LGBTQ+ Holidays

Holidays for a wider community

For most people going on holiday is simply a case of wanting to be as relaxed, carefree and as open as possible. An LGBTQ+ holiday should be no different. Most holidaymakers take certain things, such as holding hands in public and booking a double room, for granted. That’s not always the case for members of LGBTQ+ community.  Being in an LGBTQ+ accepting location is important for peace of mind. Whether you’re off on a romantic same-sex holiday, fancy partying non-stop with your LGBTQ+ friends, or you simply want peace of mind for your LGBTQ+ family. Here’s our guide to destinations where everyone is welcomed.

Malta

Frequently voted the most LGBTQ+ friendly place in Europe, Malta is the sunny island in the middle of the Mediterranean. It’s crystal clear waters and diminutive size make it ideal for LGBTQ+ families, its beautiful buildings and sense of history appeals to romantic same sex city-breakers, while  the buzzing nightlife of Paceville welcomes LGBTQ+ party-goers.

Spain

Spain has no end of LGBTQ+ friendly destinations which spring to mind. Pick a Pride! There are so many from which to choose. Barcelona hosts from 19 to 29 June and Gran Canaria has two:  05 to 14 November and 05 to 15 May. The warmest of  welcomes continues with the wonderful climate, sun-kissed beaches and dunes, and the vibrant nightlife of both the mainland and the islands.

Portugal

The combination of mountain, ocean and city makes Lisbon holidays immediately likeable. It’s an enchantingly attractive city too. It’s also home to the best LGBTQ+ nightlife in Portugal, hosting an annual Pride event and Pride Village with stages, bars, lounges and family areas.  During 2022 the city is hoping to host EuroPride, 19 to 28 June, the world’s biggest celebratory LGBTQ+ event in Europe.

Greece

Mykonos has long been a magnet for the LGBTQ+ traveller, so it’s inclusion here will come as no surprise. Pride may be celebrated from 18 to 25 August, but  the picturesque windmills, traditional white washed sugar cube houses, beautiful coastline, excellent sandy beaches, first class hotels and great nightlife are available all summer long. Go and relax  on one of the world’s most cosmopolitan islands.

The Seychelles

The Seychelles is a burgeoning holiday destination for LGBTQ+ travellers.  In recent years these idyllic Indian Ocean islands have made great strides with equality laws, and social attitudes might not be as conservative as you may think. Out and about, discretion is required for all public displays of affection, whether you’re a member of the LGBTQ+ community or not, but you’ll find the hotels and resorts cater for the needs of LGBTQ+ holidaymakers.

The Maldives

Many gay couples travel to the islands each year. We feature properties in the Maldives that ensure they are welcoming to members of the LGBTQ+ community and offer honeymoon benefits to same-sex couples. It may be a matter of making informed decisions before travelling beyond your chosen resort island, but that won’t be a hindrance to enjoying a holiday in this superb island paradise.

Other Destinations

Costa Rica

Unlike some of the destinations listed here Costa Rica does not wear its LGBTQ+ heart on its sleeves but it’s very much a nature lover’s paradise and is at the vanguard of sustainable tourism.

South Africa

Cape Town and Johannesburg are home to the country’s largest LGBTQ+ communities, and it’s ahead of some European countries with same-sex marriage being legalised back in 2006. Experience this fascinating country with our selection of South Africa tours, including private, small-group and self-drives.

Vietnam

Amongst all of the Southeast Asian countries,Vietnam is one of the more progressive when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights and has made recent strides in support of the LGBT community.  The annual VietPride marches in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City work to raise visibility and awareness of LGBTQ+ issues.