Gay and Lesbian Travel in British Columbia
Vancouver Not the Only Gay Friendly Location in BC
Sep 26, 2009
Canada and Vancouver in particular has a worldwide reputation as a top-notch travel destination. It also has a rightfully earned moniker of a gay-friendly port of call. The nations' largest cities – Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver – most certainly deserve their gay-friendly reputation, and no trip to Canada would be complete without a visit to one of the major metropolitan centres.
But many of the most romantic and accepting places for LGBT couples can be found outside the city limits. It is definitely worth a little extra travel time to find the perfect getaway. Being openly out in public may initially feel more comfortable in the larger cities, but the Canadian acceptance of LGBT people has permeated through to many other areas.
Research prior to travel is imperative:
- Has there been any violence against LGBT residents or visitors to the area;
- Are there lodgings that specifically welcome the LGBT community or that are owned by LGBT proprietors?;
- Are any areas known as popular hangouts for the LGBT community?;
No matter what floats your boat – romantic walks on the beach, water sports, or contemplative time in forests eons old – British Columbia has it all.
Tofino on Vancouver Island
Located on the far west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino boasts the glorious Long Beach, where even at the height of summer, when tourists abound, you can feel peaceful and alone, like it's just you and your lover. LGBT couples walking hand in hand will garner nary a look – if nothing else, there is so much more to see. Tofino is located in the Pacific Rim National Park and boasts some of the worlds' most glorious sea kayaking, and at any time of year, surfers are out on the water trying to catch a big wave. Beginners wanting to try their hand at surfing should check out Surf Sisters , which provides a comfortable, safe environment for women to try surfing for the first time.
Many people head to Tofino at non-traditional times of the year. Storm watching is a popular activity from November through March – this is actually considered tantamount to high season. Is there anything more romantic than cuddling up with your loved one, fireplace lit, glass of wine in hand, watching and listening as waves crash the shore? For a lover's retreat, storm watch while staying at the luxurious Wickaninnish Inn or the equally sumptuous Long Beach Lodge Resort.
For a more peaceful water experience, sea kayaking in Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, provides calm waters for the novice, and almost unlimited exploration deep into the Sound for the more experienced sea kayaker. There truly is something for everyone in this jewel on the Pacific.
The Capital City of Victoria
A visit to the beautiful city of Victoria is well worth the 1.5 hour ferry ride from the mainland. The scenery on the way over sets the mood for what lies ahead. Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, provides a perfect quiet spot for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, and is an extremely safe and welcoming location for LGBT visitors. Victoria has a gamut of tourist attractions from whale watching to the more leisurely Butchart Gardens, which really are a must-see.
The Empress Hotel and the Parliament Building are well worth a tour; situated right on the Inner Harbour, these impressive buildings dominate the waterfront. The true magnificence of these structures comes as the sun goes down and they are lit up against the night sky – a wonderful opportunity for a romantic jaunt should not be missed.
The Royal BC Museum often has exhibits of historic significance. The incredible displays offer a look into the past and the influence of that past on the British Columbia of today. Definitely a worthwhile excursion and like many of Victoria's attractions, it is within walking distance of the Inner Harbour. The British influence is evident throughout the city, and no trip to Victoria would be complete without a tour on a double-decker bus.
Skiing at Whistler and More
Whistler has a world renowned reputation as a top notch ski resort. From British royalty to Hollywood's elite, Whistler attracts people the world over. And why not as it offers some of the best skiing conditions in the world and the location is simply breathtaking. It will of course be co-hosting the Winter Olympics in February 2010. For the first time at any Olympics, there will be a PRIDE house, which will serve as a safe place for LGBT athletes and their friends, family and fans to gather and exchange stories. Following the Olympics, WinterPRIDE will take centre stage and this event really speaks to the warm welcome LGBT visitors can expect any time of year.
The beauty of Whistler is that it is a year round pleasure to attend. In fact, summer in Whistler has as much to as the winter season. Try Ziplining in any season, feel like your flying and perusing the magnificent scenery below; check out the new Peak to Peak gondola, the world's longest unsupported lift span, connecting Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains or go bike riding, kayaking, canoeing, or bear watching. Whistler also boasts world class golf courses including Nicklaus North, designed by its' namesake in 1995.
Whistler cannot be done in any one visit - and that's ok because you will want to keep coming back again and again. Romance, adventure, leisurely strolls or arduous hikes - Whistler has something for everyone but most of all, it has unmatched spectacular scenery and a warm welcome for LGBT visitors any time of the year.
Gay Pride in BC
Beautiful British Columbia could not be more aptly named. Every where you turn, breathtaking views of mountains, ocean, lakes or forest meet the eye. And for LGBT visitors, the trip will be memorable for more reasons than that, because acceptance is as beautiful as it gets.
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