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Gay Philippines: Essential Travel Guide 2023

The Philippines has been ranked as one of the most gay friendly places in Asia and has so much to offer LGBTQ+ travellers.

With stunning beaches, perfect turquoise waters for scuba diving, many unique islands to explore, and a great mix of adventure and relaxation on offer, the Philippines is one of our favorite gay travel destinations in Asia.

In our ‘ Gay Philippines Travel Guide ‘ we will share our personal experience of this incredible country, which islands we travelled to, the activities we took part in as well as details of any gay bars in the Philippines and the gay friendly hotels we stayed at.

Read on to learn everything you need to know. Fair warning – by the end you will want to book a flight right away!

Gay Philippines Travel Guide

Lgbtq+ rights in the philippines.

Whether you are travelling to the Philippines for your gay honeymoon or just for a vacation, knowing the LGBTQ+ rights beforehand is important.

Thankfully, when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights, the Philippines is ahead compared to most of Asia.

We are not saying it is perfect; there is still work to be done as with most places in the world, but you can feel confident visiting the Philippines as a gay couple.

The history of LGBTQ+ rights here is very interesting. Prior to any outside influences, the indigenous people celebrated homosexuality and gave homosexuals special roles within the community as spiritual leaders.

However, with the influx of Islamic movements and the Spanish occupation of the Philippines (named after King Phillip II) the attitude towards LGBTQ+ people changed for the worse. Since then it has improved and here is what you need to know today:

  • Same-ടex ടexual activity: Legal
  • A survey completed in 2013 by the Pew Research Centre reported 73% of adults agreed homosexuality should be accepted in society.
  • Same-ടex marriage: not recognised but also not prohibited
  • Discrimination protections: None at the national level but many anti-discrimination ordinances exist at the local government level
  • Government officials: there are a number of openly LGBTQ+ individuals within the government

While the laws are not perfect, the attitudes of the majority of people are positive. For us this was especially true being tourists in hotels and doing tourist activities. We had no problems whatsoever.

About the Philippines

gay philippines travel guide

The Philippines are a collection of islands in South East Asia in the Philippine Sea, and the number keeps growing!

The current count by the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority is 7,641 islands in total!

Whilst there may be a lot of islands, the most popular islands for gay travellers are Cebu, Palawan, Boracay and Bohol.

Many people fly in to Manila (the capital) and spend a few days there but we opted not to as we wanted to focus on the beach destinations (however this is where you will find some gay bars in the Philippines – see below).

The Philippines is known for its warm culture and stunning scenery. A natural comparison would be Thailand, however the Philippines is currently less touristy and so retains more of its natural unspoilt beauty.

Some places in the Philippines such as El Nido have been voted as the most beautiful places on the planet. That is no small feat!

If you love crystal clear waters, powdery beaches, stunning landscapes and a welcoming culture, this is the place for you!

Gay Travel Destinations in the Philippines

We spent three weeks in the Philippines – one week on the island of Cebu (Mactan Island), one week in Palawan (El Nido) and one week in Boracay. In this ‘Gay Philippines Travel Guide ‘ we will focus on these three islands in the order we travelled:

Our first stop was the province of Cebu. We decided to stay on Mactan Island which is just 1 mile off the coast of Cebu Island, as this is where most of the 5 star hotels can be found.

Our Cebu itinerary was very straightforward – relax for the majority of the time, and see the island whilst doing a few activities.

Cebu is also one of the islands with an international airport so this made things easier from a logistics perspective too!

El Nido has been voted one of the most beautiful places in the world and we can see why.

El Nido is a small town o n the island of Palawan . It is famous for island-hopping boat tours and scuba diving.

The waters here are some of the most beautiful and crystal clear we have ever seen. When the sun is directly above, you can see all the way down to the ocean bed.

The easiest way to get to El Nido is to fly to El Nido Airport. Once you land (it is the smallest airport ever) it is a short and cheap taxi or tricycle ride to the main town.

El Nido airport is only served by certain airlines flying from certain locations so do bear that in mind.

For us, we could fly direct from Cebu, but for example, there were no flights between El Nido and Boracay (our final stop). Since we have been this may have changed.

The other option is to fly into Puerto Princesa.

From here you have a 6-8 hour journey to get to El Nido. You can either pay for a private car (up to $60) or find yourself a group minibus where you are more likely to pay around the $15-20 mark.

Finally, after being a little bit away from the tourist track we wanted to go somewhere with a bit more life.

Like everywhere we went, Boracay is a very beautiful island and one of the more well known and established destinations in the Philippines.

Boracay is a relatively small island split into three ‘zones’ with each zone centred around a bus station, 1, 2 or 3.

The main and most popular zone to be in is zone 2. From here you can walk to all the main restaurants, bars, shops and straight onto the main beach; White Beach.

To get here, we had to travel from El Nido to the larger town of Puerto Princesa by a private transfer to get to Puerto Princesa airport.

This was because there were no flights from El Nido to Caticlan airport (the nearest to Boracay).

There are other airports nearby including Kalibo airport. This is a little further away but is served by larger planes so you may find it easier to fly into this one instead if you are arriving from larger islands.

Things to do for gay travellers in the Philippines

We spent a lot of time relaxing by the pool and on the beach, however we also needed some activities to keep us going. We love our luxury hotels but we also love our adventure activities.

Of course these activities are for straight and gay travellers alike, but we can vouch that we experienced these with no issue as a gay couple.

Canyoneering in Badian (Cebu)

We had seen a video on YouTube of people canyoneering in Badian and knew we had to do it!

If you have never heard of canyoneering before its very straightforward. You get your swimwear on, a life jacket, helmet and jump straight into the rivers and pools.

There are natural rock water slides, small caves to swim through, and lots of man-made and natural platforms to jump from if you are feeling brave. This was quite the adrenaline rush as the final platforms to jump from were up to 10 metres high! Sion does not like heights but nevertheless went for it!

This is a lot of fun in itself, but is also worth doing for the stunning location you are in. The water in parts can only be described as the colour of blue Gatorade and the jungle itself is beautiful.

To get to Badian, transport from Mactan Island took a few hours and was arranged by the tour company. The company we used at the time was called Planet Action Adventure Tour Services.

If you go to Cebu make sure you make time to go canyoneering in Badian, you will not regret it! Check out our full ‘ Guide to Canyoneering in Cebu ‘.

Boat tours in El Nido – Tours A, B, C and D

gay philippines guide

You absolutely must do a boat tour in El Nido – it’s one of the activities we enjoyed the most. These are full day tours on a boat with up to 20 other people exploring nearby islands, lagoons and snorkelling spots.

The tours are named Tour A, B, C or D.

The most popular ones are A and C as these are considered the most beautiful. These are the ones we did and we were blown away by the beauty of the places we were taken to.

All tours are similar prices, around $20 per person with lunch and snorkelling gear included. All should be bookable through your accommodation.

Take a look at our videos here , you won’t need any more convincing!

Ziplining in El Nido

El Nido is simply stunning from every angle, whether you are sailing on the ocean, 20 metres below the surface scuba diving or just taking a stroll along the beach.

However, ziplining in El Nido gives you a whole different perspective.

The zipline can be found at Las Cabanas Beach.

You will have to walk up a pretty steep hill but it is well signposted and easy to find. You can either opt to go in a seated position or the Superman position (lying on your front).

Both cost around $15-$20 and you will fly across to Depeldet Island. From here you can walk back across the water to Las Cabanas – given it is low tide!

