Sydney WorldPride, held from February 17 to March 5, 2023, will celebrate Australia’s LGBTQIA+ community in a dazzling display. The festival will be Australia’s most significant global event since the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

What Is WorldPride?

 WorldPride is the biggest LGBTQIA+ event in the world.  Like the Olympics, there is fierce competition amongst cities to host this event. Held every 2–3 years, WorldPride was hosted in Rome in 2000, Jerusalem in 2006, London in 2012, Toronto in 2014, Madrid in 2017, New York in 2019, and Copenhagen and Malmo, Sweden, in 2021.

For the first time ever, the festival is now coming Down Under to the Southern Hemisphere.

Sydney WorldPride

The festival, held during the Australian summer, will run for 17 days and attract over 500,000 visitors. 

Over 300 events celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community at WorldPride, including:

• Live & Proud: Sydney WorldPride’s Opening Concert
• Domain Dance Party
• Human Rights Conference
• First Nations Gala Concert
• A women’s party
• More than 60 specially-curated art experiences
• And 20 sporting events.

The festival will also highlight Sydney’s drawcard attractions.

The Sydney Gay And Lesbian Mardi Gras

Sydney is already known as the home of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, one of the world’s biggest LGBTQIA+ events. 

In 2023, this famous parade will be incorporated into the WorldPride event. The Sydney Mardi Gras parade began in 1978 as a march and commemoration of the 1969 Stonewall riots in New York. It is led by Dykes on Bikes, Australia’s longest-running female-identified motorcycle club, revving up the crowd. They lead over 12,500 marchers and 200 floats in an extravaganza of riotous costumes and dance routines accompanied by lighting and fireworks. The parade wends its way up Oxford Street in a spectacle to behold. At WorldPride, the estimated Mardi Gras attendance figures will leap from around 700,000 to 1 million, and footage will be streamed worldwide. 

Pro Tip: Visitors can watch the parade for free from any vantage point along the route.

Bondi Beach Party

Bondi Beach is arguably Australia’s most famous beach, with wide sands and crashing surf, a symbol of Australian beach culture. World-class music acts will take to the stage, taking participants on a 7-hour magical journey. This is an 18 and over ticketed event.

Sydney Opera House

Sydney Opera House is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is instantly recognizable as one of Australia’s most associated images. The fabulous wave-life roofline is a striking architectural sight against Sydney Harbor’s magnificence.

During WorldPride, the famous opera house will host Blak & Deadly: The First Nations Gala Concert, a rainbow explosion of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander LGBTQIA+ artistry throughout a 2-hour concert.

Visitors to Sydney should add a tour of the Opera House to their itinerary. This iconic Modernist structure has recently undergone a $200 million upgrade.

Sydney Harbour Bridge

During WordPride, 50,000 people will march across one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks, the Sydney Harbour Bridge, holding hands with friends, family, and supporters. This event will be a powerful international statement of support and visibility for the LGBTQIA+ community. 

Closure of the iconic bridge to traffic is exceedingly rare. This walk will go down in the annals of Australian history. 

The Pride March is a free event, with entry via ballot. Both locals and visitors can enter the ballot drawn in early 2023. Subscribe to the Sydney WorldPride newsletter to be notified when entries open.

Tips For Attending 

Significant events will sell out quickly. But, if you ever needed a good reason to visit Sydney, this is it. Sydneysiders know how to party. Local artists, producers, and promoters will participate in Pride Amplified, a dedicated open-access program for arts, culture, experiences, and parties, with hundreds of events across Sydney. Major events such as the Oxford Street Parade, Fair Day, and the Pride March over the Harbour Bridge and Pride Villages (home to stalls, dining, and performances) are all free to attend. On the final weekend, a section of Oxford Street will be closed for a giant street party. 

Sign up for the Sydney WorldPride 2023 newsletter for updates, headliner announcements, and notifications about ticket releases.

Where To Stay

Sydney will unfurl the rainbow carpet to welcome guests. Central areas to stay include Darlinghurst & Surry Hills near Oxford Street, home to some of the city’s most loved bars and restaurants. Kings Cross and Potts Point are historically party precincts. Downtown five-star hotel options include the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel and Pier One. Many events are walkable from Sheraton Grand Hyde Park. 

There is accommodation for all budgets. Four Points by Sheraton Sydney, Central Park is in the heart of Chippendale, an easy walk to Surry Hills, the city, and Glebe. It’s also a short bus ride from the inner west, with its great bars, restaurants, vintage shops, and live performance venues. Newtown and Enmore offer affordable accommodation and fast, easy access to the city. Coogee and Bondi Beaches have a range of options within reach of WorldPride events. Or stay in Manly for relaxed beach accommodation and a ferry commute across the Harbour to central Sydney. For other suggestions, see Sydney WorldPride For Travelers.

Know Before You Go

There is no hotel quarantine in Australia. Proof of vaccination is not required. More information about COVID-19 can be found via Home Affairs.

If you want to know more about pride parades in the U.S., check out our Guide To Pride Parades And Other Events In America’s Most Gay-Friendly Cities.

Backed by the Sierra Madre mountain range and tropical jungles hugging the expansive Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta has a welcoming, enchanting aura about it. Cobblestone streets evoke old Mexican villages. All-inclusive resorts provide all the amenities modern travelers could want. 

Often thought of as a beach vacation spot, and rightly so, there is more to Puerto Vallarta than just sand and sea. PV, as it is frequently called, is one of the two most LGBTQ-friendly destinations in Mexico. The other is Guadalajara. Both are in the Mexican state of Jalisco.

Puerto Vallarta has been a popular place for the LGBTQ community to visit for over half a century. That history can be traced directly back to the filming of the 1964 movie The Night of the Iguana, which was shot in Puerto Vallarta and starred Richard Burton. Though Elizabeth Taylor wasn’t in the film, she was Burton’s fiancée at the time. (And like today, paparazzi followed them everywhere.) The film crew was cited as being some of the first gay visitors to Puerto Vallarta. The fact that this was a Hollywood production had the effect of putting Puerto Vallarta on the map. 

Since then, the lesbian and gay community has been spending more of their vacations in PV. In the 1990s, authorities took note and began to actively promote Puerto Vallarta as a gay-friendly destination. According to 2017 figures from Jalisco’s Ministry of Tourism, 20 percent of the visitors to Puerto Vallarta were from the LGBTQ community.

The Romantic Zone (La Zona Romántica), also known as Old Town or Viejo Vallarta, is located just south of downtown PV. It was intentionally designed to keep the feel of old Mexico. Even with its cobblestone streets, this is the busiest section of PV. The Romantic Zone was named Gay Travel’s 2016 Gayborhood of the Year. Most of the things listed in this article are found in the Romantic Zone. 

Let’s take a look at more reasons why Puerto Vallarta is the perfect destination for LGBTQ travelers. 

Note: I was hosted on this trip to Puerto Vallarta by Cross Border Xpress (CBX) and the Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board. All opinions are my own. The bar-hopping was also on my own.

1. Vallarta Pride Week

For the LGBTQ traveler, Vallarta Pride Week is a huge event that is not to be missed. The inaugural event was held in 2013 and paid homage to Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Months in advance of the event, you’ll see banners and signs displayed all over the Romantic Zone. Vallarta Pride Week 2022 takes place May 23–30. This year’s theme is “Out for Justice.” 

Between downtown and Los Muertos Beach, you’ll find a myriad of places that are celebrating Vallarta Pride Week with special events. If you are staying in the Romantic Zone, there’s a very good chance your hotel will be hosting some sort of activity. If not, you won’t be far from the action.

