An Italian Travel quote - Ogni viaggio lo vivi tre volte: quando lo sogni, quando lo vivi, e quando lo ricordi
Translation: Every trip is lived three times: When you dream of it, when you go and when you remember it.
Today there is a massive amount of pent-up demand to travel. In fact, the #1 purchase priority currently is to travel. In addition to that, many people have more cash to spend on their next trip after months of reduced spending due to staying at home.
As we press through the pandemic, our ability to connect physically with others has been dramatically reduced. The result is that we are now craving human connections and interactions more than ever before. Travel is the solution, but it may not be the best time for you yet. When is the right time? That depends on a number of variables, including your personal living situation, age, health, and vaccination status. No matter your current situation, a proper time will eventually arrive and be right for you.
While your time to travel might be delayed, that need not stop you from dreaming up your travel plans. A number of research studies have determined that planning your next trip can improve your mental health. The anticipation of traveling alone will create a feeling of happiness.
In fact, according to a study by Cornell University, just thinking about travel can make you happy, much happier than when you are buying material goods. Another study out of the U.K revealed that people are happiest after they have a planned vacation. So let’s get started.
When planning your next trip, here are eight things to start thinking about.
Think Local
As things become safer and the days grow longer many travelers will venture OUT. Many will start out with road trips driving their own vehicles, and avoiding any type of mass transit.
Think Diversity and Inclusion
Most gay travelers (and allies) are more inclined to support destinations and accommodations that are welcoming as well as focused on the needs of a diverse clientele. All of us are more comfortable visiting or staying somewhere we are most welcome. See Black Travel Alliance and GayTravel.com for recommendations, information, and inspiration.
Think Less Population Density
The less-dense the population at your destination, the lower the probability of exposure to the virus. Small towns off the beaten path will become more popular with gay travelers who also want to support small independent merchants who have been decimated by the travel slow down.
Think Domestic Travel Over International
Less red tape and shorter travel time mean less time in close proximity to others. Consider 2020 Gay Travel AwardsSM winning airline Cape Air that serves 36 destinations across the Northeast, Cape Cod & the Islands, the Midwest, Eastern Montana, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. No passport is required to travel to the US Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico. If you want to have the plane to yourself and those you love, then Cape Air provides private charter flights as well.
Puerto Rico is a very easy trip. Of course, we suggest you heed advice to social distance, wear a mask, and follow the local safety protocols. The beaches are closed on Sundays, but they open the rest of the week to those swimming, surfing, and exercising. There are a number of Casinos for those wishing to indulge.
Old San Juan, the former walled city and now historic district are where you’ll find pastel-hued colonial structures lining cobbled streets. Connoisseurs will enjoy the culture, history, and architecture. We highly recommend these hotels in or near San Juan: Aloft San Juan, San Juan Marriott Resort & Stellaris Casino, Sheraton Puerto Rico Hotel & Casino, and Sheraton Old San Juan.
The entire island is easy to explore, so plan an extended visit and drive a short distance outside of San Juan to stay with two-time GayTravel Award Winner Dorado Beach, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and The St. Regis Bahia Beach Resort, a GayTravel Approved Luxury® resort where you can bask in the good life!
The US Virgin Islands is also an easy hop-skip-and-a-jump from the U.S. On St. Thomas, all-inclusive Bolongo Bay is an excellent choice or the newly refurbished The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas, situated on a gorgeous spot on the East end with views of the British Virgin Islands.
On St. Croix, you’ll find Sand Castle on the Beach, the island’s LGBTQ best secret. Be sure and dine on the sand just a few feet from the surf.
If You Want to Travel Internationally, Think About Nearby Destinations
When flying Internationally, the closer, the better. You’ll need to do your homework in advance and be sure to follow local requirements.
For those departing from the East Coast, the Dutch Caribbean is always an idyllic and temperate getaway.
Bonaire has been under the radar for far too long, and for gay travelers, it’s a smart choice. The island is part of the Dutch trio of islands called the ABCs, located in the Leeward Antilles. Thanks to its connection to the inclusive Netherlands, Bonaire is one of the most gay-friendly islands in the Caribbean. Most who venture here come to dive or snorkel the stunning coral reefs or windsurf /kiteboard the postcard-perfect beaches. Still, there are plenty of fun experiences in the capital city of Kralendijk, where shops and restaurants occupy vibrant buildings.