Most people will get a tricycle from the main town to this beach however we suggest something much better! Instead, get a taxi to Corong Corong beach. From here you can walk South all the way along the coast until after about 40 minutes you arrive at Las Cabanas beach.

The walk is very romantic, you won’t see many people and it gives you a chance to see more of the island. Some parts may involve scrambling over rocks, so take care – water shoes are recommended over flip-flops!

Scuba Diving in El Nido

scuba diving in el nido

You must go scuba diving in El Nido.

We have mentioned how perfect the waters are here and we are not exaggerating. Snorkelling is amazing, but for us, scuba diving is magical and this is one the best places we have done it.

We chose to go on a three tank dive taking us to three different sites and paid around $120 each to do so.

For those that scuba dive, visibility is key and the visibility here was perfect. We saw an abundance of sealife and spent most of the dives in awe.

There were plenty of dive schools to choose from. We chose Turtle Divers, based on cost, availability and their Tripadvisor reputation.

Visit Nacpan Beach – El Nido

El Nido is known for its beaches.

We loved the place we stayed at but that beach was not one of the best.

Equally if you were to stay in the busy backpacker area there aren’t any good beaches there either. However, take a 45 minute ride on a tricycle and you will arrive at the beautiful Nacpan beach.

We really wanted to do this because we wanted a mix of fun activities but also some down time. At this point it won’t surprise you if we tell you the waters are crystal clear and the sand white and powdery soft.

There are a few small places along the beach where you can grab food and drink.

To get here, you can either rent a motorcycle, take the once a day jeepney from El Nido town or hire a tricycle.

We recommend getting a tricycle. You can haggle with the drivers between $15-$20 for a return trip, they will take you and then either wait around by the beach until you are ready or ask for a time when you want to be picked up.

The road to Nacpan is fairly undeveloped so be prepared for a bumpy ride!

Explore the Beaches in Boracay

GAY BEACHES IN BORACAY

We made sure to get a lot of beach time here. Boracay has long stretches of beaches all around the island.

We spent a lot of time on White Beach.

Walking along this beach there are many small bars with bean bag chairs and hammocks on the beach. We made sure to stop at a few of these for some romantic sunset cocktails.

Other popular beaches around the island include Bulabog, Puka and Diniwid.

What is important to know here, is that bright green algae is an important part of the ecosystem. It’s well respected by the people here and it is nothing to be alarmed by if you arrive at certain times of the year.

The beaches are still beautiful and the sea warm and clear.

Scuba Diving in Boracay

Like everywhere we went in the Philippines, the scuba diving is excellent. Here we did a two tank dive and headed out by speed boat directly from the beach.

Just like El Nido, there was an abundance of sealife and we enjoyed every second.

Whale Sharks in Oslob (Cebu) – do not do!

We have included a mention of this as it is super popular but comes with a warning.

This is something we seriously considered doing as we would love to see a whale shark. To get to Oslob from Mactan Island is about a 6 hour journey there and back with only about 20 minutes in the water with the whale sharks.

We decided not to do this activity after some further research. It has become so touristy and popular that the whale sharks are now being affected in a negative way. Take a look here to understand the reasons why.

One day we hope to see them in the wild during a scuba dive.  A much more natural and special way to have this experience!

If you want a more detail, take a look at this itinerary for Cebu from a fellow travel blogger.

Gay Friendly Hotels in the Philippines

The hotels mentioned below are the hotels we stayed in during our gay honeymoon in the Philippines so you can rest assured you will be welcome as gay travellers. However, you won’t find any exclusively gay hotels in the Philippines yet!

Mahogany Resort & Spa – El Nido

Philippines: Gay Destinations

We stayed at the beautiful Mahogany Resort & Spa .

This resort is on the Corong Corong beachfront and offers individual and locally designed cottages all with large terraces. One cottage even has its own plunge pool!

For us, given that this was our honeymoon and we wanted to spend time in romantic places in the Philippines, this was the perfect place.

The main town of El Nido on the harbour has a great atmosphere with lots going on, but it is very much a backpacker place and that is not what we were looking for.

El Nido Mahogany was just a 5 minute tricycle journey ($2) from the main town meaning it was much quieter and secluded – perfect for a romantic honeymoon.

We loved that the breakfast was served on your own private terrace at the time you request it.

Knowing it was our honeymoon they even had some extra special touches such as covering the bed in flower petals on arrival (which we messed up by walking in and putting the fan on!)

There are no other meals served here but there are many options nearby including a restaurant at the nearby El Nido Coco Hotel which we used for a romantic dinner.

The owner here was from France and she was a very lovely host, we highly recommend!

Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island – Cebu

gay hotels in philippines

This was our honeymoon so we wanted the best in 5 star hotels. We stayed at the beautiful Movenpick Hotel Mactan Island . This hotel has its own private beach and a classy ‘Ibiza style’ beach club.

We loved the beach club for its over water hanging hammocks, delicious cocktails, (they had a happy hour too!) and on an evening the food and entertainment.

We were very excited to see ostrich steak on the menu here – one of our favourite dishes from South Africa. If you have never tried it, think of fillet steak but better!

The staff at the hotel were all very friendly, the service was impeccable and it is a ‘Travel Proud’ property on booking.com

Henann Lagoon Resort- Boracay

gay hotels Philippines

We spent a long time deciding on the perfect hotel in Boracay for our gay honeymoon. This was the final stop so we needed somewhere beautiful!

After a lot of deliberation, we chose to go with Henann Lagoon .

The Henann group have three different hotels on the island. Regardless of which one you stay at you can use the facilities of all and even charge to your room from the other Henann hotels on the island.

This was good because we loved the pool at the Lagoon but enjoyed having lunch at the other hotel on the beachfront.

At the Henann Lagoon we loved the swim up bar, the quality of the cocktails and the staff were top class. They also served an excellent breakfast buffet.

Gay Bars in the Philippines

When it comes to gay bars in the Philippines, don’t expect too much.

There were no official gay bars in Boracay, El Nido or Cebu, however there is a small gay scene in the capital city of Manila.

Gay Bars in Manila

If you travel to Manila, check out these gay bars:

O Bar Manila – this is the most popular weekend gay club in Manila. It has been around for many years, is open every night and has live entertainment and a large dancefloor. Shows usually start at 1:30 m and the entrance fee is around Php 500 ($10 USA) which comes with 3 drinks.

F Club – this is a little bit of everything, it is a gay bar and also a bathhouse. Take a look at their Instagram to see what specific events are coming up.

The One 690 Entertainment Bar Manila – this is a gay club and high production go-go show with ‘friendly’ staff if you get our gist. It is open 21:30 – 05:00 daily. The bar is located in front of Amoranto Stadium.

Jefz Cafe Manila – don’t let the word cafe confuse, this gay bar in the Philippines is open fro 18:00 – 04:00 each day. They do sing along karaoke as well as the hot male body show on Fridays.

Gay Bars in Boracay

It is also worth noting that while Boracay does not have any gay bars or clubs, we found with it being so touristy it was very open for gay couples.

We felt comfortable having a night out, dancing together and being affectionate with no trouble at all. There were even a few local gay couples out dancing together too!

Epic Boracay – for some music and dancing. This is where we went and saw a few other gays couples so felt super comfortable here. Other websites also make this suggestion so it is a good bet for the closest thing to a gay bar in Boracay.

