Newsletter 244: Caribbean & Antarctica Cruises, Gay Sailing + Surprising Gay-Friendly Destinations & More!

In partnership with

The Caribbean Cruise of Your Wet Dreams in 2025

The Caribbean is as close to paradise on Earth as it gets! Join us as we host a gay group trip on a brand new route embarking from Miami out into tropical waters from February 22 – March 2, 2025. We’re teaming up with Virgin Voyages for an 8-night round-trip from Miami, porting at four Caribbean islands: The Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, St. Croix and - Virgin Voyages’ very own Bahamas Island - Beach Club at Bimini. Virgin Voyages is an adults-only cruise line who has crafted cruising into a fine art. Their vessel, the Scarlet Lady, is a floating adult playground, where there’s always something new to do…or eat…or drink! Expect an eclectic range of international restaurants, drag queen bingo, dazzling performances, themed parties -  be sure to pack some red for the Scarlet Night - and much more. Our group trip will offer daily group dinners, shore excursions, private cocktail parties, activities & its own share of surprises.

MULTIPLE SPECIAL OFFERS!

#1 - Low-priced, cabin-share opportunity! Share a Sea Terrace cabin with a long-time, trusted guest, including a separate bed for just $1,000.

#2 - Book a Solo Insider Cabin for just $2,371.

#3 - Florida & Georgia residents can save an additional 15%.

Contact us if you’re interested in any of these offers. All prices in US Dollars. Terms apply, first come, first served. Offers may not be combinable.

This newsletter was written in collaboration with one or more travel brands or businesses. We may receive compensation when you click the links and make a purchase. Read our full advertising policy here.

Join GNETWORK for LGBTQ+ Tourism Conference in Madrid

LGBTQ+ Tourism embodies positive change in the world. Come be a part of that change at GNETWORK MAD 2024, on November 12–13 at the VP Plaza España Design Hotel in Madrid. The free, two-day event is open to all within the diverse world of LGBTQ+ tourism. It includes conferences, debates, and networking events with the participation of national and international experts; including representatives from destinations such as Buenos Aires and Fort Lauderdale. GNETWORK MAD 2024 is a space where professionals across the industry can connect, exchange knowledge, and discuss synergies that respond to the needs of the LGBTQ+ community. The cosmopolitan and open-minded city of Madrid makes for the perfect host for the event, consistently having been at the forefront of LGBTQ+ Tourism for the past decade. Book your place now before seats run out!

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH GNETWORK MADRID

Somewhere Under the Rainbow – 5 Surprising Gay-Friendly Places Around the World

“Gay-friendly” is a phrase that’s bandied about a lot these days, and it can mean different things. It could simply mean that a place has laws to protect LGBTQ+ people from prejudice, and you won’t run into trouble holding your loved one’s hand or booking a double bed in a hotel. Or it could mean a welcoming local populace that doesn’t frown as you pass or ask awkward questions when booking that aforementioned bed. It could even go as far as meaning an openly active LGBTQ+ community and a thriving gay nightlife scene. It’s fair to say the term has become somewhat subjective. Here are five up-and-coming gay hotspots across the world that one could truly call “gay-friendly.”

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Gay Travel Guide to Istanbul

Istanbul is quite literally where East meets West. In fact, it is the world’s only transcontinental city, with the Bosphorus Strait running through the city and dividing it into a European and an Asian side. The influences of both continents combine within Istanbul’s culture, cuisine, and the more liberal attitudes of its people—at least in comparison to its neighbors. However, Istanbul is very much its own place with a strong personality. Although Istanbul has a surprisingly large gay nightlife scene and is relatively tolerant, it’s important to remember that this is still a city within an Islamic country, where conservative values influence society. However, as long as you proceed with a little discretion, you’ll find the people of Istanbul to be some of the most welcoming in the world, more than happy to show off their dynamic city to all visitors, LGBTQ+ or otherwise.