Published: August 02, 2023
If you identify as LGBTQ+ or as an Ally, you might be interested in going on international vacations to regions that embrace uniqueness, inclusivity and diversity. Perhaps you've explored your way through the US LGBTQ-friendly spots and are ready to take on the rest of the globe. There are so many incredible spots worldwide
1. Berlin, Germany
As one of the earliest modern LGBTQ hotspots in the early 1900s, Berlin, Germany, is one of Europe’s most LGBTQ-friendly destinations. Home to activists and creatives like Magnus Hirschfeld, Berlin has so many fun activities that celebrate the LGBTQ community. The district of Schöneberg is lovingly called a “gayborhood” and there are over 170 bars, clubs and pubs for the LGBTQ community. It’s also home to notable historical monuments like the Memorial to Homosexuals Persecuted Under Nazism, a statue built in 2008.
Berlin is also an affordable international destination, compared to other hotspots in Europe.
2. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires was the first city to legalize same-sex marriage in Latin America, making it a popular travel destination for the LGBTQ community. Community acceptance is high, with 76% of local people saying they are accepting of queerness. This can make for a comfortable and inclusive vacation where you can relax and be yourself.
Buenos Aires is a beautiful, cosmopolitan city and the capital of Argentina and is estimated to welcome 3.1 million international tourists a year by 2025. Popular things to do include exploring the Barrio Norte and eating dinner at Rojo Tango, a dinner experience followed by a gender-inclusive tango show. Traveling to Buenos Aires is also reasonably affordable, with the average cost of everything being 60 to 90% lower than New York City pricing. For budget trips, plan to spend around US $60 per day and if you want to splurge and enjoy some luxury, Buenos Aires has plenty of more expensive, upscale hotels, restaurants and bars.
3. Barcelona, Spain
Beautiful and oceanside, Barcelona is one of the top LGBTQ-friendly cities in the world and a popular vacation destination in Spain. Take a road trip from Barcelona or linger for a while. Relax by the beach, eat delicious paella or stroll down the streets filled with stunning architecture. Dozens of bars are in the district of Eixample and just a short ride away is the city of Sitges. Sitges is one of the hottest LGBTQ+ beach towns in the summer, with hundreds of thousands celebrating living authentically.
Barcelona’s local government even emphasizes inclusivity, tolerance and acceptance. It has developed a municipal plan called “Measures for LGBTI Equality 2016-2020” to bring inclusive LGBTQ policies even further into the community. You’ll love the Pride parades, parties and celebrations all year long for the LGBTQ community, and Barcelona is a gorgeous destination at many times of the year.
4. Tel Aviv, Israel
Tel Aviv is one of the most accepting countries in the Middle East and is sometimes even called the “Gay Capital of the World.” Situated in the middle of more conservative Middle Eastern countries, Tel Aviv is a beacon of acceptance and inclusivity. Full of gay beaches and home to one of the biggest pride parades in the world, Tel Aviv also has an estimated 25% of the population that identifies as gay. The nightlife scene is booming with bars and clubs like Shpagat, D.T.M Gay Bar and La Boheme.
Tel Aviv is one of the more expensive LGBTQ must-visit destinations. Tel Aviv was ranked the most expensive city in the world in 2021, according to the Worldwide Cost of Living Index. The cost of hotels, restaurants, clubs and transportation reflect the high cost of living. If you’re looking for sun-soaked luxury and have the budget to spend, Tel Aviv is a dream for your next vacation.
5. Sydney, Australia
Head around the world to sunny Sydney, Australia, to visit one of the best LGBTQ-friendly cities. Sydney is known worldwide for its thriving and vibrant gay community and hosts one of the biggest pride celebrations in the world. The Darlinghurst neighborhood is funky and fun, with high-energy bars and modern pubs. Peruse unique art galleries with eclectic pieces and enjoy handmade art and a fun music scene. Sydney’s Mardi Gras celebration is another popular LGBTQ-friendly event in February and March, making the city full of pride events all year around.
Like Tel Aviv, Sydney is an expensive city, often ranked in the world's top 10 most expensive cities in the world according to the EIU. Everything in the city is more costly than average and flights to Sydney are often not cheap, no matter the time of year.
6. Playa del Carmen, Mexico
More than just a fun spring break destination, Playa del Carmen is one of the biggest LGBTQ-friendly party scenes in the world and one of the fastest-growing cities in Mexico. A small city turned into a thriving beach town, Playa del Carmen hosts many drag shows, lesbian brunches and more events for the LGBTQ community. Even though there are only two distinctive gay bars in the area, it’s a high-energy spot to enjoy your next vacation.
Also, flights and travel to the Cancun airport are often relatively inexpensive, except during the peak seasons of spring break. Playa del Carmen is also close to the main airport and is just a 10-15 minute taxi ride away, making it easily accessible to travelers.
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