Gay Bars in Palawan

Again, like Boracay there are no official gay bars in Palawan (Palawan being the island where El Nido and Puerto Princesa are). However, the bar below is said to be popular with the local gay guys:

Tiki Bar, Palawan – Tiki Bar offer food, music, drinks and live entertainment and can be found in Puerto Princesa.

Gay Bars in Cebu

Navigator Gay Bar – this gay bar is listed as temporaily closed but you can keep an eye on its Facebook page .

Gay Saunas in the Philippines

There are two gay saunas in the Philippines, both are in Manila. The third mentioned below that appears in some gay travel guides is now listed as permanently closed.

F Club – this is a club and also a gay sauna in Manila with group shower rooms, lounges, cubicles, dark rooms and spa treatment areas.

Club Bath Philippines – claiming to be the oldest gay bathhouse in Asia, Club Bath Philippines has been runnning for over 40 years and has a fitness room, labyrinth with cabins and mini bar/movie area. For this gay sauna its best to reserve online in advance to make sure you get in. Check the FAQs.

Altermale (the We’rehouse) Manila – this gay sauna is now permanently closed.

Note that usually you need to pay a membership fee and entrance and will likely need ID.

Gay Beaches in the Philippines

If you are looking for a gay beach in the Philippines then your best bet is White Beach Puerto Galera.

We have not been to Puerto Galera, however it’s known to be a free and open place popular with gay travellers and therefore the main beach, White Beach has been coined the ‘unofficial gay beach’ at certain times of the year for the amount of gay men strutting in their speedos.

In all honesty, don’t plan your trip around this, if you happen to visit Puerto Galera check it out but don’t make it your sole reason for going, there is so much more to the Philippines.

Philippines: LGBTQ Pride and Events

Like a lot of countries in Asia, it is usually the larger cities that will be host to pride organisations and LGBTQ events.

Metro Manila Pride – is a volunteer-managed, non-partisan, not-for-profit organization dedicated to educating, equipping and empowering the Filipino LGBTQIA+ community to work towards a future that recognizes and respects the rights of persons to a dignified life without discrimination and prejudice. Metro Manila Pride marches have been running since 2016 – see more on Metro Manila Pride .

Jungle Queer Party – this is the Philippines largest beach gay circuit party event. Take a look at upcoming events on Facebook .

How to get to the Philippines

There are over 50 airports throughout the Philippines ranging from those taking only propeller planes to the large international airports.

You are most likely to fly in to the main airport in the capital Manila, or Cebu, which has a smaller international airport. From here you can then take your connecting flight to whichever island you wish.

However, this is not as straightforward as you might think so you need to plan ahead else you will end up back tracking and getting unnecessary flights.

We suggest taking a look at AirSWIFT. They fly to destinations you are most likely to travel to including Palawan (El Nido and Puerto Princesa), Cebu, Manila and Caticlan (for Boracay).

Flights are not as cheap as in other parts of Asia, however this is the easiest way to get around.

Is the Philippines Expensive?

Looking at the hotels we stayed at a lot of people asked whether the Philippines is expensive. The answer is quite straightforward: no.

The Philippines caters to everyone budget, from backpackers to luxury travellers. Even for us, on a honeymoon wanting the best 5 star hotels we only paid on average $150 a night for accommodation. In other places in the world you would have to pay $400+ per night for the same standard of accommodation. Eating at these hotels is quite pricey in comparison to eating out, however we decided to do a bit of both.

Taxis and tricycles to get around when you are on each island is cheap. Flights can be quite expensive if you do not plan in advance. Overall, a very affordable destination!

We absolutely loved our honeymoon in the Philippines, it was the perfect destination for us and we highly recommend it to all couples including other gay couples.

We hope to do an extended trip back to the Philippines in the future to learn more about this amazing country.

Check out these posts for more about this beautiful country and the rest of South East Asia:

  • A Complete Guide to Kawasan Falls: Canyoneering in Cebu
  • Gay Philippines: Local Gay Stories
  • South East Asia: Gay Travel Asia, a Complete Guide

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Purple Roofs

Gay Manila, The Philippines – The Nomadic Boys

Gay Manila, The Philippines - The Nomadic Boys

In this guide to gay Manila , we’ve set out practical safety tips and summarised the best of the city’s gay scene, top places to stay, go out and eat for you to check out.

“Be super careful in Manila boys…” was the blunt warning from our Filipino friends in London before we headed over, “…it’s crowded, polluted, too much traffic and lots of thieves everywhere!”

But in all honesty, Manila is no different to any other big city we’ve been in.

Our first steps on the streets of Malate were tentative – taking our friends’ words to heart, we ensured to leave all valuables in our hotel, avoided unlit streets, and stuck to taxis to get us around. But the paranoia that we’d built up was quickly broken down. Sticking to basic common sense, it’s absolutely fine in Manila.

We ended up really enjoying the Filipino capital. It has a pretty exciting gay scene with a super friendly LGBTQ community that loves connecting with foreigners. Filipinos generally are the most affable and hospitable people we’ve ever met, which makes it so easy to quickly make local friends here. This was our favorite thing about Manila!

As the hub into the Philippines, the city makes for a pretty sweet base to start exploring the rest of this phenomenal country.

By Stefan Arestis – Full Story at the Nomadic Boys

Gay Philippines Travel Resources

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Things in Manila

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When is gay pride in Manila?

Manila Pride typically lights up the streets in late June, aligning with the global celebration of LGBT Pride Month. Make sure to double-check the dates each year, as they can shift slightly. It's a vibrant, colorful time full of energy so definitely consider syncing your visit with this fabulous event!

Are there any other annual or recurring gay events in Manila?

Besides Pride, Manila plays host to a few other recurring events like queer film festivals and parties that happen throughout the year. Keep an ear to the ground and an eye on local LGBTQ+ event listings for the latest.

Is there a gay sauna in Manila?

For sure! If you're looking to unwind, Club Bath Philippines is a popular choice among locals and travelers alike. Just remember to check out their website or give them a call for the latest info on opening times and any special health and safety measures. Find more Manila saunas here.

Where are the gay bars in Manila?

The Manila scene is buzzing with some cool vibes! If you're keen on checking out the nightlife, swing by the Malate district, which has been a longtime hub for the community. A couple of standout spots include Adonis and APOLLO World Class Male Entertainment & KTV Bar . For a full rundown, here's a fab list of bars and clubs in the city .

Is there a gay district or area in Manila?

Absolutely! Malate is the traditional gayborhood where the spirit of the LGBTQ+ community really shines. It's been the epicenter of the queer scene for ages, with loads of bars, clubs, and hangouts where you can let your hair down and party the night away with kindred spirits.

How do I get to the city from the airport when traveling to Manila?

Heading into Manila from Ninoy Aquino International Airport is a doddle. You've got options like grabbing a taxi, hopping a ride with an app-based service like Grab, or even taking the Airport Loop Bus. Prices can vary, but for a taxi, you're looking at around Php 300-500 to get to central Manila.

How do I best get around in Manila?

Exploring Manila can be an adventure! The LRT and MRT trains are a nifty way to skip traffic, and jeeps or buses make for an authentic local experience. Taxis and Grab are widely available, too. Costs are pretty wallet-friendly, with train fares starting around Php 15 and Grab rides depending on your destination, but always confirm the price with your driver first.

Is there a gay fetish community in Manila?

