Welcome to #GoQueer - the travel newsletter for the LGBTQ+ community. We dish out insider tips, share epic lists of queer hotspots, and snag unbeatable deals so you can #LoveWhereYouGo.
This week:
This European capital is calling your name 😍
A roundup of the latest in queer travel news 🗞️
Plus this week’s best queer travel deals ✨
Oh, and btw: we don’t make any money from the content in this newsletter. We’re recommending these things because we actually love them.
Gay Paris is calling your name…
The city of light is calling—will you answer? As summer fast approaches, it’s time to consider a visit to one of the world’s most romantic cities: Paris. It’s also one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly cities in Europe, with hundreds of gay bars, hotels, clubs, shops, and more. In 2001, it elected the continent’s first gay mayor; and in 2013, when France legalized gay marriage and adoption, the city’s gayborhood erupted in celebrations. Plus, we hear the city is buzzing with excitement ahead of the Summer Olympics, which come to the French capital July 26 through August 11.
What to do: After you’ve trekked to the top of the Eiffel Tower and paid homage to the Mona Lisa, dive head first into the city's bustling LGBTQ+ community. Much of the community revolves around Le Marais, a medieval neighborhood near the center of town. Many of the city’s gay bars and nightclubs can be found in the southwestern section of the neighborhood near City Hall. Don’t forget to swing by Lagay Choc, a gay bakery with some—uh—naughty pastries. This local site has great guides to nightlife for all stripes: lesbian, gay, bi, and/or trans.
When to go: Summer is by far the busiest (which may be good or bad, depending on what you like) time in Paris. Many French-owned businesses close down in August, which could make travel hard elsewhere in the country, but most of Paris stays open. Paris holds its Pride near the end of June, full of festivities and circuit parties, all culminating in a massive parade: Marche des Fiertés on June 29. The city is also hosting the Summer Olympics and the Paralympic Games (August 28 through September 8), which may make accommodations hard to find (especially during the former).
Where to stay: Of course there are a TON of options in Paris for accommodations—from the budget traveler to the lover of luxury. Some of our favorites in Le Marais include the top-rated Le Général Hôtel, Hôtel Jules & Jim, and Le Relais du Marais.
Q&A Time:
Last week, we asked: would you fly on the Boeing planes with all the issues they’re having? Here are the results:
The gays have spoken
James says they felt safe: “I just had 2 flights, one to Bangkok with EVA and back to the states with Qatar. Both felt safe.”
Stormincreation voted it’s not worth it and said: “Hell no, my biggest phobia is falling and this would turn it from irrational to rationally fatal. Not risking it. ”
Bob also says it’s not worth it: “Actually I don’t have much faith in flying, dealing with obnoxious people, paying exorbitant fees for luggage, etc. I would rather drive and take our dog with us.” (Amen!)
This week, we’re asking the age-old question: Beach or mountains? You can tell us your thoughts after submitting your vote.
Would you rather go on a trip to the beach, or to the mountains?
21 Items all LGBTQ travelers need
We’ve all been there. You’ve just arrived at the hotel or the Airbnb, you’re unpacking your stuff and you realize… Oh f*ck, I forgot X! The time to prepare for this eventuality, is now, children. Take a look at these 21 must have travel accessories for LGBTQ+ travelers.
On the list:
Security checkpoint-safe sized WET Platinum lube 3 pack
Four pack of Apple AirTags on sale (!!)
Some *~Interesting~* Reads
News you may have missed on traveling, queers, and traveling queers 🗞️
Here’s how to get a guaranteed empty middle seat on your next flight
The ‘World’s Coolest Street’ has been named by Time Out - did your favorite make the list?
A new poll shows that the number of U.S. adults who identify as LGBTQ+ doubled in 12 years
Meanwhile, for the first time since 2015, a U.S. poll shows dropping support for LGBTQ+ protections
Want to maximize your 2024 travel? Here’s how to turn 11 days of PTO into 44 days of vacation, at least in the U.S.
Why it’s about to get even more expensive to visit the Galapagos
Airbnb just banned indoor security cameras in listings around the world (about time)
The new TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program is reportedly a game changer
Princess makeovers and $18K dinners: Here’s how to spend a fortune at Disney
Finally, bookmarking this just in case… here’s how to get through airport security without your ID
This Week’s *~Best Deals~*
We’re always on the hunt for top-tier experiences that welcome all and won’t break the bank—here are this week’s faves ✨
Disney World is offering their most discounted park tickets in years this spring and summer—including during Gay Days
Sail the Hawaiian Islands for 16 nights—for just $899
Explore national parks and other treasures from the comfort of a premium, hand-painted rainbow camper van at 40% off
Use the code ‘FLASH’ to get 25% off your stay at any boutique Pineapple hotel across the U.S.
Here’s another code: use 'SPRINGTRAVEL’ on Priceline to save an extra 10% (up to $60) on any hotel, flight, or car
This “Explore China” package will give travelers in select European countries free flights within China if you buy a roundtrip ticket to China (you have to download an app, it’s a whoel thing)
And, in honor of St. Patrick’s Day, this 8 day Ireland vacation (including flights and hotel) is $899
ok see you next time byeeeeee 😘😘
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