Gay and Lesbian Travel
For gay and lesbian travellers, there are many destinations around the world that welcome diversity.
Pride Parades
The pinnacle of the gay calendar for many cities is their spectacular pride parade; this is the one moment of the year when diversity is celebrated and acceptance is cherished. Sydney's Mardi Gras is one of the most famous spectacles, but the largest gay parade is held in São Paulo, Brazil while New York is always a sentimental favourite. Other marches worth checking out include those that take place in Chicago, Tel Aviv, Berlin and Amsterdam. New Zealand also celebrates in style with Auckland's Big Gay Out and London erupts into a massive street party.
Beach Retreats
For down time after the partying, consider checking into a dedicated gay resort or tanning on a beautiful gay beach. In Australia, head to the secluded gay resorts located in either Cairns or on the Sunshine Coast, while state-side we recommend exploring the scene in Key West or Miami. Manual Antonio in Costa Rica is Latin America's principle gay beach resort town and famed Mykonos, Europe's celebrated gay island, boasts both incredible beaches and a thriving night-life.
Gay Cruises
Cruising on a luxury liner is a fabulous way to have a relaxing holiday, and gay and lesbian travellers will enjoy the experience all the more with an exclusive gay cruise. The famed Atlantis All-Gay Cruises take eager enthusiasts to many stunning destinations such as the beautiful Scandinavian waterways, across the Tasman Sea from Auckland to Sydney in time for Mardi Gras, around the scenic Mediterranean and from Los Angeles to Mexico.
Gay Ski Weeks
During winter, consider enjoying alpine pursuits with other like-minded enthusiasts at a Gay Ski Week. These organised events provide a terrific opportunity to meet other travellers in neutral surrounds. During the week, après ski social events are arranged to compliment and day time activities. Popular Gay Ski Weeks are held at Mt Hotham, Whistler, Aspen and Queenstown.
Gay Tours
Holiday-makers who are determined to explore foreign lands but prefer the company of like-minded travellers will appreciate a dedicated gay tour. Out Adventures, which delivers a comfortable travel experience, arrange tours covering virtually every continent, while Purple Dragon focuses on Asia. Alternatively, Zoom Vacations arranged adventure filled tours without compromising on comfort through Latin America and Africa.
More Information
For further inspiration have a browse through our collection of destinations that welcome gay and lesbian travellers with open arms and which also organise major gay events. For more information on gay and lesbian focused travel, call your local Flight Centre consultant on 0800 24 35 44.