Oh, Manila's got its kink on, no doubt about it! 😏 There’s a pulse to the fetish scene if you know where to look. Specialized clubs and themed nights happen now and then, offering a space for those who like their nightlife with a bit of spice. Keep your eyes peeled for event announcements and join local online communities to get the scoop on where the next steamy soirée will be!

Is there a gay or gay-friendly hotel in Manila?

Manila has got a number of gay-friendly hotels where you'll feel right at home. You can enjoy your stay with peace of mind, knowing that these places get just how important it is to feel welcomed and accepted. For more options on where to snooze in style, check out these great hotels .

What's the top attractions to see in Manila?

Intramuros: Dive into the history with a stroll around this historic walled area of Manila, full of colonial buildings and stories.

Rizal Park: Pay homage to the Philippines' national hero at this lush park prime for picnics and relaxation.

National Museum: Culture vultures, this one's for you! Get your fill of Filipino art and history.

Manila Ocean Park: An aquatic adventure awaits with marine life galore—perfect for a quirky date or a solo exploration.

Can you suggest some LGBTQ+-themed landmarks or historical sites to visit in Manila?

Malate Church: While not specifically LGBTQ+-themed, this church is in the heart of the gay district and a beautiful historical site to visit.

Orosa-Nakpil Courtyard: This little corner of Malate is steeped in local LGBTQ+ history and often hosts events.

What is the best time of year to visit Manila for gay travelers?

The coolest months in Manila are from November to February when the weather is just perfect for exploring the city and its many events. Also, consider June for Pride celebrations—it's a wetter month but totally worth it for the vibe!

Are there popular dating apps or websites used more commonly by the LGBTQ+ community in Manila?

Absolutely! Apps like Grindr, Scruff, and Tinder are pretty popular among the LGBTQ+ crowd in Manila. These apps have a good user base, which means you'll have no trouble meeting new friends or finding a date.

What are the laws and regulations regarding public displays of affection for LGBTQ+ couples in Manila?

LGBTQ+ PDA laws in the Philippines are generally quite relaxed. Holding hands and moderate PDA are widely accepted, though always stay aware of your surroundings and practice discretion when necessary. It's all about reading the room—Manila is becoming more progressive, but respect for local customs goes a long way.

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The Philippines does not offer any legal recognition to same-sex marriage, civil unions or domestic partnership benefits. The LGBTQ+ community did not begin to organize on behalf of its human rights until the 1990’s.

Poverty and the political situation in the Philippines, especially the dictatorship, may have made it difficult for the LGBTQ+ community to organize. Still the Philippines is ranked as one of the most gay-friendly nations in Asia, with a fantastic scene in the Fort (‘BGC’) district, Cebu and the Malate district of Manila.

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Skyline of the City of Manila, seen from the Cultural Center of the Philippines, by Mike Gonzalez (TheCoffee)

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Metro Manila, the Philippine National Capital Region, has a population of about 12 million people in sixteen cities on the eastern shore of Manila Bay --among the world's most densely populated areas. Inhabited since around 3000 BC, the area was thriving by the 10th century as the Kingdom of Maynila, trading with Ming Dynasty China and the Hindu-Buddhist Medang Kingdom of Java. The Majapahit Empire governed from Java in the 13th century, until the invasion by Brunei in 1485 --after which an Islamic dynasty was imposed.

Spain arrived, bringing Christianity in 1571, and established their Spanish East Indies capital here in 1603. Maynila was simplified to Manila, and the city became the Far East center of activity for Spain, linking Manila and Acapulco with galleons; a major hub of world trade between Asia, the Americas, and Europe. Except for a brief two year British occupation, Spain's rule continued for the next three centuries; first from New Spain/Mexico, then directly from Madrid.

Americans, who took control after the 1898 Spanish-American War, were resisted in a three-year guerrilla war, but US administration city planners transformed Manila, adapting the old city to modern needs. In 1945, the World War II battle to retake the city from the Japanese was the bloodiest event of the war in the Pacific, and much of the city was devastated, especially within the historic Spanish colonial district. Only Warsaw suffered more destruction than Manila during the war. Reconstruction of the old walls began in 1951, and the Intramuros district was declared a National Historical Monument. Ties between Americans and Filipinos endured after independence, and US military bases such as Subic Bay and Clark Field didn't close until 1991. Over 3.4 million Filipino-Americans now live in the USA.

The capital of the independent Republic of the Philippines was moved in 1948 to Quezon City, to the northeast. Rebuilt and revitalized, the city was prosperous, and again called  the "Pearl of the Orient," as it had been in pre-war years. But, with billions of dollars in public funds stolen during the twenty years under President Ferdinand Marcos, and other corruption scandals, the city's reputation has been tarnished, and there are fears of impending insolvency. With heavy reliance on automobiles, Manila suffers heavy air pollution, and several rivers are deemed biologically dead.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, already controversal for encouraging extrajudicial police killings of drug suspects, signed an Anti-Terrorism Act into law on July 3, 2020. Amnesty International comments: now "even the mildest government critics can be labelled terrorists... (in) the latest example of the country’s ever-worsening human rights record."

Despite these problems, over a million tourists come to visit each year, and those holding passports from most countries can stay up to three weeks without a visa. Lonely Planet ranked the country 6th among their "most popular destinations to meet locals," and 8th in their best "value-for-money" category. In this archipelago of 7,107 islands, there are plenty of opportunites, away from urban centers, to enjoy the country's unspoiled natural wonders, with some of the world's richest biodiversity. The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in Palawan ranks among the best dive sites anywhere, to see coral reef habitats with marine animals of all sizes (boats leave from Puerto Princesa, a short flight from Manila).

Destinations in Manila include the Intramuros walled city, the National Museum of the Philippines , the Manila Zoo , the City Chinatown , and shopping and nightlife disticts in Ermita and Malate, along with Santa Cruz. Events include the Feast of Black Nazarene , free performances in Rizal Park , and concerts and ballet at the Cultural Center of the Philippines . The  Divisoria area and the 168 Shopping Mall  are popular with those looking for shopping bargains. Much of Manila's gay nightlife is centered around the intersection of Julio Nakpil and Maria Orosa Streets in Malate, but there are also gay spots in Quezon City, and beyond.

Filipino/Tagalog is the common tongue of the Philippines, but English is widely used both in education and business throughout the country, and in everyday usage by many in Manila. Knowing Spanish is also helpful, as many words were adopted into Tagalog during the colonial era. Most city residents are Christians, with four major Roman Catholic basilicas, but there are Buddhist, Taoist, Hindu and Sikh temples here too. The Masjid al-Dahab, or Golden Mosque, is in the predominantly Muslim section of the Quiapo district. 

Conservative in many ways, Filipinos are gracious hosts, and respectful of personal idiosyncrasies and preferences. As LGBT people feel freer to be open about their sexuality, the subject has been more visibile in the media and in public discourse during the past decade. Check out "Bubble" by Sebastian Castro, a Japanese-Peruvian-American who moved here and made a splash with his coming-out music video.

Asia's first gay pride march took place in Manila in June 1994. Festivities have continued at he Quezon City Pride March , now in mid December, celebrating the support shown for the local LGBT community by local government. Jungle is a series of circuit party events.

See our bar and sauna listings for some tips on where to go, but note that Macho Dancer bars open, close and/or move quicker than any guide can keep up. Ask around for the latest hot spots, and the more hard to find anything-goes places, once you arrive.

