While Western Europe is considered one of the most gay-friendly destinations, with Gay Pride in Amsterdam being the highlight, many countries wish to attract more LGBTQ+ tourists.
The USA: San Francisco
This iconic California city is considered by many to be the gay capital of the world. San Francisco has the third largest gay population in the US and is known for its thriving LGBTQ+ community. The Gay Pride Festival, held every June, is a household name and attracts visitors from all over the world. Castro, one of the first gay neighborhoods in the U.S., is the ideal place to experience San Francisco's LGBTQ+ scene firsthand. It played an important role in the fight for equality and remains a symbol of LGBTQ+ culture today.
The Netherlands: Amsterdam
The Dutch capital is one of the most visited destinations of the LGBT community in Europe. It is not for nothing that Amsterdam has been named the Gay Capital of Europe 2019. The open-mindedness and tolerance of the population is a great attraction and makes the city a worthwhile LGBTQ+ tourism destination. Not only is it a very romantic destination to visit as a couple, but it can also be visited alone if you are looking for both parties and cultural activities.
There are numerous bars, nightclubs, boat parties, and gay-friendly establishments in the city. The main area is around Rembrandtplein and extends to Amstelstraat, which runs parallel to the canal of the same name. Among the annual events not to be missed when visiting Amsterdam are the Canal Parade (on the first Saturday in August) and Pink Saturday (on the last Saturday in June).
Argentina: Buenos Aires
For many, this Argentine city is the gay-friendly capital of Latin America. In 2006 and 2008, the LGBTQ+ community voted the city the best international destination for gays and lesbians. San Telmo and Recoleta are the neighborhoods where the main gay meeting places are located. The influx of gay tourists has led to the creation of the Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CCGLAR), which represents restaurants, bars and hotels with LGBTQ+ offers and is responsible for organizing promotions for this audience, together with the National Institute for Tourism Promotion.
There are numerous events to attend and consider when visiting the city, such as the Gay Pride March (held annually in the first week of November) or the Queer Tango Festival, held in mid-November.
Canada: Montreal
According to the annual Spartacus Gay Travel Index, Canada has been the world's most gay-friendly destination for years. Within the country, Montreal stands out as a gay-friendly city with its own gay district, the Gay Village, located around the Beaudry subway station and recognizable by its colorful columns. The same goes for San Francisco, one of the largest gay neighborhoods in North America, which also has an LGBTQ+ tourism information center. The main attractions are saunas, nightclubs and bars, especially for lesbians. Montreal also celebrates Gay Pride at the beginning of August, known as Fierte Montreal Pride. Another festival not to be missed is the Black & Blue Gay Festival, held on the second Monday in October since 1991, with proceeds going to HIV charities.