Your guide to LGBTQ+ travel
Getaways, Pride celebrations, and stories from travelers.
Image: Getty Images
The LGBTQ+ community stretches all around the world, and when you’re a queer traveler visiting a new place, there’s nothing more encouraging than finding your people far from home. Whether you’re visiting one of the world’s largest Pride celebrations (New York City, anyone?), searching for a Ru Girl–headlined drag show, or just seeking a cup of coffee in a safe, welcoming space, we’re here to help you find it.
Some places are well-known for their vibrant LGBTQ+ culture, but there are likely some fab destinations you’ve been overlooking. Below, we deep-dive into Buenos Aires’s queer nightlife scene, explore a handful of smaller cities that go all out for Pride, and celebrate queer-owned hotels in Albuquerque, Ireland, and beyond. Whether you're part of the community or an ally, consider this the ultimate guide for immersing yourselves in the world’s many LGBTQ+ scenes.
Find community out in the world
LGBTQ+-friendly stops in every city
Iconic spots and ‘gayborhoods’ around the world
Cancun: a queer paradise in Quintana Roo
Cancun is not just for spring breakers looking to party the week away. As a queer woman, I’ve found it to be an ideal destination for low-key LGBTQ travellers and club goers alike. If you’re looking for gay saunas and go-go boys, Puerto Vallarta may still be your best bet, but for me, Cancun is the perfect speed.
ReadyToStare, Cleveland, OH
Planet Hollywood Cancun Adult Scene, An Autograph Collection3,309When I holiday, I’m looking for an adults-only hotel—but one with a broader clientele than a clothing-optional, gay male–focussed spot. Planet Hollywood is my perfect resort, since it has an adults-only, LGBTQ+-friendly side with an inclusive staff. My masculine-presenting girlfriend and I felt comfortable holding hands and going on dinner dates at all of the resort’s 13 restaurants, and especially loved our junior suite with a swim-out pool.
TRS Coral Hotel13,196This five-star all-inclusive is another great option. When I stayed here, I noticed signage stating that the hotel is “Queer Destinations Committed,” meaning the staff has completed LGBTQ+ hospitality training and there’s a zero-tolerance policy for harassment toward queer guests. Although every room has a hydro-massage bathtub, you won’t regret visiting the Zentropia Spa with your partner for a couple’s massage.
Playa Delfines5,659Conveniently located in the heart of the Hotel Zone, Playa Delfines is Cancun’s unofficial gay beach. By day, it’s a family-friendly stretch of sand, but come evening, it’s the perfect place to cruise. It’s also large and free, with views unobstructed by resorts. While you’re there, go ahead and grab one of those touristy photos with the colourful “Cancún” sign.
Lola Valentina3,726Whenever I’m in Cancun, I like to make a day trip to Isla Mujeres for its low-key lesbian vibes (the island’s name fittingly translates to “Women Island”). After the short ferry ride over, I usually grab brunch at Lola Valentina, a casual spot with vegan and gluten-free substitutes. Get the tres-leches-coconut French toast made with Mexican concha (sweet bread) and don’t forget your pesos—it’s cash only.
Coco Bongo Cancun19,326What happens when you mix a gay club with Cirque du Soleil–style performances? You get Coco Bongo—one of Cancun’s most popular nightlife spots, and my favourite place to party. It brings Vegas energy south of the border and is just plain fun. It caters to a mixed crowd, but also goes out of its way to make sure LGBTQ+ travellers know they’re welcome. In June, they host epic Pride events and shows.
11:11 Club27Some of my craziest nights in Cancun have taken place at 11:11 CLUB. With “COCKtails” on the menu, this place caters to gay men, but is welcoming to all. Expect to meet fishy drag performers and buff go-go dancers, and hear plenty of iconic pop anthems. Heads up: non-locals should be prepared to pay a cover.
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