Getting Here

The Ninoy Aquino/ Manila International Airport located between Pasay and Parañaque, the main international gateway for travelers to the Philippines and the hub for all domestic airlines, is one of the busiest airports in Asia. A shuttle bus system connects all four terminals.

Nine bus routes can get you from the airport to various points in Metro Manila. Eight of these take Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), and one travels by way of Circumferential Road 5 (C-5). The Baclaran station on the Manila Light Rail Transit System and the Nichols station of Philippine National Railways also serve the airport. See the Seat 61 website for an overview in English. An airport authority-operated shuttle bus connects Terminal 3 to the Taft Avenue MRT Station.

Clark International Airport , in the Clark Freeport Zone in Pampanga, is the low-cost carrier alternative landing point. Shuttles and buses can get you into downtown.

Getting Around

The Manila Light Rail Transit System, ( LRT ), metropolitan rapid transit/ Metro system serves the Metro Manila area with 31 stations along 31 km (19 mi) of mostly elevated track on two lines: the north-south route LRT Line 1, (Yellow Line), and the east-west MRT Line 2, (Purple Line). Reusable plastic magnetic ticketing and Flash Pass cards are used, and bus connections can get you to points in between stations.

A famous local modes of transportation, the jeepney, patterned after US army jeeps, has been in use since the post-World War II years. Buses, jeepneys and the more modern Tamaraws follow fixed routes for set prices. Other vehicles include: taxicabs, "tricycles" (motorcycles with sidecars), and "trisikads" or "sikads" (bicycles with sidecars).

The Philippines National Railways operates rail services across Luzon Island from San Fernando and San Jose in the north, to Batangas and Legazpi in the south, by way of Manila and Clamba among other cities at the center. Commuter Express trains connect Caloocan to Calamba, with Manila stations, and connections at Blumentritt LRT-1, Sandta Mesa MRT-2, and EDSA MRT-3.

The Peso (PhP) is the currency of the Philippines, with one hundred Centavos to the Peso. Exchange shops, banks and hotels can change foreign currencies. Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted, but ATM transaction fees can be higher than elsewhere in the world. The mid-2016 through 2017 exchange rates have hovered around 50-51.5 PhP per US$1.

Media and Resources

Outrage is the LGBT zine of the Philippines, with feature articles, lifestyle info and events listings.

Equality Philippines is an LGBT advocacy group, with a community website. UP Babaylan is the LGBT student group at the University of the Philippines, with a community-wide Pride March each June.

The Quezon City Parade takes place at the Quezon City Memorial Circle in December.

Travel Gay Asia 's Manila pages have up-to-date listings of gay bars, clubs, bathhouses and gay-friendly hotels. They also cover other regional cities. Utopia also has gay listings for Manila and elsewhere in the Philippines, among the 20 Asia-Pacific countries they list.

Lexuality , "loud and queer" is a blog with an every-day view of life here, from various writers, going back five years.

GagaOOLala , the first Asian LGBTI streaming platform, offers over 400 film/video titles from around the world, with service to Brunei, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam.

Machos&Hostos blogspot is another local's "Lessons from Gay Bars in Manila; his "experiences, learnings, anecdotes, some secrets and personal insights on going to Manila's gay bars." The Gonograd Resident documents one blogger's experiences in local macho dancer bars and strip clubs. DiscreetManila is another gay blog of interest.

Zest is a queer-friendly "guide to good life" for the region, and ManilaGayGuy is the blog of MGG, the Manila Gay Guy, with his own and guest postings, along with news items.

The Manila Times, the daily English language newspaper with headlines, business, lifestyle, sports, provincial and world news, also has an online edition. A good local news source for those wondering what's going on in the current political situation.

The Tourist Bureau sponsors the It's More Fun in the Philippines website, listing destinations and plenty for visitors to do.

See our gay Manila listings page for map locations of the gay bars, clubs and bathhouses listed below - with contact information and website links - plus some hotel and restaurant suggestions, theaters and museums/galleries.

Adonis Club (55 Timog Ave, Quezon City), macho dancer bar, constant rotation of dancing hunks, VIP room private dances, drag shows.

Che'lu (1802 Maria Orosa St, Malate), popular gay bar and grill, late-night dance club, theme parties.

F Club (1204 Eulogio Rodriguez Sr Ave, Quezon City), dressy, upscale gay lounge/bar, DJs drag shows, events.

JEFZ Café (1811 Leon Guinto St, Malate), mixed crowd, sing-along music bar, Friday sexy male body shows; restaurant.

Humane Element / HE (610 Julio Nakpil St, Malate), gay show bar, live stage entertainment, drag shows, male dancers.

Jungle , periodic gay circuit dance parties with star local and international DJs; at various venues such as House / Remington Hotel and Nectar Nightclub , Taguig.

King Machette KTV Entertainment Bar (3993 Crosswinds/ Airport Rd, Parañaque), gay bar, macho go-go dancers, karaoke, shows, comedy events, free WiFi.

Music Box (1 Timog Ave, Quezon City), gay karaoke party bar.

Nectar Nightclub (5th Ave at 26th St, Taguig), high-energy, DJ-driven LGBTQ dance club and drag showbar, theme parties, international performers; Wednesdays Poison cabaret, Thursday Girl Nation , Splash Fridays , go-go boys, Spectrum Saturdays drag and go-go boys, and Sunday Home Bass trap and bass. Scheduled to open new location in September 2019.

O Bar (Ortigas, Julia Vargas Ave, Pasig City), gay pub/showbar, go-go dancers, restaurant serving lunch through dinner.

The One 690 Entertainment Bar (39 Don A Roces Ave, Quezon City), gay club near Amoranto Stadium; “Real Men..Real Entertainment!” go-go dancers, drag and comedy shows, contests.

Piloto Men's Entertainment Bar (615 Julio Nakpil, Malate), gay nightclub, drag shows, go-gos/performers, live music/cabaret.

Time (7840 Makati Ave, Makati), monthly gay techno/ house/ electronica music parties at Royal Club .

Emperius Club , open between March and August 2017, is now closed as they look for new space - see the link to their facebook page for updates.

Club Bath (2456 FB Harrison Blvd, Pasay City), gay bath house/steam, gym, lounge, rooms, snack bar.

Fahrenheit Cafe & Fitness Club (1204 Eulogio Rodriguez Sr Ave, New Manila/ Quezon City), videoke bar/club, videos, shop, gym, steam/Jacuzzi, cabins.

The We’reHouse - AfterMale (2421B Morse St, San Isidro, Makati City), men's sauna/bar, videos, karaoke, pool games, massage, huge maze .

For man-to-man massage services see some listings at our map & listings page.

CLOSED: Bed (The Portal, Greenfield); BuddhaKan (79 Sierra Madre, Mandaluyong); FAB RestoBar (1739-B Maria Orosa, Malate); Formula 690 (27 Mother Ignacia, Quezon City); Heaven (1802 Maria Orosa, Malate), four-club gay complex, including Red Banana and Zinc Music Bar ; Rabbit Hole , Saturdays at Bugsy's (Paseo Parkview Towers, at Valero/ Sedeño, Makati); and XRoads (Ortigas Center, Pasig City); Library (1739 Maria Orosa, Malate).

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Our Guides To Philippines's Best Gay-Friendly Cities

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Gay Manila – Manila

The “Pearl of the Orient Seas” sobriquet is fitting, since the shelled mollusc doesn’t look like much from the outside, but inside an iridescent gem awaits to be discovered—if you’re willing to exert some effort to pry it open to get at it.

