Lesbian traveler stories

Many lesbian travelers share how important it is to choose destinations where they can feel free and safe. Sarah from the UK, for example, recounts: “My travels in Europe have been absolutely wonderful, especially in cities like Amsterdam and Barcelona where LGBTQ+ communities are supported at all levels. I feel confident and relaxed in places like that.”

Thomasina from Canada adds: “I discovered Sydney as the perfect destination for lesbian travelers. The beaches, nightlife, and variety of activities, including Gay Pride, make it a unique and friendly place for women who want to explore the world without fear.”

Tips for lesbian female travelers

Research local traditions and laws

Before traveling to a country, make sure it supports LGBTQ+ rights. Some regions may have strict laws restricting the rights of lesbian and gay tourists. Research the specifics of local norms and customs to avoid unpleasant situations.

Choose inclusive destinations

Many cities and countries such as Amsterdam, Barcelona and San Francisco are known for their tolerance and openness. These places host events, gatherings and celebrations that will help you find like-minded people and feel part of a big inclusive family.

Don’t forget about safety

Even in friendly places, it’s worth remembering personal safety. Make sure your routes and accommodation are safe and well-lit. Notify friends or family of your location and time to return to your hotel.

Use technology for convenience

Mobile apps and websites for LGBTQ+ travelers, such as “Gay Cities” or “Pink Pill,” provide helpful information about places, clubs and events that are especially suitable for lesbian travelers. This will help you find the best spots to socialize and relax.

Best Safe Routes

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a mecca for lesbian female travelers and offers a wide range of nightclubs, cafes, and cultural events. The city is also known for its support of LGBTQ+ rights and its annual Pride Parade.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam has been a model for other cities on equality and human rights for many years. With many cozy cafes, bars and activities, the city welcomes all travelers, including lesbians.

Conclusion

Traveling is an opportunity to discover new horizons and learn about other cultures. It is important for lesbian female travelers to feel safe and confident that their chosen destination will open up new opportunities for them. By choosing inclusive and welcoming cities, travelers can not only enjoy new discoveries, but also feel free and comfortable anywhere in the world.

The post Lesbian Traveler: Stories, Tips and Safe Routes appeared first on MK Travel With.

Annecy, France

This city on the shores of Lake Annecy is often called the “Venice of France”. Narrow streets, canals, flowering balconies and an ancient castle create a unique atmosphere. Here you can take a boat ride on the lake, taste the local tom cheese and just enjoy the Alpine air.

Albarracín, Spain

An ancient town in Aragon, where time seems to have stopped in the Middle Ages. Narrow stone streets, fortress walls and stunning views of the surrounding mountains make it the perfect place for a secluded vacation.

Bled, Slovenia

Famous for its picturesque lake and small island with a church, only accessible by boat. Bled cream cake is a must on the gastronomic itinerary!

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

This town looks like it stepped off the pages of a fairy tale: winding streets, Gothic houses, a majestic castle and cozy cafes by the Vltava River. Perfect for leisurely strolls and the atmosphere of old Europe.

Dinan, Belgium

A charming town on the river Maas, surrounded by cliffs and forests. The saxophone was born here, so the spirit of jazz is in the air. A stroll along the waterfront and a tasting of Belgian beer is the best way to end the day.

These towns are a great alternative to noisy megacities. They will give you a cozy, unhurried and real European atmosphere. Where would you like to spend your next weekend?

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Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam has long been a symbol of freedom and inclusivity. Since day one, when the Netherlands became the first country in the world to legalize same-sex marriage, Amsterdam has remained a hub for the LGBTQ community. The city, known for its canals, museums and nightlife, hosts a huge Pride parade every year.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is not only great architecture and beaches, but it is also a warmly welcoming city for LGBTQ tourists. Barcelona Pride is not only about the architectural wonders of Antoni Gaudi, but also about the variety of cultural events, bars and clubs. Barcelona Pride in Barcelona is one of the most colorful in Europe.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is one of the most progressive and liberal cities in Europe. LGBTQ+ communities are firmly established here, and the city’s streets have witnessed many historic events to protect the rights of sexual minorities. It’s easy to find places to socialize and have fun, as well as walk through historic neighborhoods and learn about the city’s role in the fight for equality.

Sydney, Australia

Sydney is not only one of Australia’s most beautiful cities, but also a place that is always supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. Sydney’s Pride Parade is one of the largest in the world, and Visak Festival is becoming a vibrant symbol of openness and inclusivity.

San Francisco, USA

San Francisco is rightly considered the capital of American gay culture. With its history dating back to the 1960s, the city continues to be a place for open expression of identity and equality. Walking down Gay Street, participating in Pride parades and a host of themed events will make your stay unforgettable.

These destinations will not only provide a comfortable travel experience, but will also help deepen your understanding of the culture and historical context in which the LGBTQ community has defended its rights. Traveling through these cities, you will feel free and equal anywhere in the world.