2. Playa De Los Muertos

Just past Los Muertos Pier, at the southern end of Los Muertos Beach (Playa del Los Muertos), is a section commonly referred to as Puerto Vallarta’s gay beach. Look for the blue chairs and umbrellas arranged along the shoreline. 

The area is home to four popular beach clubs: Ritmos, Sapphire, Blue Chairs, and Mantamar Beach Club Bar & Sushi (yep, sushi on the beach). The latter three offer a day pass you can purchase to enjoy amenities such as pools, beach chairs and umbrellas, palapas or cabanas, food and drink, towel service, and showers. 

If you’re near the Los Muertos Pier after the sun sets, check out the light show. 

Pro Tip: Some amenities like chairs and umbrellas are available on a first come, first served basis, so it is a good idea to arrive early, especially during high season or Pride Week. 

3. The Nightlife

There are countless bars and clubs in PV to choose from. Each one has its own atmosphere and vibe. We visited three.

It was packed at Mr. Flamingo, even on a Wednesday, with lots more revelers waiting to get in. Music, which you can hear from a couple of blocks away, and constant dancing kept the party going until way after midnight. 

CC Slaughters has a bar and nightclub happening in front, which looks out onto Lázaro Cárdenas. A darker and quieter club and bar are in the back.

La Noche is a tri-level club. Performers entertain on the first level’s three stages. The second and third (rooftop) levels each have different music and different crowds. Bars are on all levels. 

We found them all on Lázaro Cárdenas just off Ignacio L. Vallarta. Check Gay Guide Vallarta and Out & About Puerto Vallarta to discover more hot spots. These clubs have a mix of clientele and amenities — some are even pet friendly — so you’re sure to find two or three that suit you. 

Pro Tip: Puerto Vallarta is quite safe day or night. Still, common sense should be your constant companion whenever you go to bars or clubs at night. Gay Guide Vallarta has more tips in the welcome section of their guidebook.

4. Shows

The fame of RuPaul’s Drag Race is not confined just to the United States. Two of the most popular venues include dozens of variety and musical shows, as well as drag shows. 

Act2PV features nearly 30 shows weekly across multiple stages. On tap are acts like It’s Raining Men, Hedda Lettuce, Mama Mia!, and Queens of Country.

The Palm Cabaret and Bar has music by Kim Kuzma, comedy by Miss Conception, tribute shows like Tina Turner and I Want it All (a Freddie Mercury tribute), drag shows like Dueling Drag Divas, and one hugely popular show whose name cannot be printed here. The Palm has been entertaining PV audiences for 22 years now.

5. Tours

While staying in your hotel and relaxing by the pool is nice, I believe it is nicer to get out there and see what Puerto Vallarta has to offer. Here are just a few of the many tours that will help you do that: 

Diana’s Tours has been in PV for 20 years. Her cruise is world famous and frequently sells out in advance.

Vallarta Botanical Gardens is a nature reserve that presents the diversity of Mexico’s flora. Spread across some 60-plus acres, it has become a very popular place to view another side of Puerto Vallarta.

Estigo Tours offers a surprising array of land, water, and sight-seeing activities in PV.

Puerto Vallarta Tours provides tours for everyone but also offers a collection of tours specifically catering to the gay community. 

Ocean Friendly Whale Watching and Photography offers small-group whale watching tours during whale watching season from December 8–March 23. Outside of these dates, a bay photo safari is offered.

6. Dining

With hundreds of excellent restaurants available in Puerto Vallarta, how do you choose? It is not easy, but here are a few suggestions: 

La Cappella Italian and International Cuisine ranks high on many lists. Its famous Bottomless Gay Brunch, currently hosted by Louis Whitaker, is offered on Saturdays.

I visited Hamburger Mary’s in Ontario, California, and was surprised to learn there is one in PV. Their motto is “Come for the food, stay for the shows.” 

Some other alternatives are Archie’s Wok, Café Bohemio, Gaby’s Restaurant and Bar, Hacienda Alemana, Red Cabbage, River Café, and Salud Super Food. 

7. Tailored Accommodations

Places to stay in PV are as numerous and varied as its dining options. The Hotel Zone further north is where you’ll find chain hotels and resorts. The following properties are straight-friendly and are located in the Romantic Zone: 

Blue Chairs Resort is right on the beach, right behind their popular beach club. When you reach Los Muertos Beach, you will immediately understand why the resort has this name.

Hotel Mercurio is just a couple of blocks from the beach. It is a budget-conscious but comfortable hotel that has been in PV for 18 years. They even have their own line of beachwear. 

Casa Cupula is an award-winning resort that has been in PV for 19 years. Casa Cupula is actually nestled in the hills above the Romantic Zone but still close to everything.

Almar Resort opened in January of 2016. The property promises a “luxury LGBT beachfront experience.” Staying at Almar includes access to Mantamar Beach Club. In addition to the resort, there is Almar Vacation Club, which has an affiliation with the RCI exchange program.

Getting Around

Most of the Romantic Zone is walkable. But should you want to venture further, there is a public bus system which runs from 6 a.m. until just before midnight. The cost is 10 Pesos MXN (Less than 50 cents USD). 

Pro Tip: Your ticket gets you on the bus, but you could end up standing. Gay Guide Vallarta says the drivers don’t speak English and don’t take USD. 

Taxis are available pretty much everywhere. Fares are based on distance traveled instead of a meter. Ask the driver how much your trip will cost before taking off. We took a taxi following our bar-hopping adventure. It worked out well for our group of four. 

Uber is also available. Having only been serving PV for little over a year, they are the new kid on the block.

After reading about Puerto Vallarta, check out the rest of TravelAwaits’ Mexico content:

• Why This Small Town is My Favorite Place To Visit On Mexico’s Baja Peninsula
• San Pancho Vs. Sayulita, Mexico: 5 Key Differences To Know Before You Visit
• 4 Things To Know Before You Road Trip Through Mexico

While we spent most of the last 25 years based primarily in the United States, we hail from different countries. Opposite sides of the world. The U.S. and Singapore. A few years ago, we started spending winters in Singapore. COVID paused that last year. Singapore doesn’t recognize gay marriage. That’s the main reason we didn’t go in 2020. Reggie could have entered the country alone. If we were a married straight couple, we could have entered Singapore after quarantining. But as an LGBTQ+ couple, we could not.

Singapore does not recognize dual citizenship, so Reggie has permanent residency which allows her to stay in the U.S. At the same time, the mood in the U.S. around immigrants and the Asian community has been less than welcoming.

Another issue in Singapore is that Sue is regarded as a tourist and subject to a maximum stay of 90 days in the country. So, retirement as an option in Singapore doesn’t work.

All of this got us thinking. Was there another place in the world where we could both live? A place that was LGBTQ-friendly, relatively inexpensive, politically stable, with good medical care, and that offered retirement visas? A bonus would be if it were easy to travel to from the U.S. and Singapore. This prompted our search for the best LGBTQ+ places to retire internationally. 

Retiring in Europe

Since we were interested in being somewhere between Singapore and the East Coast of the U.S., we first began looking at European locations. We also liked the idea of ease of travel within Europe. Here’s what we found:

Portugal

Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2010.

We love Portugal and were happy to see it pop up on the list. While we were hoping to avoid winter entirely, Portugal has a Mediterranean climate and has very mild winters. The country is historical, full of charm, progressive, and affordable.

Portugal makes it easy to apply for a resident visa. There is a non-habitual resident program with no tax on foreign pensions and other retirement incomes. A reasonably priced private health care insurance is required to access the top-notch health care system. The cost of living is low in much of the country (Lisbon is more expensive) and you can live comfortably on less than $1,500 a month. In major cities and certain parts of the country like Douro, Lisbon, and the Algarve, English is widely spoken. 

