Nude beaches really took off in France in the '50s. These days a constellation of seductive sandy spots have gone gay — and these seven are some of the best. Because laws change rapidly around public nudity, please go online and check the rules before you shed your skivvies.
While some people think Pride Month is the only month to enjoy all of the gay festivities, there's many queer celebrations that happen year-round.
In fact, the tiny island of Malta is actually considered one of the best, if not the best, place in Europe for anyone in the LGBTQ+ community. Malta's rich gay culture, inclusive society, diverse history, and safe spaces give locals and tourists the opportunity to celebrate their queerness at any time.
The European country's annual Pride festival takes place all throughout the island with plenty of activations for people to explore and enjoy.
From drag shows to after parties, beaches and boat days, and even a Pride parade that takes place in the streets in the capital city of Valletta, Malta knows how to throw the ultimate celebration for the LGBTQ+ community.
Although Malta is still very much a religious place even to this day, the destination is one of the safest places in all of Europe for queer people. It's hard to believe this hidden gem in the Mediterranean Sea could be welcoming to so many gay people, but every color of the rainbow is represented.
Tourists lucky enough to visit Malta definitely need to visit some of the best queer or queer-friendly spots scattered across the island. Golden Bay is one of the top places for for all travelers to visit, while Riviera Bay is a secluded beach designed for a gay and nudist crowd.
Naturally, it wouldn't be a proper Pride celebration without some epic parties. LOLLIPOP throws some of the best gay events all year in Malta, so everyone in the community can let their hair down at the vibrant nightclubs or sickening pool soirées.
It's also worth noting that Malta's gorgeous architecture has served as a the backdrop for some of the biggest modern TV shows and movies including Game of Thrones, Jurassic World Rebirth, Jurassic World Dominion, Napoleon, and many more.
While Pride celebrations are definitely enticing, there's nothing better than going on side quests on such a gorgeous spot of the globe. There's countless amounts of historical landmarks, breathtaking photo ops, and delicious eateries to explore all throughout Malta. Country Terrace, Cargo Bar & Dine, Nenu the Artisan Baker, and Lumi at Malta by IHG offer some of the tastiest meals that foodies can enjoy on the stunning island.
Get ready for a safe and fabulous LGBTQ+ travel experience
The famed Castro District in San Francisco, California
hakanyalicn/Shutterstock
Just in time for the spring and summer travel season, misterb&b has created the Queer Safety Index to aid LGBTQ+ travelers in selecting a fun and safe escape.
The online travel portal, which connects travelers looking for queer-friendly accommodations (ranging from rooms to hotels from queer providers and allies), tips for dining, or even new companions or friends in faraway destinations, has created the index using a variety of source studying the climate for the community in states and cities nationwide.
“The LGBTQ+ Safety Index is an ordered ranking based on a weighted scoring model incorporating multiple data sources, starting with misterb&b most booked destinations,” misterb&b explains in a recent blog post.
In addition to examining travel trends and preferences from its vast customer, vendor, and online databases, misterb&b also used the Movement Advancement Project’s (MAP) Overall Policy Tally to assess state-level protections and risks, the Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) Municipal Equality Index (MEI) to evaluate a city’s LGBTQ+ policies, as well as the American Civil Liberties Union to examine legislative risks, PFLAG for its community support, and the latest data from the Federal Bureau of Investigation for safety and hate crime reporting.
Keep scrolling to see misterb&b’s top 15 safest U.S. cities for LGBTQ+ travel.
15. Washington, DC
U.S. Capitol building, Washington, D.C.
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Despite the current Trump administration, our nation’s capital scores high marks across the board for LGBTQ+ travelers. It has the Smithsonian museums, historic monuments, and grand architecture for daytime activities and a great foodie and nightlife scene for after sunset.
Statue of Liberty overlooking New York City, New York
shutterstock creative
While some may say The Big Apple is too low on this list, NYC – with its fine dining, lights of Broadway, the museums, and the nightlife that last until dawn – is still a bucket list destination for many gays..
Palm Springs is a cultured oasis of LGBTQ+ inclusivity, where the gays can escape to fine dining, accommodations for every taste and budget, and stunning natural surroundings.
