Tucked between Tibet and India in a remote region of the Himalayan Mountains, lies a tiny Buddhist kingdom called Bhutan. Visitors to this spiritually and culturally-rich country will find a simpler way of life that is largely unaltered by Western culture and modern attitudes. Every aspect of life in Bhutanese villages and towns is steeped in the age-old traditions, beliefs, customs and practices of Buddhism, which is the basis of this country’s conservative, traditional way of life.

Germany is well-known for its thriving LGBT culture and for having large communities in each of its larger cities. One of the many reasons that gay travel packages to top LGBT hotspots like Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, Hamburg and Cologne are favorites with tourists from all over the world. As home to many world-famous Pride festivals, particularly in Cologne and Berlin, Germany is exceptional for gay travel and provides a welcoming environment for a wonderful trip. As is the case elsewhere, city residents are generally more accepting than rural village inhabitants; however, those planning a gay vacation will find Germany to be a safe, welcoming destination.

Whether as a stop on a tour through Europe, or a standalone gay vacations destination, France offers travelers world-renowned beaches, snow-covered alps, bucolic countryside dotted with castles and remnants of Frances long history, some of the most amazing art collections in the world, the fabulous French Riviera and, of course, the truly exceptional, unique city of Paris.

Gay tourists go on vacation for an array of purposes, including the chance to see new things, meet interesting people, learn about different cultures, get away from everyday stressors for a short time, or make new memories with special people in their lives. Every trip has a purpose, even if the reason is just to get away and lounge on the beach without worrying about the everyday cares and worries back home.

With its exhilarating nightlife, pristine beaches, multicultural atmosphere, beautiful people and extravagant annual events, such as Carnival, Brazil is a popular vacation destination for both gay and straight travelers. As one of South Americas most accepting and welcoming gay vacations for singles and couples, Brazil has quickly become a hotspot for gay vacations for gay men and lesbians in search of a raucous good time, or a tranquil escape to an exotic paradise. Whether your travel preference is a luxury gay vacation at an all-inclusive oceanfront resort or a Brazilian jungle adventure, the diversity of vacation options in Brazil makes this an ideal location for international a gay travel experience.

There is the perception that gay spirituality travel is not fun. When we take a vacation we want to have fun and relax. A vacation is supposed to be a time away from the responsibilities of life. We think of spiritual travel as something we should do because it is good for us. With this idea as a back drop, of course we will think that this kind of travel is not fun. When we vacation, we wish to leave behind this kind of responsibility. What would happen if we didn’t think like this?

Gay spirituality has been long sought and hard fought. Let’s face it, a large percentage of us grew up in churches that condemned us. It is completely common to go through a strong questioning period where spiritual answers seem out of reach and you end up looking for some sort of confirmation. The problem is that there is no actual confirmation, but the journey is still well worth it.

Need to find a place to blend romance with the exotic? Then Cape Town, South Africa is a great place to visit. It is tops for gay vacations and has been for a long time. It is a beautiful place for that perfect get away for just the two of you. You will find all types of activities to catch your interest.

China is a communist-led nation with an everyday life that is largely influenced by traditions that go back many generations. This may make China appear to be a less than friendly option for gay vacations; however tourists might be surprised to find a thriving scene throughout China’s urban areas including neighborhoods, bars, clubs and pride celebrations, as well as a growing level of acceptance largely due to the visibility of an organized LGBT community. China offers an array of vacation options including unique cultural experiences, breathtaking landscapes, delectable food and fabulous fashion, making China a perfect choice for gay vacations.

Many of us have traveled extensively but have at the end of our travels come away feeling less than satisfied which is why it makes sense to find out a little bit more about how spiritual travel can provide that feeling of fulfillment. If you have had your fill of cathedrals from the Gothic era and the sight of another Madonna does not uplift your spirits then you need to find an alternative solution which can take the form of traveling to find spiritual solace.

Chile is a popular destination for gay vacations due to its unique geography, which allows travelers to visit volcanoes, enjoy beautiful beaches, ski or snowboard the Andes and spend a night on the town in Santiago’s gay district all in the same day. Chile is a country rich in landmarks and varied landscapes including the Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, the penguin colony at Mirador de Chepu, the Easter Island statues, Elqui Valley in La Serena (which is steeped in legends about extraterrestrial activity) and exquisite architecture and churches that dot the cities, countryside and coastline.

Morocco is a land of legends and myths, steeped in rich history and culture, where travelers can stay in a hotel made of sand, trek across the desert on camels and bargain with spice and rug traders in old-world marketplaces. In many places homes have been converted into hotels, called riads, that are sometimes more welcoming for visitors on gay vacations and offer visitors the opportunity to experience the life and culture of Morocco more closely. There is no definable scene in Morocco, which is a conservative Muslim country; however there are many reasons to include Morocco in your gay travel planning, including pristine beaches, ancient ruins, enticing souks (markets) that wind through narrow streets offering a variety of wares, vast desert landscapes and amazing architecture.

South Africa has long been a gay tours destination, even before it became a human rights frontrunner with the abolition of apartheid, having the first constitution in the world that outlaws discrimination based on sexual orientation and becoming the fifth country worldwide to legalize same-sex marriage. Of course, after these landmark events, the interest in traveling to South Africa significantly increased in both the gay and straight communities. Today South Africa is the most accepting and gay-friendly country on the African continent with a growing gay culture that stretches from the pristine beaches of the Western Cape Province to the exciting, fast-paced lifestyle of Gauteng and is an increasingly popular gay vacation destination.

For most people, the best gay tours are a way to take time away from the stresses of daily life. Vacations also allow us to do and see things we wouldn’t normally experience. But, many people want even more from their vacations and travel experiences.

Greece offers an array of opportunities for fantastic gay tours or couples experience. Gay travel to Greece will naturally include amazing sunrises, relaxing on white, sandy beaches, trekking to historical sites to explore ancient ruins, and ferrying between several of Greece’s breathtakingly beautiful islands. Whether you dream of a gay vacation that includes family fun like picking olives and exploring museums, a restful respite in a seaside resort with your partner, or a rowdy week of taking in the Athens nightlife with a group of friends, Greece will undoubtedly prove to be an ideal setting for your gay vacation.