Spain

Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2005.

Spain is another of our favorite countries. Like Portugal, Spain has a Mediterranean climate with mild winters throughout most of the country. There are tons of historical and cultural attractions to keep you busy.

The country has a non-lucrative visa and initial one-year residence permit also known as the retirement visa. The residence permit may be renewed for 2 years twice after which you will be eligible for the long duration residence. Income requirements are a little higher with higher assets ($40,000) and proof of minimum monthly income of roughly $3,467, health insurance, and sometimes, an executed lease for accommodation. Cities outside of the major ones will have lower cost of living.

Malta

Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2017.

Malta is a small archipelago with only five islands located in the Mediterranean off the southern coast of Italy. The ancient historic islands, many of which house UNESCO World Heritage sites are surrounded by pristine crystal-clear waters.

Like Spain, Malta requires a net worth of between $40,000-$45,000 and an annual income of over $27,000. You need to have a clean criminal record to be eligible to be interviewed for a permanent resident permit.

English is widely spoken, and Malta is one of the safest countries in Europe. Public health care is ranked fifth in the world by WHO, and if desired, private health insurance is very economical. You are only required to pay taxes on capital gains and any income derived from Maltese sources.

Slovenia

Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2017.

Sharing borders with Italy, Croatia, Austria, and Hungary, Slovenia is a beautiful country with many castles and caves. From its Adriatic shores to the mountains and cities, this central European country is fast becoming a retirement destination. The dollar goes a long way with prices being at least 20 percent lower than in the U.S. Rents outside of major cities are even lower. The country is largely Roman Catholic.

Retirees can apply for a one-year temporary residence permit renewable annually for 5 years, after which you can apply for permanent residence. You will only need to prove income equal to Slovenia’s basic monthly income of $1,000. Slovenia is part of the European Union and has decent healthcare. All taxpayers are covered by the country’s mandatory health insurance scheme, though you may choose to purchase private insurance to see your own physician and pay for prescriptions.

Pro Tip: Unfortunately, a downside to retiring in Slovenia is that residents are taxed globally. We recommend consulting with your tax accountants about the implications before making any plans.

Latin and South America

There are many possibilities in Latin and South America. The region is very easily reached from the U.S. Hurricane season was one drawback in this area.

Costa Rica

Same-Sex marriage was legalized in 2020.

Costa Rica is an excellent place for LGBTQ+ retirees. It is one of the hottest travel destinations in the world, with everything from beaches to volcanos to wildlife and other adventures. The Pensionado program allows you to live in Costa Rica for three years as long as you can show that you have $12,000 in yearly income for the rest of your life (social security or a pension satisfies this requirement). After three years, you can apply for permanent residency. They also offer a Rentista program, which requires that you deposit $60,000 in a Costa Rican bank or show $30,000 yearly income for two years. Costa Rica has affordable private healthcare, and the cost of living is much lower than in the U.S. and most of Europe.

Uruguay

Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2013.

Located between Brazil and Argentina, this modern, progressive yet laid-back country is very LGBTQ+ retiree friendly. Its rentista program can be converted into a passport for longer stays. You only need to show proof of $18,000 annual income which reflects its low cost of living. High-quality affordable private health care, a low crime rate, and a temperate climate round out the other criteria.

Ecuador

Same-sex marriage was legalized in 2019.

Ecuador is another of our favorite countries. Located on the west coast of South America, this country known for its eternal spring climate, has the Andes Mountain ranges, tropical rainforests, and beaches to offer.

The entry requirements are simple: a pensioner visa showing just $10,000 in income and being in possession of private health insurance. Alternatively, you may be entitled to stay in Ecuador as a real estate investor spending as little as $25,000.

The U.S. currency is widely accepted, and the cost of living is low. Ecuador offers many seniors’ perks, including subsidized public transport. You’ll need to speak (or learn) Spanish to get around easily in Ecuador.

Other possibilities in South America include Mexico, Chile, and Peru.

Asia

There are a number of countries in Asia that have retirement visas, Including Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand. Unfortunately, many countries in Asia have anti-LGBTQ+ laws or other political issues that knocked them out of consideration.

Taiwan

Taiwan was the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019. Unfortunately, Taiwan does not offer retirement visas and the cost of living is like the U.S. While healthcare is ranked amongst the best in Asia, it does not come cheap to ex-pats. We also had concerns about China’s relationship with Taiwan and its implications.

Some Popular Countries That Did Not Make The List

There are a number of LGBTQ+-friendly countries and best places to retire that did not make this list mainly due to the lack of retirement visas or recognition of gay marriage. We also didn’t research any countries in Africa because of the anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment/laws and the travel difficulties.

France

Same-sex marriage was legalized in France in 2013.

One of our favorite destinations in Europe, France is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Europe if not the world. Art, culture, food, history — France has everything. One drawback… not the most economical place to retire. Be prepared to learn to speak French if you don’t already. France does not have a retirement visa, so this knocked it off the list.

Israel

Another LGBTQ+-friendly country, Israel also doesn’t have a retirement visa. If you are Jewish, there are some routes to retiring in Israel.

Pro Tips

This article is just to get you thinking and imagining. The visa requirements that we list are current as of now but could change in the future. Attitudes and laws pertaining to LGBTQ+ lives may also evolve. Hopefully, for the better, and we will be able to add more countries to this list.

Make sure to consult immigration lawyers and tax accountants before making any moves to retire internationally.

We love unique eating experiences — whether it’s street food like the incredible offerings at Smorgasburg in Williamsburg or a dive with great burgers or a small unknown restaurant in one of the boroughs. We’ll go anywhere for a good meal. At the same time, we also have a lot of tried and true favorites in the city that we go to over and over again.

When we can combine food exploration with supporting LGBTQ owners and chefs, it’s a double delight. The past year had not been kind to many in our community. Longtime community favorites have closed. Prune on the Lower East Side, owned by Chef Gabrielle Hamilton, has closed. Likewise for MeMe’s Diner in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn. Even with the many closings, there is still plenty out there if you love a good meal and want to support LGBTQ businesses and chefs.

Here are some of our favorites, not in any particular order. The benefit of this list is that you can explore the city while taking in some culinary treats.

Baz Bagels

181 Grand Street, Little Italy

There’s nothing that we like better than lox and cream cheese on a bagel made the old-fashioned way — hand-rolled, boiled, then baked. That’s exactly how they do it at this breakfast spot owned by Bari Musacchio. Think charming, neighborhood deli with rainbow bagels. Traditional Jewish food — bagels and cream cheese, smoked fish, matzoh ball soup, potato latkes, and blintzes — with an LGBTQ twist. With advance notice, you can even cater your event with custom-colored tie-dye bagels. You can also try a modern take on latkes with sour cream, caviar, and salmon.

Pro Tip: Note that Baz Bagels is only open from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Check out Little Italy or wander further east on Grand Street after you’ve fueled up at Baz Bagels.

Fonda Comida Mexicana

189 Ninth Avenue, Chelsea

434 Seventh Avenue, Park Slope, Brooklyn

We just recently discovered Fonda, and we’ll be back many times to sample the entire menu. Chef/owner Roberto Santibañez is one of the best in the city. His take on contemporary Mexican food is flavorful, filling, and reasonably priced for New York. It’s a wonderful place for happy hour — with a great cocktail menu and $10 appetizers that allow you to sample some of the menu. The guacamole is excellent and a healthy serving. If you like duck, we highly recommend the zarape de pato. They also have a very good brunch.

