These days, LGBTQ travel is far safer and more normalized than ever before. LGBTQ couples can, by and large, explore the world in peace and tranquility without unwanted attention or bigoted remarks. It’s a refreshing change from even just a few years ago.

But even if most vacation destinations are ‘fine’ with LGBTQ couples, sometimes it can be nice to go a little further than that. That’s when genuinely ‘gay-friendly’ locations come into their own – places where activities, accommodation, and attitudes are specifically targeted towards the LGBTQ community and where you can have the most romantic time possible.

So if you are booking your honeymoon or just want a loved-up weekend somewhere exciting, here are some of the best destinations in the US and around the world for a romantic LGBTQ getaway. 

Vail, Colorado

Vail is a beautiful mountain town that’s perfect for outdoor lovers, and you’d be hard-pressed to find somewhere more well set-up for an LGBTQ honeymoon. For starters, the Grand Hyatt Vail is one of the best LGBTQ-friendly hotels in the world, offering glam, grandeur, effortless decadence, and a champagne vending machine in the lobby! The Grand Hyatt chain works closely with GLAAD to ensure their hotels are queer-friendly, which makes it a particularly excellent place to stay. Vail itself is picture-perfect, all crystal-clear streams, picturesque ski slopes, and gorgeous mountain views. It’s a great place to shake off the dust of city life and get back to nature without sacrificing the luxury you’ll want for a romantic weekend away.

Las Vegas, Nevada

In the old days, Las Vegas probably wouldn’t have figured much when considering a gay-friendly getaway, but things have changed in Sin City, and it is now the perfect spot for an action-packed, 24-hour party kind of experience. The city is full of gay-friendly shows featuring iconic performers like Cher, Gwen Stefani, and Shania Twain, and there are loads of elegant and sophisticated places to stay that cater specifically to the LGBTQ community. For a seriously exciting night out, head to The Fruit Loop, Las Vegas’s world-famous gayborhood, for a party, you’ll never forget.

Stockholm, Sweden

Heading over to Europe, Sweden is one of the most progressive and inclusive countries in the world and has been for decades. It has had the honor of hosting Euro Pride three times and is one of the best places for an LGBTQ vacation. The capital, Stockholm, is a dream, all Euro elegance and Scandi-chic, with some of the best restaurants in Europe as a bonus. There is no specific gay district, but pretty much everywhere you go is as gay-friendly as you could hope for. Traveling around Sweden is also worthwhile, with a trip up north to chase the Northern Lights a superb option, as well as a visit to the historic city of Gothenburg, home of Greta’s, the oldest gay bar and nightclub in the country. 

Montevideo, Uruguay

Latin America can be a little tricky at times for LGBTQ travelers, but in Uruguay, you are guaranteed an awesome experience wherever you go. The trailblazer for progressive politics and sexual equality in the region, Uruguay legalized same-sex relations back in 1934 and is one of the safest and friendliest countries for LBGTQ travelers and citizens outside of Europe. Montevideo, the capital, often flies under the radar when compared to its Latin American cousins, but it is a charming and attractive city with a great gay scene and a gorgeous old town.

Whether you are looking for a mini-break or a longer adventure, these are four of the best places in the world to plan a romantic trip with your partner and enjoy truly wonderful experiences.