Top 5 Alternatively “Light-wallet” Romantic Getaways

I’ve decided to whet your appetite with a list of Hot Spots for the Gay community. Of course we are well aware that Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro are great locations for the gay traveller, however I suggest you check out some less typical destinations that are also a little lighter on the wallet.  I present to you my top 5 alternatively-light wallet Gay vacation destinations.

5. New York City, New York:
One of the world’s most electric cities is certainly one of the gay traveller’s best resources for around-the-clock partying and cultural stimulation. New York City is beautiful when the snow falls, especially during the holiday season, as lights seem to glow through the entire island of Manhattan. Home to arguably one of the worlds most exciting gay club scenes, there are many options to choose from such as trendy lounges, artful coffee shops, casual bars, concert halls and creative dining options. New York is an art lover’s dream with countless art galleries, museums, live theatre and of course Broadway – the sky’s the limit here!

4. Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Florida:
The last week of November usually culminates in this city’s biggest party known as White Party Week (Nov. 22-27). All proceeds raised benefit the charitable foundation Care Resource and everyone who participates wears white from head to toe at every event. Usually Miami is a party haven any time of year, with a very large gay community spread out all over the beach and beyond. If you want rest and relaxation then Fort Lauderdale is more your speed.
This city has undergone a major tourism facelift over the last ten years.  In fact the local government promises to “roll out the rainbow carpet” for its guests. Fort Lauderdale offers a nice alternative to nearby Miami because the vibe is far more relaxed. It has been described by many travellers as being gentler and less intimidating than Miami however, if you’re in the need to ogle some very beautiful people or just have a festive evening full of craziness, then the 45 minute cab ride is worth it. Gay citizens account for one fifth the local population in Fort Lauderdale which is why you can find gay themed bars, lounges, nightclubs, restaurants and beaches, very easily.

3. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic:
One of the best islands for gay couples to visit for its relaxed attitude and splendid year long weather, the Dominican Republic is gaining more ground every year as a rejuvenating getaway. The capital city of Santo Domingo sits right on the beach and offers many options for gay friendly nightlife, dining and accommodations. It is also full of history, making it the perfect spot for exploration with the comforts of a modern metropolis of course.  

2. Whistler, British Columbia:
Just a short 2-hour drive from the metropolitan city of Vancouver, Whistler receives over 2 million snow and mountain lovers who come for the incredible British Columbian alpine skiing and snowboarding.  Whistler is a resort community which caters to sports lovers year round. With this in mind, you’ll find some lavish resorts, spas and facilities coupled with the famous Canadian hospitality and social freedoms.
February is a great time to take that ski trip to Whistler as Gay Whistler Ski Week is in full effect (February 5th – 12th). The festivities include guided ski tours, ‘after snow’ chalet parties, concerts, masquerade balls and more…

1. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico:
Every year Puerto Vallarta seems to become more popular as the best gay vacation spot in all of Mexico. With its consistently warm and sunny climate, beautiful ocean bay (Bahia de Banderas), white sandy beaches, mountainous backdrop and lush tropical jungle surroundings – it’s hard to compete with this former fishing village. There are countless options for gay-centric accommodations as well as bars/lounges, nightclubs, shopping, restaurants, beaches and much more. The city as a whole is open to all and remains very relaxed no matter who you are and what you do, as long as you’re ready to unwind and party away!!

Traveling to some remote location to lavishing in the beauty of nature is what romantic getaways are all about. However, there aren’t too many places remaining that haven’t been spoiled by too many tourists and too little conservation and protection. Still, there are a few escapes that remain utopian and also taking environmental friendliness seriously. Here are my three spots that are the most sexy, romantic getaways that any green-friendly gay couple would absolutely love.

Romantic Getaway #1: Lofoten, Norway why it’s green?                                                                                               It has low tourism, unspoiled, traditional way of life.
Not everybody’s idea of a romantic getaway involves the tropics. In fact, some folks prefer their climate a little chilly so that they have to spend a good portion of their time snuggled under a warm blanket together. The winter months of Norway just happen to be one of the best kept secrets in Europe. Norway’s tourism dies down after the summer season leaving inspiring visions of the Northern Lights, cozy fishermen’s cabins near the harbour, and spectacular mountain scenery. For more info: VisitNorway.com

Romantic Getaway #5: Torres Del Paine National Park (Eco-camp), Patagonia, Chile why its green?                    It’s unspoiled, hydro turbine, solar energy, composting toilets.
Whoever said that having a romantic first-rate suite means that you have to be stuck up in some stuffy eco-unfriendly hotel. Eco-camp offers all the splendours of outdoor camping with the amenities of a four-star hotel. Each room consists of an open-plan, movable geodesic dome, private bathroom with composting toilets, comfortable bed, modern low-emission wood stove, micro hydro turbine, and solar panels, allowing each couple to live among mother nature’s breathtaking scenery in full comfort without disturbing her delicate balance. Read more: EcoCamp.Travel

Romantic Getaway #7: Faroe Islands, Denmark Why green?                                                                                           It’s unspoiled, minimal industrial development, low tourism.  These Islands rated number one this past year on the National Geographic Traveler’s list of unspoiled islands. The magazine makes its top choices based on environmental and ecological quality, social and cultural integrity, and condition of historic buildings, overall aesthetic appeal, and the responsible management of its landscape. If your idea of romance is a remote tropical island with breathtaking harbours and beautiful waterfalls, then this is without a doubt the place for you. The architecture of the area is quite unique and historical, consisting of quaint homes with grass rooftops and stone walls. Faroe Islands, Denmark is almost completely free from overcrowding, but shhh; let’s keep that between us so that it might have a chance to stay that way. Read more: FaroeIslands.com