12 LGBTQIA+-friendly destinations that deserve more recognition in 2024

In a world where LGBTQIA+ travelers are seeking new and exciting destinations to explore, there are several underrated and LGBTQIA+-friendly cities that are gaining popularity. These cities offer a mix of culture, history, and vibrant queer scenes that make them ideal vacation spots for the LGBTQIA+ community.

One such city is Merida, Mexico, a rich blend of Mayan and Spanish colonial history. This beautiful city is not only steeped in culture but also extremely LGBTQIA+-friendly, with several gay bars and businesses owned or staffed by queer individuals. The city’s historic core, shady parks, and vibrant cafes make it a sophisticated yet relaxed destination for LGBTQIA+ travelers.

Another hidden gem is Salt Lake City, Utah, nestled against the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains. This midsize metropolis has a thriving LGBTQIA+ community and hosts a vibrant Pride celebration each year. With a long tradition of liberal politics and a wealth of inviting queer-owned businesses, Salt Lake City offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ visitors.

Sunny and scenic Salt Lake City is an island of inclusivity and progressive values in a region that otherwise tends to be conservative. This midsize metropolis nestled against the foothills of the magnificent Wasatch Mountains has a thriving LGBTQIA+ community and hosts a vibrant Pride celebration each year in early June. The city has a long tradition of liberal politics (the mayor from 2016 through 2020, Jackie Biskupski, is openly lesbian), and there’s a wealth of inviting queer-owned businesses in Salt Lake City, from hopping nightspots like Milk+ and Club Try-Angles to