of mine (in her words) is a “fat, hot lesbian”. I think I’ll throw it to her to answer this one: “I grew up near London. I’ve had mouthy twats… if they see a gay person, you know, I can’t even count how many times I’ve been told, YOU FAT LESBIAN. But you’re not telling me anything I don’t know, ya prick! I’m fat and I’m gay well done you’ve got eyes! But in all seriousness, you can’t expect that someone who’s been raised in a Church for twenty, forty, fifty years who has been told that being gay is a sin to just suddenly love the first gay person they meet. You will also be wrong about a lot of things in your life, and this is just something they’re fucking wrong about.”

Should I ever hide being gay while travelling?

I think there is a distinction between hiding your sexuality publicly and ignoring it personally. Sometimes I do think that hiding that you are gay while travelling is the safest option. Knowing a country and how risky it is to LGBTQ travellers helps, but ultimately there will be moments that set off your intuition. Listen to your gut and get the hell out of dodge. But even as you might have to hide yourself publicly, you should never forget within yourself who you are or what you stand for.

By now I think it’s clear that I want everyone to go travelling as soon as you can. You have the space to grow into yourself without the pressures or expectations of home. You get to push yourself into the best version of yourself.

I know it would be a lie to say that I never faced hurdles for being queer. You have to look the beast in the eye and know that some regions of the world still don’t accept the LGBTQ community.

However, this should not be a reason for you to stay at home. The greater presence of gay travellers then the more normalised we become, and the less dangerous it is for the LGBTQ travellers that come after us.

Also, there is far too much good coffee and the fresh mango on this side of the Pacific to be sampled for LGBTQ travellers to simply stay at home! You’ve got continents to hitchhike and the great gay cities to enjoy. Travel bonds are supercharged, and you can’t help but come back with friends that you never can quite kick out of your heart (not that you want to!).

We were never given a script to follow. There is no ‘normal’ life when so many people – even within our own communities – still don’t see who we love as normal . In that sense, there is no point trying to fit your fabulous self into an itty bitty box that only has room for a dead-end job and forgetting to take the trash out. There is all the more reason to explore the world as an LGBTQ traveller.

“Everyone seems to have a clear idea of how other people should lead their lives, but none about his or her own.”

That is to say, joy is an act of resistance . So pack your bags and prepare to travel gay. You’ve got a chiselled stranger, a glass of fine wine, and the secluded beaches of somewhere spectacular to enjoy.

Hey, folks – thank you for making it to the end of the article and I hope you enjoyed it!

Basically, as I touched on at the beginning of the article, I can only write from my experience. If you think that a crucial piece of advice is missing for our queer travelling family – please reach out in the comments. Especially if you are a trans traveller – I’d love to be able to put together some more resources and inspiration for y’all.

Indigo Blue

Share or save this post

Israel on this list???? WTF

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Travel Guides
• Published October, 2022
• Home » Blog » Gay Tour Companies

14 Popular Gay Tour & Vacation Companies

Gay Tours & Companies Organizing Gay Vacations

Booking gay tours with a reputable gay tour company is a popular way for LGBTQ travelers to explore the world in a welcoming, gay-friendly environment. They’re also a fun, easy way to meet like-minded travelers.

Some gay tour companies offer typical day tours and excursions, but many of the companies I mention below organize gay vacations ranging from several days to more than a week.

While some tours focus on LGBT history and gay neighborhoods of cities, many gay tours are simply about providing experiences where gay travelers can explore new places together and feel genuinely welcome.

Here are some of the best LGBT vacation and gay tour companies you should consider while planning your next holiday. I’ll give you a thorough description of each, along with the destinations where they organize trips, and what they’re best known for.

#1 Out Adventures

Out Adventures is the world’s premier gay tour company, offering small-group LGBTQ vacations, cultural tours, and gay cruises.

They’ve planned tons of incredible escapes since 2009 and currently operate gay tours in 35 countries, spanning 6 continents.

Whether you want to explore the magical landscapes of Iceland , the hidden treasures of Lebanon , meet elephants in Thailand , or even make the journey to Antarctica, Out Adventures has an epic selection of gay tours to choose from.

Even in less-than-gay-friendly countries, Out Adventures supports the queer communities they visit along the way, noting that we can all still enrich local lives and learn about their experiences.

Every detail of each itinerary is considered. They seek out the best local restaurants, authentic experiences, boutique hotels, and partners that go beyond “friendly” and truly welcome the LGBTQ+ community.

To see the latest from Out Adventures, check out their gay tour calendar .

#2 Detours Travel

Detours Travel is one of the largest gay tour companies, offering over 50 vacations each year. Their diversity of trips is impressive. Choose among all sorts of incredible adventures like a week in Belize, or 12 days in Peru.

One of their longest gay vacations is a two-week adventure through Thailand and Cambodia where you can swim in the magical Phi Phi Islands and explore temples in Siem Reap .

Gay tours with Detours Travel have a “laid-back, no-strings-attached” approach, meaning their excursions offer gay travelers plenty of flexibility along the course of the trip.

They avoid overly structured itineraries, offering everyone the chance to be spontaneous in a relaxed and casual way. Planned excursions are also chosen based on the interests of the group.

In my opinion, this eliminates the stress that comes along with a daunting week-long roster of activities. You can take everything day by day and choose activities you like along the way.

With affordable vacation packages, helpful customer service, and a trustworthy and well-established brand, it’s easy to see why Detours Travel is one of the top gay tour companies in the world.

#3 Pride Sailing Holidays

Pride Sailing Holidays is one of my favorite gay tour companies. Throughout the summer season, they operate gay sailing adventures every week in both Croatia and Greece, as well as select weeks in Italy. No matter when you want to take a vacation, there will be a boat available to join!

I’ve sailed with them many times and the experiences are always magical, authentic, and luxurious. There’s nothing like cruising the open water on your very own sailboat or catamaran.

And with a maximum of 8 guests per boat, the trip feels intimate and you’re able to connect with everyone you sail with.

Most gay travelers who join the 7-day tours with Pride Sailing are solo travelers. Pairs of friends also tend to share cabins. But, if you already have a group of friends in mind, you can reserve your very own private charter to sail wherever you’d like.

See a bunch more awesome details and answers to FAQs on my gay sailing holidays page.

#4 HE Travel

HE Travel is another leader among gay tour companies catering to small groups. They are also a full-service travel agency providing flights, cruises, and customized travel experiences around the globe.

Tours organized by HE Travel are open to all adults, but most participating travelers are gay men. For the more active travelers, they offer cycling, hiking, rafting, and other adventure-oriented gay tours.

Travelers looking for a less strenuous experience have plenty of options too. There’s a wide variety of cultural tours and other excursions through Egypt, Peru, Japan, India, and many parts of Europe .

There are all sorts of other ways to browse their tours as well. You can pick based on the destination, activity level, or categories like biking, cruise, or adventure tours .

The IGLTA (International LGBTQ Travel Association) named their Hall of Fame Award for founder Hanns Ebensten recognizing the first gay tour—a week in the Grand Canyon in 1973. Today, HE Travel still runs Grand Canyon rafting trips with the same partner almost 50 years later!

#5 Everything To Sea

Everything To Sea runs all-male, clothing-optional, small-ship gay cruise tours in Southeast Asia. They’re among the most well-established gay sailing tour companies.

Their trips center around a renewed sense of freedom and male camaraderie, as guys get to encounter astounding nature while in the buff, alongside like-minded men of all ages, orientations, and nationalities.

They have all-inclusive prices including all meals, free-flow alcohol, and even out-of-the-ordinary optional features, such as massages and body shaving. 

Men can be naked anywhere on the ship. Highlights include snorkeling nude with manta rays and sea turtles in the most biodiverse marine environment in the world, catching sunsets and starry skies from the roof deck, visiting Komodo dragons in their native habitat, and floating in a bright blue natural pool inside a stalactite-filled cave.

Gay Vacations by Everything To Sea:

Your Journey With Others — Join a pre-arranged group of guys where everyone’s looking to make friends. Choose from a number of magical destinations.

Your Private Journey  — 3 guys, 1 ship, no clothes…and Everything To Sea! This is a custom-tailored, private sail for one man to come along with co-founders Max and Dave.

Your Group/Our Trip  — An option for pre-formed groups, this option offers benefits such as reduced per-person prices, a free trip for the organizer, or even the ability to earn money for the group. 

