Edinburgh tops league for most expensive city break
Edinburgh is the most expensive destination for a city break in western Europe, according to research.
It found that on average visitors would have to pay £399 for two nights in a three-star city centre hotel. It is more than twice the equivalent price in Lisbon, the cheapest destination, where two nights cost £165 on average.
The figure was based on the average price of the ten cheapest en suite rooms for stays from June 6 to 8 on the booking website Hotels.com.
The researchers for Post Office Money looked at 38 popular European city break destinations and compared a 'basket of goods' on top of accommodation costs. It included a three-course meal for two with a bottle of house wine, a cup of coffee,
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The Independent
an hour ago
- The Independent
Lebanon aims to lure back wealthy Gulf tourists to jumpstart its war-torn economy
Fireworks lit up the night sky over Beirut's famous St. Georges Hotel as hit songs from the 1960s and 70s filled the air in a courtyard overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. The retro-themed event was hosted last month by Lebanon's Tourism Ministry to promote the upcoming summer season and perhaps recapture some of the good vibes from an era viewed as a golden one for the country. In the years before a civil war began in 1975, Lebanon was the go-to destination for wealthy tourists from neighboring Gulf countries seeking beaches in summer, snow-capped mountains in winter and urban nightlife year-round. In the decade after the war, tourists from Gulf countries – and crucially, Saudi Arabia – came back, and so did Lebanon's economy. But by the early 2000s, as the Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah gained power, Lebanon's relations with Gulf countries began to sour. Tourism gradually dried up, starving its economy of billions of dollars in annual spending. Now, after last year's bruising war with Israel, Hezbollah is much weaker and Lebanon's new political leaders sense an opportunity to revitalize the economy once again with help from wealthy neighbors. They aim to disarm Hezbollah and rekindle ties with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries, which in recent years have prohibited their citizens from visiting Lebanon or importing its products. 'Tourism is a big catalyst, and so it's very important that the bans get lifted,' said Laura Khazen Lahoud, the country's tourism minister. On the highway leading to the Beirut airport, once-ubiquitous banners touting Hezbollah's leadership have been replaced with commercial billboards and posters that read 'a new era for Lebanon.' In the center of Beirut, and especially in neighborhoods that hope to attract tourists, political posters are coming down, and police and army patrols are on the rise. There are signs of thawing relations with some Gulf neighbors. The United Arab Emirates and Kuwait have lifted yearslong travel bans. All eyes are now on Saudi Arabia, a regional political and economic powerhouse, to see if it will follow suit, according to Lahoud and other Lebanese officials. A key sticking point is security, these officials say. Although a ceasefire with Israel has been in place since November, near-daily airstrikes have continued in southern and eastern Lebanon, where Hezbollah over the years had built its political base and powerful military arsenal. Tourism as a diplomatic and economic bridge As vital as tourism is — it accounted for almost 20% of Lebanon's economy before it tanked in 2019 — the country's leaders say it is just one piece of a larger puzzle they are trying to put back together. Lebanon's agricultural and industrial sectors are in shambles, suffering a major blow in 2021, when Saudi Arabia banned their exports after accusing Hezbollah of smuggling drugs into Riyadh. Years of economic dysfunction have left the country's once-thriving middle class in a state of desperation. The World Bank says poverty nearly tripled in Lebanon over the past decade, affecting close to half its population of nearly 6 million. To make matters worse, inflation is soaring, with the Lebanese pound losing 90% of its value, and many families lost their savings when banks collapsed. Tourism is seen by Lebanon's leaders as the best way to kickstart the reconciliation needed with Gulf countries -- and only then can they move on to exports and other economic growth opportunities. 'It's the thing that makes most sense, because that's all Lebanon can sell now,' said Sami Zoughaib, research manager at The Policy Initiative, a Beirut-based think tank. With summer still weeks away, flights to Lebanon are already packed with expats and locals from countries that overturned their travel bans, and hotels say bookings have been brisk. At the event hosted last month by the tourism ministry, the owner of the St. Georges Hotel, Fady El-Khoury, beamed. The hotel, owned by his father in its heyday, has acutely felt Lebanon's ups and downs over the decades, closing and reopening multiple times because of wars. 'I have a feeling that the country is coming back after 50 years,' he said. On a recent weekend, as people crammed the beaches of the northern city of Batroun, and jet skis whizzed along the Mediterranean, local business people sounded optimistic that the country was on the right path. 'We are happy, and everyone here is happy,' said Jad Nasr, co-owner of a private beach club. 'After years of being boycotted by the Arabs and our brothers in the Gulf, we expect this year for us to always be full.' Still, tourism is not a panacea for Lebanon's economy, which for decades has suffered from rampant corruption and waste. Lebanon has been in talks with the International Monetary Fund for years over a recovery plan that would include billions in loans and require the country to combat corruption, restructure its banks, and bring improvements to a range of public services, including electricity and water. Without those and other reforms, Lebanon's wealthy neighbors will lack confidence to invest there, experts said. A tourism boom alone would serve as a 'morphine shot that would only temporarily ease the pain" rather than stop the deepening poverty in Lebanon, Zoughaib said. The tourism minister, Lahoud, agreed, saying a long-term process has only just begun. "But we're talking about subjects we never talked about before,' she said. 'And I think the whole country has realized that war doesn't serve anyone, and that we really need our economy to be back and flourish again.'
