As acceptance and understanding for the LGBTQ+ community continues to grow worldwide, travelers are increasingly seeking out destinations that are welcoming and inclusive. From vibrant cities to serene beaches, here are some of the best LGBTQ+ friendly destinations around the world.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Known for its liberal attitudes and vibrant nightlife, Amsterdam has long been a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. The city is home to a thriving gay scene, with a diverse range of bars, clubs, and events, as well as the annual Amsterdam Pride Parade, one of the largest LGBTQ+ celebrations in the world.
San Francisco, USA: Often considered the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, San Francisco remains a hugely popular destination for travelers seeking inclusivity and acceptance. The city’s Castro neighborhood is home to a vibrant LGBTQ+ community, with plenty of bars and restaurants, as well as the historic Stonewall Inn, where the riots that sparked the movement took place.
Sydney, Australia: Sydney is renowned for its stunning beaches and laid-back lifestyle, but it’s also one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in the world. The city hosts its own annual Mardi Gras celebration, which attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists from around the world, and has a thriving LGBTQ+ community, with plenty of bars, clubs, and events.
Copenhagen, Denmark: Denmark was one of the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex unions, and Copenhagen is considered one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in Europe. The city hosts an annual Pride week, and its vibrant gay scene includes numerous bars, clubs, and cafes.
Bangkok, Thailand: While Thailand is not typically known for its progressive attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community, Bangkok has become an increasingly popular destination for queer travelers in recent years. The city’s Silom neighborhood is home to a vibrant gay scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and saunas, and the annual Bangkok Pride festival is a highlight of the LGBT calendar in Asia.
Tel Aviv, Israel: Israel may not be the first place that springs to mind when you think of LGBTQ+ friendly destinations, but Tel Aviv is one of the most tolerant cities in the Middle East. The city hosts an annual Pride parade, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors, and its gay scene is growing rapidly, with plenty of bars, clubs, and events.
Mykonos, Greece: Known for its beautiful beaches and buzzing nightlife, Mykonos has become a popular destination for LGBTQ+ travelers in recent years. The island’s gay scene is centered around the beach at Elia, which is home to a number of gay-friendly bars and clubs, as well as a popular annual festival in August.
These are just a few of the many LGBTQ+ friendly destinations around the world. While attitudes towards the community may vary from place to place, there are plenty of cities and countries that offer a welcoming and inclusive environment for all travelers, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. By seeking out these destinations and supporting local LGBTQ+ businesses and organizations, travelers can help to promote acceptance and understanding for the community, while also enjoying some of the most vibrant and beautiful places in the world.