Pro Tip: The Chelsea location looks small but has a large dining room upstairs. There is a nice outdoor seating area. It’s on 9th Avenue so it can be noisy during rush hour. Fonda is near the Chelsea Market and the Highline. It’s a great stop before or after visiting either place.

Via Carota

51 Grove Street, West Village

Grove Street, one of our favorite streets in the West Village, leads to Via Carota. It is owned by chefs Jodi Williams and Rita Sodi, partners in life and food. Conde Nast Traveler voted Via Carota one of the top 20 Italian restaurants in New York. More expensive than most of the other restaurants on this list, it is worth the splurge. It has a comfortable and homey ambiance. We love the cacio pepe, wild boar ragu, and chopped steak. If you’re looking for a new experience, try the fried rabbit or carote with yogurt and pistachios. In addition to the indoor dining (with cozy and rustic decor), there is a large outdoor seating area. Via Caroti has an extensive collection of Italian wines.

Pro Tip: Get there early. There are limited reservations on Rezy, but most people arrive and wait for a table. You can also try Buvette (owned by Jodi) or I Sodi (owned by Rita). Both are excellent. If you’re not too full after dinner, the Big Gay Ice Cream shop is a short walk.

Big Gay Ice Cream

61 Grove Street, West Village

516 Columbus Avenue, Upper West Side

207 Front Street, South Street Seaport

If you love ice cream, then you need to drop by Big Gay Ice Cream. Owners and partners Douglas Quint and Bryan Petroff started with one food truck and now have three locations in New York City (Upper West Side, South Street Seaport, and the West Village). They have an additional location at Madison Square Garden that has been temporarily closed and was in the process of expanding to Philadelphia when COVID hit.

If you are in the Big Apple for Gay Pride, you’ll see a line out the door at the Village location. I don’t eat soft serve — except at Big Gay Ice Cream. The Dorothy is my favorite — nilla wafer crumbs, dulce de leche, and vanilla soft serve ice cream. If you like salty and sweet, try the Salty Pimp. It’s the most popular — vanilla, dulce de leche, salted chocolate. You’ll also find gourmet hard ice cream sandwiches, sundaes, and much more. Be prepared to indulge.

Kopitiam

151 East Broadway, Lower East Side

We spend a lot of time in Asia — Singapore and Malaysia especially. Reggie grew up eating Singapore/Malaysian food so we were excited when we heard from a friend in Boston that Kopitiam was re-opening on the Lower East Side. Kopitiam means coffee shop in the Chinese Hokkien dialect. LGBTQ Chef and owner Kyo Pang cooks her family’s recipes and they are authentic and delicious.

Try the Kaya Toast (a traditional breakfast favorite in Singapore), nasi lemak, or the oyster omelets. Be sure to try some of the sweets — Pulut Inti or Ondeh Ondeh.

Pro Tip: It can get crowded, so be prepared to wait if you come during lunch or dinner time. Some of the dishes are small plates — check when you’re ordering so that you order enough food.

Sweet Chili

1045 Flushing Avenue, Bushwick, Brooklyn

It’s worth a trip to Bushwick Brooklyn to experience Sweet Chili. This southeast Asian fusion restaurant is run by owner and chef Lisa Fernandes (a Top Chef contestant). What started as a food truck in 2013 has morphed into a hidden gem serving comfort food inspired by Vietnam and Thailand. We recommend the honey chili pork belly, crispy dumplings, spicy cumin beef noodles, and Vietnamese coffee tiramisu.

Pro Tip: Sweet Chili is close to the Bushwick Collective — known worldwide for its street art. Take in the street art and build up your appetite before heading to Sweet Chili. Currently, only take-out is available at Sweet Chili, but there is a park you can walk to enjoy the food. Hopefully, the indoor dining will open soon. It’s small, so be prepared to wait if there is a line.

Rasa

25 West 8th Street, West Village

We always reserve a table at Rasa for the Gay Pride March. It is located in the middle of 8th Street and the Gay Pride March goes right past the windows of the restaurant. You feel you are right in the middle of the march while you are eating. Rasa isn’t LGBTQ-owned, but Owner Camie Lai is very supportive of the LGBTQ community.

We love the Roti Canai, Hainanese Chicken, and Chile Crab with fried Mantou (Singapore’s national dish). Rasa sometimes makes this dish with shrimp instead of crab and it is equally good. If you like noodles, the Char Kueh Teow and Drunken Noodles are some of the best we’ve had in the US. Everything on the menu is worth trying. Drinks are good as well.

LGBTQ New York Restaurants Worth Mentioning

This is by no means an exhaustive or complete list. Some other places to consider are Hill Country Barbeque in Chelsea, where Ash Funk is the culinary director. The food there will make you feel like you are in Texas. There’s also Vic’s in Noho, where Hilary Sterling is the Executive Chef. Both are run by members of the LGBTQ community and have excellent food. We couldn’t end this list without mentioning Julius’, the oldest gay bar in NYC. Owned by Helen Buford, Julius’ serves wonderful hamburgers and has been in danger of closing due to the COVID crisis and limitations on indoor dining. Hopefully, it will survive.

Happy Eating And Exploring!

That’s our list. There is so much to eat and explore in NYC. We look forward to hearing back from you about the places that you find. There’s always something new opening (and often something closing) so make sure to Google and or call the restaurants before you go.

Related Reading: 

• 14 Fantastic Hidden Gem Restaurants In New York City
• Guide To Pride Parades And Other Events In America’s Most Gay-Friendly Cities
• 9 Most Gay-Friendly Countries In Europe

This Saturday marks the fifth anniversary of the Pulse nightclub mass shooting in Orlando, Florida. Earlier this week, the U.S. Senate passed a bill to nationally recognize a memorial for those victims. The bill, S.1605, will designate the site of the former nightclub the Pulse National Memorial.

“This memorial will serve as a national symbol of hope, love, and unity,” Representative Linda Sanchez, one of the bill’s authors, wrote on Twitter. The bill’s other authors are Representatives Darren Soto and Val Demmings.

A Horrific Shooting

Pulse, a nightclub founded in 2004, was a home to Orlando’s LGBTQ+ community.

On June 12, 2016, a single gunman killed 49 people and wounded 53 others in a mass shooting at Pulse. The attack — the second deadliest single gunman mass shooting in the U.S. — is the deadliest incident of violence against LGBTQ+ people in the U.S. It also is the second deadliest terrorist attack on U.S. soil since the September 11 attacks of 2001.

Remembering The Victims

The House version of the bill passed in May. U.S. Senator Rick Scott, who was Florida’s governor at the time of the shooting, sponsored the Senate legislation. The bill was passed on a voice vote.

The shooting was “an unspeakable tragedy,” Scott said from the floor, a United Press International story reports.

Scott also called the shooting “an evil act of terrorism designed to divide us as a nation and strike fear into our hearts and minds.” He went on to say, “But instead, we came together and supported each other through heartbreak and darkness, to preserve and rebuild.”

Site Of The Memorial

The bill now needs President Joe Biden to sign it into law. While it is unclear at this point when Biden may sign the bill, it is likely he will do so. 

Biden, who was Vice President at the time of the shooting, traveled to Orlando to visit the site and victims’ families as well as first responders immediately after the attack. While there, Biden called the attack “an act of pure hate and unspeakable terror,” a Newsweek article reports.

Although the National Pulse Memorial would be designated as a national site, it would not be part of the National Park System, according to the legislation. What’s more, federal funds would not be used in any way with the memorial.

Instead, Orange County Florida Commissioners have already approved $10 million in funding to help the non-profit onePULSE Foundation purchase land around the former nightclub to construct a memorial and museum, the United Press International story reports.