Telegraph
an hour ago
- Telegraph
Visiting this charming Norfolk seaside town feels like stepping into another century
I stepped off the train and into, it seemed, a former century. Sheringham is the terminus of the mainline from Norwich but, on the other side of Station Road, on another set of tracks, the steam locomotives of the Poppy Line clank and exhale, waiting to take trippers further along the coast. It was the arrival of the railway in 1887 that transformed this small fishing town. The poet and theatre critic Clement Scott wrote of the rail-accessible joys of North Norfolk for The Telegraph (coining the term 'Poppyland'), and holidaymakers began to flock in, creating such demand that fishing families would rent out their homes (sound familiar?). Now, the heritage railway is one of Sheringham's biggest draws. But it wasn't the only thing generating vintage vibes. Red, white and blue bunting flapped in the North Sea breeze, strung along a bygone-era high street: greengrocers, butchers, bakers, a model railway emporium, and an ironmongers dating back to 1897. Every September, Sheringham holds a 1940s Weekend, with themed window displays, classic cars and period music. But it was looking pretty throwback even on a regular Tuesday. 'It is a bit like going back in time,' one local told me. 'Whether you think that's good or bad – well, that's a personal preference.' What's it really like? As seaside resorts go, Sheringham is pretty low-key. There are a couple of arcades, ice creameries a-plenty, a toyshop that's sold buckets-n-spades since 1912. Sheringham Museum is filled with lifeboats and local history and a gallery of 200 shell sculptures, if things made from shells are your thing. Best is the big Blue Flag beach, backed by some of the county's highest cliffs; Norfolk's zenith, 103m (!) Beacon Hill, is nearby. The beach itself is lovely, when it's there – at high tide the sand is swallowed completely For all its nostalgic charm, Sheringham is actually pleasingly real, having managed to remain itself in the face of surrounding forces. It doesn't have the social issues that plague Great Yarmouth, 40 miles south. But nor is it as expensively gentrified as spots like Burnham Market (aka 'Chelsea-on-Sea'), 20 miles west – though local house prices reflect its proximity. Sheringham's identity has been tested. Long holding out as a bastion of independents, the town finally caved to Tesco in 2013, after a 17-year planning battle. However, the supermarket hasn't affected trade as much as feared: it's close to the centre, with parking – it may have actually brought more people in. More recently, a surge of young entrepreneurs has shaken things up. One of them is Ben Stubbs, who grew up in Sheringham and runs Stubby's, a 'chef-led' pizzeria where toppings include vodka sausage and black pudding. ' The Gangway bar opened around the same time as us,' Ben told me. 'Before, there were just pubs and fish and chips. Suddenly there was pizza and cocktails!' Gentrification, Sheringham style. What's not to like? Honestly, not a lot. The town's elderly-leaning demographic means you're unlikely to find much to do beyond 8.30pm, but that's probably not why you're here. And there's no headline-grabbing destination hotel or Michelin-starry restaurant – yet. Sheringham isn't perfect. But unlike the boarded-up shops and dwindling investment experienced in many coastal communities, it seems positively vibrant. District Councillor Liz Withington believes it may just offer the blueprint for other such towns looking to revive their fortunes. Liz moved here in 1994 but has lived all over, including Marbella – and sees similarities. 