Being gay is EXHAUSTING!

We've barely recovered from the gay ski events in January, gay Carnivals in February, when Darklands takes place in Antwerp in March, Snax, Berlin in April, Maspalomas Pride in May, then the June Pride season of festivals takes over, spilling into July, followed by a feat of Circuit parties in August and September…La Demence in October…aaaargh, is it time for winter hibernation? No wait: La Demence in Brussels, then Winter Pride in Maspalomas in November comes knocking…

And we love it!

We have many excellent gay festivals in Europe taking place throughout the year; we are spoilt for choice. One week we’re dancing under the Spanish sun in Sitges, the next we’re watching boats parade down Amsterdam’s canals, then suddenly we’re deep in a Berlin techno club at 6 am, wondering where the last 3 days went.

Some of them are massive – Madrid Pride, attracting over 2 million people, is famous for being one of the largest gay Pride events in the world, for example. Europe doesn’t just do Pride, we do it loud, proud, and spectacularly well, from political marches with millions of people to beachside festivals to wild circuit parties that go on for days. Europe has some of the biggest and best gay festivals in the world. For clarity, we've featured the biggest and best ones in chronological order in our simple Gay Festivals in Europe Calendar:

Best Gay Festivals in Europe Calendar

Bookmark this for later…trust me, you'll need it 🙂

When and where is the next EuroPride?

Every year, the European Pride Organisers Association (EPOA) awards one city the honour of hosting the next EuroPride. It is usually awarded to a city that is less ‘well-known' on the gay festival calendar. We love this initiative because it offers the spotlight on local LGBTQ+ communities that wouldn't otherwise be celebrated.

For example, previous EuroPride host cities included Valletta 2023, Thessaloniki 2024, and Lisbon 2025 (the 2026 EuroPride was merged with WorldPride Amsterdam).

In 2027, EuroPride will be Torino (Turin) Pride in Italy. It will take place on June 18-26, 2027.

The EuroPride 2028 will take place in West Ireland, specifically across Limerick and Clare from August 4-13, 2028.

The EuroPride 2029 city has not yet been announced, but likely candidates so far include Dresden in Germany.

Tips for Planning a Gay Festival Trip in Europe

We love Europe’s gay festivals and would argue they are some of the best in the world, easily rivaling those in North America in most parts. However, the large crowds lead to high demand for hotels and a price hike to match. After (ahem!) decades of hopping from Pride event to Festival parties across Europe, here are a few tips we’ve learned along the way.

1. Book refundable hotels as early as possible

As soon as you've committed yourself to going, even if you're not 100% sure or have yet to book your flights, do yourself a favor: go to a site like Booking.com and book a decent hotel or two with a refundable option. Most hotel listings offer this option. Some allow you to cancel for free right up to a month before the event or sooner, which allows you some flexibility. Just remember to set a reminder to yourself to cancel the hotel you're not going to use before you get charged!

In one year, we made a last-minute decision to attend Winter Pride Maspalomas…trying to find accommodation was a nightmare. People book their hotel up to a year in advance, as soon as next year's dates are announced. We learnt from this mistake and now aim to book accommodation as soon as possible.

2. Combine multiple festivals

It's not a bad idea to combine your holiday over a few festivals for variety. For example, La Demence and Winter Pride Maspalomas usually follow each other in October/November. Or Amsterdam Pride and Barcelona Circuit usually complement each other in August. The great thing about Europe is that it's easy and inexpensive to fly between major cities either by train or one of the many budget airlines.

However, the one thing we'd say is to take care going from one mad party to another, which leads us to our next point:

3. Be kind to your body!

Gay festivals in Europe are famously intense! Between daytime Pride parades, pool parties, beach parties, after parties…chills… It’s easy to run yourself ragged before the first night is even over.

Trust us when we say, Pace yourself!

It's ok to skip a day or two to give your body a rest. Prioritise eating properly as much as you can and stay hydrated. Get into a habit of drinking electrolytes for recovery. You're inevitably going to go crazy with candy at some stage, so make sure you're with people you trust and make a point to look out for each other!