The post Best LGBTQ Destinations: Traveling Without Borders appeared first on MK Travel With.

Rome – Beginning of the journey

Start your journey in Rome, where you can spend a day or two exploring its famous sights such as the Colosseum, the Vatican and the Pantheon. After that, head south. The drive from Rome to Ravello, one of the most beautiful towns on the Amalfi Coast, will take about 3-4 hours. The journey is about 280 kilometers long, but it will be so scenic that time will fly by.

Ravello – the city on top of the hill

Ravello is an amazing city located 350 meters above sea level, overlooking the blue Mediterranean Sea and verdant hills. The town is known for its stunning villas, such as Villa Ruffolo and Villa Cimbrone, which are surrounded by magnificent gardens and offer spectacular views of the coast. Stroll through the narrow streets, enjoy the atmosphere of this tranquil and majestic town and sample local specialties in one of the cafes overlooking the sea. Ravello is a great place to relax before your onward journey.

Pompeii – a return to antiquity

Next, head to Pompeii, a place that will take you back to ancient Rome. The drive from Ravello to Pompeii will take about 1.5 hours. Here is one of the most famous archaeological complexes in the world, destroyed in 79 AD during the eruption of the volcano Vesuvius. A walk through the ruins of Pompeii allows you to see ancient houses, temples, theaters, baths and other structures that have been preserved thanks to the ash. Be sure to visit the House of Dionysus, the Great Theater and the Museum of Pompeii to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the ancient city.

Vesuvius – the volcano that changed history

The next stop on the journey is the famous Vesuvius volcano, located near Pompeii. It is one of the most famous volcanoes in the world and is still active. Famous for destroying Pompeii, Herculaneum and other cities in 79 AD, the volcano is now one of the region’s top tourist attractions. To climb Vesuvius, you’ll need to park at the foot and walk to the crater. From the top, you’ll have a breathtaking view of Naples, Salerno and of course the volcano itself. The scenery here is an amazing contrast – lava fields, green slopes and blue skies.

Salerno – the final point of the route

The final leg of your journey is Salerno, a town located on the coast overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Salerno is a less touristy place compared to its more famous neighbors, but it is no less enchanting. The city is full of historical monuments, such as Salerno Cathedral, as well as cozy cafes and restaurants overlooking the sea. A stroll along the promenade and through the old town will give you plenty of pleasure, and an evening at one of the restaurants serving fresh seafood will be the perfect end to your trip.

Conclusion

This itinerary from Rome by car will allow you to see Southern Italy in all its glory – from the historic ruins of Pompeii to the majestic views from Vesuvius and picturesque towns on the Amalfi Coast. Your trip will be full of vivid impressions and inexpressible atmosphere that will stay with you for a long time. No matter which route you choose, Southern Italy will give you unforgettable moments and unique memories.

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What to see:

• Neos Marmaras if you want to see colorful and authentic Greece up close, in other words through the eyes of the locals;
• Nikiti if you are curious to see the ancient relics and remains of the once mighty city of Halipsos;
• Karidi Beach – white sand and pine trees – what could be better?

Colorful houses of Symi

Dodecanos Islands – Simi: Tern Greece without tourists

After breathing in the pine air, we board the boat and head for the Turkish border. That’s where the real treasure lurks – the island of Symi. This island is a part of the Dodecanos Islands, so, heading to Simi, you can admire the beauty of the whole archipelago. The island itself has an interesting shape, as if cut by waves. Even from the sea it will certainly attract your attention with its colorful houses on the coast and abundant greenery.

A must-see:

• Castro Fortress is an atmospheric place, but we strongly advise against visiting it in the heat, as you’ll have to climb 500 steps to get there;
• The picturesque monastery of Panormitis.

The islands of the Saronic Gulf

We are moving on – towards Athens. But don’t be in a hurry to get ashore and rush to the capital! This time we are heading towards the Saronic Islands to visit Spetses and Poros. In general, the Saronic Gulf is the place where many Greeks moor their yachts, arriving with their families on vacation. And in fact, the bay of the Saronic Gulf is a very picturesque place.

Poros – Greece without tourists: the harbor where the Greeks rest.

In the southwestern part of the Saronic Gulf, the first stop awaits us – the island of Poros. A bay of incredible beauty, orange and terracotta roofs of houses, hills and rocks covered with pine trees and rosemary. Slow-paced and unhurried, Poros boasts sights that we all passed in the history of Ancient Greece at school.

Here are the must-see places:

• The Temple of Poseidon – the lord of the water element;
• Diavolohephiro – the symbolic gateway to hell;
• Lemon Forest;
• Trizina – this is where, according to myths, Theseus, who defeated the Minotaur, left his cloak and sandals before traveling to Crete.

