Santa Fe, New Mexico
As Jack so enthusiastically sang in the Newsies musical: “Dreams come true, yes they do/ In Santa Fe.” And we’ll have to agree when it comes to finding an incredibly sublime hot spot for gay travelers. This bohemian destination embraces a large artist community, and has the second most same-sex households per capita in the country. Furthermore, Santa Fe is home to the largest (and first) LGBT retirement communities in North America, and a very active Santa Fe Human Rights Alliance. There’s a number of TAG-approved hotels, it’s one of the most romantic places for stargazing and you couldn’t ask for better Tex-Mex.
Santa Fe’s gay roots go back to the early 20th century with the migration of artists looking for new subject matter, atmosphere and inspiration. It’s one of the most open-minded cities in the world, thanks to the origin of imaginative and free-thinking new settlers. Here, it’s more about public and private art rather than sleek, contemporary museums; romance rather than nightlife; and down time over a big city hustle. The popular Santa Fe Pride Festival (which happened June 23) continues to grow, as well as the number of other festivals like the International Art Fair and Annual Santa Fe Indian Market.
Four Seasons brand-loyal guests will also have something to cheer about: the company signed a long-term management agreement with acclaimed resort Encantado. It will be Four Seasons first New Mexico property, and the hotel will be rebranded in the next few weeks.
Saigon, Vietnam
Vietnam is hot right now, thanks to the trend of Ends of the Earth journeys where travelers are seeking destinations off the beaten path (sorry, Thailand, we still love you!), and more and more gay travelers are part of this trend, especially in Southeast Asia.
Saigon is a metropolis on the move, a city of commerce that’s—believe it or not—forward thinking. Throw in timeless alleys, ancient pagodas and bustling markets, and you have the best of both worlds. And what gay doesn’t love tailored made clothing, one of the best highlights of Saigon?
Most visitors stay at Park Hyatt Saigon, thanks to the gay friendly appeal of the luxury brand. It’s right in the heart of the city with 244 well appointed rooms, two award-winning restaurants and great staff to boot.
Gay travelers will adore Saigon nightlife, thanks to the handful of bars that are gaining popularity, including Centro and Mecca, both of which finally have a weekly gay night visited by locals, foreigners and expats. Even on the non-specific gay nights, it’s still popular almost every night of the week.
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