4. Secure your belongings

Pickpockets love a big gay festival. Why? Because they know that the gays will have the latest iPhones…and in those, er, dark spaces, it's so easy for them to steal a few of them. It happens to the best of us and will likely happen to you as well unless you take precautions. For example, minimise the valuables you carry on a night out. If a venue offers lockers, aim to keep your phone locked in there.

Other practical tips to consider: invest in a smart watch so you can receive notifications and pay for things instead of your phone. If you haven't already, invest in a cloud backup of your phone's media and other contents/settings. We use a running strap that we place on our upper calf to store our phones when we go to gay festivals, just like in this photo:

5. Check the official festival program

Most of the gay festivals in Europe will have an Instagram profile set up for it with links in their bios and content created for it. Most of the time, this will include an official program of events, some of which will include ticketed events. For the more popular events, it's worth booking your ticket in advance. In the worst case scenario, sold-out events might have the option to purchase a ticket on an official resale website or at the door of the event itself.

6. Pack for the parade

We found that after the first/second day, we developed a ‘packing routine' of what we would take with us to each festival. Remember, these are often long days, so you'll need to factor in things like phone chargers, sunscreen, and earplugs. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Have a small stash of cash (around €50) secured somewhere safe in your bag in the event of an emergency, like if you lose your wallet/phone and need money urgently for a cab.

7. Get travel insurance

We say this time and time again: get travel insurance before you jet off. Whether it's via your bank card, your contents insurance, your pet's add-ons, or an online one you get last minute whilst waiting to board your flight…just make sure you have one!

We've been using Heymondo for years, and it has been a godsend. From the time when Stefan got his rucksack stolen in Bogota to the time Seby got his iPhone stolen at a club night in Brussels, we've always managed to get a payout from our travel insurance.

Just trust us on this. Swallow the fee (it's peanuts in the grand scheme of things)…and get yourself travel insurance pronto!

Travel, Twerk, and Chill!

Don’t be that queen who skips travel insurance. ‘Cause nothing ruins a trip faster than tears, tantrums, and tragic bills…

Stay covered, stay fabulous, and keep your vacation free, fun, and frivolous!

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Why trust Nomadic Boys?

• LGBTQ+ travel bloggers since 2013.
• 3 million annual readers check and rely on our gay travel content published on this site.
• We've been to all of the gay festivals featured in this article, some of them on numerous occasions.
• Authors of Out in the World – our very own gay travel book, which has an entire section devoted to the most gay friendly destinations in Europe.

Read more travel adventures like this in our book!

We've published our very own gay travel book called, ‘Out in the World'. It has all our practical safety tips, first-hand advice, and travel stories from some of our favorite destinations.

We hope it inspires you to have a fun and safe trip!

Click on the book to order:

For more inspiration, be sure to check out what we have to say about:

• What we rate to be the most gay friendly cities in the world
• We also have an opinion on what the most gay friendly countries in the world are
• We're super proud of the story of how we first met in London back in 2009
• We know you'll want the full lowdown on the best gay beaches in Europe
• …as well as what the best gay nudist beaches in the world are 🙂

STAY WITH A GAY LOCAL!

Misterb&b is the Airbnb equivalent for the LGBTQ+ community.

Unlike on Airbnb, you know your host is gay, avoiding any nasty surprises when you check in. It is also a great way to meet gay locals and discover the underground gay scene together.

Read more about it and claim $10 off your first booking:

Find out more about Misterbnb

The post Best Gay Festivals in Europe You Need To Experience! appeared first on Nomadic Boys.

Bath is one of those cities that makes you stand up straighter without quite knowing why. Maybe it’s the honey-coloured Georgian terraces. Maybe it’s the way the light bounces off the stone at golden hour, and suddenly we’re both pretending we’re in an episode of Bridgerton (parts of it were actually filmed here).

We first came to Bath expecting Roman ruins and polite tea rooms. We got that plus more. Bath doesn’t show off. It just sits there all honey-stone and symmetrical while we wander around going, “But why is every single street this pretty?” You wander from the ancient thermal baths to indie bookshops, from riverside strolls to the cutest cafes, and somehow everything is within a very photogenic 15-minute radius.

Is Bath a wild, throbbing gay metropolis? No. But that’s not the point. Bath is romantic. It’s cultured. It’s the sort of place you escape to when you want long conversations, good food, and architecture that makes you feel like the main character.