#6 OUTstanding Travel

OUTstanding Travel is a high-end gay vacation company offering group trips and gay tours in European destinations along the Mediterranean coast. They provide personalized gay vacation packages that focus on the type of experience each gay traveler is personally interested in.

Whether you prefer nightlife-rich destinations, unique culinary experiences, or culture-rich sightseeing adventures, OUTstanding travel’s founder Nadav Perez ensures every potential guest will have an unparalleled experience, exceeding all expectations.

Gay tours of Israel’s Dead Sea, the biggest historic attractions of Rome , or the gay scenes of cities like Tel Aviv and Madrid are just a few options to choose from. You can even book vacation packages surrounding popular gay circuit festival events like XLSIOR Mykonos.

#7 Diva Destinations Lesbian Tours

Diva Destinations is among the world’s leading lesbian tour companies, offering outings for lesbians, LGBTQ women, and non-binary individuals.

For nearly 10 years Diva Destinations has provided their community with a safe, inclusive, and friendly space to enjoy fun, memorable holidays-all while creating amazing opportunities to explore and travel the world

Jen Grant, the founder of Diva Destinations, says “For me personally, one of the most satisfying aspects of any trip is watching our group who have never met before start getting to know each other. From the very first evening, I can see the ice breaking as they talk over dinner, about the day they have shared, and their growing excitement about the trip ahead. I am with the group every step of the way, so there is always a safety net, especially for our guests traveling alone”.

The company’s organizers pride themselves on creating a strong community within each tour group, based on the foundation of friendship, inclusion, acceptance, and fun!

#8 Brand g Vacations

Brand g Vacations recently celebrated its 11th anniversary of operating 5-star gay tours and river cruises. With nearly 20 trips per year, their tours take guests to every corner of the world, including destinations in Nepal, Japan, Ireland, and Africa.

Every gay vacation organized by Brand g is virtually all-inclusive, with unlimited beverages, shore excursions, airport transfers, signature Brand g entertainers, and much more. On every trip, one of Brand g’s three highly experienced and caring gay tour guides makes sure everything is seamlessly executed.

With a 95% repeat booking rate, the company has amassed a passionate fan base of committed and enthusiastic gay travelers. They’re expanding every year too, with 2023 marking their foray into the luxury ocean cruise market.

#9 Zoom Vacations

Zoom Vacations offers unforgettable luxury gay tours for small groups to a range of unique and often lesser-traveled parts of the world. A few notable destinations where they organize vacations include Egypt, Bhutan, Laos , and Peru.

With one look at their itineraries, it’s easy to see how glamorous and well-planned everything is. Booking with Zoom Vacations, gay travelers can expect to stay in upscale, gay-friendly accommodations, have access to a private concierge, and tour local attractions via privately organized and secure transport.

Absolutely everything is taken care of, and the entire vacation feels like an absolute dream.

Their gay tour packages include everything needed for a comfortable and seamless trip, including private airport transfers, daily breakfasts, cocktail hours, and plenty of guided excursions.

In addition to group trips, Zoom Vacation can also custom plan a gay getaway for your own personal group in over a dozen countries worldwide.

#10 Coda Tours

Coda International Tours designs small gay group tours in destinations that appeal to travelers seeking to relax, have fun, and benefit from the experience of being exposed to foreign cultures and people—all with flair and sophistication.

Their trips are built around the cultural hubs and highlights of the world—places everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime. Coda’s style is elegant without being opulent, refined without being pretentious, and insightful without being tiresome.

Coda is the ideal gay tour company for anyone seeking an all-inclusive travel experience where everything is carefully planned, and the overall experience is maximized. Their excursions cover as much ground as is comfortably feasible at a reasonable.

Gay travelers love booking with Coda because they stay in carefully selected hotels, sample local cuisine, discover hidden gems, and meet other curious people. Plus, it all happens alongside talented tour guides with years of experience.

Popular destinations with Coda Tours change frequently. They offer trips to all corners of the world. If there isn’t an organized gay tour where you want to go, they’ll create a customized private tour for you.

#11 MrGaycation

MrGaycation is a gay tour company that specializes in creating fun and unique vacations tailored for gay men, called gaycations!

While based in the United States MrGaycation organizes trips internationally, all created with gay men in mind.

Their host resorts are all-inclusive, meaning all your food and beverages (and even alcohol) are included! Gay tours with MrGaycation are filled with custom entertainment throughout the week, consisting of comedians, drag queens, singers, cabaret performers, and more.

Daytime activities offered include fitness classes, curated pool parties, and offsite excursions to explore the local area. After dinner, everyone enjoys nightly entertainment followed by epic, themed dance parties.

#12 Italy Gay Travels

Italy Gay Travels is a gay-owned and operated boutique gay tour company. They organize all-gay small group tours and events for international travelers in friendly destinations in Italy and beyond.

Taking pride in serving the LGBTQ+ international community Italy Gay Travels’ mission is to bring like-minded people together to make long-lasting friendships and incredible lifetime memories.

They specialize in off-the-beaten-track unique experiences within Italy, but being such avid travelers themselves, the company’s tour organizers have expanded their reach to showcase even more fantastic destinations.

#13 Cape Town Gay Tours

Cape Town Gay Tours creates bespoke, premier day tours, for gay travelers to Cape Town & South Africa.

Using gay tour guides, Cape Town Gay Tours provides inspiring, tailor-made tours, considering the exceptionally high standards that clients both deserve and expect. 

They also offer a range of Garden Route tours and traditional African safaris, all in luxury private game reserves.

Be it a day exploring the Peninsula to the tip of Africa, a day exploring the Winelands, a day in the city and on Table Mountain, a day safari, a week driving the Garden Route, or a few nights on safari, they’re a gay tour company with something for everyone.

#14 Queer Tuscany Tours

Queer Tuscany Tours is a gay tour company founded by Francesco Calanca, a Florence-based licensed tour guide. His gay tours are aimed at rediscovering the neglected aspects of LGBTQ+ features in Renaissance art.

Learn about the history of the gay and lesbian community in Florence as well the love lives of great Renaissance masters like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Donatello.

Queer Tuscany Tours shows travelers the most celebrated museums in Florence, including the Uffizi and the Accademia galleries, the Pitti Palace, and the Bargello among others.

In addition to Florence, they also offer gay tours in Tuscany , Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano. 

Looking for more inclusive gay travel experiences? Check out these fun-filled bear weeks all around the world.

Or attend a popular international gay ski week in Europe, North America, or Australia.

Need gay destination ideas? wolfyy offers gay travel guides to destinations around the world.

Before you go...

Trusted gay travel info, just for you., leave your email., gay travel advice you can't find anywhere else..

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

12 LGBTQ+-friendly Resorts in the U.S. and Caribbean for a Fun and Inclusive Getaway

These are 12 of the best resorts for LGBTQ+ travelers, with inclusive programming and charitable initiatives.

Courtesy of Cavallo Point

Though the future feels uncertain for queer individuals across many U.S. states, there’s no shortage of top-tier vacation destinations that have embraced support for the LGBTQ+ community, ensuring that each guest can feel comfortable during their stay. As you plan your next getaway, the following properties offer a wealth of luxe amenities, ample adventure opportunities, and — most importantly — the freedom to live as your truest self alongside your partner without fear.

Ocean Edge Resort

Courtesy of Ocean Edge Resort

Located on the idyllic north shore of Cape Cod, Ocean Edge Resort is one of the Bay State’s top spots for a relaxing getaway. During the height of summer, the property’s sprawling beach offers ample opportunity to sunbathe, spot native birds, and enjoy a cocktail at Beach Bar, while Ocean Terrace is perfect for experiencing New England’s famous seafood scene. In recent years, the property has launched LGBTQ+ campaigns like Pride Trailblazers, a June installation that highlighted famous figures within the community — and as a bonus, the LGBTQ+ destination of Provincetown is just a 40-minute drive past property limits.

Harrah's Resort Southern California

Courtesy of Harrah's

Harrah's Resort Southern California has been a stalwart supporter of LGBTQ+ rights for years on end. Don’t believe us? Just ask Jane Lynch, the resort’s mayor since 2022. While current initiatives range from a summer print campaign with Rage magazine to an ongoing partnership with The Trevor Project, this scenic property isn’t shy about opening its wallet either, with more than $500,000 donated to San Diego Pride over the years. In addition to feeling safe and supported, queer guests at Harrah’s Resort can also look forward to spectacular amenities, with a massive casino, a 400-foot lazy river, and more than 15 drinking and dining concepts across the property.

