Gay Travel Ideas
Gay travelers face many unique challenges, from awkward hotel check-ins for couples to finding a nightspot where you can let loose and be yourself. Although homosexuality is socially accepted in many parts of the world, there are some vacation destinations that cater to the needs of gay travelers better than others. Creating a getaway around these locales gives gay tourists a chance to truly relax and enjoy their vacation.
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Provincetown, Massachusetts
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Provincetown is a small village on Cape Cod in Massachusetts. Nicknamed "P-Town," the village has attracted gay and lesbian tourists since the 1920s, when it was a burgeoning art town. Much of Provincetown's tourism economy is aimed at the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) market, with plentiful wedding venues and romantic retreats that cater to same-sex couples. There are also numerous outdoor activities in the area, including camping, boating, whale watching and two beaches.
Key West, Florida
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The city's slogan is "Come as you are," which gives visitors their first clue that Key West is an inclusive, inviting place to visit. The city hosts gay-themed events throughout the year, including PrideFest in the summer, Tropical Heat---a week of male-only special events---Bearfest and Womenfest. Visitors can also tour the city on the Rainbow Trolley, a gay-themed tour that departs from the Gay and Lesbian Visitor Center.
EuroPride
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Every year, a different European city hosts EuroPride, one of the largest pride events on the continent. Each celebration honors the unique history of the host city and its role in the advancement of gay rights; for example, Madrid hosted EuroPride in 2007 as a celebration of the country's same sex marriage laws, which were passed two years earlier. Other prior hosts include London, Zurich, Rome, Stockholm and Warsaw.
Sao Paolo, Brazil
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Brazil is one of the most gay-friendly countries in Latin America. The country decriminalized homosexuality in 1830 and, as of 2003, recognizes same-sex partnerships from other countries.
Party goers will appreciate the Sao Paolo gay pride parade, the largest in the world according to the Guinness Book of World Records. The parade attracted more than 3 million revelers in 2009. Brazil also boasts more than 5,000 miles of Atlantic coastline, and with Sao Paolo located less than an hour from the beach, it is a convenient vacation spot for sun worshipers.
Gay Cruises
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Taking a gay cruise allows you to see the world in a structured, gay-friendly environment. Several travel companies cater to gay cruise passengers, including R Family Vacations, Olivia, Atlantis and RSVP Vacations. These cruise lines offer seasonal trips to exotic destinations around the globe. There are also specialty cruises for singles and families.
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References
- Photo Credit cruise ship image by Kate Jones from Fotolia.com