Where to Stay? Make it easy and hop off the plane, and head straight to Courtyard Bonaire Dive Resort where waves of relaxation will wash over you. You'll feel like you're staying in a Caribbean fairy tale with its colorful, Caribbean architecture. The gay-friendly staff will make you feel welcome and right at home.
Or, experience “glamping” at Red Palm Village. Its incredible hospitality, laid-back vacation vibe can only be fully appreciated by spending time there. You’ll have your own private lodge where you can cook and eat, or if you want to be served, the restaurant is outdoors.
Our Mexican neighbors to the South are another option. As of January 1st, 2021, Americans can travel to Mexico by air but are not permitted to travel across the border by land for non-essential purposes until at least January 21st, 2021.
Super-chic Los Cabos and more laid-back San José del Cabo are popular with West Coasters looking for dazzling beaches, golf, watersports, and other activities conducive to social distancing. Be sure to take an excursion to view the Iconic "El Arco" rock formation, now the most recognizable symbol of the area.
Gay travelers will want to make reservations at these inclusive resorts and hotels: Hilton Los Cabos Beach & Golf Resort; JW Marriott Los Cabos Beach Resort & Spa; and Zadún, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve.
6. Think Private Yacht Charter in Belize
Gay travelers will be able to chart their own course when they hop on board a private yacht. It’s a surprisingly affordable, luxurious, and safe way to travel. Your lodging, food, libation, and tours are taken care of in one fell sloop. Once aboard, your stress will blow away as your captain and crew takeover and sail you to beautiful places. Xsite Belize Sailing & Adventures is a super gay-friendly and simple way to get away from it all. The US Department of State gives up-to-date travel warnings about Belize, so be sure to check with them before booking. Xsite Belize will get you from the airport so you can avoid the rougher neighborhoods away from the islands.
7. Think Up and Coming and Off the Beaten Path Destinations
Big city perennial favorites will take a back seat while gay travelers look for hidden treasures in less-densely known places.
Iowa City needs to be on your list of future places to visit, not just because of its LGBTQ-rich history but also because it's easier to avoid the crowds than in the big cities. Did you know that Iowa was the third state in the nation to legalize same-sex marriage? Iowa City Pride Festival also has one of the longest-running pride events in the world, celebrating its big 5-0 this year! More impressive facts? Iowa City was one of 88 out of 500 cities to receive a perfect score from HRC. There's a lot to learn about this welcoming and diverse community that's way ahead of the curve!
San Francisco and Los Angeles - are always a great ideas. However, West Hollywood is another California dream destination known for its gay appeal, and it is more off the beaten path than downtown LA. The Andaz West Hollywood, the 2020 Gay Travel Award winner in the “Boutique Hotel” category, is not to miss.
While in the LA area - head even further away from the big city and take a leisurely road trip further south to the O.C (Orange County), between Los Angeles and San Diego, where you’ll find up-and-comer Costa Mesa. This gay-friendly mecca is bound to become your "happy place" with its sunshiny weather, pop-up boutiques for foodies and cocktail lovers alike, world-class shopping, a vibrant arts scene, and proximity to many of So Cal's famous beaches.
An easy road trip for those of you living in nearby Northeast, Binghamton, New York, is especially gay-welcoming. Binghamton is a place that’s different than what you might expect. Sure, it’s a fun college town, but there’s much more to it. In Binghamton, you can see Broadway-worthy shows, stroll along Artists Row or experience LUMA (3D animation and projectors that transform the city buildings into illusions before your eyes) for a serious “culture trip.” It gets rather snowy in winter, but there’s one event held each December in honor of World AIDS Day called “Hair Warz” that LGBTQ travelers won’t want to miss. If you go in the Summertime or Fall, there’s kayaking on the rivers, bicycling, golf, hiking, and plenty of healthy outdoor activities.
8. Look Forward
During these challenging times for gay travelers, the one sure thing is uncertainty. That is why it’s a good idea to look into Travel Insurance for more expensive excursions. You’ll want to protect your vacation investment in case the rules change after you have booked. Look into CFAR type insurance over traditional travel insurance. CFAR stands for Cancel For Any Reason.
Don’t be surprised if a vaccine passport showing proof of a negative COVID-19 test will be required by airlines, venues, countries, or even movie theatres.
If there is such a thing as a silver travel lining during a Pandemic, it’s that it is indeed a travelers market with deals, discounts, and promotions galore available to you for whenever you are ready. Travel proud and be safe.
Cover Photo Credit: Scott M. Anderson Photography
