Destination Bliss Volume 5 | Page 101

1 SITGES, SPAIN 2 NEW ORLEANS You’ll never be bored in Barcelona, but after your big day, you might need a little downtime. Sitges, often referred to as the St. Tropez of Spain, is a small picturesque resort town about 25 miles southwest from Barcelona. 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. The Big Easy has a romantic allure that’s hard to deny if you’re looking for an LGBTQ-friendly destination in the U.S. Whether you visit for the vibrant live music scene, the Creole cuisine or to wander the city’s beautiful historic neighborhoods, New Orleans won’t disappoint. The best time to visit is the spring or fall when the temperature is just right for languid strolls and evenings spent outside listening to the music that made the city famous. 4 REYKJAVIK, ICELAND 5 NAPA VALLEY 6 BUENOS AIRES The gay mecca of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, 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. This quirky capital is quickly gaining in popularity as a honeymoon destination for same-sex couples looking for an alternative to the beach. Beyond the famous Blue Lagoon, Iceland 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. For wine and food connoisseurs, Napa Valley is the destination of a lifetime. It doesn’t get much more idyllic than Napa’s gently rolling hills, especially when viewed from the seat of a bike as you cruise between wineries. With no shortage of luxury resorts and intimate boutique hotels, this is the gay-friendly honeymoon destination you’ll never want to leave. 7 PORTLAND, MAINE 8 BORA BORA If lighthouses and lobsters are more your speed, Portland is an under- the-radar honeymoon destination worth considering. Outdoor adventure is the name of the game here, from skiing and snowmobiling in the winter, to sailing and hiking during the summer. Friendly, open-minded locals and an accessible, walkable downtown make this a welcoming choice for those looking for a break from the bustle of the big city. This tropical paradise is the quintessential honeymoon destination. Romantic to the end, the tiny gay- friendly island has some of the world’s most luxurious resorts, with overwater bungalows being the de rigueur accommodation choice. The 7.5-hour flight from L.A. is a bit of a haul, but if a dreamy destination is what you’re seeking, Bora Bora won’t let you down. 3 PUNTA MITA, MEXICO Not everyone wants to spend their honeymoon lying 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 South America. 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. This place doubles as great wedding and honeymoon destination for both you and your wedding party to enjoy like an extended LGBTQ-friendly vacation!