 There’s something irresistibly enchanting about the open sea, the gentle sway of the waves, and the promise of endless horizons. Cruising offers a unique blend of luxury, adventure, and relaxation that few other travel experiences can match. Imagine waking up each day in a new, exotic destination, all while enjoying world-class amenities and unparalleled views from your floating hotel. Whether lounging by the pool, attending dazzling onboard shows and entertainment, indulging in gourmet dining, or exploring vibrant ports of call, a cruise promises a seamless escape from the everyday. It’s a chance to unwind, discover new places, and immerse yourself in a carefree journey where the only thing you need to focus on is enjoying the ride.
When picking your home on the water, LGBT guests like myself are often concerned with the atmosphere aboard the ship and whether or not it’s welcoming to the community. I’ve been delighted to find cruise ships increasingly cater to LGBT guests through not only inclusive amenities and entertainment but various inclusive practices and anti-discrimination policies. Many cruise lines offer a variety of events specifically for LGBT travelers, such as mixers, themed parties, and entertainment featuring LGBT artists. These ships often host Pride celebrations and provide LGBT-focused shore excursions, reflecting the local LGBT culture in port cities. Onboard facilities and services are designed to accommodate same-sex couples and families, with dedicated staff trained to ensure a welcoming environment. Additionally, some cruise lines partner with LGBT organizations to stay informed on best practices for inclusivity and understand the importance of not only welcoming LGBT guests but also creating an on-ship atmosphere for LGBT guests to feel that welcome right off the bat. Let’s take a look at some of the most inclusive cruise lines! In an increasingly connected world, travel offers an opportunity to explore different cultures that will last a lifetime. For LGBTQ+ travelers, finding destinations that are welcoming and inclusive is not just about comfort—it's about safety and celebration. LGBTQ+ friendly destinations provide spaces where individuals can express themselves freely, participate in vibrant local cultures, and connect with supportive communities. Such destinations stand out not only for their acceptance but also for their proactive efforts to create inclusive environments. They often feature LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations, lively events, and cultural landmarks that celebrate diversity. By choosing to visit these places, travelers not only enrich their own experiences but also support and uplift local LGBTQ+ communities. In this post, we’ll highlight three top LGBTQ+ friendly destinations where you can enjoy a warm welcome, vibrant local scenes, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re looking for a bustling city or a relaxed getaway, these destinations offer something special for everyone.   Montreal is a must-visit destination known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, rich cultural diversity, and culinary excellence. Celebrated for its inclusive atmosphere, the city’s Gay Village is a lively hub with colorful murals, bustling Pride events, and a plethora of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs. Montreal's multicultural character is reflected in its eclectic cuisine, from famous bagels and smoked meats to innovative fine dining, and its diverse neighborhoods. The city’s year-round festivals, like Just for Laughs and the Montreal International Jazz Festival, add to its dynamic energy. At the same time, its stunning architecture—from historic Old Montreal to modern landmarks like the Montreal Biosphere—offers visual delight. With its welcoming residents and extensive green spaces, such as Mount Royal Park, Montreal provides a warm and enriching experience, making it a standout destination for those seeking both adventure and a sense of belonging.