And for LGBTQ+ travelers, it feels easy. Relaxed and unbothered. We initially came in 2012 as a surprise birthday weekend I planned for Seby (the big 30!), but have returned several times since, usually on a day trip from Bristol or Cardiff.

1. Is Bath safe for gay travelers?

Short answer: yes. Very.

We’ll be honest, because Bath sits in a rather affluent, slightly traditional corner of England, we weren’t totally sure what to expect on our first visit. As we often do, I rang our guesthouse in advance (Badminton Villa, which has since stopped operating, unfortunately) to double-check that they were happy hosting a gay couple.

There was a pause.

Not the awkward kind. More of the confused kind.

The owner eventually replied, “Yes… of course we do. We always have and proudly will continue to do so!” Then he gently asked why on earth I felt the need to ask. I explained that, sadly, it’s just something we’ve learned to do over the years. His response? Warm, matter-of-fact, and completely unfazed.

And that pretty much set the tone for Bath.

At no point did we feel out of place or like we had to edit ourselves in public. It helps that Bath is both touristy and studenty. Yes, it’s elegant and traditional on the surface. But underneath? It’s relaxed, welcoming, and refreshingly unbothered about who you’re holding hands with.

2. Where is the best place to stay in Bath?

The great thing about Bath is that wherever you stay, you're never far from the city center because it's small, compact, and easy to get around on foot.

There are some really plush hotels to stay in Bath that welcome gay travelers, especially #TravelProud certified hotels like Z Hotel Bath (medium budget) and Hotel Indigo (luxury). Other hotels that we've found recommended by fellow gay travelers to Bath include The Bear (medium budget) and the Royal Hotel (medium budget).

Whilst hotels in Bath are not as expensive as some of the gay hotels in London we stayed at, it's still quite pricey given how touristy the city is. One tip we have is to try to avoid peak days like Saturday. If you stay overnight on a Sunday, prices are usually lowest.

3. Are there any gay bars and clubs in Bath?

Bath isn’t Manchester. Or Brighton. Or even Bristol. With a population of around 98,000, you’re not arriving for a sprawling gay village moment. But thanks to its sizeable student crowd, there is a small but solid LGBTQ+ scene.

The heart of the gay scene of Bath is Mandalyns Bar, the city’s longest-running LGBTQ+ venue. This is where the community gathers for drag cabaret, karaoke chaos, themed nights, and a proper little dance floor moment. It’s intimate, friendly, and open late (often until 3 am), which in Bath terms basically makes it Studio 54 🙂

Beyond that, Bath is more about queer-friendly spaces than strictly ‘gay-only' ones. The Common Room is a laid-back café-bar that’s perfect for early evening drinks when you want to chat before the music gets louder. The Garrick’s Head gives you traditional pub vibes with a welcoming crowd. The Bell Inn leans into live music and an inclusive atmosphere where queer locals often hang out. And The Bath Brew House is great for craft beers before heading out: not officially LGBTQ+, but very much open-minded and relaxed.

4. Are there any gay events and festivals in Bath?

There are a few annual gay events that take place in Bath. The most iconic is the Pride NOT Prejudice Ball that takes place every June, usually at the Roman Baths. It is organised by the WigBath group (Bath's Premier Drag Cabaret!) – check their socials for details of the latest event.

Also in the summer months, usually in August, is Bath Pride, which includes a range of events, picnics, live music, meet-ups, and of course, the colorful Bath Pride Parade through the city center.

5. Is there a gay sauna in Bath?

Surprisingly, there is no gay sauna in Bath. The closest gay bathhouse to the city is Touch Sauna in Swindon (around 50 mins drive) or The Greenhouse Sauna in Newport, Wales (also around 50 mins drive).

6. Are there any gay cruising areas in Bath?

There aren't that many gay cruising areas in Bath, but Sydney Gardens (around 1 mile northeast of the city center) is renowned for outdoor fun, especially by the railway cuttings in the evening hours. As ever with outdoor cruising, please take care, ideally leaving as many of your valuables locked up safely back at your hotel.

We also use this opportunity to stress the importance of travel insurance and backing up everything on your phone to the cloud. Seby had his brand new iPhone stolen from his bag at a party in Brussels. Thankfully, we were able to claim most of the loss back from our travel insurance, but sadly, all recent photos/videos taken were lost forever because he hadn't activated iCloud backup.

