Wanderlust with Pride: explore the world’s most welcoming LGBTQIA+ destinations

The visibility of the LGBTQIA+ community has significantly grown in the travel industry over the years as gay rights and inclusivity are championed globally, with an increasing number of destinations becoming LGBTQIA+ friendly.

However, not all destinations are created equal, and some countries remain unwelcoming towards LGBTQIA+ individuals.

In Africa, for instance, 33 out of 55 countries still criminalise homosexuality, with nations such as Kenya, Ghana, Namibia, Niger, Tanzania and Uganda tightening anti-homosexuality laws, making these destinations less desirable for the community.

June is Pride Month, which commemorates years of struggle for civil rights and the ongoing pursuit of equal justice for the LGBTQIA+ community.

As we celebrate the strides made in creating a more inclusive world, here are a handful of the most popular LGBTQIA+ destinations to consider for your next adventure.

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town stands out as a premier gay-friendly destination, thanks to its legal protections, vibrant community and breathtaking natural beauty.

South Africa's Constitution explicitly safeguards LGBTQ+ rights, making it one of the most welcoming countries in Africa for LGBTQ+ travellers.

The city has a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, particularly in areas such as De Waterkant, where a variety of bars, clubs and events cater to the community.

Beyond the nightlife, Cape Town's stunning landscapes, world-class beaches and access to wine regions add to the allure.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is a beacon of LGBTQ+ friendliness, known for its welcoming atmosphere and rich historical significance.

The city has a long-standing commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, having decriminalised homosexuality in 1811 and legalised same-sex marriage in 2001.

Amsterdam's vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife is a major draw, with numerous bars, clubs and cafés, particularly in the lively Reguliersdwarsstraat area.

The city's progressive attitudes and robust anti-discrimination laws contribute to a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ travellers.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin's reputation as a gay-friendly city is well-deserved, thanks to its long history of acceptance and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.

The city has countless gay-friendly bars, clubs and cultural venues, and you can also find numerous LGBTQ+ friendly hotels and hostels.

Berlin hosts various LGBTQ+ events, including the annual Schöneberg street festival and Pride week.

Beyond the LGBTQ+ scene, the city is rich in cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and historical sites.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney is renowned for its inclusive culture and thriving LGBTQ+ scene.

The city has a strong legal framework protecting LGBTQIA+ rights, including marriage equality, and a social life filled with events and venues celebrating LGBTQIA+ identity.

Sydney has world-famous events such as the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras, which attracts visitors from around the globe, making it a popular destination for LGBTQIA+ travellers.

New York City, USA

New York City is a hub for LGBTQ+ culture and history, attracting countless queer visitors.

The city has a rich LGBTQ+ heritage, being the birthplace of the modern gay rights movement, particularly following the pivotal Stonewall Rebellion in 1969 when police raided the gay bar, Stonewall Inn.

What followed in 1969 was a series of events between police and LGBTQ+ protesters which stretched over six days.

It was not the first time police raided a gay bar, and it was not the first time LGBTQ+ people fought back, but the events that would unfold over the next six days would fundamentally change the discourse surrounding LGBTQ+ activism in the US. 

With this sort of history, plus a significant LGBTQ+ population and a strong commitment to LGBTQ+ rights, it's easy to see why NYC is on many queer traveller's to-do lists.

Iconic neighbourhoods such as Greenwich Village, Hell's Kitchen and the West Village are recognised as LGBTQ+ hubs, filled with history and landmarks.

The city also has a top tourism infrastructure catering to LGBTQ+ travellers, including specialised tours and accommodations.

Toronto, Canada

Toronto is a highly recommended destination for LGBTQ+ travellers, known for its welcoming atmosphere and vibrant nightlife.

The city has a large LGBTQ+ population and a diverse, inclusive culture, with the Church Wellesley Gay Village being the prominent hub for LGBTQ+ life.

Toronto hosts one of the largest Pride festivals in the world, attracting millions annually.

Canada’s strong legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals, including the legalisation of same-sex marriage, add to this being included in this list.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is a standout gay-friendly destination in Asia.

Known for its tolerant culture, where sexual orientation is viewed as a personal choice, the city's nightlife is filled with gay bars and clubs.

Bangkok's reputation as a global hub for gender reassignment surgery also contributes to its LGBTQ+ friendly image.

The city's Buddhist beliefs and general avoidance of confrontation create a society where being gay is less of a taboo than in many other countries in the region.

Bangkok's LGBTQ+ community is large and vibrant, known for its hospitality and open-mindedness.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is a breathtaking, gay-friendly destination, with stunning scenery and a big adventure scene.

The annual WinterPride Queenstown festival attracts a large LGBTQ+ crowd.

New Zealand's progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights, including the legalisation of same-sex marriage, adds to its appeal 

Queensland, on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the dramatic Southern Alps, offers adventure activities, from bungee jumping to hiking.