Safety is often a top concern for the LGBT traveler. Over the past several years, the gay rights movement has taken great strides, including the Supreme Court decision to legalize same-sex marriage in June 2015. However, some areas of the world are still less LGBT-friendly than others. When planning a trip as an LGBT couple, group or individual, consider the following cities.
Tony Bennett’s Heart of San Francisco in Union Square, California © Jeff Whyte | Dreamstime
San Francisco, Calif.
The city’s metro area boasts the highest percentage of adult residents identifying as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender according to a recent Gallup poll. The Castro district is historically known as the center of the city’s LGBT culture. San Francisco hosts many festivals and events throughout the year.
The Japanese Garden, Portland, Oregon © Jason Vandehey | Dreamstime
Portland, Ore.
Home to one of the United States’ oldest drag clubs, 5.4 percent of Portland’s population identifies as LGBT. The city’s non-profit organizations provide funding for LGBT initiatives and community outreach.
Gay Pride Parade in Berlin, Germany © Marek Szandurski | Dreamstime
Berlin
Often called the Gay Capital of Europe, Berlin invites tourists to its many gay bars, clubs and entertainment venues. The German city is home to the Schwules Museum, dedicated to the history and culture of LGBT communities.
Summer Pride Festival in Tel Aviv, Israel © Eldadcarin | Dreamstime
Tel Aviv
Individual expression is encouraged in Tel Aviv. Known for its bustling nightlife scene, the city hosts a popular annual pride week celebration.
Freetown Christiania, Copenhagen, Denmark © Katatonia82 | Dreamstime
Copenhagen
Denmark has the distinction of becoming the first nation to recognize same-sex partnerships. At the heart of the country, Copenhagen is home to Europe’s oldest gay bar.
Places to Avoid
Certain countries are still dangerous for LGBT individuals. Use caution when traveling to places including Senegal, Honduras, Jamaica, Egypt and Russia. Be sure to research any city before your trip.
Read This Next
LGBT Beach Destinations Around the World
LGBTQIA+
Jan 3, 2015#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Apr 26, 2024You Can Soon Glamp in Yosemite Thanks to This Brand
As soon as next spring, you can glamp near the beauty of Yosemite National Park with Under Canvas. The leading, upscale, outdoor hospitality brand debuts Under Canvas Yosemite May 22, 2025, inviting outdoor enthusiasts to take in the park’s beauty across 80 acres.
Sponsored Content
Discover Nashville Neighborhoods
Whether you are interested in music, art, history, food, sports or fashion, Music City has something for everyone to sing about. Nashville is accessible, friendly and authentic, with diverse neighborhoods, a storied musical heritage and a creative culture that energizes the city.
Peace of Mind Walking Your Dog with Sniffspot
If you don’t have a fenced yard and it’s difficult for you to get out of the house to walk or run with Fido, then you know just how difficult it can be to get all that canine energy out, but not taken out on your couch or cabinets. If your dog isn’t the best around other dogs or people, your problems are even more difficult to overcome.
Destinations / North America
Apr 25, 2024Celebrate May at Memphis in May International Festival
With May around the corner, it's time to put some last-minute, can’t-miss activities on your radar. Memphis, Tennessee, “Home of the Blues,” is set to host its annual Memphis in May International Festival, featuring the World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest and a marathon along the Mississippi River and more.
Sponsored Content
Experience Ireland’s
Wild Atlantic Way
From the windy tip of Malin Head in County Donegal to the colorful harbor town of Kinsale in County Cork, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way amazes at every turn. Feel the blast of fresh sea air with a lighthouse walk. Get up close to history, grab a fireside seat at a traditional music session, experience the world-famous Irish hospitality and explore some of Ireland's most exhilarating coastal scenery. It is a place that inspired dreamers and travelers, poets and painters with a landscape filled with stone walls, thatched cottages, deserted beaches and breathtaking views. Charming towns and villages, 1,500 miles of soaring cliffs, incredible landscapes and unique experiences await.
Hotel
Apr 25, 2024JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi Opens
JW Marriott’s second property in Kenya recently opened: JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi stands as the tallest hotel in the country at 35 stories. Located in the Westlands commercial district, JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi boasts 315 guestrooms, several dining destinations, a Spa by JW, a swimming pool, a fitness center and eight event spaces. A sky bar and lounge, as well as 51 serviced apartments, will open later this year.
ShareThis