In need of a scenic escape into Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands? The palatial Nemacolin has got you covered. Measuring more than 2,000 acres, this colossal estate offers a touch of storied English elegance on American soil, crowned with the dazzling Tudor Revival-style Chateau and offering amenities like Jeep off-roading, golfing, and even visits with the property’s resident African lions. Though the resort itself has a historic feel, the atmosphere is anything but antiquated, with past programs including 2022’s Dive & Drag, an electrifying event held to raise funds for Pennsylvania’s queer impact group, the Persad Center.

La Concha Renaissance Resort

Courtesy of La Concha

Condado Beach is San Juan’s top spot to experience Puerto Rico’s gay scene, and for a deep dive into the surrounding culture, there are no better accommodations than those at La Concha Renaissance Resort . While the beach is certainly the main attraction around here, the multi-level infinity pool and on-property casino add to the already abundant charm, while Sereno Beach is the perfect spot for a pregame cocktail before hitting Viejo San Juan. Not a fan of the party life? No worries — La Concha also specializes in curated activities ranging from outdoor mindfulness experiences to exploring Puerto Rico’s verdant El Yunque Rainforest.

Palms Casino Resort

There’s no shortage of dazzling properties to enjoy across Vegas, but when it comes to queer-curated events and activities, it’s tough to beat the Palms Casino Resort . Back in October 2022, the property kicked off Vegas Pride with signature cocktails, a $50,000 check to the LGBTQ Center of Southern Nevada, and a whole lot of dazzling drag performances — and the festivities weren’t just a one-off show. Since then, the Palms’ polished Ghostbar has seen recurring LGBTQ+-focused events throughout 2023 with the launch of GLAM.

Sand Castle on the Beach

Courtesy of Sandcastle on the Beach

Quick beach access, two freshwater pools, and complimentary breakfast are just a few of the perks awaiting guests at Sand Castle on the Beach , a charming gay-owned abode found on the island of St. Croix. During daylight hours, visitors can take full advantage of outdoor adventure opportunities with complimentary kayaks and snorkel gear. History buffs can find a wealth of storied attractions just 30 minutes away in Christiansted, but be sure to head back before sunset to snag a cocktail at Beach Side Café, the property’s top spot for flavorful island fare.

Inn at Little Washington

Just 90 minutes outside of the nation’s capital, the gay-owned Inn at Little Washington has hosted Capitol Hill’s most prestigious politicians since its launch in 1978 — and all it takes is one bite to understand what keeps these dignitaries coming back year after year. Helmed by world-class chef Patrick O'Connell, the property’s dazzlingly beautiful three-Michelin-star restaurant has mastered the art of American fare accented with classic French techniques, offering a seven-course tasting menu (and a fully vegetarian option) alongside more than 14,000 wines and Faira, the property’s beloved cow-themed cheese cart.

Montage Palmetto Bluff

The pristine beauty of South Carolina’s Lowcountry is on full display at Montage Palmetto Bluff , the Palmetto State’s crown jewel for eco-adventure infused with a serious dose of luxury. Beyond the palatial riverside cottages, lavish on-property spa, and cozy restaurants offering hearty Southern cuisine, Palmetto Bluff is also an advocate for marginalized communities across the nation, with the Well Living campaign highlighting twelve unique causes throughout 2023. In June, the property is celebrating Pride Month with a wide array of initiatives spanning from specialty cocktails benefitting The Trevor Project to a charity 5K to fund this year’s Lowcountry Pride.

The Lodge at Blue Sky

One of Utah’s most gay-friendly destinations, Park City is known as the home of the Sundance Film Festival, but this star-studded event is far from the only attraction that keeps tourists flowing in. Case in point: The Lodge at Blue Sky , a 3,500-acre expanse of rustic villas and suites crowned with a spectacular lodge. Outdoor adventure reigns supreme around here, with guests taking full advantage of the surrounding ski slopes in winter, while summer provides opportunities to fly fish, hike, and befriend the resort’s many rescue horses.

Cavallo Point

San Francisco has earned worldwide acclaim as a hub for LGBTQ+ culture, and if you want to kick back at a relaxing estate that’s just past city limits, Cavallo Point is the place to go. After a few days spent trekking up SF’s hilly streets, a deep tissue massage at the Healing Arts Center & Spa is the perfect cure for sore muscles, while on-property restaurant Farley is a top spot for a tasty post-exploration meal in full view of the Golden Gate Bridge. On the other hand, if you haven’t gotten quite enough exercise during your visit, the resort also offers private hiking tours, guided kayaking excursions, and complimentary e-bikes.

Fairmont Orchid

In the northwestern reaches of the Island of Hawaiʻi, a paradise for fine dining, wildlife watching, and seaside relaxation awaits at the Fairmont Orchid . The 10,000-square-foot outdoor pool and AAA Four-diamond Brown’s Beach House are just a couple of the factors that make the resort shine, but beyond the lavish amenities, the Fairmont Orchid has firmly established itself as a force for good within the Hawaiʻi hospitality scene. To preserve Polynesian species, the property partners with the Waikōloa Dry Forest Initiative, while 2021 saw the launch of the Pride Package, a year-long deal that donated 20 percent of each sale to Kona Pride, Inc.

Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort

Courtesy of Kimpton Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale

From the tip of Key West to the urban sprawl of Greater Miami, South Florida is one massive treasure trove of queer culture — something the Shorebreak Fort Lauderdale knows very well. While many of the area’s hottest bars, clubs, and other attractions are within arms reach of the property, the grounds themselves are pretty stellar as well, providing guests with two heated outdoor pools and gorgeous manicured courtyards to relax in. To sweeten the deal, the building itself even has an added historic edge to it, first opened in 1949 and frequented by the local queer community ever since.

Related Articles

Deals of the Week   All of Europe's finest   Up to 50% OFF

Gay Travel Tours & Trips

Discover the best gay-friendly travel destinations for 2024/2025. Search countless adventures and vacations that travel to Latin America (Peru and Brazil), Europe (Slovenia and Croatia), Thailand and other great places. Search our gay tours departing in 2024/2025 and find the one that's right for you.

16 Gay Travel trips with reviews

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes
• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Annapurna Gay Hiking - LGBTQ+ trek to Annapurna

Best Of Nepal Gay Tour | 15 Days

Best trip to experience overall Nepal. We group of 6 people family booked this trip to experience overall glimpses of Nepal and we really enjoyed this trip. We experienced Nepali culture, food, people and places. One day Everest experience flight was more adventurous. It was really scenic flight to see Everest. Hiking of Dhampus village gave us an opportunity to experience local village, had conversations with people. Our kid really enjoyed more than us. Our guide Arjun was knowledgeable and made our trip worthy. Shree helped us in booking procedure as well as guide us to make this trip worthy. Overall, those who want to experience Nepal then this trip is one which gives wonderful experience of Nepal.

Pride Sailing in Croatia (from Split to Dubrovnik) - 8 Days

Pride Sailing in Greece (Athens)

Gay Naples, Capri and the Amalfi Coast

LGBTQ vacation to exquisite and picturesque places in South Africa -"Group special"

Gay Exclusive Luxury Matera and Puglia Vacation

• Coach / Bus

Kathmandu Gay Tour - LGBTQ+ Nepal Tour

Gay Trek To Everest Base Camp - LGBTIQ+ trip

Pride Sailing in Croatia (from Dubrovnik to Split)

Pride Sailing in Greece (Ionian Sea)

Gay Sicily Tour

Beaches and Reefs (Pride, 15 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Beaches and Reefs (Pride With Sailing, 15 Days)

Ultimate Australia (Pride With Sailing, 24 Days)

What people love about gay travel tours, destinations.

• Mediterranean (8)
• Western Europe (6)
• 10 Day Tours (7)
• 5 Best Gay Travel Companies 2024/2025

Discover TourRadar

• Great Barrier Reef Tours
• Iceland Tours
• Western China Fall-Autumn tours
• Lemosho Route y tours
• United Arab Emirates Winter tours
• Iceland South Coast June 2025 tours
• Normandy Luxury tours

Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Men Traveling Alone: Unique Tips for Male Solo Travelers

March 22, 2023 by Janice Waugh

There is so little written for men traveling alone. I get emails all the time. They seem to be left out. But, in fact, about 35% of our readers and members of the Solo Travel Society  on Facebook are male solo travelers.

Yes, men travel solo too. But you wouldn't think so when you see what is published by so many other sites about solo travel. They are very focused on women.

