10 Best Countries for LGBT Honeymoons
Dreaming of a destination wedding or international honeymoon? Here are some of the friendliest and romantic countries to celebrate.
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Malta
Italy may be romantic but it’s not necessarily at the top of the LGBT-friendly list. If you’re dreaming of a Mediterranean getaway, head to the island of Malta instead for beautiful beaches and mythic ruins. The tiny island ranked number one in 2017 for LGBT policy and equality by the European Region of the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association.
Canada
Niagara Falls may be the Honeymoon Capital of the World, but that’s just the beginning of natural wonders you’ll find in Canada. The Canadian Rockies are peppered with hot springs and natural geothermal pools. Located in Banff National Park, Banff Upper Hot Springs features a massive heated pool with an incredible view of Mount Rundle.
Belgium
The second country to legalize same-sex marriage, Belgium is so much more than beer. Brugge is a must-visit town with canals, quaint waterfront homes and winding side streets that look like a fairytale village or movie set.
Curaçao
In general, the Caribbean isn’t very welcoming toward same-sex couples. Only a handful of islands allow legal unions such as the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Ironically, Curacao, the island considered the LGBT capital of the Caribbean, doesn’t allow same-sex marriage. But Curacao is a cultural melting pot and you can see the Dutch influence on tolerance for many walks of life. The vibe is relaxed, uncommercialized and the water really is curacao blue. If you have your heart set on a Caribbean beach ceremony, you may want to consider getting your actual marriage license in the states and then having a ceremony with family and friends on location.
Germany
Germany doesn’t get enough Instagram credit compared to other European countries. But it should. The country is peppered with beautiful, fairytale castles, magic forests and mysterious bridges like the Rakotzbrucke, which was created to use its own reflection to make a complete circle.
Iceland
If you’re into #VanLife and want to camp on your honeymoon, head to Iceland for a drive around the Ring Road. The highway literally circles the island and offers numerous pull-offs for waterfalls, Icelandic ponies and puffins.
The Netherlands
The OG country that allowed same-sex marriage nearly 20 years ago should be on every LGBT traveler’s bucket list. Start in Amsterdam for beautiful canals and the main tourist sights but head to the countryside to see how the Dutch have lived on the water for centuries. Kinderdijk is a must-see. The UNESCO World Heritage Site features historic windmills you can tour.
Scotland
Northern Scotland is a hiker’s paradise with rugged mountain landscapes, enchanting lakes and the famous Eilean Donan Castle. If you have time to venture beyond the Highlands, cross the bridge to the Isle of Skye to see the dramatic Neist Lighthouse viewpoint.
Portugal
Portugal was at the top of everyone’s must-travel list for 2017 and it’s easy to see why. From Instagrammable tile to port wine to some of the best surfing the world, there’s something for everyone.
Ireland
If you love to road trip, head to the Emerald Isle. The best way to see all the sights--from the rolling green hills to dramatic ocean cliffs to adorable herds of sheep--is by car. You can even stay in historic castles along the way.