These past two years have been filled with disappointment, heartbreak, and fear for more reasons than one. Long overdue cries for justice against a militarized police force, anxiety lingering in the hearts of API communities, and an election that left most Americans nail beds bare; synched to the tune of a greedy pandemic stealing lives and livelihoods from people across the globe. No matter what chaos exists in the corners of the world, Pride Month is a time to come together and celebrate individuality and the long-haul fight for equality in our LGBTQIA+ communities.
With a chaotic backdrop as ever, 2020 seemed to serve Pride Month with a whisper of acknowledgment while pressing societal issues took center stage. As we peered down that dark tunnel that led us into 2021, we see glimmers of hope. 2021 allowed for a more expressive and accessible Pride celebration and while still limited, was glorious. As Pride Month 2021 ends, we eagerly look forward to 2022’s more lenient travel opportunities. And to prepare, we are sharing a brief list of some of the best places to travel to for next year’s pride and beyond!
Let us first begin by sharing a resource dubbed “Spartacus Gay Travel Index”. Each year, the index is updated, displaying a map of 202 countries and regions which inform travelers within the LGBTQIA+ community about their level of safety traveling to certain places. The index takes into consideration rights, local LGBTQIA neighborhoods/communities, and pride-focused holidays. The aim is to increase awareness and safety for travelers. While initially created for those in the gay and lesbian sects, in recent years, the index has expanded to a more inclusive review of travel opportunities.
Another wonderful travel resource is Out Adventures, a leader in small-group LGBTQIA+ global adventures, tours, and cruises! Disclaimer: Before making travel plans, we encourage everyone interested in partaking in Pride Month festivities and beyond to do a little research on the history and inclusivity of that destination. Hopefully, this list will serve as a good jumping-off point!
1. Canada: There is no telling where the world of travel will take us as COVID-19 tapers down. For our North American friends who may not be completely comfortable traveling very far in 2022, Canada would be a wonderful destination. Canada has been deemed one of the most “gay-friendly” countries in the world! With gay marriage being legalized in 2005, over 25 pride-focused events, and some of the most progressive transgender laws in the world, it is no wonder why Canada is a fabulous place to go for our proud travelers! Per our friends at Nomadic Boys, in a nutshell:
Main Gay Villages: Church and Wellesley (Toronto), Le Village Gai (Montreal), The Village (Ottawa), Davie Village (Vancouver) & Jasper Avenue (Edmonton)
Best Events:
Toronto Pride
Fierte Montreal
Whistler Pride & Ski Festival
2. Spain: Generally speaking, Spain is an open-minded society that embraces, supports, and protects the LGBTQIA+ community’s rights. In 1979, homosexuality was legalized, followed by a set of anti-discrimination laws a little over a decade later. Spain is also bursting with culture, boasting a total of 48 UNESCO world heritage sites, and plentiful museums. In a nutshell:
The main gay villages: Chueca (Madrid), Gaixample (Barcelona), Sitges & Maspalomas (Gran Canaria)
Best Events:
Madrid Pride
Circuit Barcelona
Maspalomas Pride
3. The Netherlands: As the first country in the world to legalize gay marriage, and homosexuality being legalized in 1811, there’s no question about the Netherlands’ dedication to protecting their LGBTQIA+ community. With Amsterdam as their tour de force in pride celebrations, there are several other highlights to experience, including local cheese markets, and the lovely landscapes littered with tulips and windmills. Be sure to stop by the “Homomonument” while there to see the world’s first monument constructed in remembrance of gays and lesbians persecuted during WW2. In a nutshell:
Main Gay Villages: Reguliersdwarsstraat (Amsterdam)
Best Events:
Amsterdam Pride
Leather Pride
4. Costa Rica: Being a leader in environmental activism and awareness, this country is also outstandingly progressive and eager to invite all travelers with open arms! Since Costa Rica is such a naturally rich destination, they lack events and scenes friendly for LGBTQIA+ folks. For those looking for a safe space to soak up the wonders of the natural world, Costa Rica is the place for you! Be sure to check out San Jose Pride, as well!
5. Uruguay: Being nestled in such a catholic-dominant society, Uruguay may not be the first country that comes to mind when one thinks “LGBTQIA+ approved”. However, ever since their strict separation of church and state in the 1900s, they are considered one of the most liberal countries in the southern hemisphere. Much like Costa Rica, Uruguay does not have many gay villages or communities, but they do host some stellar pride events, including Montevideo Pride & Punta Pride!
6. New Zealand: This destination is renowned not only for its earth-shatteringly progressive schedule but also for its openly gay Parliament ministers; Grant Robertson, Louisa Wall Charles & Georgina Beyer. It certainly doesn’t hurt that this spot is so beautiful, it was chosen as the shooting destination for the visually stunning film series, Lord of The Rings. As a smaller island nation, there is plenty to experience in a shorter travel agenda. In a nuthshell:
Main Gay Villages: Karangahape Road “K Road” (Auckland), Ponsonby (Auckland), and Wellington Central
Best Events:
Big Gay Out
Winter Pride
Wellington International Pride Parade
7. Malta: As the UN’s Head of Equality & Non-Discrimination, Charles Radcliffe, once coined, “Malta is a beacon of human rights for LGBTQIA+ issues”, as well as a “gold standard” for reform. So, there is no surprise Malta made the list. Valletta, the capital city of Malta, has a handful of gay friendly hangouts to choose from. Since Malta floats alongside Italy as a tiny island in the Mediterranean, there aren’t any properly established gay communities. Malta also celebrates Pride in September with Malta Pride.
8. Portugal: The Estado Novo years (1933-1974) was a dark and oppressive time for Portugal. However, that period of human rights instability was met by a society ready for an evolutionary turn! Portugal has made major strides in the recognition and appreciation for LGBTQIA+ communities, including the legalization of gay marriage (2010), legalizing gay adoption (2016), and placing a ban on discrimination in their actual constitution. Their capital city now hosts Portugal’s largest pride event; Lisbon Pride every year!
Main Gay Villages: Barrio Alto (Lisbon), Principe Real (Lisbon)
9. Taiwan: Taiwan is the first and only Asian destination to legalize gay marriage, and pushing to become a haven for transgender individuals by introducing a non-binary option on all ID documents. For those passionate about a culinary experience, we recommend Taiwan! Not to mention, this destination has a shrine dedicated to love and relationships between LGBTQIA+ partners! The Tu’er Temple (The Rabbit God Temple) was built to honor the Rabbit God who’s responsibility is to manage all those looking for love, specifically LGBTQIA+ individuals. Be sure to check out Taipei Pride while there!
10. Iceland: Rainbow painted buildings, lively disco bars, and rolling black and green backdrops, Iceland (despite its name) gives travelers a warm welcome. Iceland is a tiny, island-nation, with major traffic areas of Reykjavik and Akureyri. This destination is perfect for those who wish to taste a bit of city life but also wish to take a moment to appreciate the natural wonders this lovely country has to offer!
Best Events
Reykjavik Pride
Rainbow Pride
Traveling is an important aspect of life for many people. To relish in the pleasure of travel and to better understand the world around you is a privilege we wish to share with as many people as we can. As a community existing in the fringe across several continents of the world, we want our travelers of all backgrounds to feel safe, welcomed, and immersed in their travel experience. Hopefully, this list served as a guide for your next destination!
Here’s to a brighter tomorrow and the chance to reconnect with our traveling roots!