'It's the same with many seaside towns – rammed in summer, back to community in winter,' Liz said. 'We've got it right because we've maintained that sense of community.' There are concerns about preserving Sheringham's retail diversity as takeaway outlets increase. The current beef is with a pizza chain that's trying to move in. The council has objected, the chain has appealed. 'High streets are supposed to be about 30 per cent hot-food takeaways; Sheringham is over 40 per cent already,' Ben explained. 'If the appeal is overturned, where does it end? It could be the first Domino to fall, pardon the pun… Small towns are delicate little ecosystems. They need to be nurtured and protected.' Do this… Definitely ride the Poppy Line, which takes 25 minutes to huff from Sheringham to the pretty market town of Holt. After that, head to the Little Theatre. Seating just 160, and almost entirely run by volunteers, it's small but mighty. In 2024, actress Suranne Jones – who has a holiday home nearby – became President. 'She'd started to come quite regularly,' explained Debbie Thompson, the Little's director. 'She loved that it was a true community theatre and wanted to be involved.' Jones hosts workshops and helps promote the theatre's varied programme, which includes a traditional summer rep season, music, comedy and more. Eat this… Crab. Cromer, five miles east, has sown up the marketing, but Norfolk's famed crustaceans come from Sheringham too. In CA Seafoods you can buy them neatly dressed; it also has a 150-year-old smokehouse where they hot and cold smoke all sorts of fish. However, I ate at Camellia Cottage, a postcard-pretty, brick-and-flint cafe by the clock tower. It was heaving, both inside and out in the courtyard garden. I ordered the crab sandwich and had a tense wait while the server checked with the kitchen, and nabbed the last one of the day. Steep at £12, but a local treat. But don't do this… The ancient Cromer Shoals Chalk Bed – nicknamed 'Britain's Great Barrier Reef' – is the longest in the world, and lies only a stone's skim offshore. The 46-metre-long Sheringham Snorkel Trail, which follows a disused Victorian sewage pipe, leads out to this unexpectedly colourful underwater world that teems with crab, lobsters, fish, rare sponges and anemones. But in order to experience it, you need a long period of calm to cause the North Sea's sediment to drop and turn the water clear blue – which happens for about five or six days a year. Unless you get lucky, perhaps go stand-up paddle boarding with SUP Shack instead. From a local 'Shops come and go, restaurants change – but not a lot. That's the charm of it. Sheringham is expanding out, with new houses, but the core has remained the same. It's a great little town where everyone looks out for each other.' – Chris Taylor, Sheringham-born photographer, lifeboatman and shanty-man. From a tourist 'We've made a day-trip. My mum recommended the steam train, and it fully lived up to expectations. Quite slow but nice views and friendly staff. We like the museum. Now we're going to walk the seafront and get fish and chips from the shop with the longest queue.' – Sarah Wilson and Carl King from Lincolnshire Get there Sheringham is an hour by train from Norwich, at the end of the Bittern Line, which also stops at Cromer and Hoveton & Wroxham (a jumping-off point for the Broads). The Coasthopper Bus connects Wells-next-the-Sea and Cromer, via Sheringham. For more information, see Visit North Norfolk and Experience Sheringham. Stay at Burlington Berties (01263 821500) has B&B doubles from £320 for two nights.
