LGBTQ: Cartagena, Colombia

The colorful cobblestone walkways and colonial buildings of Cartagena made it one of the most visited cities in all of Colombia. The UNESCO World Heritage site is something you have to experience once in your life and, thankfully, it caters fairly well to the LGBTQ community.

Though Colombia has a tricky history when it comes to gay rights, you’ll find such a tourist-driven town tends to welcome our community with open arms. The gay scene here is ever changing with new clubs opening and closing on the regular. A mainstay in the city includes the popular restaurant/bar Le Petit. It’s a small venue with a devoted clientele and hefty drinks. Roma Club is ideal for those seeking a place to dance.

Each July, Cartagena hosts the Rumours Festival, a weeklong Pride festival that features pool and boat parties all throughout the city. Other things to do include a visit to LGBTQ-friendly Hollywood Beach, a tour on the Chiva Party Bus and a trip to the nearby Bomba Beach Club.

As for hotels, the best options for LGBTQ travelers are Casa Lola, a gay-owned hotel in the Getsemani neighborhood and Allure Chocolat, located right near the heart of downtown.

Cartagena’s laidback atmosphere is designed primarily for relaxation, making it an excellent option for any travelers seeking a beachside getaway without any drama. Though South America still has a way to go when it comes to inclusion, you’ll find this little city will be glad to see you.