At Solo Traveler our posts are designed for everyone who wants to travel alone. We try to provide tips, advice, and resources that as many people as possible will find useful.

However, there are some experiences that are unique for men which is what this post will attempt to address.

10 Tips for Men Traveling Solo

Straight or gay, people who present as male face unique issues in solo travel.

Because I can't claim to know what men are up against when they travel alone, I turned to Brian Peters, former publisher of No Debt World Travel, for help. He came through with flying colors which isn't surprising since he has traveled solo all over the world. Here are his tips.

1. Do not rush in.

Sit back and let things happen. Men sometimes rush in without taking the time to learn local customs. Take the time to sit back, watch how a culture functions, see the opportunities that are presented and let your trip develop.

2. Try not to be intimidating.

Men who travel solo sometimes find it more difficult to connect with others than women do. This is because you may not be as approachable as you think. Western men tend to be much larger than those in other parts of the world. That, and the fact that you are foreign, can make you intimidating. So, especially if you're a big guy, try to be gentle. Smile, speak calmly, and remove sunglasses so that people can see your eyes when you're speaking to them.

3. Keep drinking and drugs in check.

For safety, it's important to stay in control at all times. Drinking, drugs, even being really tired can cause you to respond with less restraint than normal to a difficult situation. Getting into a fight, whether by your provocation or simply by being in the wrong place at the wrong time, can be a big problem in another country. Having your wits about you to manage a situation well is important.

• Take it slow. One drink per hour is a good pace.
• Drink lots of water.
• Keep an eye on your drink so that nothing is slipped into it.

In addition, be aware of local drug laws. More than one person has been caught in a legal problem caused by assuming the laws are more liberal than they are.

4. Risk taking can be a thrill, but don't push it.

Everyone needs to know their limits. A quick scuba course may prepare you for a shallow dive but not a deep one. A motorbike may be easy to rent in Thailand but it's not the place to jump on and learn if you've never ridden one before.

It's a basic “look before you leap” message. However, unless it's dangerous, don't miss a great opportunity for a special experience.

5. Keep the gadgets to a minimum.

No one wants to lose things but it does happen. Try to carry only the gadgets you need and try not to carry really expensive ones that will attract attention. They add weight and you'll have more things to keep track of as a man traveling alone. If you do carry technology or other special equipment that is expensive, make sure that it is covered by your travel insurance. Read A Complete Guide to Travel Insurance for Solo Travelers .

6. Keep valuables secure with one item of travel-specific clothing.

Typically, travel clothing will make you look like a tourist. This is not something that is particularly desirable. However, there are travel pants with a zipped pocket inside the front pocket for keeping valuables. They look just like regular pants. It's not as good as a money belt but it's way better than any other pocket for protecting your passport and your money. It will definitely reduce the chances of having your wallet stolen. Read Protect Yourself from Pickpockets: Keep Cards & Cash Safe and Bare Minimum Packing .

7. Get consent. Know the law. Consider the culture.

The age of consent for sexual activity varies from 16 to 18 in most countries. However, consent may not be the only issue as, in some countries, extra-marital and homosexual sex is a chargeable offence. In addition, if the age of consent is lower than it is in your own country, you could still face charges at home should it be found out. In Canada , for instance, “It is against the law for a Canadian or permanent resident to travel outside of Canada and engage in any sexual activity with a young person that is against the law in Canada. If the person is not prosecuted in the country where the offence is alleged to have occurred, the person could be prosecuted in Canada.”

8. Have condoms on hand.

If you're going to be sexually active, bring your own condoms. This will avoid confusion over which brand to buy in a foreign country and concern about their quality. Go with what you know. If you don't bring any, buy some. Better to be safe than get an STD or a surprise pregnancy.

9. They love you / They love you not.

Finding love on the road is complicated. Being outside your familiar culture makes it difficult to accurately interpret a person's response to you. If you get serious, it's difficult to know whether the love will survive everyday life when you're not traveling. It's also important to consider that there may be other motivations for developing a relationship with you. Take your time in any new relationship.

10. Know that men traveling alone are vulnerable too.

Men sometimes think that women have to worry more about solo travel safety than men but, in fact, men are just as likely to be mugged or robbed as women. Plus, in some circumstances, men will start fights over what you consider to be small issues. It can be a cultural thing. Eye contact that is a few seconds too long by a man can be considered an act of aggression. Not so for women.

Leave places you think could be prone to such situations before anything happens. Don't get drawn into a fight: de-escalate, walk away. This is especially important for men traveling solo.

Solo Trip Options for Men Traveling Alone

We receive emails from men who want to travel solo interested in cruises, tours or simply advice on where to travel independently. As with everyone, the best solo vacations for guys depends on who you are and what interests you. Here are the fundamental options.

1. Independent Solo Travel

To travel independently means that you are responsible for everything: the planning, navigation, deciding where to eat, where to stay, and more. Some people love all the research involved before going and the feeling of freedom when on the road.

The tips above are especially important for the independent solo traveler. To help you with the details of your independent solo trip read Solo Travel Planning Guide with Trends, a Checklist, and Insider Tips , Best Budget Destinations for Solo Travelers: 2023 Shortlist , and The Ultimate Solo Travel Guide: Travel Alone & Love It .

2. The Escorted Travel Option

While there are tour companies that cater exclusively to women and tour companies specifically for gay men, like Outgoing Adventures , I have not yet found any that are only for straight men. That said, most tour companies cater to men and women and I've not yet been on an organized trip that didn't have some men.

If it's a tour you're looking for, check out our Searchable Trips page and our full list of tour advertisers and the trips they are currently promoting for solo travelers. They all have a zero-20% maximum single supplement. Get them delivered directly to your inbox each month by signing up here . I also suggest that you read How to Choose a Tour for Solo Travelers: Top Tips for Savings and Fun .

3. Hybrid Travel

For those who want independence and, sometimes, for someone else to take the reins, a great option is to create your own trip to include both a tour and independent travel. Consider arriving early for a tour so you can adjust to a change in time zone and explore or stay longer in destinations so you can enjoy them on your own with all the knowledge that you will have gained from the tour guide.

4. Road Trips Are Great for Men Traveling Solo

Whether you plan for a short or long distance road trip, it is another excellent option in solo trips for men. The sense of independence is amazing. We have an entire road trip section on our site with planning tips, itineraries, stories from the road (and even a playlist!) to inspire and equip you for your journey.

Sharing is caring!

Publisher Janice: info @ solotravelerworld.com

Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

Get Solo Travel News & Deals

• Create Your Advertiser Account
• Login to Your Advertiser Account
• Solo Travel Statistics
• Media & Speaking
• Privacy Policy & Disclosure

The content of Solo Traveler and any resources published by Solo Traveler are meant for entertainment and inspiration only. Please note that while we have advertising clients promoting destinations, products, services, trips and tours on Solo Traveler and that we endeavour to only work with companies in which we have confidence, we are not responsible for the delivery or quality of their products or services. Every person and every travel situation is different. Your safety, satisfaction and fun traveling solo are your responsibility alone and not that of Solo Traveler, its publisher, editor and/or writers.

PRIVACY POLICY & DISCLOSURE: In accordance with FTC guidelines, I disclose that I may be compensated if consumers choose to utilize links located throughout the content on this site. Additionally, some posts might be sponsored to support this site. Please do the appropriate research before participating in any third party offers. All opinions are my own. Please read our full Privacy Policy here.

• NEW – Uncruise Adventures
• Current Edition
• Edition Archive
• Religious Travel Planning Guide
• State Guides
• Theaters Guide
• Museum Guide
• Cruise Guide
• Scenic Rail Guide
• Group Itinerary Ideas
• Goway Travel
• Broadway for Groups
• Site InSpections
• Accommodations
• History & Heritage
• Food & Beverage
• Entertainment
• Outdoor & Adventure
• Industry Events
• Expert Advice
• Industry News
• Traveling Tribes Podcast
• Traveling Tribes Book
• Subscriptions

Select Page

7 TOUR Companies that are Proud to specialize IN LGBTQ+ TRAVEL

Affinity Travel , Online Exclusives

THESE TOUR companies are designed TO provide support for and celebrate LGBTQ+ friendly TRAVEL AND are ready to help you see the world the way you want.

For travelers in the LGBTQ+ community one key aspect of a successful trip is an atmosphere of acceptance. The tour operators listed below specialize in lesbian, bisexual, gay and transgender travel and will work with you and your group to assemble vacations to the best LGBT-friendly locations. Each of these companies pay close attention to the up-and-coming locations for LGBTQ+ travel as well as keeping an ear out for the safest destinations for anyone in the community. Feeling comfortable to be who you are while traveling is the top priority at each of these companies and they all have something unique to offer in the business of vacationing within your community.