A Solemn Remembrance

June 12 is the fifth anniversary of the mass shooting. If you’re looking for a way to mark the event, here are two suggestions from Orlando Weekly.

First, you can “solemnly ring a bell or similar instrument 49 times beginning at noon, both in recognition of the 49 lives lost at Pulse and in commitment to advancing full inclusion for the LGBTQ+ community. You can also follow on social media using the hashtag #49Bells.”

Secondly, the OnePulse Foundation holds an annual remembrance ceremony at the site of the Pulse nightclub, “bringing together the families of those whose lives were tragically taken, providing them a space to remember their loved ones in peace, and honoring all who survived, including the brave first responders and the trauma teams who saved so many,” Orlando Weekly explains. The ceremony at the Pulse Interim Memorial is by invitation only, but you can watch a livestream of the event at 6 p.m. Saturday here.

For more on Orlando, see all our Orlando content here, and get inspired with our expertly curated LGBTQ travel content here.

Europe is a sought-after destination for many travelers. It’s also a place where those of us in the LGBTQ+ community have many choices to explore safely. 

While researching places to travel, many people in the LGBTQ+ community look for sources to explore their options for safe, welcoming, and interesting destinations. One source providing great information is the IGLTA website, the world’s leading network of LGBTQ+ welcoming tourism businesses. They worked with Destination Pride to develop a database that makes it easy to see how countries rank for LGBTQ+ travelers based on thousands of data points that include marriage equality laws, LGBTQ+ laws, census data, and real-time social media sentiment. 

When searching the database, users may find it surprising that many European countries and cities rank higher than many states and cities in the United States.

“There’s a misconception that LGBTQ+ travel is one size fits all, but in fact, our community of travelers has the entire range of interests, from culture, nature, and gastronomy to history, great architecture, and nightlife – the same as any other traveler,” said IGLTA President/CEO John Tanzella. “What unites us is the desire to find destinations that both complement our interests and feel safe and welcoming. That’s why Europe has so much to offer LGBTQ+ travelers: it has all of the culture, sights, and natural beauty combined with some of the most well-established and far-reaching LGBTQ+ rights in the world.”

Armed with this important data, those of us in the LGBTQ+ community can safely choose places to explore in Europe and around the world. 

Keeping all that in mind, here are just some of the most gay-friendly countries in Europe where LGBTQ+ travelers can enjoy a safe visit.

1. Portugal

We must put our adopted country on top of the list. Portugal was one of the first European countries to approve gay marriage in 2010, and the Portuguese constitution bans discrimination of LGBTQ people. The 2019 Eurobarometer public opinion poll said that 74 percent of the Portuguese people supported same-sex marriage. 

Both of the largest cities, Lisbon and Porto, have a good-sized LGBTQ+ community. For gay-friendly neighborhoods, check out the Principe Real and the Barrio Alto areas in Lisbon. Lisbon also has a very popular and well attended Gay Pride Festival and parade and the international Queer Lisboa Gay and Lesbian Film Festival every year, too. 

Portugal, the oldest nation-state on the Iberian Peninsula, is a country rich in culture and history. Its people are friendly and welcoming, and it has 1,100 miles of coastline, gorgeous views, great wine, and abundant seafood too. 

2. Belgium

Belgium was the second European country to legalize gay marriage and the second to decriminalize same-gender relationships all the way back in 1795. They were also the first European country to pass transgender and anti-discrimination laws. 

Events like Belgian Pride Brussels and the Unicorn Festival in Antwerp are fun reasons to visit this land of tasty chocolate, mussels, and beer. The vibrant city of Brussels offers lots of nightlife and restaurants to enjoy.

3. Spain

Spain is at the top of many must-visit lists, and we need to include it on this list as well. The Spaniards are friendly, open-minded, and incredibly welcoming. Spain legalized homosexuality in 1979 and legalized gay marriage in 2005, becoming the third nation in Europe to do so. 

Night owls will want to check out the “Movida” which happens between midnight and four in the morning in most of Spain’s big cities. That’s when the party really gets started especially Thursdays through Saturdays. 

In Madrid, the gay scene is busy in the Chueca area, and MADO, the Madrid Pride celebration, is one of the biggest in Europe. Barcelona has the Gaixample, a hot spot for the LBGT+ community. Ibiza, Valencia, Sitges, and Benidorm also have gay-friendly areas too.

Spain offers great beaches, art museums, wonderful Spanish food, and a lot more.

4. France

It may come as no surprise that France has long supported gay relationships. Homosexuality was legalized in 1791. In 2013, Gay marriage was legalized, and LGBT persons were allowed to serve openly in the French armed forces. 

Check out the Marais arrondissement for its popular gay scene. There are many wonderful, welcoming LGBTQ+ restaurants, bars, and cafes to meet up with tourists and locals alike. 

Be sure to visit other welcoming cities outside of Paris like Toulouse, Marseille, Lyon, Montpelier, and Nice, too. Large and lively Pride celebrations occur annually in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille.

5. Italy

Many people have travel to Italy high on their wish list. The art, culture, architecture, design, and amazing food make it attractive to LGBTQ+ travelers as well. 

LGBTQ+ rights in Italy have made some inroads. A civil union law was passed in 2016 that provides many of the same rights as marriage. 

The “Gay Street” in Rome may be small, but it’s ideally located near the fascinating Colosseum. Here you’ll find a festive scene with bustling restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Milan, famous for its design and fashion labels, is also home to a large LGBTQ+ community. Florence, Venice, Turin, and, of course, the Amalfi coast all have wonders worth exploring as well. 

6. Ireland

Ireland may seem like a rather conservative country, but it became the first European nation to legalize gay marriage by a popular vote in 2015. 

Walk in Oscar Wilde’s footsteps in Dublin and explore the Irish Queer Archive at the National Library of Ireland with its collection of LGBTQ+ materials and literature. Dublin, Cork, and Galway plan annual Pride Events and have many bars and nightclubs to visit. Like all the locals we met in Ireland, the Irish LGBTQ+ community happily share their stories.

We think Ireland is an underestimated destination with much to offer LGBTQ+ travelers and everyone else. Its beautiful countryside and friendly people, historic architecture, delicious food, and world-famous beverages will delight and surprise visitors looking for a special place.

7. Luxembourg

It may be the smallest country in the European Union by population, but the tiny country of Luxembourg is a charming place to visit. It’s also one of just a few countries to have an elected leader that is an openly LGBT+ person. Xavier Bettel was elected as prime minister in 2013 and re-elected in 2018. He was the first European Union leader to have a same-sex marriage. LGBTQ+ people enjoy the same rights as non-LGBT couples. A poll done in 2019 said the 87 percent of Luxembourgers believed gay, lesbian, and transgender people should have the same rights as heterosexuals.

We visited Luxembourg during our honeymoon road trip through Europe and loved it. Packed with delicious restaurants, bars, and shops, it’s the perfect size to wander freely and have fun. It’s also a good spot to include while exploring other European countries like Germany, Belgium, and France. 

8. Austria

Home to Vienna, one of our favorite cities, Austria is a beautiful gay-friendly destination. Gay marriage was legalized in 2019 and Austria also recognizes a non-binary gender.

The cosmopolitan city of Vienna welcomes the LGBTQ+ community with the Vienna Pride and Rainbow Parade. Themes like “Stay safe, stay proud” and annual events like Queering the Belvedere and Queer History Tour highlight the significance of LGBTQ+ people to this great and creative place.

