Couple exploring the world's best spots for LGBTQ+ travelers this summer

Gay Travel Magazine: 15 Unique Picks for Top Spot

A pool in Palm Springs, the most gay city in the California desert according to a top gay travel magazine

Let’s face it: gays travel different. I’d say better, but we all have our our perspectives. And while they’re becoming rarer than hen’s teeth, you can still find a gay travel magazine or two hopping around.

They’re a fantastic way to travel while staying connected to LGBTQ+ culture. They go beyond your standard guidebook. They’re not just about where to go—they help build community and offer fresh, inclusive perspectives on the world.

Ready to discover the best gay travel magazines? Let’s get into it:

The Best Gay Travel Magazines

Gay man who gets to explore the deserts outside of the city of Las Vegas

These publications go deeper than where to stay or eat. They bring you into the heart of local LGBTQ+ communities. They do so through stories, interviews, and guides to cultural events and festivals. Traveling isn’t just about where you go, after all—it’s the experiences you have along the way.

Here’s a roundup of some top picks to gain a whole new meaning to travel. Get on their free newsletter so you don’t miss out on gay travel inspiration galore:

  1. Passport Magazine Think of Passport as your trusty travel buddy. It’s the only print LGBTQ+ travel mag still in the U.S., packed with articles, destination guides, and tips. They’ve got your back whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip.

  2. OUT Traveler Luxury, budget-friendly trips, or anything in between, OUT Traveler has you covered. They dish out travel tips and destination highlights that cater to LGBTQ+ travelers. You’re sure to find your perfect adventure.

  3. Gayletter A little artsy, a little cultural, and totally independent. Gayletter mixes travel with personal stories and interviews. And alll while focused on contemporary LGBTQ+ culture. It’s popular with gay men, of course. But, in reality, it’s got a little bit for everyone.

  4. Hello Mr. This one’s all about personal stories with an artistic twist. Hello Mr. serves up travel narratives that connect with the LGBTQ+ community. Readers get a deep dive into local culture through a unique lens.

  5. Gay Times Around since 1984, Gay Times is a heavyweight in LGBTQ+ media. They do more than just travel—expect stories on everything from destinations to LGBTQ-friendly events. If it’s worth knowing, they’re covering it.

  6. Jarry Magazine Love food? Jarry is your go-to. It highlights LGBTQ-friendly chefs, restaurants, and culinary hotspots. It’s ideal, as the way to a traveler’s heart is through their stomach, IMHO.

  7. Connextions Magazine: This award-winning gay travel magazine showcases stunning travel photos and videos next to detailed guides. Their focus is on the best LGBTQ+ destinations and accommodations. It’s a one-stop-shop for an unforgettable trip.

  8. Spartacus Famous for its travel guides. Spartacus also publishes a magazine loaded with tips and insights for gay travelers. It’s a must if you’re looking for detailed travel advice.

LGBTQ+ travel magazines focused on cultural experiences

Charming house in P-Town

Want more than a list of places to stay?

Same here.

There are some amazing LGBTQ+ travel magazines that go deep into the heart of:

  • Local communities

  • Art scenes

  • Cultural exchanges

When it comes to LGBTQ+ travel, it’s not just about where you go, but how you connect with the culture. Here are a few to check out:

  1. Passport Magazine

  2. OUT Traveler

  3. Gayletter

  4. Hello Mr.

  5. Jarry Magazine

  6. Connextions Magazine

LGBTQ+ travel magazines that focus on culinary travel

Crepes for breakfast in Florida

If you’re into food and travel, Jarry Magazine is like your dream come true. It blends LGBTQ+ travel with a serious love for all things culinary. Plenty of LGBTQ+ travel mags might toss in the occasional foodie story, but Jarry puts it front and center:

  • Focuses on LGBTQ+ chefs, restaurants, and food cultures

  • Shares personal stories, interviews, and even recipes

  • Offers travel tips with a tasty twist, highlighting LGBTQ-friendly hospitality

  • Explores food scenes that connect deeply with LGBTQ+ communities

LGBTQ+ travel magazines covering LGBTQ+ travel events and festivals

Travellers descend upon the country of Germany for Pride festivals

Are Pride festivals and gay events more your style? Then there are some great LGBTQ+ travel magazines and resources for you. Whether you want to dance at Pride festivals or explore a local arts scene, these options will help get you there:

  1. Passport Magazine

  2. OUT Traveler

  3. Connextions Magazine

  4. IGLTA (International LGBTQ+ Travel Association) – Not a magazine, per se. That said, their global event calendar is the goldmine for LGBTQ+ festivals—music, art, food, you name it.