OLIVIA TRAVEL

Leading lesbian tour operator, Olivia Travel, began as a record label in 1973 before transforming into an international tour outlet in 1990. Today the company, has planned trips for over 350,000 women and has a program designed for every kind of woman. There are programs for women over 40 and under 40, women of color, and even women in uniform. Whether you prefer to bring all your best gals on a trip or find adventure solo, there is a trip by Olivia that is a perfect fit for you. Their travel coordinators will work with you, or your entire group, to plan your next fantastic vacation.

Olivia Travel goes all out to deliver world-class travel experiences to women, their vacations span from full cruise trips to renting out hotels for a vacation full of girl power. The company even offers safari trips full of gorgeous landscapes and rare animal experiences. No matter which route you chose, all adventures through Olivia Travel are created to foster authenticity, a welcoming community of LGBTQ+ women, and a space that allows you to come exactly as you are. Groups, or solo travelers, may book online, visit the San Francisco office or call Olivia’s travel consultants. ( olivia.com )

OWLs: We celebrate our elders by creating special events so that you can connect, share stories, and forge new friendships. (photo courtesy of https://olivia.com/our-programs)

ZOOM VACATIONS

Based in Chicago, this prestigious travel planner won the 2016 Travvy Award’s gold prize for Best Escorted Tour Operator in the LGBT category and the 2010 TripOut Gay Travel Awards, among many other accolades. From their start Zoom has been all about diversity, inclusion, and comradery. All their destinations have been vetted as being gay-friendly and welcoming to people in all walks of life.

Zoom Vacations believes that successful gay travel, and travel in general, relies on the close attention to detail. Travel coordinators at Zoom strive to personalize the trip to the traveler, getting to know you, your preferences, and the vision you have for your vacation. The company provides two ways to travel, with their pre-planned vacation itineraries or by helping you plan your own private trip catered to your ideas.

Zoom’s unique tours can take you anywhere from Morocco or Egypt, and even to the Maldives. Their planned get aways offered each year include luxury hotel stays, tour guides throughout all the trip’s outings, as well as incredible cuisine both at your hotel and at hand-picked locations around your destination. If you want to go the independent travel route, a travel expert will work with you throughout each step of the planning process. They will consider the destination you have in mind along with your budget and hand craft a vacation specific to you. Pricing for solo trips and the schedule for upcoming tours, as well as testimonial from several previous Zoom travelers can be found on their website ( zoomvacations.com ).

Based in Salt Lake City, Utah to serve as a beacon of hope to the large population of young LGBTQ+ individuals, HE Travel is one of the leading companies in inclusive travel. They have received the Editor’s Choice from Out & About, the popular gay travel newsletter, and was named Gay Tour Operator of the Year by OutTraveler Magazine.

HE Travel specializes in active outdoor travel with trips that feature hiking, rafting, and biking. While all their trips have a varying levels of outdoor activity, they do not all center around these activities. There are also trips that feature island hopping, safaris and even cultural tours.

If outdoor adventure amongst a welcoming and inclusive community sounds like the right kind of trip for you, you can visit HE Travel’s website to see their full calendar of trips. ( tototours.com )

OUT ADVENTURES

Based in Canada, Out Adventures takes LGBTQ+ groups interests into consideration when planning a variety of trips around the world. Since 2009 Out Adventures has been prioritizing the celebration of the LGBTQ+ community in their travel itineraries. Their crew has explored over a hundred countries, making them well versed about customs and feelings towards the community. This allows them to plan trip for you centered around places that you will feel safe and welcomed. Out Adventures are not only curated to make you feel welcomed wherever your travels may take you, but also to support the LGBTQ+ community in the countries their tours visit. Tours are organized on their site according to themes such as active, cruise, culture, and flex, making it easy to find a trip that feels right for your interests.

Out Adventures guided trips and tours lean more towards the small size hosting sixteen travelers for land excursions and not more than forty on a cruise. This allows you and your fellow vacationers to build a sense of comradery and foster an even greater community feel on your trip. If one of their tours does not stick out to you, they always have agents that are happy to help you plan something that is more your style or speed. ( outadventures.com )

(Photo courtesy of https://www.outadventures.com/)

(Photo courtesy of https://www.outadventures.com/ )

DETOURS GAY TRAVEL

Founded in 2012, Detours home base is also located in Canada. The company is run by a group of family and friends that pride themselves on putting together relaxing and unhurried vacations. Their travel initiative is to allow guests on their trips to be travelers, not tourists, immersing them in a locations culture rather than only seeing bug ticket attractions. Detours travel concept revolves around you the traveler, steering away from “cookie cutter” itineraries and following a plan as we go mindset. If you would rather lay on the beach while the rest of the group goes zip lining or want to try out a weaving class instead of snorkeling, Detours encourages you to choose your own adventure along the way.

They have a calendar full of trips that can take you and your friends to Europe, Asia, Oceania, Latin America, and Africa. Whatever you’re looking for, Detours can help book your group on a pre-scheduled trip or customize one based on your interests. ( detourstravel.com )

Pink VIbgyor

This travel agency in Sydney, Australia specializes in tailor made LGBTQ+ vacations with a heart for providing you with the most immersive and relaxing stays. While Pink Vibgyor also offers specific preplanned gay tours, their shining aspect is their attention to your preferences when helping you plan your dream vacation. They heavily research all their package trips as well as any trip they may be assisting you with, to bring you closer to the LGBTQ+ culture and lifestyle around your location.

One of their features that set them apart from other LGBTQ+ travel companies is their section on culinary tours. These special tours feature meals with local families, getting a front row seat to their coking styles and recipes, and experiencing the best traditional cuisine your destination has to offer.

You can see all their exciting featured planned tours or fill out a form to begin crafting your personal tailor-made tour with a staff member on their website. ( pinkvibgyor.com/ ).

Oscar Wilde Tours

Gay Pride is more and more important in the world today—and Oscar Wilde Tours lets you explore it more deeply than ever. As heirs to a tradition that is central to civilization, LGBTQ+ people can truly take pride in their forebears, who count among their number such greats as Sappho and Socrates, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, Shakespeare, Tchaikovsky and Virginia Woolf, the genius dancer Nijinsky, the literary revolutionary Thomas Mann, and of course, the sublime Oscar Wilde himself.

Oscar Wilde Tours offers guided tours to destinations such as Europe and the United States, focusing on the cultural and historical significance of LGBTQ+ communities in each location. ( oscarwildetours.com/ )

Latest Traveling Tribes Podcast

Download latest issue.

Recent from Affinity Travel

Why Esports Tourism is On the Rise

According to Pew Research, the market for this spectator esports is growing rapidly, and its value is estimated to rise from $4.4 billion to $33.38 billion between by 2032.

Eat, Drink and Travel with Collette

Experience the perfect fusion of culture and cuisine with Collette. Immerse yourself in the delectable flavors of the world and discover how food unites us all.

Subscribe for Free

Gay Tours and Travel

Detours is a laid-back, no-strings-attached approach to gay group travel that feels more like exploring the world with old friends than anything else. Our less-restricting itineraries mean spontaneous, fun-filled opportunities to capture the best of what every spot along the way has to offer.

Why Detours

Smaller group sizes, maximum 16 people - keeps things intimate and low impact, guaranteed departures, over 60 trips each year - and they're all guaranteed departures, structured spontaneity, flexible itineraries leave plenty of room for unique experiences.

12 Days in Peru

Starting at $3,860 usd.

8 Days in Peru

Starting at $3,490 usd.

12 Days in Spain

Starting at $3,660 usd.

10 Days in Europe

Starting at $3,540 usd.

11 Days in New Zealand

Starting at $3,830 usd.

10 Days in Egypt

Starting at $4,170 usd.

11 Days in Costa Rica

Starting at $3,870 usd.

11 days in South Africa

Starting at $4,080 usd.

11 Days in Scandinavia

Starting at $3,970 usd.

11 Days in Greece

Starting at $3,840 usd.

11 Days in Portugal & Morocco

Starting at $4,190 usd.

8 Days in Italy

Starting at $3,320 usd.

10 Days in Japan

Starting at $4,130 usd.

10 Days in Australia

Starting at $4,240 usd.

13 Days in Thailand & Cambodia

Starting at $3,890 usd, brian k. - usa, june 27, 2023.

