Top on the list of best African destinations for gay travelers, South Africa takes pride in being known as a country that stands proud of its LGBTQ+ community, having been instrumental in pioneering greater inclusion and equality for its members on the African continent.
In 2006, South Africa became the first African country, and fifth in the world, to legalise same-sex marriage and it remains committed to protecting those within the community against discrimination based on sexual orientation through its constitution.,
While there are sadly still many parts of the world where people are unable to express, there are also plenty of other LGBTQ+ friendly destinations as shown below ( courtesy of gay-friendly KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and should therefore be on top of your travel bucket list.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Often called the world’s most liberal city, Amsterdam, is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in the world. Amsterdam’s legendary open-mindedness saw homosexuality decriminalised way back in the early 1800’s and the Netherlands was the first country in the world to welcome same-sex marriages back in 2001.
The city, often called Europe’s gay capital, plays host to a number of LGBTQ+ events throughout the year and is home to some of the world’s most popular gay bars – including Spijker Bar, a gay bar which is considered the oldest and friendliest in Amsterdam. However, there is so much more to Amsterdam’s gay scene than it’s many bars.
Amsterdam’s Homomonument, inspired by the events of WWII, remembers the LGBTQ+ people who have lost their lives in campaigns of hate and bigotry. Additionally, Reguliersdwarsstraat, known as Amsterdam’s pink street, is still one of the liveliest streets in Amsterdam today and plays host to a number of gay-owned businesses, cafes and clubs, making it a must-visit destination for any LGBTQ+ tourist visiting the city.
Jalisco, Mexico
Mexico is widely regarded as one of the most progressive Latin American nations when it comes to advocating not only for the rights of queer people, but also for the development of LGBTQ tourism.
Some Mexican states however, stand out more than others when it comes to fully recognising the value LGBTQ tourism brings to the city. Jalisco, home to both the sophisticated metropolis of Guadalajara and the long-running LGBTQ hotspot Puerto Vallarta, is one such.
Offering many beach resorts, Mexico’s second largest city, and lots of outdoor activities, it is one of the few states that has legislation over hate crimes, and a local law to promote equality that explicitly establishes the affirmative actions that must be taken to promote LGBTQ equality,
One of the first European country to decriminalise homosexuality back in 1871, a full 132 years before the US, with same-sex marriage (see gay marriage stats around the world) now allowed in 12 states (and recognised nationwide), every year during Guadalajara’s International Film Festival, the queer cinema festival, Premio Maguey, takes place. It’s one of the most important LGBTQ film festivals in the world.
Toronto, Canada
This year, Canada was named the safest place LGBTQ+ travellers to visit according to queer travel safety experts Asher and Lyric Fergusson and academic researcher Eliot Assoudeh PhD. As its largest city, Toronto has a bustling queer community and, as a result, is one of the most politically active cities in the world in terms of gay rights.
Toronto is famous for having an active and energetic gay village which is full of various gay-owned bars, clubs, and businesses. The city, which is home to tourist attractions like the CN Tower, the Royal Ontario Museum and just a short drive from the world-famous Niagara Falls, also plays host to the Inside Out LGBT Film Festival, which occurs over two weeks in May. The festival showcases more than 200 queer-themed films along with artist talks, premieres, and industry panel discussions.
Travellers won’t want to miss a visit to Woody’s, the popular gay bar made famous by the television series Queer As Folk as well as a visit to Crews & Tangos, a popular drag bar in the village.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm is famous for being one of the most open-minded cities in the world. Despite being a country rich in history and filled with gorgeous buildings and tourist hotspots, it’s thriving LGBTQ+ scene makes it a popular destination for tourists from around the globe.
Patricia is the city’s biggest gay clubs with parties happening every night of the week. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, a visit to the country’s popular ABBA Museum is a must. If you have time, try visit the well-known dinner musical ‘Mamma Mia The Party’ for the ultimate celebration of this Swedish supergroup. Stockholm’s theme park Tivoli Gröna Lund has been a popular tourist destination for over 135 years and often plays host to a string of local and international acts.
Finally, fashion lovers should plan to make a stop at Stockholm’s fashion district ‘Bibliotekstan’ for an incredible shopping experience with some of the world’s most luxurious brands.
Mykonos, Greece
If an island holiday is what you are after, many consider Greece’s popular city of Mykonos. Many consider Mykonos as the original gay island in the Mediterranean, a testament to its long-standing relationship with the LGBTQ+ community.
Mykonos is home to dozens of gay beaches, hotels, establishments and beaches that are either gay exclusive or gay friendly, making it the perfect city for the LGBTQ+ community to soak up that Mediterranean sun.
The nightlife on the island is unmatched. The city is home to a number of popular gay bars, drag clubs and a plethora of gay events. Additionally, the food scene on the island is one of the best in Greece. Filled with delicious Greek taverns, Mykonos remains authentically Greek giving tourists a perfect blend of history, culture and entertainment.
