Countless places worldwide are famous LGBTQIA+ hot spots, where vacationers can enjoy comfort, support and camaraderie. Also, outside of some extremely conservative regions, nearly all of the world’s major cities have at least one (and often several) neighborhoods with visible, thriving gay scenes, including San Francisco, New York City, Chicago, London, Paris and Rome.
Although these places are wonderful, several other unexpected destinations are becoming increasingly popular with LGBTQIA+ vacationers.
These largely off-the-beaten-path cities and resort towns offer new and surprising opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Here are a few of our top picks for the best underrated LGBTQIA+-friendly destinations in 2025.
Merida, Mexico
Home to Asia’s biggest and most colorful Pride celebration, Taipei is arguably Asia’s most welcoming for LGBTQIA+ visitors. The Taiwanese government legalized same-sex marriage in 2019, and a massive, multifloor queer nightlife complex, Ximen Red House, practically bursts with bars, clubs, clothiers, gift shops and restaurants.
This modern, bustling metropolis with about 2.6 million residents is one of Asia’s most celebrated culinary destinations, with hundreds of both swanky and modest restaurants serving Taiwanese, Chinese and other fare from across the continent — the city’s exuberant night markets provide a great way to sample myriad delicious dishes.
Taipei is also known for its fashionable shopping, with one of the city’s top malls at the base of the iconic Taipei 101 tower (don’t miss the panoramic view from the 101st-floor observation deck). Other notable draws include the National Palace Museum, Songshan Cultural and Creative Park and the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall.
Taiwan Pride is always held in autumn, an appealing time to visit, as the weather tends to be mild and dry. It’s also the same season as the indie-spirited Taipei Golden Horse Film Festival, which always screens some queer-focused movies.
Where to stay
The chic and contemporary W Taipei (rates start at $373 or 115,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night) is a favorite spot for LGBTQIA+ parties during Taiwan Pride and a fantastic place to stay anytime. Rooms have soaring windows, some facing the iconic Taipei 101 tower, and amenities include a beautiful rooftop pool and sundeck, the see-and-be-seen Woobar and Yen Bar and the 31st-floor Yen Chinese Restaurant.