Aside from the Gay Village, Mile End is renowned for its LGBTQ+ friendly spaces, where everyone can feel at home. The neighborhood’s inclusive nature is evident in its local businesses and social venues, which embrace diversity and cater to a variety of interests. Two local spots are Cafe Neve and La Banquise. Cafe Neve: This cozy café is a popular gathering spot for the LGBTQ+ community and allies alike. Known for its friendly service and excellent coffee, Cafe Neve offers a relaxed atmosphere where patrons can enjoy a casual chat or work on their laptops. The café’s open and welcoming environment makes it a favorite among locals and visitors. La Banquise: While not exclusively LGBTQ+ focused, La Banquise is a beloved Montreal institution famous for its poutine. The restaurant is known for its inclusive atmosphere and friendly staff, making it a great place to experience a quintessential Montreal dish in a welcoming setting. Montreal Pride, held annually in August, is one of Canada’s largest and most vibrant LGBTQ+ celebrations. The festival transforms the city’s Gay Village into a bustling hub of color and activity, featuring the Grande Parade as its centerpiece. This lively parade showcases elaborate floats, live music, and a festive procession that winds through the streets, attracting thousands of participants and spectators. Alongside the parade, Montreal Pride hosts a variety of events, including drag shows, dance parties, and panel discussions, all celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of community. The festival’s inclusive spirit makes it a major highlight for both locals and visitors. Just for Laughs, the world’s largest comedy festival, takes place every July in Montreal and incorporates a range of LGBTQ+ focused events. The festival’s programming includes “Comedy Queer Night,” which highlights LGBTQ+ comedians and their unique perspectives. This event, along with others in the festival, showcases diverse comedic talent and brings together audiences in a celebration of humor and inclusivity. Just for Laughs offers a platform for LGBTQ+ voices and experiences, contributing to Montreal’s reputation as a city that embraces both cultural and comedic diversity. Montreal boasts several LGBTQ+ friendly hotels that offer both comfort and inclusivity. Hotel Gault, situated in Old Montreal, combines luxury with modern design and is renowned for its welcoming environment and exceptional service. Hotel Monville, located downtown, stands out for its sleek, contemporary style and rooftop terrace with panoramic views, making it a convenient choice for exploring LGBTQ+ hotspots. Le St-Martin Hotel Particulier Montreal offers elegant accommodations in the vibrant Golden Square Mile, providing a luxurious stay close to shopping and cultural sites. Hotel Le Germain Montreal, known for its chic design and central location, is a favorite for its inclusive attitude and proximity to the Gay Village. Lastly, Auberge du Vieux-Port, with its historic charm and riverfront location in Old Montreal, provides a friendly atmosphere and easy access to local events and must-sees. Each of these hotels is committed to creating a welcoming experience for LGBTQ+ travelers. About Me  Welcome to That Travel Blog! My name is Sasha Dall (they/them/theirs), and I'm a 23-year-old social work student with a passion for writing about my experiences with travel. I currently live just outside of Chicago, with my girlfriend and our, of course, four cats. While studying to become a therapist, also hope to experience the world and the various ways culture and upbringing affect the ways someone views the world. And I believe that the best way to create an understanding of the world is to go out and view it. Aside from my personal love, I originally grew up with a love for travel through both of my parents, my mother being from an immigrant family and the owner of That Travel Lady, and my father being from Denmark. My early days were spent taking the 8-hour journey between the United States and Denmark, growing up experiencing the blend of multiple cultures and the ways intersectionality between these identities affects the very core of who I am. I traveled frequently at a young age, experiencing different cultures throughout the Caribbean and Central America. Personally, my favorite part of traveling is experiencing live music and dining in different countries. Something amazing is shared without exchanging words when experiencing another cuisine or performance from another country. I'm a thorough believer that if you have the chance to see the world, there's nothing more important than taking it. Travel as the L and the T I originally came out as a lesbian in the year 2013, and out as non-binary the following year. While I'll spare you the details of my identity, my relationship with gender is largely tied to my experience as a butch lesbian. And, of course, when visibly gay, I do run into concerns regarding the destinations I visit and the environments I stay in. Many countries are not LGBT-safe, and I have to take into account my specific safety and comfort needs when traveling abroad. But I've never let even negative experiences while traveling alter my love for experiencing the world, just altered my recommendations to other LGBT travelers. It brings me great peace of mind to keep updated with local laws and policies regarding same-sex marriage and logging the general atmosphere towards LGBT individuals I experience when visiting other countries. My Goal My greatest goal when creating this blog is to share tips and locations for LGBT people to create unforgettable memories while celebrating themselves in welcoming environments. I want to help travelers navigate the specific concerns an LGBT person might have when looking to spend time abroad. Most of all, I want to share my experiences and opinions on specific destinations and accommodations to give my readers and LGBT travelers the greatest peace of mind when creating the trip of their dreams.  |
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