Vienna’s fabulous coffee houses are an important part of Viennese culture. Their delightful elegance and delicious pastries beckon visitors to relax, refresh, and enjoy the local scenery. Along with the stunning architecture and art scene, Vienna’s musical heritage is a draw for many LGBTQ+ travelers and others who enjoy its diverse cultural pleasures.

9. Malta

While it may not be as familiar to many, Malta is a small archipelago in the central Mediterranean Sea that’s also an extremely popular LGBTQ+ destination. It’s known for a dynamic gay community that is happy to connect with travelers to ensure their stay is fun and trouble-free. 

Malta has consistently received high marks for LGBTQ+ rights and is considered by many to be the most progressive country in Europe.

The sun and beach life are big draws. But there are many historical and cultural interests as well. Malta has over 7,000 years of history to explore, including temples, museums, forts, and several UNESCO World Heritage sites. 

They even have a website for the LGBTQ+ community and special gay guide to Malta website to help visitors plan a trip to Malta. Pretty exciting for a country of just about 500,000 people. Perhaps that’s why they receive over two million overnight visitors a year.

Pro Tip: Time a visit to arrive during Pride celebrations or special events to take advantage of all the local happenings and have a much more memorable experience. 

Unfortunately, there are still countries around the world where LGBTQ+ people are persecuted. Many of those places have gay communities that also need support. For LGBTQ+ travelers and allies who choose to travel to any of these countries, please reach out to the local queer community for information, advice, and guidance before traveling. 

As we mentioned, these are just a few of the most gay-friendly countries in Europe. Be sure to check the IGLTA website for more ideas and recommendations for additional destinations in Europe and the rest of the world. 

Related Reading: 

• Guide To Pride Parades And Other Events In America’s Most Gay-Friendly Cities
• 6 Most Gay-Friendly Cities In Europe

In the mid-1990s, the travel industry started to pay attention to gay travelers, as many had significant disposable income, especially for travel. Major airlines, tour companies, hotels, and cruise lines began investing in marketing and advertising especially geared to the gay community, placing ads in gay and mainstream publications and media.

Cities also pursued gay market dollars, running ad campaigns to welcome gay travelers and catering to their needs. Today, across the U.S., cities compete to welcome the gay traveler and sponsor events such as Gay Pride celebrations, film festivals, and the Gay Games, which are similar to the Olympics and happen every four years. 

Here’s a list of some of the most gay-friendly cities in the U.S. and their major events throughout the year. 

San Francisco

San Francisco has long been a mecca for the LGBTQ+ community, ever since the 1960s. The city has the largest density of gay people in the U.S. and has a strong, civic-minded community. The city hosts many annual LGBTQ+ events and celebrations that not only attract locals but visitors, too. 

San Francisco Pride

Nearly one million people attend San Francisco Pride, making it one of the biggest LGBTQ+ gatherings in the world. Started in 1970, the festival celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020. In addition to the parade, a host of cultural events take place the last weekend of June, including theater, dance, and film. 

Frameline

What began as a storefront event in 1976 is now one of the most important gay film festivals in the U.S. and the largest in the world. The 10-day festival shows dozens of new films highlighting the best and brightest LGBTQ+ directors and actors. The main screenings are held at an art deco gem, The Castro Theater, one of the last surviving theaters of its kind in the country. Before each screening, an organ rises up from the orchestra pit, and an organist plays show tunes. The Frameline film festival culminates on the Sunday evening of the Gay Pride Festival. Major stars have attended the festival including Alan Cumming, Wilson Cruz, and Jonathan Groff.

Castro Street Fair

The Castro neighborhood has long served as the heart and soul of San Francisco’s LGBTQ+ community. Started by the first openly gay elected official in the U.S., Harvey Milk, in 1974, The Castro Street Fair is a vibrant outdoor affair with performances, dance parties, arts and crafts vendors, and scavenger hunts. Proceeds of the fair are donated to local charitable organizations.

Atlanta

Atlanta has one of the largest concentrations of LGBTQ+ people in the South. Midtown is Hotlanta’s original gayborhood. Beginning at the intersection of 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue, Midtown houses a wealth of gay-owned shops, bars, art galleries, and restaurants. 

The Midtown Arts District serves as Atlanta’s cultural hub. Highlights include the High Museum of Art, The Fox Theatre, the Center for Puppetry Arts, and the SCAD FASH Museum of Fashion and Film. Other gay neighborhoods in Atlanta are Downtown/Castleberry Hill and Westside/Atlantic Station. Ansley Hall/Cheshire Bridge Road has a thriving nightlife scene with bars and clubs as well.

The city of Atlanta and the LGBTQ+ community present a large number of events and celebrations all through the year.

Martin Luther King Junior’s Birthday

The black LGBTQ+ community honors Martin Luther King Jr. with an all-out celebration. A gay speaker gives a speech during the important march dedicated to Martin Luther King Jr. as part of the three-day “holigay” weekend that has been dubbed Winter Pride.

Human Rights Campaign Dinner

The Human Rights Campaign is a major non-profit that champions gay rights and equal protection under the law. Every May, leading figures and entertainers come together for a black-tie fundraiser dinner in honor of those who strive to make Atlanta a tolerant city. The event raises over $250,000.

Black Gay Pride Celebration

What was once an informal Labor Day weekend house party at a few places has now morphed into the biggest Black Gay Pride celebration in the world. The mass celebration features incomparable parties across the city as well as seminars to empower the community.

New York City

Much like San Francisco, New York has historically been a place where gay people have been accepted and thrived as a community for over 50 years. June 28, 1968, marked the advent of the gay rights movement and liberation. This infamous day was when the Stonewall Riots took place. On this historic day, a group of gay men rebelled against a police raid at the Stonewall Inn, a popular bar and club in the West Village. The riots paved the way for the first Gay Pride Parade and Festival New York in 1969. Today, almost every major city in the world has a similar event. 

The West Village was the first recognized gay area of New York, followed by Chelsea. Now, it has extended to Hell’s Kitchen in the Broadway Theater District as well as parts of Brooklyn and Queens. 

Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS

When the gay community of Broadway was hard hit by the AIDS crisis in the late 1980s, people in the industry formed Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. This non-profit organization supports men and women across the country with essential medications, healthcare, emergency financial assistance, counseling, and nutritious meals.

It also sponsors fun annual fundraisers, including an Easter bonnet competition, Broadway Barks pet adoption event, and Broadway Bets, a poker game played by the top Broadway stars. In one of the organization’s most lucrative fundraisers, Broadway Bares, Broadway actors and dancers bare some skin in order to raise millions for the cause.

Bushwig

Gays drag their most outrageous fashions and wigs out of the closet for Bushwig, the premiere drag competition, accompanied by a dance, held in Bushwick, Brooklyn. Proceeds go to a transgender charity. There’s also a Bushwig Berlin.

The LGBTQ Center Events

Hosting everything from gay square dance events to recovery meetings, The Center is a gathering place for LGBTQ residents of NYC. This longtime West Village institution offers career services and counseling, family resources, and cultural events. The Center also features an extensive collection of artworks by gay artists including Keith Haring and David LaChapelle, as well as a library.

NYC Pride

The LGBTQ community is out, loud, and prouder than ever in the last week of June during the Gay Pride Festival. Locals along with national and international guests gather for one of the largest Gay Pride celebrations in the world. Local and national organizations march in the parade on Sunday. Usually, the mayor of the city marches with them.

Fort Lauderdale

Southern Florida has been a longtime destination for gay travelers. Next to the “Gay Riviera” of Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale is the capital gay city. Along with neighboring Wilton Manors, the area boasts 200 gay-owned bars, clubs, restaurants, hotels, and shops. Both cities put on fabulous Pride parades.