We are so grateful that we found Detours online when looking for travel options. We recently took a tour through Italy and it felt like first class all the way but for a very reasonable price. Everyone from the initial communication with Maurice in the office who handled our bookings and questions to our interactions with our tour leaders Scott and Miles was top notch. They even helped arrange a last minute cooking class for us which was above and beyond. We look forward to a future trip with Detours as it was not only the best service ever but felt like it was with family the whole time.

Efren E. - USA

March 11, 2024.

As we wrap up our trip to Egypt, I thank Detours for a second amazing trip, having gone to South Africa last year. Once again, the tour was well-organized from beginning to end. Maurice was fully available in the months leading up to the trip. Once on the ground, Darren was my tour leader for a second year in a row. He is an enthusiastic, organized, kind and true leader. He created a fun and friendly atmosphere while also providing daily guidance and updates on when and where to eat, what to bring, what to wear and great tips based on previous trips. He is always willing to help or trouble-shoot on any questions. He really looks out for his guests. Hend was our local Egyptian content expert and educator and provided tremendous insights on all our sites and Egyptian history. She is a lovely person who was also instrumental in helping the group seamlessly navigate every city we visited, providing best recommendations on where and what to eat, how much to tip, and much more. She is open to sharing what life is like in Egypt and providing insights on topics including Islam. We kept thinking: I would not have wanted to wing this trip on my own. We felt extremely welcome and safe on this trip. The actual experiences and sites are breath-taking. Loved everything about this trip. I would go as far as to say that it was the best trip of my entire life.

Shane W. - USA

March 3, 2023.

I completed my first Detours trip to South Africa and I'm still in amazement of the experience. South Africa is amazing and so is Detours. Anytime we had a question, Miles or his team was quick to answer and assist in anyway they could. Our trip leader Darren was a complete joy who took the time getting to know each of us and helping us bond. This is the first time I've connected with my tour group and want to stay in touch with them. Several of us are planning future trips together. If you want an amazing experience and do something more than just seeing the sights, do a Detours tour. I'm so excited I took the chance and now part of the Detours family. Detours builds community on their trips so it feels like a bunch of friends decided to go on holiday together.

Stephen D. USA

November 20, 2023.

I took my first and certainly not the last Detours trip. It was to Portugal and Morocco, in October. My tour Guides Ollie and Shane were awesome. They helped with any questions and looked into any additional activities that you might want to do. I specifically asked about a balloon ride in Morocco that was one of my highlights. The accommodations were all great. This trip exceeded all my expectations. I have always been a solo traveler and it was nice to share this with fellow travelers. I found I did activities I most likely would have not done on my own. Taking a Tajine cooking class, gone on a camel ride, private dinner for the group at someone's home. This gave me the opportunity to explore and understand the culture and perspective of life that I would have missed otherwise. There were many planned activities but also plenty of down time, to do your own thing. I look forward to many more Detours adventures.

Patrick N. - USA

February 15, 2024.

Tim and I had an amazing time on our Detours trip to Costa Rica. This was our first time on an all-male trip, so we did not know what to expect. We have already registered for our second trip with Detours, so you know where this review is going. Everything leading up to the trip was handled with professionalism and ease by Detours. That same vibe continued once the trip started. Brandon, our trip leader, was high-energy, fun, kind, inclusive, organized, connected, and on top of his game. He did not miss a beat, all details were attended to, and he made the trip enjoyable for all. Clay was equally kind and fun, and we look forward to one of his guided trips in the future. Costa Rica is a beautiful country. We loved the variety of our locations (the beach, the mountains, the hot springs / Volcano). A little bit of everything was perfect. We participated in so many unforgettable activities (ziplining, Tarzan swing, ATV, white-water rafting, canyoneering, sunset cruises, beaches, waterfalls, pool parties, park tours, . . . ) that filled our days and brought us even closer to the group of guys we traveled with. The beauty is you get to choose your own adventure. Do it all, or do nothing, no pressure. If that is not enough, you get to experience it all with a diverse group of men from across the globe. The friendships and connections we made were easy even for introverts and heightened our positive experiences. We hope to continue these friendships in our future travels. If you are on the fence, get off. A Detours experience is worth it. Enjoy your trip!

Brian M. - USA

January 19, 2023.

A Detours travel experience is like no other and I simply cannot recommend them more highly. If you enjoy well-planned, yet flexible itineraries, experienced trip leaders, knowledgeable local guides, high-quality accommodations, and small groups that breed new friendships, then you'll love Detours. We've taken 2 trips with Detours. One to Egypt and one to Thailand & Cambodia. In both cases, our trip leader, Shane, was the ultimate host. We've loved every minute of these trips and will go on another as soon as we can. Detours was started ten years ago (we got to celebrate their birthday in Cambodia!) by guys who are passionate about travel and wanted to build a brand that could extend that passion to their guests. They've cracked that code and we are thrilled to have been referred to them by friends. Detours balances hundreds of factors to build amazing travel experiences that are affordable yet lean into higher quality. This is no budget vacation package but it's also not a luxury package. And speaking of packages, while there is a framework of itinerary and pre-booked activities, there is also a lot of flexibility built-in. With small groups up to about 15 guests, this allows time to go off on your own or in small groups with newly-minted Detourse friends to explore your location. That's perfect for seasoned travelers as well as those who are just beginning to experience international travel. Happy 10th Birthday, Detours! We are so thrilled to have found you and highly recommend that readers of this review visit your website and find their next trip of a lifetime!

Rick W. - USA

June 2, 2023.

Choosing Detours Travel was the best decision I have very made seriously, without a doubt the best vacation I have ever had!!!!! I have never traveled with a group of 16 Gay Men of various backgrounds, interests; to be very honest this was an "out of the box" moment for me which caused much anxiety going in. From the moment I arrived in Athens a day early I reached out via What's App to see who was in town, hooked up with 3 guys in a few hours and the adventure began. Our Leader Brandon who was in contact with us as soon as we began the adventure and continued to check on all the group several times either in person or on line, everyday this man is on top of everything! He instantly wins everyone over with his amazing energetic, positive, humorous, welcoming, kind, warm, personality he knows his business inside and out nothing stumps him he always comes thru even after hours. What a beyond excellent representative for Detours Travel Bravo Brandon!!!!! The trip every detail looked after amazing transfers, hotels, restaurants, scheduled and extra tours offered ( no hard sell just suggestions you may want to pursue or not ) Any of my friends knows I am a tough demanding customer with high standards. I can honestly say all were met no complaints whatsoever ever I would go on another Detours adventure for sure maybe only travel this way from now on Two more things I will share: 1/ I had a little incident with an ATV vehicle no injury to me whatsoever Brandon managed me and was the go between with vendor keeping me informed with calming grace and figuring all out. 2/ before reaching our last destination Brandon shared there was problem with my room but assured me it would be handled as it was; when we reached hotel the management was amazing laid out the options which I agreed to - Amazing Property & Service. That is it...... having a tough time..... without Detours & Brandon getting thru may days without their guidance Cheers to you all,

Brooks B. - USA

March 28, 2024.

Just finished up my 9th trip with Detours Travel and it was yet again another incredible trip! My first trip was in Costa Rica in 2015. Since then I have traveled with Detours to Peru, Thailand, South Africa, Croatia, Israel/Jordan, Italy, Scandinavia and New Zealand. If you are looking for a memorable trip with amazing adventures, I highly recommend you book with Detours! I am less than a week from returning from New Zealand and already thinking about my next trip.

John D - Australia

August 7, 2023.

As a solo traveller I was a little worried about going on a group trip.  I saw all the other positive reviews and booked. Well there is a reason why the reviews are all 5 stars, I had the most amazing trip to Greece. I felt so relaxed right from the start after meeting all the other guys and our tour guide Oliver. The next 12 days was like having a holiday with all your friends and as a group we got to see and do so many fabulous things together. Oliver was our guide and how lucky were we to have him. He just did everything for us from booking taxis, restaurants, tours and putting information into our group chat so we always new exactly what was happening. He would even put a link in there to find our way back to our hotel after a couple to many drinks which was needed a few times. Detours is 5 star from the moment you make contact with them and continue even after your tour is finished. I just recommend them so much if you are looking to have that trip of a lifetime that you will never forget. I can’t wait for my next adventure with them.

T.J. M. - USA

January 29, 2023.