Need More Inspiration for a Philippines Vacation?

Philippines itinerary 2 weeks – the ultimate gay philippines travel experience.

gay travel philippines

A sun-blanched string of over 7,000 islands clustered near the equator on the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines is an island destination served with a smile. Lose yourself in the feverish chaos of the city and its nightlife before moving to remote islands for more relaxing endeavours.

Things to do in the Philippines

gay travel philippines

A snapshot of this boisterous country might include its famed rice terraces, often described as the Eighth Wonder of the World; the thrust of life in the capital, Manila; sparkling, secluded lagoons; or misty mountains just waiting to be explored.

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Ideal countries for gay travel: PH ranks low

Ideal countries for gay travel: PH ranks low

STOCK PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines—Almost a decade ago, one global survey named the Philippines as among the few gay-friendly countries in the world. However, a new study has ranked the country as one of the least ideal for LGBTQ+ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer) travelers.

In 2013, the US-based Pew Research Center released a survey titled “The Global Divide on Homosexuality” and showed that 73 percent of adult Filipinos agreed with the statement that “homosexuality should be accepted by society.”

In the survey, the Philippines ranked 10th out of 39 countries with the majority of its population accepting homosexuality.

READ: PH ranks among most gay-friendly in the world

However, years later, the German portal Spartacus in its 2021 Gay Travel Index, which ranked the best and worst countries for LGBTQ+ travelers, showed that the Philippines ranked 117th out of 202 countries and territories as ideal destinations for gay travelers.

gay travel philippines

GRAPHIC Ed Lustan

“Spartacus publishes the Gay Travel Index every year since 2012. The index measures the legal situation and living conditions for members of the queer community in the respective country,” Spartacus said in its report.

The index focused on the “political decision-making, legal frameworks and whether episodes of violence against the LGBTQ+ community were recorded in the countries recently.”

READ: The Best and Worst Countries for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Infographic: The Best and Worst Countries for LGBTQ+ Travelers | Statista

“The index attempts at finding a balance between measuring the rights of the local LGBTIQ community and considering the demands of queer holidaymakers,” said Spartacus.

gay travel philippines

“Our aim is to monitor the safety of queer people in each country and also increase the awareness on grievances,” it added.

Not great choice for LGBTQ+ travelers

The index, according to Spartacus, consisted of 17 categories at present, namely:

  • anti-discrimination legislation
  • marriage/civil partnership
  • adoption allowed
  • transgender rights
  • intersex/3rd option
  • equal age of consent
  • “conversion therapy”
  • LGBT marketing
  • religious influence
  • HIV travel restrictions
  • anti-gay laws
  • homosexuality illegal
  • Pride banned
  • locals hostile
  • prosecution
  • death sentences

Each country was rated per category and their overall score—13 being the highest total score.

“It has a negative impact on the rating of a country, if human rights are not observed nor guaranteed or even worse, violated. A zero rating as the lowest rating is only awarded if a county is lacking in important but not elementary categories such as LGBT marketing or anti-discrimination legislation,” Spartacus explained.

On the map based on the index scores, countries were color-coded—with dark green indicating the most liberal and queer-friendly countries, while red assigned to the most dangerous countries for homosexuals to visit or live in.

Canada was the only country that ranked 1st in the index with a total score of 13. The country, which upholds the Canadian Human Rights Act, received a high score of 3 on the anti-discrimination legislation.

Meanwhile, at the other end of the spectrum were the Republic of Chechnya in Russia (-19 points), Saudi Arabia and Somalia (both with -18 points), and Iran (-17 points).

“The Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia are the regions least safe for LGBTQ+ travelers, while Latin America proves more welcoming than Asia – with the exception of Taiwan. India and Thailand at least score 1 point on the index, while Nepal ranks at a neutral 0 and Japan scores -2,” said Katharina Buchholz, senior data journalist at consumer company Statista.

gay travel philippines

The Philippines, which ranked 117th—along with 17 other countries—received a total score of -7. The country scored seven -1 scores in seven different categories. Unfortunately, it did not have any positive scores.

Below are the Philippines’ scores per category:

  • Anti-Discrimination Legislation: 0
  • Marriage/Civil Partnership: -1
  • Adoption Allowed: 0
  • Transgender Rights: -1
  • Intersex/3rd Option: -1
  • Equal Age of Consent: 0
  • “Conversion Therapy: -1
  • LGBT Marketing: 0
  • Religious Influence: -1
  • HIV Travel Restrictions: 0
  • Anti-Gay Laws: 0
  • Homosexuality Illegal: 0
  • Pride Banned: -1
  • Locals Hostile: 0
  • Prosecution: 0
  • Murders: -1
  • Death Sentence: 0

Sexual orientation laws in PH

A separate report published in 2020 by the International Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans and Intersex Association (ILGA)—a worldwide federation of more than 1,700 organizations from over 160 countries and territories campaigning for lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and intersex human rights—gave a closer look on the sexual orientation laws in countries worldwide, including the Philippines.

The recent “State-Sponsored Homophobia” report, as explained by ILGA, is “a world survey of sexual orientation laws”—which ranges “from criminalization of consensual same-sex sexual acts between adults to protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation.”

The sexual orientation laws covered in the report were divided into three categories: criminalization, protection, and recognition.

Under the three categories were different sub-categories or questions pertaining to the specific sexual orientation laws which might or might not be enacted in countries included in the report.

Below were the observations made by the ILGA in 2020 regarding the sexual orientation laws—or the lack thereof—in the Philippines.

Criminalization

  • are same-sex sexual acts legal?: Yes
  • date of decriminalization: 1870
  • max penalty: none
  • constitution: No
  • broad protection: Limited
  • employment: Limited
  • hate crime: No
  • incitement: No
  • ban conversion therapies: No

Recognition

  • same-sex marriage: No
  • civil unions: No
  • joint adoption: No
  • second parent adoption: No

“The 1870 Spanish Penal Code, which contained no provisions criminalizing same-sex sexual relations between consenting adults, applied in the territory until the approval of the 1932 Revised Penal Code (RPC) which likewise did not include such criminalizing provisions,” the ILGA stated.

The report likewise acknowledged the efforts made by certain local governments on enacting anti-discrimination laws, which criminalize discrimination against individuals based on their sexual orientation.

“In the Philippines, the cities of Dumaguete, Ilagan, Manila, Marikina, Valenzuela, and Zamboanga passed local ordinances that prohibited acts of discrimination against individuals on the basis of their sexual orientation, including employment,” ILGA said.

“This had the effect of expanding the scope of protection at the subnational level, as local activists continue to push for national protections,” it added.

READ: Marikina mayor signs anti-discrimination ordinance

However, on the national level, the Philippine government has yet to push the Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity and Expression (SOGIE) Equality bill.

The bill aims to give equal rights to all persons and prohibits people from discriminating other people based on their SOGIE or sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.

READ: Terrible misconceptions: Why we need the Sogie Equality Bill

Last June 15, Sen. Risa Hontiveros vowed to “carve the runway to pass the SOGIE Equality Bill at long last” in the 19th Congress.

READ: Hontiveros vows to push for SOGIE bill: ‘We’ll take this to the finish line’

Spotlight on conversion therapy.

Conversion therapy is the practice of attempting or forcibly making someone “straight” because society or people perceive homosexuality as a disease that needs to be cured.

