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The travel industry is back on its feet after a wild few years of uncertainty. Tourism records continue to be broken left and right, and more and more travelers want to take to the skies.
It seems everyone wants to get out of the house, whether it’s being cooped up by the new work-from-home lifestyle or simply getting revenge on lockdowns and rules without fun.
The beauty of this upswing in seeing the world is that we all understand each other better by seeing how others live and immersing ourselves in another culture.
Those in the LGBTQ+ community can benefit most from the realization that we are, first and foremost, all human.
Unfortunately, many parts of the world are still not accepting of LGBTQ+ people. The good news is that even previously closed countries are changing their tune and starting to welcome the community.
Airbnb recently reported a sharp increase in hosts’ LGBTQ+ inclusive language. as much as 90%in fact.
While there is always room for improvement, LGBTQ+ rights are widely accepted in major US cities.
According to the latest Airbnb data, these are the Top 8 Cities Where LGBTQ+ Travelers Feel Most Welcome:
8 – Austin, Texas
Austin isn’t all about funky music, margaritas, and breakfast tacos. Those are cool and all, but this trendy city is known for being a very open-minded community.
In fact, if you’ve ever been to downtown Austin, you may have noticed a rainbow-colored crosswalk to indicate support for LGBTQ+ rights near the « gay bars » on and around 4th Street.
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7 – Seattle, Wash.
This beautiful Pacific Northwest city is a safe haven for LGBTQ+ travelers. Like Austin, Seattle is known for being liberal and welcoming to all.
Many members of the LGBTQ+ community congregate in the Capitol Hill neighborhood, where there are a variety of gay-friendly establishments.
6 – San Francisco, Calif.
It’s no surprise that San Francisco is one of the most welcoming cities for LGBTQ+ visitors. This incredible California gem has been a staple in the acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community for decades.
Walking around the city at any time of the day, it is not uncommon to come across gay rights activists. The welcoming nature of San Francisco is most felt in the Castro district, where the LGBTQ+ community will feel right at home.
5 – Nashville, Tennessee
This thriving city is known for its country music scene and nightlife, but it is a place for everyone to enjoy themselves and feel embraced by southern hospitality.
LGBTQ+ travelers will be welcome anywhere, but they can feel right at home on Church Street. This is the area where a spate of gay-friendly nightclubs is easily accessible for a night that will never end.
4 – Wilton Mansions, Florida
This small area north of Fort Lauderdale is a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community to be themselves.
According Visit Florida, Wilton Manors is one of the most famous gay neighborhoods in South Florida. This charming neighborhood has a relaxed small-town atmosphere with easy walking distance to all major attractions.
Known as the « second gayest city » in the United States, it is home to 140 gay couples for every 1,000 couples.
3 – Portland, Maine
The Maine heartthrob is extremely welcoming to LGBTQ+ guests. Though small compared to other major cities, Portland draws all kinds of visitors for its delicious food and seaside town charm.
LGBTQ+ travelers tend to gravitate towards the West End, as this district is home to several « gay bars ».
2 – Province of Massachusetts, Massachusetts
If you were to look at a map, Provincetown sticks out like a sore thumb. This small Massachusetts town literally has a long history, but now it’s mostly known for its beautiful beaches and its hospitality towards the LGBTQ+ community.
Many LGBTQ+ people vacation here for its limitless welcoming nature, as there is no such thing as a « gay district » per se.
The atmosphere is so relaxed and carefree that it’s not uncommon to see same-sex couples holding hands on any street without a care in the world.
1 – Portland, Oregon
Not to be confused with Portland, Maine, the other Portland is ranked #1 and it’s easy to see why. Oregon’s largest city has been a huge supporter of Pride for years.
The trickle-down effect of warmth and hospitality towards LGBTQ+ visitors has made them feel truly welcome where 5-star reviews are pouring into all Portland Airbnb listings.
This notoriously open city accepts everyone to be themselves, and is truly a place to call home for the LGBTQ+ community, whether it’s a short-term or long-term stay.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