Providence Performing Arts Center in Providence, Rhode Island
ESB Professional/Shutterstock
Providence is the biggest city in the smallest state, a true hidden gem for the LGBTQ+ community with its nightlife, food scene, and waterfront location.
The Mile High City has quickly become a world-class city with unparalleled natural beauty, major sporting teams, a progressive culture, and a thriving LGBTQ+ community. And the state is led by out by Democratic Gov. Jarid Polis.
‘Keep Portland Weird’ isn’t just a slogan for some in this beautiful Pacific Northwest city, which might factor into why it’s so popular among LGBTQ+ travelers.
The famed Castro District ('The Castro') in San Francisco, CA
Andrey Bayda/Shutterstock
With its history of gay activism, the Castro, a culinary scene second to none, and a true ‘small city’ experience set in a truly stunning location, there’s no need to explain why the City by the Bay ranks so high on everone's bucket list.
Courtesy Grégoire Le Bacon; David Kirkland; Hélène Havard
Two gay men admire a waterfall in French Polynesia
Courtesy Grégoire Le Bacon
Before visiting French Polynesia, I had no idea what to expect regarding LGBTQ+ inclusivity. Of course, I did the Is it safe for gays to visit? Google search — because I’ve heard one too many horror stories about idyllic tropical islands being less than idyllic for LGBTQ+ travelers.
While some places make their stance clear with rainbow flags and stickers on storefronts, here, it’s different — not because LGBTQ+ people aren’t welcome, but because openness is ingrained in the culture. There’s no need to advertise what’s already understood: French Polynesia is for everyone.
A natural embrace of identity
French Polynesia is a pleasantly affirming culture for LGBTQ+ travelers
Courtesy Hélène Havard
Also known as the Islands of Tahiti, French Polynesia is a collection of 118 islands in the South Pacific spread across an area the size of Europe. Despite its remote location, it’s surprisingly accessible, with direct flights from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Paris, Auckland, and Tokyo. The largest island, Tahiti, is home to the capital, Papeete, where most journeys begin.
When I arrived, I noticed something distinct — the māhū (a traditional third gender in Polynesian culture) and rae-rae (a more modern term often referring to trans women) are respected members of society.
I saw this firsthand at Le Tahiti by Pearl Resorts (letahiti.com), where māhū staff were working throughout the hotel, and a Marquesan dance show featured māhū performers exuding confidence and grace. Their presence wasn’t tokenistic — it was simply part of life here.
No Pride flags, just pride in culture
French Polynesia features warm clear waters of the South Pacific
Courtesy David Kirkland
At first, I wondered why businesses, particularly the LGBTQ-owned ones, didn’t display Pride flags, but locals made it clear: It’s unnecessary. French Polynesia legalized same-sex marriage in 2013, bans discrimination based on sexual orientation, and takes hate crimes against LGBTQ+ people very seriously.
One local put it simply: “Everyone is welcome here. That’s just how it is.”
That said, if you’re expecting a big queer nightlife scene, you won’t find it here. While the LGBTQ-owned Malabar in Papeete draws a mixed, welcoming crowd, Tahiti isn’t a party island – it’s a place to connect with nature, culture, and people.
Island-hopping 101
Sunset in French Polynesia
Courtesy Kia Ora Resort & Spa
During my trip, I split my time between Tahiti, Rangiroa, and Tahaʻa, each island offering a different experience.
Tahiti is vibrant — markets filled with fragrant monoi oils, tattoo artists continuing the ancient Polynesian tradition of tatau (which, by the way, is where the word “tattoo” originates), and waterfalls cascading through lush landscapes.
Rangiroa felt like stepping into an entirely different world, where the lagoon was so impossibly clear and blue it looked photoshopped in real life. Staying at Hotel Kia Ora Resort & Spa (hotelkiaora.com) only added to the dreamlike experience — beachfront bungalows, an infinity pool overlooking the water, and a swim-up bar that made it far too easy to justify “just one more” cocktail at sunset.
