If you’re anything like me, you love to travel. However, as a member of the LGBTQ+ community finding a place that doesn’t just tolerate you but also celebrates your identity is hard to find. That’s why I make it my mission to do my research before traveling to any place because I want to make sure I will have a great time being my whole self. This brings me to Puerto Vallarta and why it is my personal favorite and hands down the best city to go to in Mexico if you identify as LGBTQ+. So let’s get into it!
Ashley Gibbs-Young in Puerto Vallarta
I’m not the only one who loves Puerto Vallarta for LGBTQ+ travel. If you Google the best LGBTQ+ cities in Mexico, you’ll always see Puerto Vallarta at the top. It was even declared a gay tourist destination on gaytravel.com in 2017. Many friends in our community love to vacation there because it is simply a home away from home. There is no need to hide their true self and they can feel loved and supported while also having a good time.
When you travel you may find it hard to find places that truly accept who you are. That’s why I like to research and find out ahead of time. So when I found out there were restaurants, bars, and specific nights and events just for our community, I knew this would be a great place to visit. There are places like Elixir Mixology Bar, Blondies, and Blue Chairs just to name a few, all of which will have you wanting to go back for more.
The local bus is always going to be your cheapest route. However, if you’re new to traveling or just a little nervous, this may not be for you. Uber is available as well and is also reasonably priced if you don’t want to taxi, which is also available. However, if you’re not one to carry cash on you, Uber will be your best choice.
Pride in Puerto Vallarta (Photo by Ashley Gibbs-Young)
Puerto Vallarta has some of the best views in Mexico. It doesn’t matter if you love the mountains, the ocean, city life, or even some country, you’ll find it there. I will also add that you can also enjoy the mountains and the ocean at the same time, which is pretty special. If you get the chance to go out on a boat, you’ll be able to take it all in.
Pride in Puerto Vallarta is one of the best Pride celebrations in the entire world, in my opinion. There are so many events in different parts of the city, you’ll definitely want to plan out your experience. The parade is one that involves almost every business and organization in the city which is very beautiful to see. There are very few cities I’ve seen where you’re able to see that type of support come out during the parade, and once you get a taste, you’ll want to do it every year.
So by now, you’re probably looking up flights and hotels for Puerto Vallarta, but just know that it will probably be love at first sight, and it will be hard for you to leave. While you’re there, live it up, and save a margarita for me!
