When it comes to LGBTQ-friendly travel destinations, Costa Rica, Toronto and Houston can’t be beat. Learn more about the top three global destinations for travel during Pride Month and beyond…
Pura Vida in Costa Rica
Pura Vida, “pure life” or the “simple life,” is Costa Rica’s motto. Basically, it means “don’t sweat the small stuff!” Put more emphasis on family, friends and love. Despite the country’s traditionally religious and macho reputation, Costa Rica’s pioneering attitude is leading the way for LGBTQ rights in Latin America. Same-sex marriage will be legalized this coming May, making this year’s Pride celebration one for the books. Costa Rica’s Gay Pride March, known as the Diversity March, will take place June 21 in San Jose. For couples looking to extend their stay in Costa Rica for a romantic, yet relaxing experience, Tabacón Thermal Resort and Spa, is perfect. Just a few hours away from San Jose, the resort's world-famous geothermal river and tropical rainforest vibes will provide a soothing contrast before or after the Pride excitement.
Toronto is for Film Lovers
It’s no surprise Toronto is ranked as one of the best LGBT cities in the world (third, after Madrid and Amsterdam). The Canadian city boasts a vibrant local gay dating scene and open-minded citizens. As a result, Toronto Pride (June 26-28)is one of the world’s largest Pride celebrations, with more than one million attendees. Even more, Toronto is also an incredible destination for film buffs in June.
- Inside Out (May 21-30) Canada’s Largest LGBTQ Film Festival, is the place to be. Offering a lineup packed with the best queer film from Canada and around the world, Inside Out is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2020.
- Breakthroughs Film Festival (June 15-16) is devoted entirely to short films created by female directors.
- Now in its 10thyear, the Open Roof Festival kicks off on June 19, offering music, beer, and feature movie screenings outdoors.
Houston is DiverCity
Just last year, Houston was named the most diverse city in the U.S. So it’s only fair that the theme for this year’s Pride Houston (June 27) is DiverCity. This multi-cultural metropolis is home to a myriad of ethnicities (more than 140 languages are spoken here!) and incredible international cuisine (more than 11,000 restaurants are waiting to be discovered!). And for more than 40 years, Pride Houston has presented one of the largest Pride festivals attended by 750,000+ people every year from all over the world. This year’s fabulous event takes place on June 27. Beyond Pride month, Houston is an LGBTQ-welcoming city in a traditionally conservative state. In the Montrose neighborhood, dreams come true at the brand new unicorn-themed Magical Dessert Bar. Indie film aficionados should check out QFest Houston, an annual international LGBTQ Film Festival held in July. Need to catch some Zs? Recently added Nap Bar, the brainchild of LGBTQ leader Khaliah Guillory, offers a quiet retreat for naps, with themed suites like the “Beyoncé” and the “NASA” where you can “pay-by-the-snooze.” And last but not least, late 2020 will see the completion of major developments including the Houston Botanic Garden and Museum of Fine Arts. Wherever you end up during Pride Month 2020, have fun and stay proud!
Tyler Wilcox : February 2, 2018