An overwater suite at Le Taha'a by Pearl Resorts
Courtesy Le Taha'a by Pearl Resorts
But it was Tahaʻa that stole my heart. Known as the “Vanilla Island,” it’s small, quiet, and intoxicatingly fragrant — literally, as the scent of vanilla drifts through the air from the many nearby plantations. I stayed in an overwater bungalow at Le Tahaʻa by Pearl Resorts (letahaa.com) — a fitting choice since French Polynesia is the birthplace of the overwater bungalow. Here, my days consisted of snorkeling in coral gardens, paddleboarding at sunrise, and sipping fresh coconut water on my deck.
While in Tahaʻa, I met a gay couple celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary. They had honeymooned in Bora Bora but decided to explore new islands this time — a perfect reminder that French Polynesia always has something new to offer, no matter how many times you visit.
As we talked over cocktails, they shared how changing gender here is legal, same-sex couples can adopt, and serving in the military as an LGBTQ+ person isn’t an issue. Unlike other places where progress feels like a battle, Tahiti’s laws quietly reflect a reality that has existed here for quite some time – being yourself isn’t just tolerated; it’s respected.
Leaving with a new perspective
A gay couple take a barefoot walk on the beach
Courtesy Grégoire Le Bacon
If you’re looking for a queer party scene, this isn’t it. But if you’re seeking a place where you can be yourself without question, where identity isn’t debated but simply understood, French Polynesia offers something deeper than acceptance — it offers belonging. And that’s something I’ll take with me long after my tan fades.
“At the top of the world during Midnight Sun” sounds like something I made up as if I were an emo poet.
Yet I found myself this August on the Arctic Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard before boarding the MS Trollfjord. A life-altering trip organized by Hurtigruten (www.hurtigruten.com) on the Svalbard Line South, this sojourn was not a queer trip, per se. But considering Norway’s progressive LGBTQ+ and gender politics, and that I flew 4,500 miles from Los Angeles to Longyearbyen in Svalbard where the sun never dipped below the horizon, I was struck with true awe and a delightful queerness in my out-of-time romantic surroundings.
The author overlooking the fishing village of Gryllefjord.Courtesy Tracy E. Gilchrist
After a night near the Oslo airport, our group of eight flew to Longyearbyen on the island of Spitsbergen in the Barents Sea, where a sign outside the airport bore the figure of a polar bear, a magnificent creature the denizens of Arctic Norway revere while knowing when to run.
A bus took us through the town that is home to about 2,400 people. We passed what looked like ski lift wires carrying buckets for coal mining, the University Centre in Svalbard (the world’s northernmost institution of higher learning), a modern shopping center, and a hospital. Our destination was Hurtigruten’s Funken Lodge, a boutique hotel where – in the Scandinavian tradition – guests are required to remove their shoes and don a pair of wool slippers upon entering. The accommodations were on a hill around the corner from a glacier. During my stay, I awoke in the wee hours to find my way to the restroom illuminated by the uncanny Midnight Sun.
On little sleep but with adrenaline to explore, our group visited the outpost of Camp Barentz. We toasted with Scandinavian akvavit (a distilled spirit with herbs and botanicals) and supped on bread and reindeer soup (lentil for the vegetarians like me) simmering over a fire in the center of the structure. Our guides, one armed with a long rifle should a polar bear make a rare summer appearance, presented a talk about Svalbard’s history and its inhabitants – with a concentration on the polar bear.
A polar bear sign warning in Longyearbyen.Courtesy Tracy E. Gilchrist
From Longyearbyen’s harbor, we boarded the MS Bard for a cruise culminating at the Nordenskiöldbreen glacier front, its ancient ice sending a bracing chill for hundreds of yards. Along the way, clouds settled into the treeless landscape in the distance (trees can’t take root in the Arctic permafrost). A birder in our group pointed out birds of the region to me including puffins, kittiwakes, and fulmars (distant cousins to the albatross). A minke whale dove in the distance. Sailing in the most remote place I’d ever visited, I was filled with an ineffable longing to wander and be present. Very queer, indeed.
Hurtigruten’s Svalbard Line is known for sailing Norway’s fjords. The trips offer adventures including hiking and the e-bike tours we took around Svalbard and on the idyllic Senja, where we sped up a mountain around the island’s Gryllefjord. But Hurtigruten is also a foodie’s paradise. Longyearbyen’s fine dining restaurant, Huset, once a communal meeting place, offered nine wine-paired courses of local cuisine from fishermen, hunters, and trappers. Still, the chef creatively accommodated my vegetarian needs. In a moment of serendipity around the fifth course, three of us in our group even spoke about our queer identities — a coming-out of sorts at the top of the world.
