So you’ve done it – you’ve gone ahead and tied the knot. First of all, congratulations! With 17% of gay men and 16% of lesbian women now choosing to wed, same-sex marriage is on the rise – and we’re proud you’re part of that growing trend!
Now that the wedding’s out of the way, it’s time to plan the best part of it all: the gay honeymoon! With the legalisation of marriage for same-sex couples across different countries, LGBTQ+ honeymoon trips have increased tremendously. In fact, The Guardian reports that LGBTQ+ honeymoon bookings have increased 279% over the past five years.
Choosing an inclusive, LGBTQ+ friendly holiday destination is key for gay couples. Unfortunately, over 75 countries still criminalise same-sex relationships. But don’t let that spoil your excitement – after all, getting ready for your trip is half the fun! At World Rainbow Hotels, we’re experts on all things LGBTQ+ travel, so we’ve put together a list of the best LGBTQ+ honeymoon destinations for you, including where to stay:
(1) Barcelona, Spain
Spain is one of the most progressive destinations for LGBTQ+ rights, and Barcelona has it all: beautiful beaches, amazing food and great nightlife. Its vibrant gay scene l’Eixample, often nick-named Gayxample, is a great spot for gay couples to meet like-minded travellers, and the famously gay-friendly beach town Sitges should be at the very top of your bucket list.
Stay at Room Mate Anna for the ultimate LGBTQ+ honeymoon experience. Ideally located in Barcelona’s city centre, near all of Barcelona’s top LGBTQ+ hot spots, the boutique design hotel features a rooftop pool with stunning city views. The best part of it all? It’s 100% gay welcoming!
(2) New York, USA
New York – the city that never sleeps, and the concrete jungle where dreams are made of. If you’re looking for a city break honeymoon, look no further. From theatre to arts, dining and shopping, the metropolis has something to offer for everyone. And it takes its commitment to LGBTQ+ rights very seriously: just recently the iconic Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village that played a pivotal role in the gay liberation movement was granted historic landmark status.
Stay at luxurious Hotel Plaza Athenee New York to experience true European grandeur on your honeymoon. Located in the fashionable residential district of the Upper East Side, the LGBTQ+ friendly hotel is just a few steps away from shopping street Madison Avenue.
(3) Amsterdam, Netherlands
The Netherlands was one of the first countries to legalise same-sex marriage and Amsterdam has, as a result, become one of the best cities for LGBTQ+ culture. With the number of gay bars and clubs increasing fast, the nightlife here is like no other. But Amsterdam also has a romantic side to it: the lovely townhouses that line the charming canals are perfect for honeymoon strolls.
Stay at the Conservatorium Hotel to experience one of the city’s top boutique hotels on the P.C. Hooftstraat, Amsterdam’s exclusive shopping street. The hotel blends sophistication with a modern, international style for a chic elegant yet casual ambience. The perfect place for a worldly LGBTQ+ couple to spend their honeymoon.
(4) Sydney, Australia
Looking for a beach honeymoon destination? Sydney not only has over 60 pristine beaches, it also happens to be one of the world’s most gay-friendly holiday destinations. Known as the most mainstream gay cultured city in Australia, Sydney offers an array of lively bars, restaurants and clubs in its vibrant gay district. It’s the perfect destination for those looking to combine a city trip with a romantic beach getaway.
Stay at The Langham to experience Sydney’s most luxurious hotel. This elegant ‘home away from home’ offers some of the best pampering sessions in the city at its Day Spa, and some of the best high tea at its Globe Bar. Located in Sydney’s oldest district, you’ll find designer boutiques, museums, art galleries and some of the city’s best restaurants within walking distance.
(5) San Francisco, USA
Nicknamed the ‘gay capital of the world’, San Francisco boasts one of the largest and most prominent LGBTQ+ communities, having played a major role in the history of LGBTQ+ rights and activism. Considering it is the city with the highest rate of LGBTQ+ residents in the US, you will find plenty of gay welcoming pubs, restaurants and hotels. If at all possible, try to visit in June during their annual Pride parade. Trust us, you’ll have the time of your lives.
Stay at Axiom, San Francisco’s number one pet-friendly boutique hotel. Honeymoons are all about spending time with your loved one, and we think your pets deserve to be spoilt as well!
Discover LGBTQ+ honeymoon packages with World Rainbow Hotels
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