The Independent
an hour ago
- The Independent
15 emerging LGBT+ travel hotspots, from Osaka to Medellin
When we think of LGBT+ travel, it's easy to default to the usual headline-grabbing hotspots – the glitter of Mykonos, the heat of Fire Island, or the all-night glamour of Cape Town. But what if we told you the next unforgettable queer escape might just be tucked away in a mountain-ringed wine region, nestled in a lantern-lit Vietnamese town, or perched beside a windswept Danish coastline? It's time to look beyond the well-trodden rainbow route. Across the globe, a new generation of destinations is quietly – and confidently – rolling out the welcome mat for LGBT+ travellers. From drag shows in Oaxaca's hidden mezcalerías to feminist festivals on the shores of Lesbos, these places aren't chasing clout or spectacle. They're offering something far more meaningful: authenticity, warmth, and an open-armed invitation to simply be. These are the places where Pride lives not just in parades, but in everyday kindness. Where your love is greeted with curiosity, respect – and possibly a glass of something local and delicious. So, whether you're planning a soulful solo retreat, a romantic getaway that redefines the word 'intimate', or an adventure with your chosen family, this is your passport to the fabulous unknown. Best emerging LGBT+ travel hotspots 2025 1. Oaxaca, Mexico Best for: Cultural immersion and vibrant arts scene Step into a kaleidoscope of colour, creativity and culture – welcome to Oaxaca. With a heartbeat steeped in ancient Zapotec tradition and a skyline dotted with baroque churches, this southern Mexican city is a heady blend of history and avant-garde energy. Queer culture thrives here in the most organic of ways – think drag performances in tucked-away mezcalerías and queer art collectives pushing boundaries in the heart of the old town. Pride is less parade and more protest-meets-fiesta, with local activists leading the charge for rights in a country still catching up on policy. Add in legendary mole dishes, markets brimming with handicrafts, and sunsets from Monte Albán, and you've got a sensory feast with soul. A rising star on the LGBT+ map, Oaxaca is for the curious traveller craving meaning with their mezcal. Casa Oaxaca blends heritage with heart. This boutique stay near Santo Domingo is more than just aesthetics – it's a haven of personalised hospitality. It's a safe and inclusive space, and the seamless handling of same-sex couples doesn't go unnoticed. With just a handful of beautifully curated rooms and a rooftop restaurant dishing up modern takes on Oaxacan classics, it's a peaceful, private base in a city bursting with life. 2. Hoi An, Vietnam Hoi An isn't just a city – it's a living painting. With ancient streets glowing in the flicker of a thousand silk lanterns and riverside cafés whispering stories of old Indochina, it's no surprise couples flock here to bask in its honey-toned romance. LGBT+ rights in Vietnam may still be finding their footing, but the locals of Hoi An – especially in the hospitality scene – tend to be laidback, welcoming and focused on your happiness, not who you're holding hands with. This is the place for boat rides under moonlight, tailoring a silk suit to slay in, or cycling to An Bang Beach for sunset cocktails. It's slower here, in the best way – giving you time to exhale and feel safe. For queer travellers seeking somewhere softer, warmer, and wrapped in beauty, Hoi An delivers in spades. This riverside retreat is a hidden gem where the staff welcome every guest like family, so whether you're lounging by the pool or checking into a shared room, it feels easy and natural to be yourself here. The hotel's spa is an added perk after a day of exploring. With traditional décor, modern touches, and a short stroll to the Old Town, it's ideal for couples wanting something romantic without the flash or fuss. 3. Lesbos, Greece Best for: Historical significance and serene beaches Lesbos isn't just an island – it's a pilgrimage. Long before hashtags and rainbows, there was Sappho, the original queer icon whose poetry placed female love centre stage. Fast-forward a few millennia, and Lesbos quietly continues her legacy. Skala Eressos, Sappho's birthplace, hosts an annual International Women's Festival that draws queer women from around the world to celebrate art, identity and self-expression under the Grecian sun. But this island isn't shouting – it's inviting you in gently. Imagine lazy beach days, ouzo-fuelled dinners with locals, and thermal springs that soothe every inch of your soul. Lesbos offers a unique kind of freedom: a calm, deeply spiritual connection to queer heritage in a place where the sunsets feel personal. It's not about the party – it's about presence. Run by a family who believe in love in all its forms, Hotel Votsala is a true haven on the island's northern coast. Known for its warm, laidback vibe and literary crowd, the hotel often attracts solo travellers and couples who feel at ease being themselves. Owners and staff are low-key allies who genuinely care, creating a restful stay where LGBT+ guests are more than welcome – they're celebrated. Once synonymous with turmoil, Medellín has rewritten its story – and it's a comeback worthy of