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12+ Most LGBT Friendly Countries And Cites: LGBT-Welcoming Places Around the World
Finding welcoming and inclusive LGBT-friendly countries is key to having a stress-free and enjoyable trip. Luckily, there are plenty of destinations out there that are known for their open-mindedness and acceptance. Are you ready to pack your rainbow bags and explore the world? Here are the top 14 LGBT-friendly countries and cities that should be on your travel radar:
- London, United Kingdom
- Bangkok, Thailand
- Reykjavik, Iceland
- Palm Springs, California
- Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
- Barcelona, Spain
- Auckland, New Zealand
- Cape Town, South Africa
- Taipei, Taiwan
- Provincetown, Massachusetts, US
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Montreal, Canada
- Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Berlin, Germany.
London, United Kingdom
London has a rich history of LGBTQ+ activism and acceptance dating back over a century. Photo by rodwey2004 - stock.adobe.com
The United Kingdom, particularly London, is considered one of the most LGBT-friendly destinations in the world. Same-sex marriage has been legalised in 2014 (England, Scotland, and Wales) and 2020 (Northern Ireland).
The city's history with the gay, lesbian, transgender and cross-dressing community is long, with the first Gay Pride March happening as early as the 1970s.
If you want to enjoy music and dancing, London’s Soho district is where it’s at. Queer Britain on the King Cross is an excellent museum to look into LGBTQ+ history, the first of its kind in the UK. Many cities have active gay scenes that are worth booking a flight.
Manchester’s Canal Street is the heart of the city’s LGBT scene, hosting the annual Manchester Pride festival. Brighton, often called the "gay capital" of the UK, is known for its laid-back, accepting vibe and hosts the famous Brighton Pride.
Bangkok, Thailand
It’s hard to list the most gay-friendly cities without mentioning Bangkok. The city has an ingrained LGBT culture and one of the liveliest gay scenes in the world.
Districts like Silom, particularly Silom 4 Alley, have a high concentration of gay bars, clubs, and saunas catering to various tastes. The Calypso Cabaret and House of Heals are great places to enjoy some drag shows.
But why limit yourself to Bangkok when there are many amazing destinations across Thailand? Pai, with its relaxed and laid-back vibe; Krabi, with its breathtaking beaches; and many more. Grab your summer outfits and swimwear to enjoy them to the fullest.
That said, public displays of affection (PDA) are generally not the norm, regardless of sexual orientation. But on the whole, Thailand is generally safe for LGBT people. Remember to exercise common travel practices to stay safe, and you’ll be fine, just like anywhere else.
Reykjavik, Iceland
At least two churches showed their support with rainbow steps. Photo by Travelvolo - stock.adobe.com
This Nordic island nation has consistently ranked as one of the most LGBT-friendly countries in the world. According to the 2024 Rainbow Index Map by ILGA-Europe, Iceland scored the second highest - 83% based on factors such as Asylum, Legal Gender Recognition, etc. - just after Malta.
If you want to connect with the community, visit Kiki Queer Bar, Reykjavik’s only gay bar. There are also rainbow streets, such as Seyðisfjördur, located in the city's heart. The Nearby Hrísey Island also hosts a pride celebration in July. But the party is not Iceland’s biggest selling point; nature is. So don’t hesitate to pack your gear and start an amazing hike with your partner.
Palm Springs, California
The annual Palm Sring Pride is one of the largest Pride events in California. If you love hanging by the pool under the warm desert sun, there’s no better place to be. And when the night comes, Arenas Road comes alive with gay bars and nightclubs.
Another highlight is The Dinah, the largest lesbian/non-binary music festival in the world with 10,000 attendees. Held every spring, this five-day event features pool parties, live performances, and social gatherings. However, the pass can be expensive, about $300 on average, if you sign up for various parties and events.
The only downside is the summer can be unbearably hot. And there’s not much to do if you don’t enjoy partying and nightlife in the middle of the desert. Our advice? Find an event you want to join and plan your trip around it. San Diego, San Francisco, and West Hollywood are other gay-friendly cities in California if you want some alternatives.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Certain Mexican cities are surprisingly friendly to LGBTQ+. Photo by Linda Dahrmann - stock.adobe.com
Dubbed the gay mecca of the world, Puerto Vallarta offers a safe and friendly haven for every gay and lesbian. The best part? You don't need a passport to travel to this LGBT-friendly country if you are an American traveller.
The Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone), also known as the Gayborhood, is where the action is. Hotels that cater to gay people include