OUTshine

A joint venture between Miami and Fort Lauderdale, the OUTshine Film Festival is the leading LGBTQ film festival in southern Florida. Taking place the first week of December at two venues in Miami and two in Fort Lauderdale, the festival attracts leading world premieres of gay films, directors, and actors. In 2020, the festival had a drive-in event and virtual screenings. 

Stonewall National Museum And Archives

While technically not an event, the Stonewall National Museum and Archives is the largest gay library and archive in the United States. The collection of historical gay artifacts includes the gavel that House Speaker Nancy Pelosi put down in 2011 to end the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy against gays and lesbians serving in the military, a tennis racquet used by Martina Navratilova, and the red boots actor Billy Porter wore in the Broadway musical Kinky Boots.

It’s also home to the World AIDS Museum and Educational Center, which features the chronology of AIDS/HIV in the main gallery and art gallery that includes parts of the AIDS quilt, works by Keith Haring, and a basketball jersey worn by Magic Johnson.

Want more Pride inspiration? Consider all our LGBTQ travel content here.

“Maybe you’d like to go somewhere with me tonight. I’ll show you some special places,” our guide said as we sat on the reef after snorkeling in the Red Sea in Egypt. He had purposefully directed our snorkeling as far away as possible from Reggie. She had stopped snorkeling earlier and I was alone with the guide.

I was very uncomfortable. “No. We need to get an early start tomorrow,” I said as I took off my mask and fins. I was eager to get back to Reggie and started walking. He continued to talk quietly to me, trying to get me to go somewhere private with him.

We were on a private tour going to the Sinai Desert and he would be our guide/driver for the next several days. I politely brushed him off. He did not get the hint. I couldn’t tell him that Reggie was my wife. That I was a lesbian. In Egypt, same-sex sexual activity is punishable by up to 17 years in prison. We were going to be traveling alone with him in very deserted areas. We were worried.

Trip Of A Lifetime: Egypt And Jordan

Reggie and I had wanted to go to Egypt for years. This was early in our traveling days and I decided to plan a trip for her 40th birthday. Birthdays are not a big thing for her, but I wanted to make this one special. We splurged on a private tour starting in Cairo, taking a Nile cruise, going to Sharm El-Sheikh, the Sinai Desert, and then to Jordan and Petra.

It was everything that we hoped for. Experiencing the insanity of traffic in Cairo. Waking up at the base of the Pyramids of Giza. Wandering by the Sphinx. Gazing at the immensity of Abu Simbel, Karnak, and other temples. Seeing the more than 3,500-year-old hieroglyphics in the Valley of the Kings. Visiting Queen Hatshepsut’s Temple. Hearing the call to prayer in the evenings while cruising up the Nile.

Expert Local Egyptian Tour Operator

We had expert guides for all of these experiences. Our tour operator, Wahid, called us every night to check in and see how we were doing. When we were in Cairo, he even had us to his home with his family for a surprise birthday dinner for Reggie.

After the Nile Cruise, we switched to a new local guide. That’s when things became uncomfortable.

Setting Out For The Sinai Desert

The morning after the snorkeling trip, we left for the drive to St. Catherine’s Monastery in the Sinai Desert. At one point during the long drive, the road just stopped. There was a crew paving a segment of the road. We laughed and then just went off-road for a while until the road appeared again.

Visiting St. Catherine’s Monastery

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, St. Catherine’s Monastery is located near Mt. Sinai (also called Jebel Musa). It was built in the mid-500s A.D. and has one of the oldest libraries in the world. It is still a working monastery. The monks believe that the Burning Bush (from Exodus in the Bible) grows in the courtyard. It signifies the place where God appointed Moses to lead the Jewish people out of Egypt. I’m Jewish (but not very religious) and Reggie is Christian. We love seeing ancient religious sites and we both enjoyed the monastery.

Climbing Mt. Sinai

Reggie and I stayed overnight in the Sinai Desert. The plan was to see the monastery in the afternoon and then be at the top of Mt. Sinai for the sunrise. I was excited about seeing the view from the top and being in the place where Moses was thought to have received the Ten Commandments.

To Climb Or Not To Climb

At this point, Reggie and I were very uncomfortable with our guide. He had continued to be inappropriate with me. Climbing Mt. Sinai meant leaving in the dark and climbing until sunrise. With two of us, it seemed fine. Then Reggie’s knees began to hurt. The climb to Mt. Sinai includes 750 steps on the way up and 3,700+ on the way down. We decided that she could not do it.

Then it was up to me. Should I do it by myself with the guide? After a long discussion with Reggie, I decided not to do the climb. I have regretted that decision ever since.

Lessons Learned In Egypt

The Egypt trip was early in our traveling adventures. Since then, we’ve been to about 50+ countries and we’ve learned a great deal about what it means to travel as women and as a couple. There are more than 76 countries where it is illegal or socially unacceptable to be LGBTQ+. For us, the issue is not about public displays of affection, going to bars, or being public. We value and conform to the social norms of the particular country we’re in. We are more focused on our own safety as women and as LGBTQ+. In other words, being safe where we are sleeping and walking down the street.

Traveling Safely As An LGBTQ+ Couple

We learned that it is sometimes safer to travel in a group and with an LGBTQ+ friendly tour company. We used an Egyptian tour company because we wanted to support the local community, but we did not tell them before the trip that we were a couple. When we went to Morocco the next year (where being LGBTQ+ is punishable by three-plus years in prison), we went with a group and told the tour guide beforehand.

Mt. Sinai Redoux

As much as I know that it was the right decision at the time, I regret not climbing Mt. Sinai. Two years later, I was in a similar position in Tanzania. There, had no hesitancy about doing the climb by myself with a Masai guide.

Navigating Sexual Harassment

Navigating sexual advances and harassment in other countries is challenging. And this was not the first (or last) time that we’ve been sexually harassed by a guide or on the street. Some people have said that we should wear rings and tell people that our husbands are back in the United States. We have never been willing to do that. Others have asked why we travel to countries that persecute LGBTQ+ people. We go because we want to experience the culture and history. Respecting social norms and being uncomfortable is sometimes part of that. We draw the line at safety — we won’t go unless we can figure out a way to be safe.

Be Creative In Finding Solutions

In Egypt, we learned that if we really want to do something, we need to figure out a way to do it. We could have decided to pay extra for me to join a group to climb Mt. Sinai. We could have called Wahid and asked him to help us book another guide. There were many things we could have done that would have resulted in my being able to step on top of Mt. Sinai. We didn’t. We were caught up in what we would say to Wahid about the guide hitting on me. We made many mistakes and have learned from them.

So, I didn’t end up on top of Mt. Sinai, but the lessons we learned from Mt. Sinai have informed every trip since then. For more of my travel stories and tips, consider:

• These Are My 3 Favorite Places To Visit On Every Continent
• 9 Rookie Mistakes Made By Two Experienced Hikers
• How To Survive Almost 24 Hours On A Plane
• 7 Key Lessons I Learned While Trying To Climb A Volcano In Tanzania
• 16 Tips For Traveling With Hearing Aids

Central Europe has welcomed gay travelers in recent years with the ascent of gay rights and gay marriage. Eighteen European countries have legalized gay marriage, and 11 countries recognize same-sex unions, which means that gay travelers can feel welcome and safe in Europe. Almost all of these countries have thriving gay communities and sponsor events, gay pride celebrations, and cultural happenings.

This is our list of the most popular gay cities and resorts in Central Europe.

1. Brighton, England

The seaside town of Brighton, England, just a 60-minute train ride from central London, has a thriving gay community and is also a popular LGBTQ destination for travelers.