“So-called ‘conversion therapy,’ sometimes known as ‘reparative therapy,’ is a range of dangerous and discredited practices that falsely claim to change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity or expression,” said the Human Rights Campaign, America’s largest civil rights organization working to achieve LGBTQ+ equality.

gay travel philippines

However, according to the American non-governmental media monitoring organization GLAAD, the practice has come under increasing scrutiny.

As a result, providers or supporters of the practice “frequently change their terminology to avoid detection.”

Other terms used for conversion therapy include:

  • Sexual Orientation Change Efforts (SOCE)
  • Sexual Attraction Fluidity Exploration in Therapy (SAFE-T)
  • Eliminating, reducing, or decreasing the frequency or intensity of unwanted Same-Sex Attraction (SSA)
  • Reparative therapy
  • Sexual reorientation efforts
  • Ex-gay ministry
  • Promoting healthy sexuality
  • Addressing sexual addictions and disorders
  • Sexuality counseling
  • Encouraging relational and sexual wholeness
  • Healing sexual brokenness

Based on the 2020 State-Sponsored Homophobia report by ILGA, out of the 193 countries and territories in the report, only four countries have fully banned conversion therapy.

Meanwhile, 10 others made limited laws or took legal actions to ban it—or some areas in those countries or territories have banned the practice.

These countries include:

  • Argentina: Limited
  • Brazil: Banned
  • Dominican Republic: Banned
  • Mexico: Limited
  • Peru: Banned
  • Uruguay: Limited
  • Canada: Limited
  • United States: Limited
  • Germany: Banned
  • Spain: Limited
  • Australia: Limited
  • Fiji: Limited
  • Nauru: Limited
  • Samoa: Limited

In the Philippines, although the practice has not been talked about, gay conversion therapy remains legal.

Other than robbing the human rights of LGBTQ+ individuals, the practice has a very harmful impact—especially on highly rejected younger LGBTQ+ people.

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Among its dangers, according to a 2010 study by students from San Francisco State University published in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing, include:

  • 8.4x of highly rejected LGBT adolescents are more likely to report having attempted suicide
  • 5.9x of highly rejected LGBT adolescents are more likely to report high levels of depression
  • 3.4x of highly rejected LGBT adolescents are more likely to use illegal drugs
  • 3.4x of highly rejected LGBT adolescents are more likely to be at high risk of HIV and STDs

In the United Kingdom, the British Psychological Society and Royal College of Psychiatrists declared last year that all kinds of conversion therapy are “unethical and potentially harmful.”

READ: Where ‘Conversion Therapy’ Is Still Legal

Infographic: Where ‘Conversion Therapy’ Is Still Legal | Statista

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Here are the 15 gayest travel destinations in the world: report

Get ready to escape with this list of family favorites.

SHUTTERSTOCK/HANNES VAN DER MERWE

Data scientists and researchers at Misterb&b, the world’s largest LGBTQ + travel community, have used the habits of its 1 million registered users to create an index ranking the gayest cities in the world for 2024.

Founder Matthieu Jost created Misterb&b after he and his partner were victims of homophobia and harassment while trying to rent a room during a vacation in Spain.

The company connects LGBTQ+ travelers with rentals and services provided by family and allies in their destinations.

His latest feature, Weere, now allows travelers to connect socially before they travel. Users can chat with locals or make plans with fellow visitors.

You can learn more at misterbandb.com , but keep scrolling to find the 15 gayest cities in the world for U.S. travelers according to Misterb&b.

15. Atlanta – USA

Atlanta’s glimmering nighttime skyline

Image by Shutterstock

Atlanta is the city of hot summer nights and even hotter Southern men.

RELATED: Elska serves up the men of Atlanta

14. Miami – USA

Miami’s famed South Beach at night

Miami knows how to party all year long.

RELATED: Winter Party Festival 2024 returns to Miami Beach

13. Las Vegas – USA

The fountains of the Bellagio in Las Vegas

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas — sometimes.

RELATED: The best DJs from around the world are coming together for EDC Las Vegas 2024

12. San Francisco – USA

Sunrise over the skyline of San Francisco

You can find just about any experience in the City by the Bay.

RELATED: Commando’s Guide to gay San Francisco

11. Paris – France

The Eiffel Tower in Paris

The City of Lights is also the unofficial gay city of love.

RELATED: 30 of the sexiest men from romantic Paris

10. Puerto Vallarta – Mexico

The gay-friendly Zona Romantica district from above

Puerto Vallarta is Mexico’s gay Pacific paradise.

RELATED: Escape to Puerto Vallarta with gay travel experts Michael and Matt

9. San Diego – USA

Fourth of July fireworks over San Diego

Enjoy fun, food, and sun year-round in San Diego.

RELATED: Kimpton Alma wants to show you why San Diego is a foodie’s dream

8. London – United Kingdom

Big Ben and Parliament in London

Oscar Wilde would have reveled in today’s gay London.

RELATED: London calling – your ultimate gay guide to the city

7. Wilton-Manors – USA

The community celebrates Pride in Wilton Manors

Despite the efforts of some, South Florida has a vibrant drag and nightlife scene.

RELATED: Drag brunch targeted for closure by Florida governor

6. Washington, D.C. – USA

The Washington Monument set against the backdrop of the city's annual cherry blossom blooms

Our nation’s capital will host WorldPride 2025.

RELATED: Capital Pride 2023 – a celebration of love, diversity, and star-studded performances

5. Los Angeles – USA

Grand Central Market in downtown Los Angeles

The greater Los Angeles area has everything from a thriving foodie scene to some of the country’s hidden natural treasures.

RELATED: California's Channel Islands NP is a grueling but rewarding wind-swept paradise

4. Chicago USA

Boys Town celebrates Pride

In addition to celebrations during Pride Month, Windy City Santas celebrate the holiday season by going half-naked in public.

RELATED: Stuff your stocking with these 55+ pics from Sidetrack Chicago Santa Speedo Run

3. Palm Springs – USA

The gay men's clothing-optional Descanso Resort in Palm Springs

Image by Hannes Van Der Merwe

Palm Springs has many clothing-optional resorts for gay men who want to shed their clothes and their inhibitions.

RELATED: Descanso Resort is Palm Spring's sophisticated escape for gay men

2. Fort Lauderdale – USA

Fort Lauderdale beach at night

Fort Lauderdale is known as the Venice of America for its 300+ miles of navigable canals and waterways.

RELATED: Rejuvenate your body and soul at the queer-inclusive W Fort Lauderdale

1. New York City – USA

The skyline of the city that never sleeps

Enjoy a spa treatment at LGBTQ-friendly NYC spas.

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IMAGES

  1. The Philippines Gay Travel Guide & Itinerary 2022

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  2. Gay Manila: The absolute gay travel guide • Nomadic Boys

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  3. Gay Manila: The absolute gay travel guide • Nomadic Boys

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  4. Thousands of Filipinos celebrate gay pride in Manila

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  5. It's A Matter Of Pride: A Deep Dive Into The Development Of The

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  6. Travel Gay's guide to the Philippines

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VIDEO

  1. Exploring Siargao: A Gay Travel Philippines Adventure Vlog

  2. Exploring Philippines Island Life: From Gay Dating to Unique Delicacies on Siargao

  3. Top 5 LGBTQ+ Friendly Cities in Asia

  4. Places to eat in Siargao Island, Philippines (Gay couple vlog)

COMMENTS

  1. Gay Philippines Guide 2024

    Gay Philippines Guide 2024. Find the best gay bars clubs, gay saunas massage spas, gay-friendly hotels in Manila, Boracay in The Philippines. Reviews, maps, information.