It’s hard to find almost any business that “gets you” these days. Travel has changed so much in the past few years so it’s a big investment of time, money and expectation when you book a trip. I’ve just completed my 5th tour with Detours and I can’t say enough great things about them. This is a business built from the ground up with a passion for fun, adventure, comfort and value foremost in mind. All the tour leaders with Detours are reflections of the qualities the owner envisions. They’re all about YOU! They know what they’re doing and have never let me down or fallen short of providing an unforgettable experience. If you haven’t yet, book a tour with them and be ready to be amazed at what they do.

Only the best people to make your trip amazing.

Miles Mitchinson

My job isn't done until my group members are having the time of their lives and return home raving...

Shane Bingham

General Manager

Every day I’m grateful for being able to experience new adventures in this exciting and inspiring world we live in...

• Brandon Folkes

Brand & Marketing Manager, Leader Development & Trip Leader

I want to ensure you get that same feeling of thrill and excitement that I get when I travel.

Maurice Van Veen Vazquez

Guest Experience Manager

My outlook on life changed tremendously through immersing myself into cultures and vast scenery...

Clayton Inglis

Operations Manager, Trip Leader

To be able to share the world I've come to know and love with my fellow LGBTQ+ community members is a dream come true.

Trip Leader

Those who know me best will attest that I revel in unconventional exploration...

Casey Miller

When not traveling and leading tours, I managed to (barely) graduate from Harvard with two masters degrees...

Darren Frances

I’m passionate about learning the stories and histories that make up the identity of every new destination I visit...

Oliver Armstrong

My ultimate goal is to inspire others to explore the world with an open mind, curiosity, and making a positive impact.

Thaddeus Eng

I hope whatever Cliff's Notes I accrue on my way will help you on yours!

Chase Bovet

I can't wait to see you out there and look forward to sharing the trip of a lifetime with you.

A Detours Guide to Our 'Must Try' Trip Activities: Part 2

• Oct 12, 2023

A Detours trip wouldn't be complete without a little adventure... And our groups LOVE adventure. While we all like a little poolside relaxation or spa moment, it just feels good to do something a little mo…

A Detours Guide to Our ‘Must Try’ Trip Activities: Part 1

• Aug 25, 2023

When it comes to travelling around the world one thing is for sure, there is so much to do on this beautiful blue planet that we call home. Even though we are always fans of sitting on a beach sipping a c…

It's our 11th Birthday! Let's celebrate.

• Jul 25, 2023

Wow, another year has gone by with another year of new adventures and memories made. A lot has happened in the last 12 months here at Detours – We launched 2 new permanent trip destinations (Italy and Sc…

Travel Egypt: A Guide to the Many Reasons Egypt Should Be Your Next Destination

• Jan 19, 2023

Egypt sits as one of the the oldest cradles of human civilization, with a vast number of relics, tombs, and archeological sites that showcase the sheer magnitude that ancient Egypt once was. Not only that, but…

Inquiry About Tour

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.

'Gay summer camp': How cruises create space for LGBTQ+ travelers at sea

As Sharon Moss' cruise vacation came to an end, the 42-year-old went big before going home.

Moss, who is fine with any pronoun but mostly uses they/them, spent the last day of February sailing to the Caribbean on Celebrity Cruises' Reflection ship dancing in the pool with their girlfriend. Being surrounded by fellow guests decked out in feather boas, shower curtains and lopsided wigs – the party's theme was "She's a Mess" – Moss felt there was something different about the trip.

The voyage was Moss' first trip with theLGBTQ travel company VACAYA and their first cruise since sailing with Disney Cruise Line as a child.

"People were waving at us, and we were like the stars of our little dance pool. It was just freeing and fun, and not something that you get to necessarily feel like you can do," Moss said. "You can't pop over to your local YMCA and be like, 'Can I have a dance party in the pool?'"

Before booking the sailing, the retired professional weightlifter said many mainstream cruises seemed more geared toward heteronormative families and they hadn't considered booking one. But in the wake of the pandemic, the couple craved a relaxing vacation. Both jumped at a chance for Moss' girlfriend to be somewhere "culturally entirely queer"because she had not had as much experience socializing in LGBTQ+ spaces.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

For some LGBTQ+ travelers, gay cruises have offered a kind of haven on the seas. While early cruises catered primarily to gay men and lesbians, the market has grown in recent years, with more options aimed at a more diverse array of queer travelers.

'We have to be on guard a lot': Why safety comes first for so many LGBTQ travelers

When did LGBTQ+ cruises start?

Cruise operators that catered to gay and lesbian passengers began sailing in the '80s and '90s, according to a  timeline from IGLTA . 

"When it first started, it was somewhat underground and they were definitely more in the charter side of things ... where people could be together with members of their community and get away and be free from families or work, you know, be out, because the world was so different in the '80s," John Tanzella, president and CEO of the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association, said.

The sailings were a tougher sell back then, though."It was probably really hard to get a cruise line to take a gay group (in the early days)," Tanzella said.

In some cases, ships carrying LGBTQ+ passengers were turned away from ports, he added. By contrast, today, cruise lines are "going after the market," and destinations court those sailings and their loyal customer base. "You know, a port city might host a reception the night before the cruise departs, like going that extra mile to welcome the cruisers," Tanzella said. In addition to chartering entire ships, IGLTA has members that host groups on nonspecialty sailings too.

'I just want to see more of us': The importance of seeing people like you while traveling

Jon Fenwick went on his first gay cruise in 2008 with Atlantis Events after some friends talked him into it. The 46-year-old enjoyed the trip so much that he made it a tradition of it, taking at least one LGBTQ+ cruise annually most years since. And he isn't the only one.

"You definitely see a lot of the same faces from trip to trip, and a lot of people would go on the same ones every year just to have a reunion, or sometimes we call it gay summer camp," said Fenwick, a government information technology specialist based in Arlington, Virginia.

The options were also more limited and siloed, with cruises aimed primarily at gay men or lesbians, he added. Over the past decade or so, though, the industry has made an increased effort be inclusive, and somenew cruise operators targeting a diverse clientele have entered the market.

Fenwick has met other gay passengers on mainstream cruises but said the experience isn't the same, "You definitely don't have the (same) freedom to be yourself on a regular cruise."

'We are the majority'

VACAYA is among those new companies catering to a diverse audience, with an emphasis on the LGBTQ+ community, as well as straight allies. The company, which also offers land-based vacations, launched its first trips in 2019. 

"If you believe love is love, then you belong on a VACAYA vacation," said Patrick Gunn, the company's co-founder and CMO. The company has worked with Celebrity, Ponant, Emerald Cruises and others.

Those principles of inclusion guide what guests experience during their trip. VACAYA recently began giving out pronoun pins to help guests and staff use each other's preferred pronouns (the company also provides diversity and inclusion training to resort and cruise line partners).

The company also offers a wide range of programming. In addition to drag shows and pool parties, the VACAYA has also held a makeup seminar geared particularly toward nonbinary and transgender passengers.

"We believe in balance," Gunn said. "So, we love a good party, don't get me wrong, but we also love to wake up and go into port the next day."

On a March cruise that visited Panama, Colombia and more, passenger ages ranged from 21 to 91, according to co-founder and CEO Randle Roper. The company's clientele is predominantly gay men, but 20% of the sailing's guests were women.

Margaret Riedling, who joined VACAYA for the March sailing with her wife, found it refreshing. The 59-year-old had not taken an LGBTQ+ cruise since she was in her 20s.

"We have gay, straight, queer friends in our real lives," said Riedling, who lives in Spokane, Washington, and Palm Springs, California. "Why wouldn't we have them in our vacation life?"

Brand g Vacations, which was founded in 2011, also caters to a range of queer travelers, along with straight allies. The company offers river cruising, small-ship ocean cruises and land-based tours, according to its website.

That doesn't mean longer-running operators aren't inclusive. Among those, Atlantis is particularly popular among gay men but welcomes women, transgender and nonbinary guests, and "even straight parents," as well, CEO Rich Campbell said in an email.

And while Olivia Travel's guests primarily identify as cisgender lesbians and queer women, nonbinary and transgender guests have always been welcome, according to VP of marketing Autumn Nazarian.

For Roper's part, he said the kinds of sailings VACAYA aims to offer shift the dynamic LGBTQ+ people experience elsewhere, even if only for a week or two at a time.

"We all live in the minority every single day of our lives, and when we create these events, whether they're on a cruise ship or at a resort, we are the majority," he said.