A luxury suite onboard the MS Trollfjord.Courtesy Tracy E. Gilchrist
Once settled in our lush suites on the eighth deck of the MS Trollfjord, we ate down the hall at the fine-dining Røst. There, the attentive and friendly staff served everything from Norway’s famed brown cheese (delicious) to Havets Bobler, or “Bubbles from the Sea,” a sparkling wine aged 112 feet below sea level in the Arctic.
Our first stop was at the world’s northernmost settlement of Ny-Ålesund. I mailed a postcard bearing a polar bear stamp to my future self with the promise I’ll write my memoirs. Later, on our first full day at sea, I awoke from a much-needed nap to the gleeful announcement of a polar bear sighting. Passengers scuttled to the top deck to eye, through binoculars, the creature lumbering on a rocky beach — a rare sighting, I was told.
Even the slight bout of seasickness I encountered on our first full day at sea was tinged with romance as I lolled in my bed under a plush duvet eating salty crackers while watching the Democratic National Convention with so much hope. Perhaps my maritime malady was a sign of things to come. Once I was up and running with my sea legs, we visited the bridge and Captain Charlotte Høijord Johansen, who spoke with us about her history at sea.
The author onboard the MS Trollfjord.Courtesy Tracy E. Gilchrist
We disembarked from the Trollfjord in Svolvær for the final time following a wet excursion on a powerful RIB (rigid inflatable boat), where we viewed sea eagles diving for fish. From there we flew to Bodø on the smallest commercial plane I’ve ever boarded. It was our final touchdown in the Arctic Circle before making our way to Oslo and home again. I journaled on my analog Freewrite Traveler throughout the nine-day trip, imagining myself as a lesbian adventurer and writer a-sea in another era, longing to return before I’d even arrived home.
Thailand has emerged as a top destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. In September, the Asian country passed The Kingdom’s marriage equality bill, granting same-sex couples the same legal rights as heterosexual couples. The inclusive spot is also welcoming a whole new crop of visitors once EDC Thailand debuts in January 2025.
With the progressive country welcoming more queer tourists than ever, there's so much to see on this gorgeous corner of the globe. From tasty meals at luxurious hotels to impressive performances by sickening drag queens, Thailand is the best place for a top of the line vacation.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand did a flawless job hosting me, along with other LGBTQ+ journalists, to truly experience everything this spectacular place has to offer. Scroll below to see all the incredible highlights from this life-changing trip.
Thailand's nation's capital, Bangkok, is the ideal hub to experience everything that the beautiful country known for. In just one trip, guests will be able to attend fabulous gay bars, visit unbelievable temples, and even taste exquisite cuisine on the streets of Chinatown.
The most opulent hotel to stay at in Bangkok, Thailand is undeniably The Salil Hotel Riverside. Amenities at this five-star resort include relaxing spa treatments like hydro pool aqua therapy, adorable shops, fine dining, and stunning rooms with the comfiest pieces of furniture. Trust me when I say the hotel room's bidet is just one of the lavish touches that comes with this staying at this property. The service is also quick and top notch with multiple dining options available for room service.
Many LGBTQ+ visitors can easily get around Bangkok by hopping in a tuk tuk (equivalent to a taxi in the United States) to explore all of the exciting options throughout the exhilarating city. House of Heals is one of the top gay bars to check out as the host of Drag Race Thailand, Pangina Heals, invites the best local queens to perform showstopping numbers multiple nights a week.
Naturally, it wouldn't be a complete trip to Thailand without acknowledging the lucrative culture that makes the country so special. Historic temples and monuments such as Ayutthaya, Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan, and Wat Klang Khlong Wattanaram will give travelers the prime opportunity to enhance their knowledge on Thailand's society.
Defined by its mountains and scenic landscape, Chiang Mai is a can't-miss city in Thailand and the Na Nirand Chiang Mai is the optimal place to stay. This pristine property is designed for a romantic getaway as the quiet hotel is nestled next to the Ping River.
