Traveling with Pride

It was the early hours of June 28, 1969, when a police raid on a New York gay bar changed LGBTQ+ history in America forever. The resistance by the patrons of Stonewall Inn birthed the modern gay rights movement. For the 50th anniversary, WorldPride is celebrated in New York (June 28-30) with the pride march, events and parties.

As one of the first countries in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, Norway has a proud history of acceptance. Ranked 3rd on the Rainbow Index, the country is home to many cultural events -- especially in Oslo, Bergen and Trondheim. Keep an eye out for Skeive ski, a LGBTQ+ skiing festival at one of Norway's best ski resorts.

Pride celebrations dot the summer calendar of warm days and long nights in Finland, ranked 4th on the Rainbow Index. The capital of Helsinki boasts the country's most active LGBTQ+ scene with nightclubs, cafes and saunas. Don't forget to send postcards home with gay erotic stamps or buy bedding from Findlayson's Tom of Finland.

South Africa has a progressive constitution that prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation. Cape Town, dubbed the "LGBTQ+ capital of Africa", is a fave, with iconic attractions, nightlife and a thriving LGBTQ+ scene. From there, venture off to the winelands, beaches or a "Big 5" safari as you explore the rainbow nation.