Travel worry-free!

Don't skimp out on your travel insurance: make sure your trip is fun, frivolous, and free! Most importantly, good travel insurance will cover you for loss from petty theft, medical emergencies, flight cancellations, pricey hospital bills, car rental protection, and more.

We recommend reading our article about the importance of travel insurance so you can assess which policy is best for you.

7. Where are the best places to eat in Bath?

When we visited Bath, Sotto Sotto was all the rage, recommended to us as the most romantic restaurant in Bath. It is. And the ideal location, close to the Roman Baths in the heart of town. But it's busy, for good reason. So book well in advance! Other highly rated restaurants to try out in Bath include the Michelin-starred Menu Gordon Jones and The Beefy Boys.

During the day, you can't go wrong with one of the many cute, cozy cafes in the city center. Knoops on the corner of Quiet Street is worth checking out. It's famous for having some of the best chocolate drinks in the UK. For a traditional English Afternoon Tea experience, we recommend the quirky Alice in Wonderland-themed cafe called The Mad Hatter's Tea Party, also in the city center.

For another traditional treat unique to Bath, try a Bath Bun – a small, sweet roll made from milk-based dough with fruits/spices, originating in Bath in the 1700s.

We tried ours at the famous Sally Lunn's, which is a part museum, part restaurant/cafe located in the oldest house in Bath. We got a cinnamon Bath Bun to take away…it looks meh, but it tastes delicious!

8. What are the sightseeing highlights of Bath?

Bath is so easy to explore on foot. Every street is begging for an Insta-shoot…it's why we keep revisiting. It's also romantic, especially the walk along the Pulteney Bridge and riverside path along the Avon.

To start with, we recommend heading to the historic city center and walking around the cobblestone streets around the Roman Baths and Bath Abbey. Pick any cafe for a break, our favorite was the San Francisco Fudge Factory located down the road from Sally Lunn's.

Next, we recommend heading to The Royal Crescent and The Circus, around a 10-15-minute walk from Bath Old Town. These are two of the most iconic, Grade I-listed, 18th-century Georgian architectural masterpieces in Bath, where you'll feel like a Jane Austen-style debutante ready to be introduced to high society… The Royal Crescent is a sweeping 150-meter arc of 30 terraced houses, and The Circus, a circular set of townhouses designed as a “hidden” Roman-style coliseum.

HEADS UP tip from us: use the new Clean Up feature in your iPhone editing panel, which can easily remove people and cars from your Royal Crescent snaps 🙂

For the best panoramic views of the city, head over to the Bath Skyline. If you're up for a hike, it has a 6-mile (9.7 km) circular National Trust trail through woodlands, hidden valleys, and fields. Or a more unique way to see the city skyline? In a hot air balloon! I initially got this for Seby for his birthday surprise…just make sure you pick a company who will allow it to be postponed/rebooked as it's weather dependent, and the UK weather is renowned for being, well, quite awful!

9. What's the best way to reach Bath from London?

The easiest? Train. Direct services run regularly from London Paddington and take around 1 hour 20 minutes. We’ve done it a few times. It's smooth, scenic, and far less stressful than battling motorway traffic. If you’re traveling on a budget, coaches (FlixBus or National Express) are much cheaper (starting from £5) and take around 3 hours from London Victoria/Earls Court, subject to traffic.

That said, if you’ve got time, we actually love turning Bath into part of a little West Country road trip. Hire a car and make a weekend of it. The gay scene of Bristol is only about 40 minutes away, and the Cotswolds are right on your doorstep for chocolate-box villages and countryside walks.

Flying in? The closest airport is Bristol Airport, with connections to most major European cities. For international arrivals, you’ll likely land at one of the London airports and head west from there.

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Book your plan up to 6 months ahead: it activates when you land. Prep now, slay later, and make every destination your runway.

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Read more travel adventures like this in our book!

We've published our very own gay travel book called, ‘Out in the World'. It has all our practical safety tips, first-hand advice, and travel stories from some of our favorite destinations.

We hope it inspires you to have a fun and safe trip!