a standing ovation. Today, this Colombian powerhouse is a modern marvel: a metropolis bursting with street art, cable cars, digital innovation, and... a fabulous queer scene. The El Poblado district hums with rooftop cocktail bars, underground clubs, and rainbow flags fluttering quietly but confidently. Locals are open, flirty, and fiercely fashionable, with Pride events that blend joy with protest in true Latin style. Medellín's transformation hasn't just been infrastructural – it's been emotional. And as the city embraces diversity, it's becoming a beacon for LGBT+ travellers who want more than a party: they want to feel part of something. This is where resilience and reinvention dance hand in hand. Bold, artsy, and unapologetically stylish, The Charlee Hotel is Medellín's answer to queer cool. Located in the heart of El Poblado, it's a magnet for LGBT+ guests, with staff praised for their non-judgmental, inclusive service. The rooftop Envy bar is a favourite among queer locals and tourists alike, while the rooms offer sleek comfort with some serious flair. If you want to feel seen, safe, and a little bit spoiled, this is your spot. 5. Porto, Portugal If Lisbon is the show-off sibling, Porto is the sultry one with a record collection and a love for late-night whispers. Hugging the Douro River with pastel façades and tiled churches, Porto oozes atmosphere. While its queer scene isn't loud, it's lovingly local; think intimate drag shows in underground bars and queer-owned wine shops offering tastings with sass. The Portuguese approach to queerness? Quiet acceptance. You'll rarely be stared at here – just smiled at and offered another glass of vinho verde. Add in the endless pastel de natas, that Atlantic breeze, and day trips to the Douro Valley's rolling vineyards, and you've got a romantic getaway that slips under the radar – in the best way possible. Porto doesn't need to shout. It's confident enough to whisper. This design-led hotel turns the concept of hospitality into an art form – literally. Casa do Conto mixes industrial minimalism with poetic flourishes (verses carved into the ceilings!) and is known for its effortless inclusivity, with same-sex couples reporting smooth, respectful service, while the quiet location in Cedofeita gives guests space to breathe. Artistic, welcoming and unpretentious – this place knows how to host without fuss. 6. Osaka, Japan Best for: Culinary adventures and after-dark discoveries Tokyo may have the glamour, but Osaka has the soul – and a wicked sense of humour. Japan's second-largest city is a joyful jumble of sizzling street food, neon-lit neighbourhoods, and locals who are refreshingly down to earth. While Japan as a whole is still taking baby steps toward full legal equality, the queer scene in Osaka is alive and buzzing, especially in Doyama, the city's unofficial gay district. Here, you'll find everything from basement drag bars and karaoke dens to LGBT+ cafés that feel like family homes. It's a scene with character – scrappy, cheeky, and rich in personality. But beyond the bars, Osaka offers intimacy: strolls through Osaka Castle Park, shared takoyaki from street stalls, and nights lit by paper lanterns. For queer travellers, Osaka offers warmth in a country that's still learning – it might not be loud and proud, but it's full of quiet connection. Directly above Osaka Station, this sleek hotel is ideal for travellers who want convenience without compromising comfort. What sets Granvia apart is its excellent service and attention to inclusivity – from respectful check-ins for same-sex couples to a concierge team that knows the city's queer hotspots. The rooms are modern and whisper-quiet, offering a peaceful pause from the buzz below. For those exploring Osaka's queer corners, this hotel is a calm and welcoming launchpad. 7. Richmond, Virginia, USA Best for: Southern charm with a progressive pulse Richmond is the plot twist no one saw coming – a small Southern city with big queer energy. Once a Civil War stronghold, it's now on the front lines of cultural change. Think rainbow crosswalks, drag brunches with grits and biscuits, and an arts scene bursting at the seams. LGBT+ spaces here are inclusive by design – not just gay bars, but cafés, bookstores, and community hubs. First Fridays art walks spill into the streets with queer creatives leading the charge, and the local Pride festival is a powerful celebration of visibility and resilience. What makes Richmond so special? It's not trying to be trendy. It just is. A city with grit, grace, and a whole lot of heart – where queer folk are woven into the cultural fabric, not just pinned to the party flyers. Bold, pastel pink, and packed with personality – Quirk is a boutique hotel that's as stylish as it is inclusive. Set in a former department store, it embraces creativity with its in-house gallery and rotating local art. Its rooftop bar is the perfect place to sip craft cocktails under Virginia skies. This is where you stay when you want hospitality with a splash of sass. 8. Wellington, New Zealand Best for: Creative culture and coastal chill Wellington might be small, but it punches way above its weight when it comes to queer credentials. This breezy capital at the edge of the world is packed with indie