Situated on the Yucatan Peninsula, the city draws visiting U.S. BSĬharming and traditional yet modern and progressive, with an open-minded attitude regarding all shades of the gender and sexuality spectrum, Mérida stands apart from the rest of Mexico’s LGBTQ-friendly destinations due to its distinct Mayan culture and influence from European settlers. You may find fewer LGBTQ nightlife venues here than in some other major cities, but that’s only because of Sydney’s high level of integration you’ll be accepted just about everywhere, but there are still plenty of dedicated hangouts and haunts if you want them. Take advantage of the bountiful beach supply around Sydney, including the world-famous Bondi Beach, the women-only McIver’s Ladies Baths, and a handful of nude beaches popular with LGBTQ bathers. In fact, it’s the largest event in all of Australia. There is a more traditional June pride celebration in Sydney, but Mardi Gras is the city’s main calendar event. Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras (just “Mardi Gras” to most) is an annual bash with a parade attended by an estimated half million people from Oz and beyond, all lined up on Oxford Street to catch the outrageous costumes and raucous energy. Currently campaigning to host World Pride in 2023, Australia’s largest city is already home to one of the world’s largest LGBTQ celebrations.