The best LGBTQ+ travel guides for international destinations

Brussels, the center of Europe, during Pride festivals

Here are some go-to resources for gay travelers hitting the world stage on your next adventure:

  • IGLTA – With guides, events, and LGBTQ-friendly places in over 80 countries, they’ve got your back.

  • Spartacus – Covering gay and bi men’s events like Pride and gay ski weeks for over 50 years.

  • Purple Roofs – Need a place to stay? They list LGBTQ-friendly spots in 200+ countries.

  • World Rainbow Hotels – Curated lists of gay-friendly hotels worldwide.

  • Travels of Adam – This blog brings personal stories and LGBTQ+ travel tips from across the globe.

  • GayTravel.com – Destinations, hotels, cruises—whatever you’re planning, they’ve got tips.

  • Mr Hudson Explores – Gay-friendly city guides with a focus on luxury and lifestyle.

  • TravelGay – Detailed guides for LGBTQ+ travelers heading to cities all around the world.

  • Government Travel Advice – Both the UK and US offer LGBTQ-specific travel advice, including info on local laws and customs. Nothing racy, but super practical.

LGBTQ+ travel guides focused on queer-friendly hotels

Couple walking along a beach

Plan a weekend getaway or a full-blown international adventure with these guides. Here are some solid resources to help you find the perfect place to stay:

  1. Purple Roofs: This directory is all about inclusivity. If you’re looking for queer-owned or LGBTQ-friendly accommodations worldwide, this is your spot. It’s the yellow pages for fabulous places to crash.

  2. World Rainbow Hotels: These folks have handpicked a selection of gay-friendly hotels from around the globe. No guesswork—just great places to rest your head.

  3. IGLTA (International LGBTQ+ Travel Association): With listings in over 80 countries, IGLTA lets you search for LGBTQ-friendly hotels. So no matter where you’re headed, you’ll find a welcoming stay.

  4. Travels of Adam: A popular gay travel blog that gives honest reviews and recommendations for LGBTQ-friendly hotels. Adam’s got your back when it comes to finding a safe and friendly spot.

  5. GayTravel.com: Your go-to for info on gay-friendly hotels, cruises, and all kinds of travel resources. They’ve been around for a while, so they know the ropes.

Lesbian couple on the journey of life, visiting paradise

If you want real stories and tips from LGBTQ+ travelers, check out these blogs. They’re packed with advice, and destination guides. Plus, more than a few hilarious travel mishaps:

  1. GayCities – Your go-to guide for the best gay bars, hotels, restaurants, and events in over 220 cities. It’s like Yelp, but gayer.

  2. Gay Travel – Need info on LGBTQ-friendly destinations, hotels, and tours? GayTravel.com has you covered. Think of it as your virtual travel agent.

  3. OUT Traveler – A great spot for guides to beaches, vacation spots, and LGBTQ culture worldwide. You’ll get plenty of travel tips here.

  4. Travels of Adam – Adam shares his personal travel stories and LGBTQ insights, making this blog feel like a chat with a well-traveled friend.

  5. Couple of Men – These guys are sharing their adventures as a gay couple traveling the globe. They’ve got tips on everything from safety to romantic getaways.

  6. Ravi Round the World – Ravi is a queer activist who mixes travel with personal stories and insights into LGBTQ+ culture. His blog’s a fun read with lots of heart.

  7. The Nomadic Boys – Another gay couple with a passion for adventure. They travel far and wide, sharing their tips and experiences in different LGBTQ+ communities.

  8. Gay Travel 4U – If you’re all about gay circuit parties and Pride events, this blog’s got the inside scoop on the hottest gatherings around the world.

Tl;dr

LGBTQ+ travel magazines aren’t just your run-of-the-mill guides—they’re like getting a personal tour of the global LGBTQ+ community. Whether you’re looking for a welcoming hotel, a foodie adventure, or the best Pride festival, these publications have your back, offering stories and cultural insights that make any trip more meaningful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes gay travel magazines different from regular ones?

Gay travel magazines focus on LGBTQ+ friendly experiences, making sure you connect with local queer communities and feel safe and welcomed, wherever you roam.

Are any gay travel magazines still in print?

Yep! Passport Magazine is the last print LGBTQ+ travel mag in the U.S., full of destination guides, travel tips, and more.

Which LGBTQ+ travel magazine focuses on food?

Jarry Magazine is your go-to for everything culinary, shining a light on LGBTQ+ chefs, restaurants, and foodie experiences around the world.

Where can I find LGBTQ+ events and festivals?

Check out IGLTA (International LGBTQ+ Travel Association). They’ve got a global calendar of LGBTQ+ events, from Pride to arts festivals.

How do I find LGBTQ+ friendly hotels?

Try Purple Roofs and World Rainbow Hotels—both have solid lists of queer-owned and LGBTQ+ friendly places to stay.

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