This Is What 13 Experts Want LGBTQ Travelers to Experience

We asked 13 travel experts what their favorite destinations had to offer LGBTQ visitors, and – ooh, honey – they rolled out the pink carpet!

Where Did We Find These Experts?

IGLTA was founded in 1983. Today, it’s the world’s leading network of LGBTQ-welcoming tourism businesses. What’s more, they offer free travel resources and information for community members seeking safe and welcoming ways to see the world. IGLTA’s members include LGBTQ friendly accommodations, transport, destinations, service providers, travel agents, tour operators, events and media in over 80 countries.

The IGLTA’s Annual Global Convention is a chance for members to gather and discuss how they can best meet the needs of the LGBTQ community. Naturally, information sessions are accompanied by opportunities for participants to let their hair down. When we heard that Pink Banana Media was hosting a pre-conference reception at Aspire at One World Trade Center, we headed up. Thirteen pros jumped at the opportunity to tell us what their destination had to offer LGBTQ visitors. Here’s what they had to say:

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The answers ran the gamut from safaris in South Africa to the rainforests in Panama. We learned about Puerto Rico’s vibrant LGBTQ scene and Guam’s gay Lieutenant Governor. Apparently, St. Petersberg/Clearwater has a museum scene that will surprise, and Brazil promises parties. Munich offers more than Oktoberfest (but Oktoberfest has gay tents!), and Finland is the world’s happiest country. The Guadalajara area has mariachi, tequila and more than 50 LGBTQ nightclubs and bars. After enjoying Puerto Vallarta’s beaches, you can experience Mexican cultural traditions. Or after sunning in Aruba’s beaches, you can check out over 300 restaurants with cuisines influenced by 90 nationalities. And even if you’ve been to Miami before, it’s got new surprises in store.

Thanks to everyone who gave us a taste of what’s on the menu at their destination.

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