theatres, avant-garde galleries, and coffee that deserves its own passport. The LGBT+ community here is woven into the fabric of daily life – you'll see rainbow flags in business windows, drag shows in dive bars, and trans-led collectives shaping public conversations. Pride celebrations (especially Out in the City) are family-friendly and genuinely inclusive. Add in stunning coastal walks, Middle Earth movie locations, and a food scene that's inventive yet unpretentious, and Wellington becomes more than a stopover – it's a place to belong. If you're looking for a destination that balances progressive values with laidback charm, look no further. QT isn't just a hotel – it's an art gallery you can sleep in. Every corridor bursts with bold, queer-coded creativity. The staff here are as diverse as the décor and go out of their way to make everyone feel celebrated – no awkward moments, just pure welcome. Add in plush beds, lake views and a banging brunch, and you've got the queer-friendly capital experience down to an art. 9. Chiang Mai, Thailand Best for: Spiritual serenity and slow living Chiang Mai is the spiritual soul of Thailand – and for queer travellers, it's a balm. Nestled in the foothills of northern mountains, it's a city where golden temples gleam beside hipster cafés and monks smile knowingly as you stroll past holding your partner's hand. While Thailand has long been seen as a queer-friendly country, Chiang Mai offers something quieter than Bangkok's hedonism – a space for reflection, reconnection and release. The LGBT+ scene here is small but authentic, with community-run events, local drag, and inclusive yoga retreats. It's not about the scene – it's about the setting. Hike to waterfalls, sip coconut smoothies in jungle cafés, or meditate in monasteries open to all. Chiang Mai embraces queerness the way it embraces everything: with calm, compassion, and a smile. Step into colonial-era elegance with a progressive twist. 137 Pillars House offers luxury without pretension, and inclusion without fanfare. Whether you're sipping tea on your private veranda or floating in the infinity pool, everything from the respectful, affirming staff to the spacious suites and tranquil gardens whispers luxury and radiates serenity. It's the perfect base for lovers who prefer silk sheets to strobe lights. 10. Florianópolis, Brazil Best for: Sun-kissed escapism and coastal fun Florianópolis – or 'Floripa' if you're in the know – is where Brazil's party crowd meets its surf-loving yogis. With over 40 beaches to choose from, it's got a wave for every mood: sunset cocktails in the west, all-night raves in the east, and secluded coves for you and your lover to explore. This island city isn't officially labelled a queer hotspot – but ask any Brazilian gay and they'll nod knowingly. During summer, the LGBT+ scene spills out from bars and into the sand. You'll find inclusive beach clubs, queer boat parties, and the kind of flirty, free-flowing energy that only Brazil can offer. The vibe? Come as you are. Stay as long as you like. Leave with a tan and a story. Perched on the edge of North Bay, Majestic Palace blends elegance with a playful Brazilian twist. While not marketed specifically as an LGBT+ hotel, its staff are known for their open-minded approach and warm hospitality to all guests. The rooftop pool is a magnet for fabulous travellers, and the spa offers much-needed pampering after a night out. With easy access to both beaches and nightlife, this hotel makes exploring Florianópolis a breeze – in every sense. 11. Valencia, Spain Valencia is that effortlessly cool friend who always knows the best rooftop bar. Spain's third-largest city combines beach life with baroque beauty, modern architecture with ancient alleyways, and most importantly, a rising queer scene with serious flair. While Barcelona and Madrid steal the rainbow limelight, Valencia is quietly building a name for itself with queer film festivals, drag brunches, and a growing number of queer-owned cafés and boutiques. Pride is colourful but still community-rooted, with a genuine local vibe. You'll fall for the futuristic curves of the City of Arts and Sciences, the endless cycling paths, and the sandy stretch of Malvarrosa beach. It's all about balance here – sangria with a side of substance. For LGBT+ travellers looking to skip the crowds but still soak up the sun and sass, Valencia is ready and waiting. Part Roman palace, part minimalist dream, Caro Hotel is the definition of understated luxury. With just 26 bespoke rooms and a location in the historic centre, it's perfect for couples seeking privacy and style. The staff have a reputation for warm, unobtrusive service, making LGBT+ travellers feel like VIPs from check-in to check-out. The hotel is also known for its quiet discretion, which makes it ideal for guests looking for a romantic hideaway with a queer-friendly core. 12. Hebden Bridge, UK Best for: Countryside escapes with a feminist heartbeat Nestled in the Yorkshire hills, Hebden Bridge is like something out of a pastoral poem – if that poem had a punk spirit and a rainbow flag painted on the front door. Often dubbed the 'lesbian capital of the UK', this small market town is a haven for queer women, creatives and eco-minded wanderers. It's