Destination Bliss Volume 3 | Page 70

GAY-FRIENDLY food & drink adventure nightlife beaches By Lisa Kahan W ith thousands of same-sex couples getting married in the U.S. this year, the number of honeymoon destinations touting themselves as gay-friendly has skyrocketed. With more and more countries adopting marriage equality and anti- discrimination laws, there are now a wide variety of viable options, from far-flung international destinations to off-the-beaten path domestic escapes. Check out our list of this year’s top gay-friendly honeymoon hot spots where accepting locals go a long way toward making newlyweds feel welcome. Reykjavik, Iceland SITGES, SPAIN You’ll never be bored in Barcelona, but after your big day, you might need a little down time. Sitges, often referred to as the St. Tropez of Spain, is a small picturesque resort town about 25 miles southwest from the bustling capital. Here you’ll find beautiful beaches, quaint cobblestone streets and a plethora of gay-friendly bars, restaurants and clubs all within walking distance of the town’s charming boutique hotels. PUNTA MITA, MEXICO The gay mecca of Puerto Vallarta is famed for its raging party scene, but drive an hour south and you’ll find the quiet fishing village of Punta Mita. Known for its gentle surf, laid-back vibe and luxury resorts, this is the place for rest and relaxation. Spend lazy days on the beach or head out to the Marieta Islands to explore the diverse array of underwater wildlife. REYKJAVIK, ICELAND This quirky capital is quickly gaining in popularity as a honeymoon destination for those looking for an alternative to the beach. Beyond the famous Blue Lagoon, this trendy city is a cultural mecca with modern architecture and a thriving art scene. Travel about an hour outside the city, and you can spend a romantic night or two gazing at the Northern Lights. BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA Not everyone wants to spend their honeymoon laying on a beach or tucked away in some remote location. For those who want to celebrate their nuptials with a party, Buenos Aires is the best show in town. From clubs that rage through the night to a world-class culinary scene, this undeniably frenetic city is as much fun during the day as it is at night.