Hotels with Pride: LGBTQ Hit the Beach
The month of June has been a celebratory one for the LGBTQ community as it is the official month of pride! Many LGBTQ travelers assume incorrectly when picking a vacation spot. While many think some destinations are off limits, others forget which islands frown upon gay travelers. It’s amazing how much progress has been made but there is still some work ahead. Jamaica in particular is regarded as unwelcoming to gay travelers. Barbados and The Cayman Islands also deserve to be shamed! However, there are many beautiful islands that share the Caribbean hospitality with all travelers regardless of who you love.
ZOËTRY VILLA ROLANDI (ISLA MUJERES/CANCUN)
Your trip starts before you even arrive to the resort as hotel guests are transported to the private island via private yacht. Sounds like a Kardashian styled vacation already, no? The hotel offers a secluded, luxurious, low-key retreat while focusing on holistic wellness.
FLORIS SUITE HOTEL (CURACAO)
Curacao has a reputation for being particularly welcoming to LGBTQ travelers. The island is even the first to host the annual Caribbean Gay Spring Break Festival. The Floris hotel offers a fun atmosphere for guests. Another plus is the concierge’s “Out and About” guide, which will help LGBTQ couples find gay-friendly activities throughout the island.
HYATT ZIVA (PUERTO VALLARTA, MEXICO)
Puerto Vallarta is a hot LGBTQ travel destination and the Hyatt Ziva chain has a wonderful reputation with the community, being honored 14 years in a row as one of the best places to work for LGBTQ equality. BRAVO, HYATT! Helpful tip: For some extra privacy and luxury, reserve a one-bedroom with a private plunge pool or splurge with a two-story presidential suite. And, when you’re not looking to relax, the hotel is just a quick ride away from fabulous nightlife, restaurants, shops and bars.
VALENTIN IMPERIAL (RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO)
Regardless of who you love, the Valentin Imperial is a good choice for all. The all-inclusive, adult-only property is a popular choice amongst all travelers, except the kids! Leave them home! looking somewhere to tie the knot? This is a great spot to consider.
ROYAL HAWAIIAN (HAWAII)
Since the 2013 passing of the Hawaii Marriage Equality Act, Maui has been a popular pick for same-sex travelers, destination weddings and honeymoons. The most recognizable hotel on Waikiki Beach, the Royal Hawaiian, is one of the best on the island and within walking distance to the best dining, shopping, swimming, and beach activities. The bright pink palace, is the creme of la creme of hotels in Honolulu.
BELMOND LA SAMANNA (ST. MARTIN)
Whether staying on the Dutch or French side of the island, St Martin aka St Maarteen is proud to accept all types of travelers. The French side has the clothing optional Cupecopy Beach and the famous drag show at L’Escargot, while the Dutch side has the Orient nude beach. Sounds like a good time! Stop blushing! The Belmond La Samanna is certified by the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association.
ARUBA MARRIOTT RESORT (ARUBA)
Aruba is known for being “one happy island”, and that happiness should go for all its travelers, and it does! The Aruba Marriott is popular with he LGBTQ traveler, with its H2Oasis adult pool, great restaurants and casino action at the Stellaris Casino. The spacious guest rooms have upscale bedding, high-tech amenities and some of the largest balconies in Aruba. The island is outside the hurricane belt making it a safe destination to travel to year round.
EDEN ROC CAP CANA (DOMINICAN REPUBLIC)
Enjoy the “suite life” at this hidden gem! Punta Cana, DR and surrounding areas are ideal for kicking up your feet and relaxing. The Eden Roc is no exception. The hotel welcomes all guests! The service is impeccable, known for pampering their guests. The design of the hotel is gorgeous – think the Italian and French Rivieras, and well, let’s face it, if only we all had an eye for the finer things in life like the gay community. The design, food, amenities, service and all, easily makes this one of the best properties on the island.
SAN JUAN MARRIOTT & CASINO (PUERTO RICO)
The U.S.A. territory host an annual gay pride celebration in San Juan. Condado Beach is a popular tourist spot and in the middle of the gay-friendly zone. Right in the heart of it, is the San Juan Marriott Resort. When you’re not relaxing at the pool, take advantage of the exciting nightlife scene. Puerto Rico is always a good idea!
