Unknown But Very Trendy LGBT Destinations
By George Zander
In the search for the perfect LGBT vacation spot, you may NOT have visited these new comers to tourism scene. But trust me, for those of you who have stayed and played in more well known and famous spots, this is a great new list for you to ponder.
Eureka Springs
Recently made famous from defying the state of Arkansas and saving more discrimination policies, this beautiful burg again welcomes all. While driving through the deep south, you might be surprised to find a gay oasis in the midst of southern culture. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Eureka Springs is a historic Victorian town with a booming arts scene and over fifty gay-owned businesses. Eureka Springs is gay enough to boast three Diversity Weekends a year. Most of the downtown businesses are gay friendly, including the bars and clubs. The town is laid back and accepting of all sorts of wild behavior. It is easy to navigate Eureka Springs by foot, but there is also a trolley that goes to all the hot spots.
But this hilly, historic Arkansas town that’s also – oddly enough – very popular with conservative Christians draws many LGBT visitors from around the south and Midwest. It’s also a town that’s easy on the bank account, with a multitude of affordable B&Bs, casual barbecue and Mexican joints, and inexpensive antiques shops. Even the grand 1905 Basin Park Hotel has rooms starting under $100. The popular, lesbian-owned Pond Mountain Lodge and Resort is one of the most tranquil, scenic accommodations in town.
Montevideo
This is a controversial inclusion on the list given the conservativeness of many Central and South American nations. But Uruguay, the smallest of the South American nations, is the most progressive. In 2013, Uruguay was the second Latin American country to legalize same-sex marriage, and homosexuality has been decriminalized since 1934. The relaxed attitude present in the Uruguayan capital of Montevideo provides a brilliant juxtaposition to the hustle and bustle of the likes of Buenos Aires. Hiking, lovely beaches, fine restaurants, and lively bars are all available. It is the culture you will remember. The country is way ahead of most. Two visitors from Palm Springs told me, “It is one of the easiest countries we have visited in the world to be gay.”
Reykjavik
The world’s northernmost capital, Reykjavik has been described as one of the friendliest places and most inclusive on Earth. In 2015, Reykjavik will host its 17th Gay Pride march (one of Europe’s oldest LGBTQ parades), and the 11th Bears on Ice event. Iceland also has some of the world’s most progressive laws. In 2006, same-sex couples were granted equal rights with their heterosexual counterparts without limitation. Wander behind waterfalls, descend into dormant volcanoes, or while away a day in one of the many geothermal lagoons – this is an adventurer’s paradise. If you want to attend the Bears on Ice event, you’ll need to register at www.bearsonice.org
Tel Aviv
Tel Aviv is known as one of the world’s finest and friendliest LGBT travel destinations. Come experience Israel, where you can express yourself, indulge yourself, or just be you in cosmopolitan gay-friendly cities and resort towns. The vibrant scene is alive year-round, with dazzling nightlife, hip restaurants, stylish boutiques, and busy streets hopping with clubs and cafés: perfect for people who love to get out and about. Catch lesbian and gay film festivals, LGBT Pride celebrations and arts and culture festivals. But there is more. History is everywhere- Absorb history, spirituality and holistic uplifting in the holy places: Jerusalem is just under an hour drive away; less than two hours to Nazareth and the Sea of Galilee. It is one of finest air flight (El AL) and one of the world’s best airports. And did I mention the people?- men and women are simply stunning and everyone is in beautiful shape!
New Hope and Lambertville
Compared with other gay-popular vacation spots in the Northeast, sophisticated but laid-back New Hope Pennsylvania and its appealing New Jersey neighbor Lambertville are less places to see and be seen and more restful, romantic, and reasonably priced weekend hideouts for couples. Though this area of verdant Bucks County Pennsylvania has a lively gay nightclub and several trendy restaurants, life here floats along at an unhurried pace, and sticker shock is rare, especially given this quaint riverside hamlet’s close proximity to New York City and Philadelphia. Stay at the attractive, well priced Raven Inn if you’re looking to party – it’s home to a fabulous pool and gay bar and restaurant. A quieter, more romantic option is the gay-owned Lexington House and B & B. If you are anywhere northeast, wind down here after your stay.
If you visit all five of these, collect your LGBT Trend Setter sticker… for you will have lived. Auntie Mame said it best! Cheers!