  2. Gay Philippines Uncovered: Top Destinations And Tips For Queer Travelers!

    Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys. Ah, the Philippines—a breathtaking archipelago of over 7,000 islands, each singing a distinct song of beauty, culture, and allure. But beyond its powdery beaches and emerald rice terraces, Gay Philippines ...

  3. Gay & LGBTQ+ Travel in The Philippines (2024 Guide)

    In June 2023, a Gallup poll found that 65% of people living in The Philippines said their city/area is good for gay and lesbian people. In a World Values Survey in 2022, just 18.92% of people from The Philippines justified homosexuality. This is down from 20.83% in a World Values Survey in 2014.

  4. Gay Philippines: Essential Travel Guide 2023

    Gay Saunas in the Philippines. There are two gay saunas in the Philippines, both are in Manila. The third mentioned below that appears in some gay travel guides is now listed as permanently closed. F Club - this is a club and also a gay sauna in Manila with group shower rooms, lounges, cubicles, dark rooms and spa treatment areas.

  5. Gay Philippines: Queer Culture, Local Life, And What You Should Know!

    The gay Philippines saw a sliver of light from oppression after World War II. In 1975, gay rights activist Justo Justo founded the Home of the Golden Gays to serve elderly gay men whose families cast them out. During the 1980s, the women's movement highlighted the struggles that the lesbian community faced.

  6. Gay Manila Guide 2024

    Browse a selection of tours in Manila from our partners with free cancellation 24 hours before your tour starts. Gay Manila Guide 222 for gay travelers. Find the best gay bars & dance clubs, gay saunas & massage spas, gay-rated hotels in Manila. Exclusive reviews, photos, discounts, maps.

  7. Philippines itinerary 2 weeks

    Stories > Itineraries > Philippines itinerary 2 weeks - the ultimate gay Philippines travel experience. Curation by Yasmina Rodríguez, words by Laura Tucker. A sun-blanched string of over 7,000 islands clustered near the equator on the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines is an island destination served with a smile. As well as year-round sunshine ...

  8. Gay Cebu, Philippines

    Gay Cebu, Philippines | The Essential LGBT Travel Guide! Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys. The tropical paradise of Cebu, where sun-kissed beaches, azure waters, and vibrant city life converge to create an irresistible destination that will ...

  9. Gay Philippines · Country Guide

    Metro Manila is the headquarters of the gay nightlife in The Philippines. The majority of Gay Bars & Clubs in Manila and Gay Saunas and Massage Spas can be found in Manila City, Quezon City and Pasay, although the numbers are few. Those who have little interest in drinking and dancing in Manila head for the beautiful islands and sandy beaches ...

  10. Gay Manila, The Philippines

    Gay Manila, The Philippines - The Nomadic Boys. November 8, 2021 by J. Scott Coatsworth. In this guide to gay Manila, we've set out practical safety tips and summarised the best of the city's gay scene, top places to stay, go out and eat for you to check out. "Be super careful in Manila boys…" was the blunt warning from our Filipino ...

  11. Gay travel guide for Manila, Philippines (2024). Find the best Bars

    Intramuros: Dive into the history with a stroll around this historic walled area of Manila, full of colonial buildings and stories. Rizal Park: Pay homage to the Philippines' national hero at this lush park prime for picnics and relaxation.

  12. LGBT Travel in The Philippines

    LGBT Travel in The Philippines . With a capital city that's often named the gay capital of Asia thanks to its bustling bars, clubs and shopping destinations, not to mention a sprawl of beautiful islands with every type of terrain you could ask for, the Philippines is fast becoming a favored travel destination among the LGBT community.

  13. Best Gay Friendly Hotels in the Philippines

    Shangri-La's Boracay Resort & Spa. Philippines, Boracay Island. Shangri-La's Boracay Resort & Spa is an idyllic island experience with 219 rooms and villas, restaurants and bars, leisure facilities, a spa village and exclusive beach fronts. Guests arrive via ...

  14. Philippines Archives » Queer In The World

    Read More about Gay Manila, Philippines | The Essential LGBT Travel Guide! Gay Philippines Uncovered: Top Destinations And Tips For Queer Travelers! Ah, the Philippines—a breathtaking archipelago of over 7,000 islands, each singing a distinct song of beauty, culture, and allure.

  15. Best Gay Hotels in Philippines, selected by misterb&b

    Our collection of gay & gay-friendly hotels in Philippines. Gay only, gay-owned, boutique, luxury, budget, hostels. Best prices. Book now with misterb&b & support a gay business! ... experience misterb&b in all gay travel destinations! Activate the connection option on your profile and connect with other misterb&b travelers at your destination ...

  16. Gay Boracay Guide 2024

    The most popular holiday destination in the Philippines, with beautiful white sandy beaches and friendly vibe. Gay Boracay Guide for gay travelers. Find things to do, tourist information, gay venues, the best gay-rated hotels in Boracay. Exclusive reviews, photos, discounts, maps.

  17. Daily Xtra Travel

    Gay Manila. Metro Manila, the Philippine National Capital Region, has a population of about 12 million people in sixteen cities on the eastern shore of Manila Bay --among the world's most densely populated areas. Inhabited since around 3000 BC, the area was thriving by the 10th century as the Kingdom of Maynila, trading with Ming Dynasty China ...

  18. Metro Manila Gay Resources and Travel Tips in the Philippines by Utopia

    Navigating the local gay scene is easy with our interactive Utopia Map of Gay & Lesbian Metro Manila: Manila Pride March 2009. Redbridge Books Publishing. Suite 214 Villasi Mansion, 160 N. Domingo St, Kaunlaran. 091-6225-6988, email.

  19. Gay Travel Philippines: Luxury Getaways, Group & Single Vacations

    Philippines itinerary 2 weeks - the ultimate gay Philippines travel experience. A sun-blanched string of over 7,000 islands clustered near the equator on the Pacific Ocean, the Philippines is an island destination served with a smile. Lose yourself in the feverish chaos of the city and its nightlife before moving to remote islands for more ...

  20. Ideal countries for gay travel: PH ranks low

    Ideal countries for gay travel: PH ranks low. MANILA, Philippines—Almost a decade ago, one global survey named the Philippines as among the few gay-friendly countries in the world. However, a ...

  21. Gay Palawan Guide 2024

    Palawan's UNESCO World Heritage Site and its beautiful, white sandy beaches make these islands a gay-popular destination in the Philippines. Gay Palawan Guide 222 for gay travelers. Find the best gay-owned bars & restaurants, gay scene, gay-friendly hotels & resorts in Palawan. Exclusive reviews, photos, discounts, maps.

  22. Gay Travel Philippines

    Gay Travel Philippines. 447 likes. Connecting international travelers and local gay businesses. ...

  23. Here are the 15 gayest travel destinations in the world: report

    11. Paris - France. The City of Lights is also the unofficial gay city of love. 10. Puerto Vallarta - Mexico. Puerto Vallarta is Mexico's gay Pacific paradise. RELATED: Escape to Puerto ...

  24. Gay Boracay Hotel Guide 2024

    The gay-friendly Grand Boracay Resort is just a short walk to White Beach and all the restaurants and shops. Guest rooms are comfortable and feature a private bathroom and free WiFi. The resort features a great outdoor pool with loungers, private garden, restaurant and a spa. A range of water sports are available.