February is LGBTQ history month, and Brighton pays tribute to the achievements of gay individuals and organizations with films, tours, books, art, and talks.

There are a number of LGBTQ public artworks in parks in the city, including a street art piece, Kissing Policemen, by world-famous street artist Banksy, and a striking, 12-foot-high AIDS memorial sculpture fabricated in bronze by artist Romany Mark Bruce.

Other gay events in Brighton include the Brighton Pride, a Trans Pride, the Eyes Wide Open Festival, regular performances by the Gay Men’s Chorus, Bent Double, a monthly gay comedy night, and gay theater at the Marlborough Pub and Theater.

Most of Brighton’s nightlife is situated in the Kemptown district and recommended places include Club Revenge, Legends Bar, The A Bar, Charles Street Tap, and The Marlborough.

Brighton is also a popular LGBTQ wedding destination with a wide variety of venues from elegant to quirky fun, including the Royal Pavilion, the Brighton Racecourse, the Brighton Palace Pier, and the British Airways i360, a 530-foot-high tower with panoramic views.

2. Copenhagen, Denmark

Denmark was the first country in Europe to legalize same-sex marriage in 1989 and has long been at the forefront of advancing gay rights on the continent.

Copenhagen, the capital city of Denmark, is known for its gay-friendly attitude.

Events during the year include a World Aids Day event on December 1 at Jailhouse Bar with the sale of traditional Christmas cards, with proceeds going to the AIDS Foundation, Copenhagen Pride in June and February, and in 2021, EuroGames, an international gay sporting event similar to the Olympics.

Bars more than dance clubs define nightlife in Copenhagen. There are a number of mature, friendly bars in the vicinity of City Hall square, such as Cafe Intime, with live music, Oscar Bar, with an ample outside terrace, Vela, a lesbian cocktail bar and dance club, and Kiss, Kiss, a friendly bar that stays open extra late. The alternative bar and club area is the Meatpacking District near the Central Station.

Pro Tip: There are smoking and non-smoking bars in Copenhagen, so check ahead of time if you are smoking intolerant.

Hotels catering to LGBTQ include Skt Petri, a four-star design hotel in the Latin Quarter and close to the gay section of the city, the Hotel Danmark, a boutique hotel in the center, and for the budget-minded, CitizenM Copenhagen Radhuspladsen.

3. Sitges, Spain

Just a 30-minute train ride from Barcelona brings you to Sitges, a lively gay beach destination, similar to Provincetown in the U.S.

Sitges is the biggest gay beach destination in Europe for a good reason, as there are three gay beaches in the small town, including Bassa Rodona, which has a beer and cocktail bar and live music after 4 p.m., Platja de l’Home Mort, a nudist beach, with a bar and cafe, and Playa de las Balmins, a clothing-optional beach.

Pro Tip: Platja de l’Home Mort is about an hour-walk from Sitges (you can also take a taxi). The beach has pebbles, so bring a blow-up raft and rubber shoes.

In February, Sitges hosts a Carnival, and the huge parade that goes through town has lots of glitter and glam, with circus and drag acts.

Gay restaurants, cafes, and bars jam the streets of Sitges, and some of the more well-known ones are Beach House, a beachfront cafe with Latin food and cocktails. Parrots Pubs, Central Bar Cafe, with live entertainment, and the Queenz Bar, a cabaret and dance club with drag performances.

4. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is historically known as one of the most culturally progressive cities in the world as far as gay rights because same-sex relationships were legalized in 1811. Today Amsterdam is a highly visited destination for LGBTQ tourists with its large gay community and an extensive selection list of gay bars, clubs, gay-owned shops, and cultural events.

Amsterdam is beyond gay friendly with four main gay neighborhoods. If you want to acquaint yourself with the gay scene and activities of the city, head to the Gay Tourist Information Centre, which will happily dispense all the information you need to know, including hotels, bars, parties, shops, and local publications.

Reguliersdwarsstraat is the main gay street with upscale, gay-owned boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. Quentin Golden Bear Hotel, a small, cozy hotel, has been around since just after WWII.

Amsterdam honors its LGBTQ citizens with The Homomonument, a monument in the city center that commemorates all the gay men and women persecuted because of their sexuality in WWII.

Most of the dance parties and dance clubs are located near Halvemaansteeg Amstel and Rembrandt Square.

5. Mykonos, Greece

The Greek isle of Mykonos with its white stucco buildings, crystalline blue water, and sun-kissed beaches, is a much sought after gay playground. The gay-friendly island has been attracting LGBTQ travelers since the 1980s.

Among the gay beaches in Mykonos are Paraga, a sand beach, Elia, a long and wide beach that is clothing optional, Agrari, a little more secluded and less touristy, and Super Paradise Beach, with the recently opened JackieO’ Beach Club.

The Xlsior Mykonos International Summer Gay Festival is a splashy event happening the last week of August with over 30,000 people from around the globe attending. Eight parties are planned during the 7-day festival with dancing, DJs spinning, and live performances.

A few of the preferred hotels and accommodations in Mykonos are Oniro Suites, a five-star luxury resort located on a high cliff overlooking the Aegean Sea with just 29 rooms, Little Rochari, gently priced with a pool and located in the hills, Rania Apartments, centrally located with studios and one- and two-bedroom apartments, and Myconian Utopia, a luxury hotel near Elia Beach, with an indoor and outdoor pool, a gym, and some rooms feature a private swimming pool.

6. Manchester, England

Not to be overlooked by London, Manchester has become the other favorite gay city of England. Canal Street, the gay village of Manchester, is the obligatory must-visit place packed with bars, clubs, and restaurants. Many of the locations in the popular British television show from the late 1990s Queer as Folk were filmed in Manchester and are instantly recognizable.

The big gay events on the annual calendar include Drag Fest UK, a three-tier event in April with live performances, comedy, and lip-syncing, Manchester Pride, a massive celebration with over 200,000 people attending and stars such as Graham Norton and Ariana Grande, and the Queer Media Festival in November, a gay digital festival with LGBTQ storytelling using virtual reality, mobile filmmaking, and podcasting.

A fun idea to get acquainted with Manchester is to take a gay tour. Gaily Tours organizes a fun night tour where you visit the best clubs and bars in Manchester, and the price also includes a free drink.

Bonus: Tel Aviv, Israel

Although it’s technically in the Middle East, Tel Aviv has topped the list as the most gay-friendly city in the world by gay organizations. With its open attitude, beautiful beaches mixed with a modern urban metropolis, and favorable Mediterranean weather, Tel Aviv is a magnet for gay travelers. There are close to 100,000 gay residents in Tel Aviv, which is 25 percent of the population of 400,000 people.

The biggest event of the year is the Tel Aviv Gay Pride Parade, which is the largest in the Mideast/Asia and one of the most popular in the world, with over 250,000 people in attendance. The festivities last for 7 days, starting the second week of June, and the highlight is the Friday Pride Parade. The parade starts at 12 p.m. at the intersection of Ben Tsiyon Boulevard and Melchett Street and winds its way through the streets of Tel Aviv, with thousands cheering, and culminates at Charles Clore Beach. An all-out party on the beach, it includes performances, speeches, food stands, and dancing with live DJ’s spinning.

The TLVFest is the premier gay film festival in the Mideast. The festival strives to promote tolerance and acceptance against the tide of homophobia in many Mideast nations. It is also in solidarity with Palestine, inviting Palestinians to work with and be part of the festival.

The 10-day film festival takes during Gay Pride week in June and screens international LGBTQ films along with panel discussions, forums, and interviews with filmmakers and actors.