Click on the book to order:

For more inspiration, we recommend you…

• Use our gay guide to London to flesh out your weekend there
• Read our Manchester gay travel guide for everything you need to explore
• Dip into our Scotland gay guide for the ultimate road trip in the UK
• Party hard at one of the best gay festivals and events in London
• Plan your next London Gay Pride with our guide

The post Bath Gay Travel Guide for LGBTQ+ travelers appeared first on Nomadic Boys.

We’re really excited to announce: we're going on a queer cruise!

Not just any cruise. The Rainbow Cruise by TUI Cruises. Think sun on your face, sea stretching endlessly around you, and a ship filled with our LGBTQAI+ family all unapologetically being themselves. No code-switching. No side-eyes. Just pure, joyful, queer energy at sea.

We’ll be there, soaking up every second. The deck parties, the lazy sea days, the late-night dance floors, the “how is it 3 am already?” moments. And honestly? It wouldn’t feel right without our squirrel friends there with us.

So here’s the real question: Are you joining us on board?

Rainbow Cruise: the next chapter – A future of unity!

TUI Cruises proudly celebrates diversity, openness, and unity with the formal announcement of their EPIC queer cruise taking place in Autumn 2027:

“Rainbow Cruise: the next chapter – A future of unity.”

Every evening on board will include vibrant themed parties, like KitKatClub's infamous Piep Show.

During the day, guests can enjoy a carefully curated program featuring top-class entertainment, inspiring talks, sports, and shared activities.

Cruise lovers and those discovering cruising for the first time are invited to join this extraordinary 5-night round-trip voyage from and to Palma de Mallorca, celebrating togetherness, freedom, and the beauty of diversity aboard the “Rainbow Cruise: the next chapter – a future of unity.”

When is the Rainbow TUI Cruise?

The Rainbow TUI Cruise will take place over 5 nights from 28 September to 3 October, 2027.

It will take place on board the Mein Schiff 2, a ship with a maximum capacity of 2,894 passengers.

What is the cruise itinerary?

The cruise will start and end in Palma de Mallorca (in Spain) and will include two stopovers:

• Palermo in Sicily (Italy)
• Cagliari in Sardinia (Italy)

Who else will be on board the Rainbow Cruise?

We will be joined on board with iconic performers like Conchita Wurst and Lucy Diakovska. Drag artists joining our happy queer family include Miss Ivanka T, Katy Bähm, and Pam Pengco.

Also on board will be fellow influencers like Couple of Men (Karl + Daan), BlondHair.DontCare (Christoph), and Domenic + Jonnny Osterroth.

Sign me up! How can I book?

Prices start from €1,099 per person.

Hit the link below to find out more and join us on board!

The post We are going on the Rainbow TUI queer cruise! appeared first on Nomadic Boys.

The first time we came to Bristol together back in 2012, I remember thinking: why does nobody talk about this place more? It’s got canals, colorful houses, street art on every corner, waterfront views, and the kind of creative, slightly rebellious energy that makes you instantly feel at home. In fact, we came here initially as part of a day trip from neighboring Bath, which draws most of the tourist crowds, so that likely has something to do with it.

But Bristol has that effortlessly cool energy, without the ego. It’s creative, progressive, and proudly queer in a way that feels natural rather than performative. 

The LGBTQ+ scene here might be smaller than London or Manchester, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in heart. The gay bars in Bristol are friendly, unpretentious, and refreshingly diverse. No velvet ropes. No attitude. Just good music, strong drinks, and locals who actually talk to you. It helps that most of these locals are students with a refreshing, open-minded view of the world.

We’ve since visited Bristol several times. Each time falling in love with it even more. By day, we were wandering the Harbourside hand in hand, hopping between markets and galleries. By night, we’re deep in a drag show or dancing somewhere delightfully chaotic. 

And when Bristol Pride rolls around in June/July, the entire city shows up!

As a gay couple, Bristol felt safe, inclusive, and genuinely welcoming – the kind of place where we can just be us without overthinking it. 

1. Is Bristol safe for gay travelers?

Absolutely. We’ve always felt completely safe in Bristol, 3whether we’re holding hands by the Harbourside, heading home late from a drag night, or wandering around in full tourist mode with Google Maps open with Grindr notifications going off left, right, and center…

Bristol is a diverse, progressive city with a large student population and a strong culture of inclusivity. Politically, the city is famous for being left-leaning, with a strong, rebellious, and independent spirit that manages to be both collaborative and innovative. We got the feeling that rainbow flags aren’t just for Pride week – they’re part of everyday life here!

