Best LGBTQI Destinations 2017

Berlin's history of gay and lesbian communities date backs to the 1920s. The seeds of its current thriving LGBTQI community were planted in the 1960s, after the end of the Nazi era. Throughout the city, travelers will find gay-friendly accommodations and night clubs. The climate of the city is both accepting and friendly.

There is perhaps nowhere more famously gay friendly than San Francisco. It’s a city where LGBTQ-travelers cannot only feel safe, but also celebrated. Discover the city's historic importance for gay culture at the GLBT History Museum, then hang out in the Castro, where history proudly lives in the still-thriving neighborhood. Events throughout the year bring residents of all identities out to celebrate LGBTQI culture.

Fort Lauderdale has been marketing to gay and lesbian travelers for years, showcasing the beach city's cosmopolitan, edgy, and most importantly, welcoming vibe. In 2017, it began a new ad campaign featuring transgender models. There are plenty of gay-friendly bars, nightclubs, and resorts in Fort Lauderdale. On the city’s tourism website, there’s also a directory of LGBTQI-specific travel advice, events, and a special contact for information on same-sex wedding planning.

The famously gay-friendly Greek island of Mykonos is a glamorous and warm destination that loves a good party. For decades, it's drawn in the LGBTQI community, which has led to a boom in gay-friendly accommodations…and cemented its reputation of acceptance and celebration.

There are many LGBTQI-friendly resorts and hotels in Palm Springs, but it's the culture of the city that makes this an exceptionally welcoming community, with 55 percent of the population identifying as LGBTQI. It’s a comfortable environment, and the city itself offers many resources for LGBTQI travelers to help plan trips.

Often declared to be "the gayest cities on Earth," this openly liberal and secular city is an oasis for gay travelers in the Middle East. With nightlife and sunny beaches, the city is open for exploration for LGBTQI travelers.

New Zealand has a long history of LGBTQI friendliness, and specific LGBTQI-friendly accommodations have been available for decades. Same-sex marriage passed in 2013, and New Zealanders are generally very welcoming.