After the last piece of confetti has been tossed, and the final toast has been raised, it’s time for the honeymoon fun to begin. But for same-sex folk, planning such a romantic getaway requires a little research to ensure they end up somewhere friendly – and safe. Here are 10 potential overseas honeymoon destinations recommended by same-sex couples who’ve travelled there and found them not only utterly romantic, but also lots of fun – and friendly to same-sex couples.
Las Vegas
The iconic desert destination of Las Vegas is a place where anything goes. Talk about an exciting place to start married life together, with an LGBT scene that is pretty scattered but alive and well. Whether you want non-stop nightlife or something a little more sedate, Vegas has what you’re looking for, from a jaunt along the Strip to the famous Bellagio fountains or a night of glamour and cocktails. Plus, if you’re a pizza fanatic, there’s a secret unnamed pizza joint in the Cosmopolitan Hotel that is out of this world. But shhh, don’t tell anyone. And remember: What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas!
San Juan, Puerto Rico
We say Puerto Rico, but you could lump much of the Caribbean into this category. The water is invitingly warm, with that decadent shade of ice blue. Not to mention, the rum is muy agradable! At night, Old San Juan – where most of the cruise ships dock – turns into a big nightclub. Or, if you and your partner want to savour some alone time, take advantage of the myriad private tours and excursions available. You will see some buildings adorned with rainbow flags, so definitely go in and ask a local where the best gay bar is. We also suggest staying in an AirBNB if possible, simply because it lets you get off the beaten path.
Hawaii
America’s fiftieth state, offers plenty for same-sex couples looking for either a destination wedding or honeymoon. Big Island and Maui are particularly LGBT-friendly with many same-sex wedding and honeymoon/travel specialists located there. Whether you and your new spouse want to climb the islands’ lush slopes, windsurf, stargaze, meet artists, dance, visit Pearl Harbour or just chillax on any of Hawaii’s crystal clear shores sipping cocktails, this place truly is paradise, making it the perfect place for any sort of honeymoon getaway you can imagine.
Canada
Canada is, for good reason, often called one of the most LGBT friendly countries in the world, so what better place to plan a holiday a deux. When you imagine it, you probably think of big cities such as Quebec, Ontario or British Columbia, but just outside BC is a wonderful little suburb called Maple Ridge with accommodating bed and breakfasts and fancy castles to tour. What are you waiting for? This is one seriously same-sex friendly honeymoon locale.
Beaver Creek, Colorado
Did someone say snow? While the nearest LGBT scene is probably in Denver, who could resist frolicking on the area’s 149 ski trails? Just imagine it: you and your partner rug up for a nice active afternoon on the slopes, before returning to your accommodation to soak in a hot tub and then curling up before the fire or enjoying a spot of fine dining. The nearest nightlife is probably Vail or Denver, but there’s plenty to keep you occupied. After all, what newlywed doesn’t want to build a snowman or make snow angels? And, if you don’t like snow, there are endless trails to hike and mountains to climb.
Argentina
The world’s eighth-largest country boasts a gorgeous coastline, delicious cuisine and romantic activities galore. Head to Iguaza Falls for a breath-taking view or cosy up with your love at Termas de Lahuen Co. It’s a famous hot spring that is guaranteed to raise your temperature.
Denmark
Copenhagen is probably the most same-sex friendly city in Denmark, and it’s actually a popular honeymoon destination because of its extravagant hotels. Book a romantic honeymoon at the Copenhagen Admiral Hotel or the Bertrams Hotel Guldsmeden. If you want to have an adventurous day in the countryside, go to vayable.com and organize a bike tour of the area with a local tour guide.
Ireland
If you happen to love a good beer or ale, make time to check out some of the neighbourhood pubs and sample the fare. There is also a tour you can do of the Guinness Brewery that gets rave reviews. Basically, if you enjoy bar crawls and rowdy good times with your partner, Ireland is ideal. It has also been ranked in the top 20 for LGBT friendly honeymoons.
South Africa
Many LGBT couples avoid Africa altogether because of its laws and penalties, however, South Africa was the first African nation to legalise same-sex marriage – back in 2006. It’s still Africa, so you need to be careful, but a bit of caution will be more than made up for by the local bazaars, amazing scenery and fascinating safaris that are so iconic to Africa. Such a stunning place to see, and the culture is unlike what you’ll find anywhere else.
Napa Valley, California
This is the heart of America’s wine country. Need we say more? Probably not, but we will anyway. Napa is one of those places everyone should visit at least once in their life, and what better time to do it than on your honeymoon. The stunning beauty of Mother Nature is enough to get anyone in the mood for love, offering a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city as you connect with your partner over a nice drop – or two. Napa has events catering to the same-sex community throughout the year so head online for details.
Iceland
There are only two words for this destination … Blue Lagoon. That’s all you need to do when you’re there. OK, we’re kidding – there’s more to it than that – but it is something you simply HAVE to do. Also, what could be more whimsical and fantastic than a quaint picnic under the Northern Lights? Not surprisingly, Iceland has become a popular destination, but as for LGBT honeymoons, you will almost have to wait in line to get a ticket.
So there you have it, 10 of the best LGBT-friendly spots for a romantic honeymoon. And what makes them even special is that you’ll get to enjoy them while celebrating with that special someone you’ve pledged to love for the rest of your life. Send us a postcard!