known for its activist roots, independent bookshops, vintage stores, and riverside pubs with roaring fires. The sense of community here is strong, and inclusion isn't a trend – it's a way of life. You're just as likely to stumble across a queer folk festival as a pottery class taught by a trans artist. It's all about living slowly, meaningfully and unapologetically. If you've ever dreamt of running off to the countryside but didn't want to leave your identity behind, Hebden Bridge is the place where your whole self is not just accepted – it's adored. This contemporary boutique hotel blends urban comfort with countryside charm. With clean, modern rooms and locally sourced breakfast, it's a top choice for queer travellers who want to feel welcome without fuss. The owners have long supported Hebden's LGBT+ scene and are known for their inclusive ethos. It's also within walking distance of all the best indie cafés, queer-run galleries and river walks. Think warm Yorkshire hospitality with just the right amount of edge. 13. Aarhus, Denmark Best for: Nordic cool and cultural curiosity Often overshadowed by Copenhagen, Aarhus is Denmark's best-kept queer secret. This compact, coastal city blends cutting-edge architecture with hygge charm and a surprisingly dynamic queer scene. It may be small, but Aarhus has a big heart – with LGBT+ art exhibitions, university activism, and a Pride parade that's short but mighty. You'll find rainbow flags waving proudly in independent cafés, queer collectives hosting open mic nights, and even drag shows in local libraries. It's a city where queerness is met with a shrug – and that's a beautiful thing. Add in world-class museums, bike-friendly streets, and easy access to windswept beaches, and you've got a destination that feels both progressive and peaceful. Aarhus proves that queer-friendly travel doesn't always have to come with glitter cannons – sometimes, it's the quiet places that make the loudest statements. Hotel Oasia is a minimalist dream that doesn't skimp on service. Located just a short stroll from Aarhus Station, it's known for its warm welcome and inclusive vibe, where every guest is treated with equal care. Featuring Danish design details, a calm colour palette, and a commitment to comfort, this is the perfect place to unwind after exploring Aarhus's creative corners. Quiet, stylish and effortlessly inclusive. 14. Mendoza, Argentina Mendoza is a wine country with a wild side. Nestled at the base of the Andes, this region is synonymous with Malbec, majestic views, and magic moments – especially for LGBT+ travellers seeking something a little off the beaten path. The area's reputation as a queer-friendly destination is growing fast, thanks to queer-owned wineries, inclusive wine tours, and a nightlife scene that blends rustic charm with Argentinian passion. Mendoza Pride is small but mighty, and the local community is warm, open, and ready to toast to love in all its forms. Spend your days cycling between vineyards or soaking in thermal baths, and your nights sipping wine beneath starlit skies. It's sensual, soulful, and seriously scenic – a true hidden gem for lovers. This luxury wine lodge blends vineyard views with boutique-style pampering. LGBT+ guests rave about the attentive staff and the seamless way same-sex couples are treated – no assumptions, just respect. With an on-site hammam, yoga deck, and personalised vineyard experiences, Entre Cielos is the perfect romantic retreat. Whether you're in the mood for a candlelit dinner or an afternoon massage, it's a slice of heaven in the highlands. 15. Hobart, Tasmania, Australia Best for: Artistic flair and wild natural beauty Hobart is a glorious contradiction – remote yet cultured, rugged yet refined. Perched on the edge of Tasmania, it's quickly becoming Australia's most surprising queer-friendly city. The annual TasPride festival is inclusive and intimate, celebrating the full LGBT+ spectrum with a strong community vibe. But Hobart's biggest queer calling card? Mona – the Museum of Old and New Art. It's provocative, political, and unapologetically queer in tone and content. Beyond that, there's wild hiking, penguin-spotting, and artisanal everything – from gin to cheese to poetry slams. The LGBT+ community here is small but passionate, and the city's creative spirit makes it easy to feel at home. If you're looking for a mix of edge, elegance and eucalyptus forests, Hobart is a cool-weather wonder with a warm welcome. LGBT+ friendly hotel: MACq 01 Hotel This luxury hotel on the Hobart waterfront tells the stories of Tasmania's diverse characters, including queer voices. With its sleek design and storytelling concept, MACq 01 celebrates identity and difference, making LGBT+ guests feel deeply seen. Offering stunning views across the harbour and being both equal parts stylish and soulful, it's a hotel with heart and heritage. Aidy Smith is an award-winning TV presenter, broadcaster and specialist within LGBT+ travel, food and drinks. He is the presenter of Amazon Prime's highest-rated drinks-themed travel series, The Three Drinkers and the only global TV presenter with Tourette Syndrome. You can follow his travel and lifestyle adventures at @Sypped or this neurodivergent advocacy work at @DisLabeled.