Like anywhere, use common sense late at night, but overall, gay travelers can relax and just enjoy being themselves in Bristol. We sure did!

2. Where is the best place to stay in Bristol?

For gay travelers to Bristol, we think the best areas to base yourself are Harbourside, Clifton, or the City Centre. Each has its own unique appeal.

We often gravitate towards Harbourside for the water views, modern hotels, and easy access to restaurants, bars, and romantic riverside walks. Clifton is another favorite because of its pretty, leafy Georgian streets that make it feel like a relaxed village. Clifton is also home to a large LGBTQ+ community…your Grindr will be on fire here…

Staying in the City Centre means having the main shopping streets, nightlife, theatres, museums, transport links, and popular gay venues like OMG, Bristol Bear Bar, and The Queenshilling all within easy walking distance. Hotels we recommend to be close to the gay bars include the Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel by the harbour, and the super plush Grand Bristol By Sunday + Hotel du Vin, both of which have the #Travelproud certification.

For something more budget-friendly whilst still being centrally located, we recommend the Travelodge Bristol Central.

STAY WITH A GAY LOCAL!

Misterb&b is the Airbnb equivalent for the LGBTQ+ community.

Unlike on Airbnb, you know your host is gay, avoiding any nasty surprises when you check in. It is also a great way to meet gay locals and discover the underground gay scene together.

Read more about it and claim $10 off your first booking:

Find out more about Misterbnb

3. What are the best gay bars and clubs in Bristol?

For a small city with a population of around half a million, Bristol really punches above its weight when it comes to LGBTQ+ venues and hangouts. That said, don’t come here expecting London-style gay mega clubs or huge circuit parties like Roast, Madmen, Beyond, or Feel It. This isn’t that kind of scene. And honestly, that’s part of Bristol's charm.

Instead, Bristol offers something more personal. It’s intimate, local, and wonderfully community-driven. The vibe is very “everyone knows everyone,” in the best possible way. People are warm, chatty, and genuinely curious about who you are and where you’re from. It’s ridiculously easy to strike up conversations, swap travel stories, and make new squirrel friends over a pint or two.

Starting in the centre, we recommend starting with the OMG duo. First up is OMG Bar (on Frogmore Street) for pre-drinks, then head a few doors down for a boogie at its sister venue, OMG Club (on Frog Lane). Also nearby on Frogmore Street is the other main gay club of Bristol: the Queenshilling.

The other gay area of Bristol to check out is along Old Market Street, where you can find iconic gay institutions like the Old Castle Green, the BBB Bristol Bear Bar, and the gay friendly Stag and Hound.

For drag shows, we recommend checking out the Seamus O’Donnells gay Irish bar located in the Old City. Further afield, check out the mixed queer-friendly Hope and Anchor pub, famous for its cute garden and board games.

Not a gay bar in Bristol, but we mention this cause we LOVE a good cocktail – Brozen Bar is famous not only in the city but the region. They do the best cocktails, some even using liquid nitrogen. It's a sight to behold!

4. What are the best gay events and festivals in Bristol?

The main gay event that takes place every month in Bristol is DTYM (Don't Tell Your Mum). DTYM (usually) takes place on the first Saturday of every month at various locations, which have included the Outerverse and The Phoenix. Check the DTYM Insta for the latest info on the next party.

The main annual gay festival that takes place every summer in Bristol is, of course, Bristol Pride. The festival usually takes place over the last weekend of June and early July, with the main Pride Parade day falling on the last Saturday of the festival. Check out the Bristol Pride Instagram for the latest dates, info, and to see who the headliners are for the next installment.

5. Is there a gay sauna in Bristol?

Sadly, there are no gay saunas in Bristol. Post Covid, they closed their doors for good. If this changes, we will, of course, update this guide pronto.

The closest gay sauna to Bristol is The Greenhouse Newport in Wales, around 45 minutes drive away. It's the largest gay sauna in Wales, making it a popular hangout for h0rny Bristolian lads, especially on weekends! Also, a 45-50 minute drive from Bristol is the Touch Sauna in Swindon, which hosts some pretty wild themed nights every day of the week.

