Travel can be a daunting endeavor for those who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community —- in fact, 43% have actually canceled a trip altogether after the discovery that a destination is unsupportive of LGBTQ+ individuals, data highlighted by Booking unveils. For those who wish to explore the world in 2025 and beyond, there are plenty of unexpected destinations that are as picturesque as they are inclusive. From the streets of major American cities to lesser traveled destinations like Iceland, LGBTQ+ Indians have a wealth of locations to consider for their next overseas trip.
American cities with a positive atmosphere
The United States is home to a variety of LGBTQ+ friendly locations, though many may be surprised to discover that large cities like New York City and Chicago have a particularly welcome environment. While major cities may come off as harsh (or even unfriendly) to some, each has a strong and storied history of activism, as well as lively LGBTQ+ communities that continue to thrive today. NYC, for instance, has a reputation as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities out there. In addition to all of the tourist attractions that the Big Apple has to offer (such as the Statue of Liberty and the Metropolitan Museum of Art), there are a variety of LGBTQ+ landmarks to add to your itinerary as well. The NYC Tourism site highlights several, such as The Stonewall Inn, which is a National Historic Landmark as well as a gay bar, the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art on 26 Wooster St., and Ginger’s Bar, a casual lesbian bar in Brooklyn.
The Windy City of Chicago is also known to be friendly to the LGBTQ+ community, as the destination is well-revered for its pride celebrations and inclusive culture. In fact, Northalsted is known as “the oldest LGBTQ+ neighborhood” in the entire country. Choose Chicago recommends an exploration of the city’s rich history, in which the Legacy Walk celebrates notable events and icons. In addition to LGBTQ+ friendly bars, restaurants, and shops, visitors can also look forward to Chicago’s annual Pride Month celebrations. Choose Chicago notes that this consists of “two days of music, drag shows, dancing, and more at Chicago Pride Fest,” in addition to the city’s pride parade.
Reykjavik, Iceland — for the adventurers
Expedia’s “Unpack ‘25” report discovered that travelers are more likely to visit a location that is more unfrequented than most, as 67% of respondents express a desire to visit a lesser known destination on their next trip. While Iceland is certainly a country that has gained popularity among visitors, it’s still considered less frequented than hot-spot tourist locations like Paris or Ibiza. When it comes to the welcoming nature of the country in relation to LGBTQ+ individuals, it’s important to realise that Iceland has a long and positive reputation for inclusivity. In fact, LGBTQ rights in Iceland are actually among the highest on a global scale — in 2006, for example, same-sex couples became eligible for laws that include the right to adoption as well as public access to IVF.
In Iceland’s capital, Reykjavik, tourists can immerse themselves in the city’s culture. The Times notes that some of the best activities to take part in include whale watch tours from the Reykjavik harbour, a visit to the Sky Lagoon, and even a visit to the ever-so-unique Icelandic Phallological Museum. The Northern Lights as well as Iceland’s cuisine, which includes hákari (fermented shark), Icelandic hotdogs (made with lamb meat) and plokkfiskur (fish stew), to highlight a few. In terms of LGBTQ+ activities, there are inclusive bars and clubs that contribute to a thriving nightlife, from the Kiki Queer Bar to Gaukurinn. In addition to the city’s August Pride Festival, Reykjavik also has events such as Rainbow Reykjavik in February, the city has something for everyone at any time of the year.
A warm welcome in Medellin, Colombia
For those who crave warmer weather, Medellin is a hidden gem in regard to LGBTQ+ friendly destinations. A Travel + Leisure article by Adam Groffman details the author’s experience in the city’s LGBTQ+ scene, which includes a reflection of the city’s annual pride parade that featured nearly 90,000 people in attendance in 2023. With the help of a travel agency that specialises in the gay community, Groffman and his friends were able to view and even participate in the parade, which occurs after a month-long celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. Gay clubs, dancing, parties in the Provenza area (a wealthier district in the area), open-air dining, and experiences that ranged from coffee tastings to unique tours on local culture highlighted Groffman’s trip. “As a gay man, I felt extremely safe the entire time in Medellin,” Groffman writes. When paired with the classic tourist activities such as the Medellin Graffiti Tour, the Botanical Gardens, or a visit to any of the city’s numerous parks, there’s no question that you’ll be in for a remarkable time.
South America is also home to one of the seven wonders of the world — Machu Picchu, an Incan citadel located in the Andes Mountains in Peru. While Peru may not be one of the most progressive countries for LGBTQ+ rights (as same-sex marriage is not legal), it is still considered a welcome destination for those who wish to experience the country’s culture and rich history, from the Sacred Valley to the city of Lima. Group trips are ideal for memorable experiences, and can ease the anxiety of travel for those who wish to explore a country’s culture and history alongside others. Whether you plan to travel abroad with friends, family, or a partner, it’s important to plan ahead in order to take advantage of exclusive offers and packages. A well thought out plan can also guarantee that you’ll be able to explore the destination to the fullest extent possible, whether you plan to stay for a week or longer.
While many LGBTQ+ individuals may shy away from booking an international trip, there is no shortage of destinations that are welcoming and that even have a thriving community of their own. Whether you prefer to head to Iceland, a bustling American city, or a warmer location in South America, the world awaits to be explored.
- Unexpected Cities Embrace the LGBTQ+ Community: International Travel Locations for a Memorable 2025 - January 22, 2025
- Bollywood Finally Spotlights LGBTQ Relationships — But Further Progress Is Still Required - December 30, 2024
- Here’s Why Pattaya Is One of The Best LGBTQ+ Hotspots In Asia - July 28, 2024