The Top Five LGBT Honeymoon Destinations
By Sarah McBrien
With countries all over the world rapidly following suit with marriage equality, it’s a better time than ever to plan a visit to one of them to enjoy your honeymoon. As it is the location you will be spending your first days of marriage in, it’s imperative that your foreign paradise be the perfect place for you and your new spouse. We’ve put together our top five favourite LGBT friendly honeymoon locations for you to pour through. Whether you dream of concrete jungles or beach bonanzas there’s something here for you and your partner so get ready to plan your next adventure!
Costa Rica – Having just celebrated their own marriage equality vote earlier this year, Costa Rica is quickly becoming the honeymoon frontrunner of the Caribbean. The country is a true island paradise for beach lovers and adventurers alike, featuring lush rain forests, volcanos and a rich wildlife set to rival the Amazon itself. The capital, San Jose, is a marvel of Columbian architecture and you’re guaranteed to enjoy the fun loving and laidback culture native Costa Rican’s pride themselves on. Lesbian owned Buenas Vibraciones Bar is a good place to start for the nightlife but be assured, Costa Rica will take you where you need to go.
New York – As the birthplace of the Gay Pride movement and the infamous ‘club kid’ scene from the ‘90s that normalised drag culture, the Big Apple is guaranteed to give you the city-slicking honeymoon you so desire. Explore the famous landmarks by day and experience the world-class bars and clubs by night, and be sure to check if any of your favourite local drag queens are playing a show while you’re there to heighten your trip. To get the full experience, spend time in the Greenwich Village, Chelsea and Hell’s Kitchen neighbourhoods which hold the heart of New York’s gay culture.
Cape Town – South Africa is known as one of the most gay-friendly locations in the world, and Cape Town is no different. Offering golden sandy beaches, cable car tours of the awe-inspiring mountains, and once-in-a-lifetime safari experiences, Cape Town is the definition of a bucket list location. For shopping lovers, the lively city has everything from eclectic street markets to luxury boutiques. Café Manhattan is one of the many gay hotspots famous for it’s amazing food, drinks, weekly live performances and art exhibitions.
Las Vegas – Another American option, but with a totally different feel. Las Vegas draws thousands of newlyweds each year for its lavish hotels, thrilling gambling and dazzling entertainment. Make the most of it and have Elvis himself – or as close as you’re going to get – re-wed you and your spouse while you’re there. Sin City was built to give you an experience unlike any other, and with icons like Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Celine Dion and Mariah Carey all holding residencies in Vegas in recent years, check out Planet Hollywood’s line-up during your trip for something truly spectacular. When it comes to gay culture, the world-renowned Piranha Nightclub is located in the centre of the so called “Fruit Loop” area to mix up your nightlife.
Sydney – Our final international destination is one for the sun lovers. Spend your days tanning on one of the city’s world-class beaches or exploring the bustling city centre jam-packed with shops, landmarks, museums and eateries. By night, head along to Taylor Square, the local gay districts’ base camp, for the best variety of shows and nightclubs. Get the full experience and spend a day on one of the many ferry tours to explore the coastline and get some more info on the areas’ history. One such ferry will take you to the infamous clothing-optional Lady Jane Beach if you’re up for a little adventure.