6. Where are the gay cruising spots in Bristol?

Whilst Grindr may have killed the gay cruising scene, there are still a few areas where gay cruising in Bristol still takes place, particularly in the evening hours. The Downs is the most famous – by day, a large 230-acre limestone downland bordering Clifton Village…by night, well, just head to the wooded area 🙂 Also popular is the area by the benches between the Suspension Bridge and Bridge Valley Road, close to the Observatory.

Castle Park in the heart of town is also very popular for gay cruising in Bristol, particularly on evenings and weekends, due to its proximity to the gay bars of Old Market. The toilets here get quite frivolous… Just take care at night with dodgy individuals…keep anything of value locked up back in your hotel room!

Travel, Twerk, and Chill!

Don’t be that queen who skips travel insurance. ‘Cause nothing ruins a trip faster than tears, tantrums, and tragic bills…

Stay covered, stay fabulous, and keep your vacation free, fun, and frivolous!

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7. What are the best places to eat in Bristol?

Bristol does good food! One of the most famous is the Michelin-starred Box-E restaurant located in a converted shipping container in Wapping Wharf. We recommend bringing your date here to impress – and order the taster menu.

For something more central and highly rated, consider Cow & Sow in Clifton, one of Bristol's most renowned steakhouses. For traditional British pub vibes, and of course, for fish and chips, check out The Bishops Tavern Pub.

Other excellent restaurants to check out in Bristol include the Michelin-starred Root Restaurant located by the harbour, The Coconut Tree in Clifton for Sri Lankan, Rudy's Pizza Napoletana in the Old Town, and the Chef's Table – another Michelin-starred restaurant, located by the SS Great Britain. For Lebanese food, we recommend Beirut Mezze located just off the Harbourside – the food here is delicious. And as a bonus, the mobile signal is poor, so you're forced to keep the phone out of sight…ideal for a date night 🙂

For an overall culinary experience, head to Za Za Bazaar in the Harbourside. It claims to be the biggest restaurant in the UK, and once inside, it sure feels like that! It's a set meal buffet style with counters dedicated to Caribbean, the Far East, European, Tex-Mex, Indian, and one just for desserts. Come here on an empty stomach! My other big heads up, if heading here on a weekend on public holiday, book in advance! It gets super busy – we only managed to get a table at 5:30 pm on a Sunday when we turned up last minute…it's that popular.

8. What are the main things to see and do in Bristol?

Bristol is all about Brunel and Banksy!

Brunel (or more specifically, Isambard Kingdom Brunel) was a 19th-century mechanical engineer who was famous for revolutionizing transport with iconic projects like the Great Western Railway, and closer to home, the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the SS Great Britain ship. The latter is now docked along the river. I'd start with this – it's a pretty walk along the harbourside from the city center to reach the SS Great Britain. It's a fascinating museum inside the ship. From here it's a few quid for a water taxi to cross over into Clifton.

The elusive Banksy is famous for having some of his artwork displayed across the city, like Well Hung Lover in the centre. I just followed Visit Bristol's Banksy walking tour, which is a great way to force you to see parts of the city you'd never normally wander into.

The Clifton Suspension Bridge is another world-famous site to behold in Bristol, spanning the Avon Gorge, linking Clifton in Bristol to Leigh Woods in North Somerset. The views of the gorge here are impressive…sadly, equally impressive is the Bridge's popularity as a place to end one's life!

Back in town, the medieval Bristol Cathedral, dating back to 1140, is worth a visit. Entry is free, but a small donation is welcome. A few blocks down is The Bristol Museum & Art Gallery (also free entry). It's massive with a range of historical and archaeological collections. They also host the annual Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition, which is one of my favorites to check out in the UK – similar to the one in the Natural History Museum in London.

As well as harbourside, another place I love going for a wander in Bristol is the area known as The Christmas Steps. This is a cutesy, steep, cobbled set of streets that dates back to the 1660s. Today, it's famous for its cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops, sometimes also referred to as the Arts Quarter.

One of my favorite spots in Bristol to check out is Cabot Tower & Brandon Hill in Clifton. It's a small park centred around the 105-foot (32m) Cabot Tower, which I recommend climbing up for some of the best panoramic views across the city.

