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Cancun, as one of the world’s most popular vacation hotspots, it’s widely known for its open and inclusive atmosphere, making it a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
In fact, according to a recent Travel Proud 2023 report by Booking.com, Cancun stands out as the favorite tourist destination in Mexico among the community.
Taking insights from a whopping 11,000 respondents spanning 27 countries and territories, the study selected the top five LGBTQ+ picks for Mexican destinations: Cancun, Mexico City, Acapulco, Guadalajara, and Puerto Vallarta.
In the past, places like Acapulco and Puerto Vallarta were pretty much Mexico’s go-to LGBTQ+ destinations, with the latter even being known as the “Mexican San Francisco.”
But as Cancun rose to prominence as Mexico’s ultimate vacation hotspot, its reputation for being a friendly and inclusive place for LGBTQ+ visitors also skyrocketed.
Added to its collection of stunning beaches, high-end resorts, and vibrant nightlife, Cancun’s popularity among LGBTQ+ travelers really comes as no surprise.
Earlier this year, the city was recognized as the top beach destination in the Gay Travel Awards 2023, solidifying the city’s well-deserved status as Mexico’s top LGBTQ+ friendly hotspot.
To date, over 850 properties in Mexico hold the Travel Proud certification, a testament to the country’s commitment to welcoming the LGBTQ+ community.
So, what exactly makes Cancun stand out among these inclusive Mexican destinations?
Let’s find out!
Why Cancun Is The Top Choice In Mexico Among LGBTQ+ Travelers
Cancun’s emergence as a welcoming destination is part of a wider travel trend currently taking place in Mexico.
The Booking.com study shows that 78% of LGBTQ+ travelers now feel more comfortable traveling in the country, thanks to the growing inclusivity within the travel industry.
What’s more, 70% of LGBTQ+ travelers actively seek out LGBTQ+-friendly activities and attractions during their adventures.
And in Cancun, there’s no shortage of options.
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@fave_vee THE beach to visit! #cancun #mexico🇲🇽 #mexicobeach #playadelfines #playa ♬ Moscow Mule – Bad Bunny
Several of Cancun’s most iconic beaches, including Playa Chac-Mool and Playa Delfines, are known for their inclusive atmosphere and popularity among the community, with the latter even being dubbed ‘Cancun’s main gay beach’.
The city hosts its yearly Pride march in June, and while it might not rival the scale of events in cities like Guadalajara or Mexico City, it’s still quite popular among both LGBTQ+ travelers and locals.
But the rest of the year the Cancun still offers a multitude of LGTBQ+ oriented activities, including entertaining drag brunches at venues like el Señor Frogs or dazzling drag shows at The Back Door or the iconic Laser Hot Bar.
And beyond the LGBTQ+-specific activities, Cancun’s countless attractions, such as adventure parks, excursions, and cultural activities, is something travelers just can’t get enough of.
Cancun’s Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Resorts & Clubs
Putting aside Cancun’s stunning beaches and numerous attractions, LGBTQ+ travelers love this Caribbean paradise because of its world-class resorts and legendary, vibrant nightlife.
Known for its luxurious amenities and LGBTQ+-inclusive policies, the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa is one of Cancun’s most popular resorts among LGBTQ+ travelers.
Featuring eight restaurants, two bars, three pools, and a luxurious spa, this all-inclusive promises guests an unforgettable stay.
But the options don’t end there. Cancun is home to several other LGBTQ+-friendly resorts, including Temptations, Sun Palace, and Grand Oasis Sens – all celebrated for their popularity among LGBTQ+ travelers.
And when it comes to an unforgettable night out, Cancun’s nightlife offers a dynamic array of LGBTQ+-friendly hotspots.
Coco Bongo, for instance, is an iconic nightclub where music, acrobatics, and wild entertainment blend seamlessly.
Meanwhile, The City, known for its high-energy parties, draws crowds of LGBTQ+ revelers and allies alike.
Yet, it’s downtown Cancun, known as ‘El Centro’, that truly shines as the epicenter of the city’s LGBTQ+ scene. Here, you’ll discover a wealth of shops, gay clubs, and bars, including the aforementioned Laser Hot Bar, 11:11 Club, and Bar Noa TuCancun.
The best part is that with the necessary safety measures in place – just like in any tourist hotspot – travelers can always expect a safe and welcoming environment at these venues.
So, with Cancun’s diverse collection of LGBTQ+ friendly attractions and inclusive vibe, it’s no wonder why this paradise was chosen by the community as the ultimate Mexican destination.
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