Having had enough of walking around Poros, we set off. Swaying on the waves, enjoying the views and the breeze on our way to Spezzie or Isola di Spezzie. It was named for a reason: it is on this island that most of the aromatic herbs that we carefully store in jars in the kitchen grow. Of course, on Spezzie you can have a feast of the stomach and enjoy the local cuisine: choose a café where locals are leisurely sipping coffee and where there is no menu in English, and go in search of the most delicious Moussaka.

But that’s all for later, as you still have to work up an appetite! Thanks to the limited number of cars on the island, the island has an unhurried and serene atmosphere. In other words, hiking and walking on Spetses is a pleasure. What’s more, sea air that isn’t polluted by exhaust fumes from busy traffic is a rarity.

What to see:

• The “archondico” lords’ houses and picturesque streets;
• Small islands scattered around Spetses: Spetsopula, Micro Burbulo and Ayios Ianis;
• Golden beaches immersed in pine trees: Agia Marinas, Agia Paraskevi, the beaches of Agia Anargyri, Vrellas, Zonkeria and Kunipitsa.

No matter in which order you decide to explore the land of numerous legends and myths. Whether you follow our author’s itinerary completely or selectively visit individual locations is also up to you. However, at each of the points on the map you will find an authentic Greece without the crowds of tourists.

The post Greece Through Local Eyes: A Route Without the Crowds of Tourists appeared first on MK Travel With.

Beach vacations

France, washed by seas and ocean on two sides, is home to many resorts.

Cote d’Azur

The traditional vacation destination for French and foreign tourists is the southeastern coast of France, stretching along the Mediterranean Sea to the border with Italy. The world fame of the Côte d’Azur, which received this name because of the amazing blue color of the water surface, is due to the warm sea, a variety of beaches (pebble, sand), mild climate, a large number of cultural attractions, as well as the amazing nature of Provence.

Normandy

Those who do not like the intense heat, resorts with snow-white beaches, which are located on the Atlantic coast of Normandy, are perfect for those who do not like the strong heat. Huge fame is Deauville, built especially for aristocrats who wanted to rest on the sea, but could not stand the bright sun, as well as its more democratic “twin brother” Trouville. There are also picturesque towns of Honfleur and Etretat, famous for Impressionist painters.

Biarritz

A small resort town located on the Atlantic coast near the French-Spanish border. The beaches, located by the Bay of Biscay, are characterized by pure white sand. Thanks to strong winds, Biarritz is famous among surfers, being one of the world centers of this sport.

Corsica

Fans of exotic vacations can choose to stay on the island of Corsica, the birthplace of Napoleon. This peculiar corner of France is famous for its unspoiled nature, local specialties, ancient towns and beautiful, very picturesque beaches.

Excursion vacation

Unforgettable summer vacations can be spent in historic cities and regions of France:

Paris and Ile-de-France

Even the hot weather in the French capital is easy to bear, thanks to the abundance of greenery and a large number of fountains. You can refresh yourself on the Parisian beaches, which are regularly organized by the City Hall on the banks of the Seine and the canals, as well as in the Aquaboulevard. It’s a great idea to go to Disneyland and Asterix amusement parks for the day. You can also get out to the suburban palaces of Versailles, Chantilly and Fontainebleau.

Loire Valley

Excursions to the Loire Valley will allow you to see the most famous castles of this region (there are more than 80 of them). Almost all of them are surrounded by luxurious parks, where you can spend a wonderful time sheltering from the heat.

Wigs of the Loire castles

There are also tours of vineyards and wineries in this region, which include tastings of local wines.

Alsace

Another summer vacation option is to head to Alsace to explore Strasbourg, as well as the small but surprisingly beautiful towns of Colmar, called the “Venice of the North,” and the flower-drenched ancient Reckwihr. Here you can also drive along the Alsace Wine Road and sample the local cuisine and wines made in the region.

Active vacation

Fans of extreme sports can go to Shomani and other resorts located in the French Alps. In summer here you can try your hand at rock climbing and mountaineering, go hiking with a visit to mountain villages or just stroll through the alpine meadows.

Tips

1. Popular summer vacation spots are often crowded, so it’s best to book a hotel in advance. If you plan to move around the country, it is also desirable to pre-purchase rail tickets.
2. When choosing accommodation, consider options not only large resort centers, but also small towns (for example – Villefranche, Mentona or Beaulieu-sur-Mer on the Côte d’Azur). Hotels there are often cheaper, in addition, there are fewer vacationers.
3. Almost every French town in the summer there are colorful festivals, fairs, festivals and other events (for example, the wine festival in Bordeaux, Avignon Theatre Festival, jazz festival in Nice). When planning your trip, be sure to check out the calendar of events: it will make your vacation even more intense.

A trip to France in summer is a great option for those who want to combine a vacation with a pleasant shopping. It is in this season in all cities of the country there are large-scale sales. It is important to take into account that specific dates may vary depending on the region.

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