Core memories will be made at all of the diverse excursions available in Chiang Mai. Without a doubt, the Patara Elephant Farm is a sanctuary that must be added to any itinerary. This safe sanctuary gives tourists the sensational opportunity to interact with elephants in a very intimate and educational way. Personally, this was one of the greatest experiences of my entire life. I've never truly connected with nature and wildlife in such a beautiful and organic way. Guests hop on a Jeep and travel into the jungle as they get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. You'll have an opportunity to feed, bathe, and walk alongside the elephants as you also learn more about their rich history by the wonderful guides.
Anyone hoping to see Thailand from a local lens will be overwhelmed with fascinating options in Chiang Mai. Your taste buds have never experienced anything quite like the delicious meals at the local and critically acclaimed eateries. Woo Chiang Mai and Ginger Farm Kitchen both capture the finest ingredients that Thailand has to offer. Mai also acts as a local art shop, so patrons can indulge in incredible food while also browsing for a beautiful art piece or keepsake to take home. Don't forget to order one of their signature smoothies.
Michelin-starred restaurants are also scattered throughout the bustling city as Meena Rice Based Cuisine and Baan Landai promise to deliver a tasty evening. Meena serves as an amazing family style restaurant as many succulent dishes are available on their diverse menu. The eatery is located near the city, but the ambiance gives travelers a wonderful escape into a perfect cove that captures the heart of Thailand. Meanwhile, Baan Landai is right next to the main downtown hub of Chiang Mai, so the delectable dinner you'll enjoy is perfect before a night on the town visiting the adjacent street markets.
Similarly, the Ontai Creative Industry Village immerses explorers deep into Thai culture by eating farm-to-table creations and participating in spiritual activities such as indigo dye. Also, the Zira Spa & Massage Chiang Mai is a superb relaxation destination. The serene atmosphere, tranquil ambiance, and intense massage amenities will leave you feeling calm, yet rejuvenated. With so many intense massage options to choose from, the deep tissue and hot oil massage will finally remove all of the tension and knots that have built up over time.
The perfect resort to escape reality is found in Krabi, Thailand. Rayavadee Krabi crosses off every box when it comes to a fantasy vacation. This secluded getaway transports visitors away from reality into a relaxing oasis. Gorgeous pools and soft sand beaches surround this property as guests enjoy their own private bungalow in the jungle. Onsite restaurants serve original dishes and tasty cocktails that further sets the mood for a memorable trip.
The Grotto serves the most romantic and stunning backdrop for any special event you can think of. Even just a normal dinner will take your breath away. Although I promise every option will satisfy your taste buds, the surf and turf is a must. The delicious combination of the prime cut and lobster tail is unlike anything else you'll try in Thailand.
Nearby, the Wareerak Hot Spring & Wellness makes all of your worries disappear with blissful treatments and services to help reset your mind. Patrons will truly escape all of the stresses of their daily lives by immersing themselves in the Krabi forest. Plus, there's nothing quite like enjoying a succulent meal while watching the magical sunset at the Khaothong Hill Restaurant. The menu offers much more than just the typical Thai choices available throughout the country. For me, a chicken sandwich along with a green apple smoothie really hit the spot as I watched the dazzling sunset.
There's also plenty to do for the adventure seeker as boat excursions, kayaking tours, snorkeling, and numerous other activities are easy to access. Finally, the Railay Pier has all of the adorable local shops you'd need to make this beach paradise feel even more cozy.
These three vastly different cities all offer something unique, but in the end, they all encapsulate everything that defines this special Asian country. This article only scratches the surface as to everything a queer traveler can experience in Thailand.
As a very open-minded place, Go Thai Be Free is the best resource to take the first step and go on the trip of lifetime. Check out some of the highlights from my trip in the Instagram Carousel here.
The author overlooking the fishing village of Gryllefjord.Courtesy Tracy E. Gilchrist
A polar bear sign warning in Longyearbyen.Courtesy Tracy E. Gilchrist
A luxury suite onboard the MS Trollfjord.Courtesy Tracy E. Gilchrist
The author onboard the MS Trollfjord.Courtesy Tracy E. Gilchrist
Ricky Cornish