Upcoming LGBTQ+ cruises

◾ Brand g Vacations will operate a Prague and Danube River itinerary – with two days in the Czech Republic city pre-cruise – from Aug. 12 through 21. Cabins on Amadeus River Cruises' Amadeus Silver III start at $4,499 per person based on double occupancy, according to Brand g's website .

◾ Atlantis is offering a voyage from Los Angeles to Mexico from Oct. 23 through 30, with stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and others. The cruise will take place on Royal Caribbean International's Navigator of the Seas ship, and available cabins start at $899 per person based on double occupancy, the company said on its website .

◾ VACAYA will sail a Caribbean cruise from Feb. 17-24, 2024, aboard Celebrity Apex. The cruise will stop in Puerto Rico, Antigua and more, and available rooms start at $2,297 per person based on double occupancy, according to the company's website .

◾ Olivia is operating a Sept. 21-28, 2024, sailing to Alaska. The sailing, on Holland America Line's Eurodam ship, will visit Juneau, Glacier Bay, Sitka and more, according to the company's website . Available rooms start at $1,299 per person based on double occupancy.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Going it alone: 10 of the best trips for solo travel

O nce the preserve of singletons and gap-year students, solo travel has recently taken on a shiny new look. Rather than a function of necessity or compromise, holidaying alone has become the ultimate indulgence in 2024: a rare chance in this ultra-demanding world to put one’s own needs and priorities first.

"Travelling solo is a liberating experience. It offers the chance to do what and go where you want, on your own terms," says Jonathan Frankham of World Nomads . "It also makes you more likely to branch out, forge deeper connections with others and discover more about yourself."

In short, people are now travelling solo not because they have to – but because they want to. Emboldened with a ‘now or never’ attitude post-pandemic and more confident than ever about spending time in solitude, travellers are busy booking their dream trips, regardless of life stage or relationship status. Many tour operators have noticed the trend: Scott Dunn reported a 30 per cent increase in solo bookings in 2023, while Black Tomato saw them almost double. In response to demand, many operators have launched solo travel collections or solo-specific departure dates, while others are waiving pricey single supplements.

The range of solo travel experiences on offer has broadened, too. You can tick off bucket list trips like hiking the Camino de Santiago or cruising to Antarctica that loved ones in your life might be reluctant to commit to – but also book self-care wellness breaks or enriching learning holidays. Some trips, such as those from Discover the World , let you dial up or down the amount of time you spend in a group environment, so you get both alone time and the reassuring safely blanket that comes with being around others.

A reassuring safe space can be especially appealing to solo female travellers , of which there are now more than ever. According to Student Universe 84 per cent of polled Gen Z women are interested in solo travel, while Craft Travel reports a 350 per cent increase in women-based adventure travel compared to last year. Founder of the latter, Julia Carter, says: "Women who we would have more often seen putting off ‘adventurous’ destinations until they had a partner or their partner’s schedule allowed are no longer holding back."

10 solo trips to try

1. polar bears in canada.

In response to a noticeable uptick in solo bookings, Discover the World has just launched a new solo travel collection with dedicated singles departure dates – including to New Zealand and Iceland. Some trips are catered specifically to female travellers, including a special women-only departure of the Polar Bear Adventure in October 2024. There will be a female expedition leader at the helm when you journey on special ‘polar rovers’ to see the snow-white giants in the Churchill wilds, and you’ll have the chance to meet local indigenous women and hear about their lives on the arctic tundra too.

Five days from £7,593, discover-the-world.com

 2. Pilates in Morocco

For special interest breaks – whether that’s painting , cookery or learning a language – Flavours Holidays ticks the boxes for solo travellers, as it never charges a single supplement. The upcoming group Pilates Morocco Retreat will give you a week in a villa overlooking the Atlas mountains, with daily pilates classes and an optional hike into the sun-baked landscapes. Explore the bustling Marrakech souks, wander through the serene Majorelle Garden or tuck into fragrant tagines, either with new friends or when exploring on your own.

Seven days from £2,199, flavoursholidays.co.uk

3. Walking in Spain

Love nothing more than a good yomp in the great outdoors? More than half of Ramble Worldwide travellers are solo hikers, so you’ll be in good company. The moderately difficult Walking from San Telmo itinerary on Mallorca doesn’t have a single supplement and takes in raw mountain and coastal trails – including a challenging climb on the Archduke’s Trail around the hills of S’Arraco (the views are worth the thigh-burn). You’ll also have time to visit uninhabited island Dragonera, see hillside village Valldemossa and unwind by the pool in the spring or autumn sunshine (departure dates include April, May, September and October 2024).

Seven days from £1,285, ramblersholidays.co.uk

4. Safari in Kenya

A safari is a proper bucketlist trip – but one that can feel challenging to tackle all on your own. Dedicated solo holiday specialist Friendship Travel brings together world-class wildlife with beachside downtime in a group hols where there’s always a host on hand if you need them. The Kenya Safari and Beach itinerary kicks off on the sands at Diani Beach on the Indian Ocean before heading into the bush for stays at two different safari camps – one with views of Mount Kilimanjaro and the other in the heart of a 10,000-acre private game sanctuary. Then there’s more lazy lounger time again before you head home.

Seven nights from £2,550, friendshiptravel.com

5. Getting fit in St Lucia

Wellness breaks are an understandably popular pick among solo travellers; all that alone time gives you the opportunity to overhaul your eating regime, set new fitness goals or undergo a major health reset. All-inclusive wellbeing resort BodyHoliday in St Lucia has a themed ‘September solos’ month where the usual single supplement is waived and the extensive rota of fitness classes and activities is supplemented by group hosted dinners. You also get a spa treatment included on every day of your stay.

Seven nights from £3,000, scottdunn.com

6. Culture in Oman

Sustainably minded YellowWood Adventures focuses on cultural holidays that really get under the skin of a unique destination – and 70 per cent of travellers on their trips are solos. The Undiscovered Oman trip lets you get stuck into the local lifestyle and scenery, meeting Bedouins, sailing around the protected Daymaniyat Islands and wild camping in the powdery Sugar Dunes desert by the Gulf of Oman. The company also supports charity endeavours on the ground in their destinations and compensates for emissions by planting 15 trees per traveller through WeForest.

Nine days from £2,799, yellowwoodadventures.com

7. Female empowerment in Turkey

With so many solo female travellers knocking on their door – around a third of all their bookings – Intrepid Travel decided it was time to relaunch their portfolio of female-only trips, designed to immerse you in the cultural spaces of local women. On a new Turkey Women’s Expedition, you’ll visit a mother and daughter in their Istanbul home to sample börek, hike the Soganli Valley and visit a social enterprise that supports low-income women through handicrafts.

12 days from £2,315, intrepidtravel.com

8. Cruising in Peru

Cruising can be perfect for solo travellers, as travel by ship provides the comforts of group travel with the option to be reclusive when you fancy. Luxe small-ship line Aqua Expeditions has announced that it’s waiving solo supplements (usually 25% extra) on select cruises in 2024 and 2025, including voyages on the Aria Amazon in January, February and September. Sailing down the jungle-cloaked Peruvian Amazon on the intimate ship, you’ll get the inside track from experienced naturalist guides on the rich marine and land life. Off-boat expeditions let you see it all up close; piranha fishing, anyone?

Seven nights from £6,030, aquaexpeditions.com

9. Sunshine in Vietnam

Get to know one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating countries and soak up the tropical sunshine with a multi-award winning specialist in the solo travel sphere, Just You. Running over nearly two weeks to give you the full country immersion, the Discover Vietnam trip includes a sightseeing tour in Hanoi, an overnight cruise in Halong Bay and a visit the UNESCO-protected old town of Hoi An, along with plenty of other stops. A good pick if you want to be in a social group dynamic for your entire trip.

From £3,699, justyou.co.uk

10. Remote adventure in Togo & Benin

Even if you normally travel with a partner or family, a solo expedition can suit when you want to experience somewhere more niche on your wish list. Wild Frontiers does those kind of unique destinations – everywhere from Kyrgyzstan to Honduras – like a pro and perhaps unsurprisingly 70% of their customer base is solo travellers. A Togo & Benin Voodoo Explorer trip delves deep into the rich cultures of West Africa, exploring the UNESCO Royal Palace of Abomey, boat-riding through the continent’s largest stilt village and discovering haunting Ouidah, spiritual home of voodoo.

14 days from £3,495, wildfrontierstravel.com

Register now for one of the Evening Standard’s newsletters. From a daily news briefing to Homes & Property insights, plus lifestyle, going out, offers and more. For the best stories in your inbox, click here .