7 popular destinations Canadians will love celebrating Pride
This summer, we’re celebrating our 2SLGBTQ+ family and friends in full colour in some of the top vacation destinations, both near and far. Whether you’re vacationing in Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America or in your own backyard, you can find Pride celebrations just about anywhere you look. From oceanside views to the comforts of home, we’ve compiled some of our favourite spots to celebrate Pride!
Cuba
It’s no surprise that Cuba is a favourite vacation destination for Canadians, from perfect weather to 400 kilometres of shore, coral reefs, iconic history and culture, not to mention its wide range of all inclusive offerings. With more than 300 resorts offering a welcoming atmosphere and stunning amenities every vacationer can enjoy, head south to Cuba and celebrate Pride Month laying poolside with a cocktail in hand. Plus, with fantastic deals on last-minute getaways, there’s no better time to celebrate in paradise!
Travel tip: You can fly to Varadero, Cayo Coco, Cayo Santa Maria and Holguin from multiple gateways across the country with convenient and direct weekly flights. But what about when you get there? We suggest booking a seven-night stay at Gran Muthu Rainbow Cayo Guillermo, a 2SLGBTQ+ friendly resort with daily events you’ll love, from beach parties to dance lessons, rainbow games, karaoke and more.
Mexico
In addition to its pristine conditions for sun and sand, Mexico is an idyllic destination to celebrate Pride with a variety of events throughout the spring and summer in the country’s vacation hot spots. If you were in the area recently, you may have experienced Pride in Puerto Vallarta, known as one of the most welcoming cities in the world and a favourite destination for the 2SLGBTQ+ community, or the four-day celebrations in Cancun last month with incredible events and performances! But, if you’re planning your last-minute vacay, check out Playa del Carmen’s Pride events, with a seven-day festival and the Pride Parade on the last day, June 25.
Travel tip: Stay at Royalton CHIC Cancun, An Autograph Collection All Inclusive Resort Adults Only and partake in the Pride event at Level 18 on June 25! You can start the day marching Playa del Carmen’s Pride Parade and end the evening enjoying themed cocktails, music and dancing, overlooking Cancun’s coast at Level 18.
Dominican Republic
One of the most popular vacation destinations in the Caribbean, the Dominican Republic is a great choice for your Pride getaway with unlimited offerings suitable to every vacation desire. From the white-sand shores of Punta Cana to the 19th-century history in downtown Puerto Plata and beyond, there’s a great supply of spots to celebrate and resorts to celebrate at! If you want to get up close and personal with the festivities, head to Santo Domingo for the Pride Parade held on the last Sunday in June.
Travel tip: Seek out properties that have received TAG Approved® designation for meeting the necessary qualifications for supporting the LGTBQ+ community. Breathless Punta Cana Resort and Spa by AMR Collection is a TAG Approved® adults only property perfect for singles or couples wanting a sophisticated experience, offering pool parties, live DJ sets, exclusive pools and private lounges for utmost fun.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is referred to as the most 2SLGBTQ+ friendly country in Central America and was among the first in the region to recognize gay and lesbian relationships. As such, Costa Rica is the perfect destination to celebrate Pride Month your way surrounded by its beautiful beaches, volcanoes, protected rainforests, wildlife and welcoming people. Plus, Costa Rica’s capital city of San José offers a thriving 2SLGBTQ+ scene with several gay bars, clubs and special events, should you wish to head out on a day-long adventure.
Travel tip: Mix in a little relaxation at the adults only Secrets Papagayo Costa Rica by AMR Collection set amid the breathtaking natural landscapes of the Gulf of Papagayo. Soak up the sun by the pool, sign up for a cooking class or wine and tequila tasting, or relax to the max with a treatment at the world-class Secrets Spa by Pevonia®.
Photo credit: Ashly Araya
Toronto
As one of the most multicultural cities in the world, Toronto is a metropolis of diversity, from its culture to international cuisine, shopping, waterfront views and more. Pride Month is the perfect time to visit Toronto with the city lit up from the CN Tower to Dundas Square, and a vast range of 2SLGBTQ+ festivities and events to experience. If you’re planning a last-minute getaway to ‘The Six’ this month, make sure to experience Toronto’s infamous Pride Parade on June 26, attracting allies from all over the world. Sunwing is especially honoured to have the opportunity to walk and support our 2SLGBTQ+ community this year!
Travel tip: With weekly flights from gateways across Canada, including Vancouver and regional airports in Newfoundland, plus only a half-day's drive from Montréal, it’s easy to get to Toronto this summer!
Montréal
The stunning architecture, culture, parks, vibrant nightlife, festivals, entertainment and more has made Montréal one of the most sought-after travel destinations in Canada and throughout the world. With all there is to discover, Fierté Montréal, or Montréal Pride, the city’s annual LGBTQ pride festival, is a must-see and do. Kicking off the festivities August 1 with internationally acclaimed writer, performer and public speaker, Alok Menon, you can go see local artists, electrifying performances and drag shows and community connections, and end Fierté Montréal with a bang at the Pride Parade on August 7.
Travel tip: Torontonians can extend their Pride Month celebrations and check ‘road trip’ off their summer bucket list when they head to Montréal for Fierté Montréal! Make the most of the trip and stop at some attractions along the way – take a picture at the Big Apple pie factory in Presqu’ile, enjoy a lunch break in Prince Edward County for some bites and local flavour or take a drive through the historic town of Kingston and relish in the waterfront views.
Vancouver
For the Canadian in search of ocean views and rugged mountain terrain, complimented by a cosmopolitan city centre and some of the best Pride festivities in Canada, west is best. If you’re looking to pack in as much as possible during your stay, visit the last week of July during the Vancouver Pride Festival in Vancouver’s west end. Following two years of virtual or modified events, the festival’s theme of “Together Again” couldn’t be more fitting and it caps off with the world-famous Pride Parade on Sunday, July 31. Don’t worry – you’ll still have plenty of time to shop Robson Street, picnic in Stanley Park or hike Grouse Mountain!
Travel tip: From east to west, travellers can experience Vancouver’s Pride celebrations first-hand with daily flights from Toronto. Even in the summer, Vancouver sees a lot of rain so make sure you’re dressed and prepared for anything. A good rain jacket and waterproof shoes are non-negotiables!
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