I wanted to get a jump on next year’s travel and list the best gay travel destinations for 2019. As a gay male myself, I’m always curious to know what are the new gay travel destinations where gay travelers can have fun while traveling.
This will be the top 10 list and somewhat subjective, but I’ll list places that I think should be on a gay travelers list. I will include some domestic and international destinations! This is not a ranking on how gay friendly these countries are, I’m already choosing countries where it would be safe for gay people to travel. I’m doing something a little different this one and ranking these destination as a countdown.
10. Cuba
Who would have thought that Americans could now visit Cuba? If you haven’t been there yet, you’re missing out and it should be on your bucket list. This is actually one of those places where I highly recommend a cruise from Miami because above all it’s just convenient. Havana itself has so much charm that it may not be there in a decade or so. Now the country is not exactly the world’s most gay friendly country, but you will be safe there as long as you keep it to yourself aka no public displays of affection. There is actually some gay nightlife and something you should definitely do research beforehand. It is certainly safer than nearby neighbors like Jamaica.
Gay Resources?
9. Florida
This is not really a risky choice as Florida is already a very popular travel destination. But travelers who have not been may be understanding how gay Florida actually is. You have Miami, which enough said is already pretty gay. The nightlife there is crazy. But now you arguably have an even gay friendlier city right next door in Fort Lauderdale. And then beyond that you of course have Orlando and Key West. Florida will keep you entertained for a while with beaches, Disney World, Universal Studios and gay nightlife. It’s an easy choice and a good one.
Gay Resources?
8. Japan
Japan is so fascinating from afar because you could spend a whole year in the country and not even scratch the surface. The culture is different, strange, unique and I think that’s why people obsess over Japan. And although Japan is a homogeneous society, they are actually more open-minded that most would have you believe. Gay clubs are somewhat hidden, but it’s possible to explore a very unique gay nightlife in the big cities, especially Tokyo. Beyond that, Japan is obviously stunning and is a cultural powerhouse.
Gay Resources?
7. Québec
Québec is Canada’s French-speaking province and offers something that the rest of Canada can’t offer. If you’re really looking for the most European part of North America, it’s got to be Québec, specifically Québec City. It’s weird to be so close to the United States and to have the French be spoken. Beyond that, Québec has Montréal, which is a super gay city in Canada and perhaps offers some of the best gay nightlife in Canada. For Americans, this is not a far international destination and certainly will tick all of your travel and gay needs.
Gay Resources?
6. Thailand
Thailand is already one of the most traveled countries in the world and for good reason. It has one of the most open and accepting societies in Asia and is a cheap destination for many world travelers. And yes, it’s possible to be out there and gay in cities like Bangkok, where there is gay nightlife. And even beyond that, Thailand is culturally just wonderful. They have managed to hold onto tradition while still being open to the world, and that’s why it’s become a dominant tourist destination.
Gay Resources?
5. New Zealand
I chose New Zealand because although it’s hard to get to, it’s a rewarding place. First you go to New Zealand if you love the outdoors and the landscape but it’s possible to meet New Zealand guys and party in some of the bigger cities like Auckland. My suggestion is to either take a cruise over or fly into Auckland, have some fun there, and then drive your way down through the country hopping over to the South Island. Highlights for New Zealand for me are Fiordland, Mount Sunday, Picton and Wellington.
Gay Resources?
4. Switzerland
Switzerland is one of those countries that is unbelievable. Want to spend your Christmas in a picturesque village? Well, you have plenty to choose from. Want to climb mountains in the summer? You have some decisions to make. On top of that, Switzerland has world class cities and an open liberal society. It’s possible to spend some time in Zurich and enjoy the sites by day while hitting gay clubs at night. Then take a quick train over to the mountains or over to the French part. If you love beautiful cities and beautiful landscapes, then Switzerland is for you.
Gay Resources?
3. Australia
Like New Zealand, Australia is far to get to so perhaps wrap these two countries together. Australia is a country I’d wish I had more time to explore as it’s huge you’ll need to go back for multiple trips. But what I saw in Sydney, I liked it because it is a very open place that makes you feel welcome. And you can go to just about any big city in Australia and there will be some sort of gay scene to take part in. I also love those Australian accents and yes kangaroos are adorable. Beyond that, Australia obviously is naturally gifted with places like the Outback and the Great Barrier Reef.
Gay Resources?
2. Finland
This choice may be somewhat controversial because Finland’s neighbors, like Sweden and Norway, always get the spotlight, but Finland is a great gay destination. Helsinki is by far the biggest city in Finland and really well has the most selections for gay nightlife. And Finland is the home of the sauna, which is so much fun. Who doesn’t like hanging around a bunch of sweaty men all day? Beyond that, Finland is also beautiful. If you go in the winter you can go to Santa Claus land or watch the Auroras through a tent. Or why not stay at an ice hotel or hang on a nude beach in the summer?
Gay Resources?
1. Hawaiʻi
Can you really ever go wrong with Hawaii? First off, Hawaii is for sure gay friendly, but if you’re traveling to party, you’re missing the point of Hawaii. The island of Oahu is by far the biggest city and offers gay clubs, but some of the best islands are Kauai, Maui and the Big Island or Hawaii. My husband and I went in March 2018 and can safely say it’s an amazing place. The people are friendly, the landscapes are incredible and the island is welcoming towards gay people. On top of that it’s just romantic as fuck, and you’ll want to bring a significant other or someone you care about and a getaway from the world. Rent a cabin in the rain forest like we did or on the beach or both.