Beyond Bristol, I recommend checking out the super pretty city of Bath on a day trip. For shopping, check out the Swindon Designer Outlet. Both are around 40 minutes drive from Bristol, also accessible by direct train from Temple Meads train station.

9. What's the best way to reach Bristol from London?

Bristol Temple Meads is around 2 hours train ride from London Paddington. Check out Trainline or the GWR apps for tickets and timetables. Train tickets can be quite pricey, so be sure to check out the coach from either London Victoria or Hammersmith with National Express or FlixBus, which can be as little as a fiver. The coach takes around 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic and where you get it from.

Bristol also has an airport, which is located 8 miles southwest of the city and takes around 20 minutes to reach in an Uber, or 30 minutes by bus (the A1 Airport Flyer).

Read more travel adventures like this in our book!

We've published our very own gay travel book called, ‘Out in the World'. It has all our practical safety tips, first-hand advice, and travel stories from some of our favorite destinations.

We hope it inspires you to have a fun and safe trip!

Click on the book to order:

For more inspiration:

• Use our gay guide to London to plan your trip
• We recommend the Mighty Hoopla gay festival in London in May
• Read about the best gay hotels in London
• Our Manchester gay guide has got you covered
• Also in Manchester is the annual gay Homobloc party

The post Gay travel guide to Bristol for first time visitors appeared first on Nomadic Boys.

We sure think so – and after experiencing it ourselves, we’re fully converted.

Homobloc is a huge annual queer rave that takes over Manchester every year. It began in 2019, the birth child of the legendary decades-old Homoelectric underground queer party. We went for our first time in December 2025 and had a blast!

The party takes place at Depot Mayfield, a vast, industrial space with a capacity of around 10,000 people. It's big! Everyone who is everyone on the Manchester gay scene will be here, along with gays from all over the UK and beyond, who, like us, descend on Manchester for this weekend.

To say it's big is an understatement! The queue to get it was epic in itself. Inside, the scale kept escalating: multiple rooms, different stages, different moods, all pulsing at once. When we went, Sugababes were performing, a moment that made teenage Stefan extremely proud, and adult Stefan slightly emotional 🙂

Here is everything we think you need to know about Homobloc and how to get the best out of this impressive annual queer rave.

What is Homobloc?

Homobloc isn’t just another rave, it’s Manchester doing queer culture at full volume. Launched in 2019, it grew out of the legendary Homoelectric, a party that’s been shaping the city’s alternative queer nightlife for decades. Homobloc takes that same underground spirit and scales it up into something epic, euphoric, and completely unhinged.

Every year, Manchester becomes the meeting point. Everyone we know is there. Everyone we don’t know but probably should be there too. It’s not just a rave, it’s this shared queer moment where techno kids, pop lovers, first-timers, and seasoned party veterans all collide under one roof. For us, it felt less like discovering a new party and more like walking into something the community had already been building together for years.

You don’t come to Homobloc to be polite. You come to lose yourself, sweat it out, and dance until we look at each other and say, “Okay… that was a lot…but also, when are we coming back?”

When and where does Homobloc happen?

Homobloc takes place in Manchester, usually at the large Mayfield Depot located in the east of the city center. It's a huge venue that can house up to 10,000 people. Interestingly, the Mayfield Depot was built in 1910 as a railway yard for Mayfield station, later repurposed as a Royal Mail distribution center until the 1980s. It's got that underground gritty feel that nicely complements the gay rave vibe: original raw concrete floors + exposed brick, and metalwork.

The Depot venue works alongside the charity, The Warehouse Project, to host Homobloc.

It usually takes place on the first weekend in December, but check the Homobloc website for details of the next event. Note that it's a good 12-hour-long event, starting from 4 pm on the Saturday and finishing at 4 am the next morning!

How much does it cost to attend Homobloc?

Tickets are sold on the Ticketmaster website (use the link from the Homobloc website).

There are two types of tickets: normal entry tickets that start from £40, and VIP tickets that allow you access to VIP areas, which have a different viewing platform, private bar, and toilets.

What should I wear for Homobloc?

This is a safe space, very queer, so our memo: go for it!

When we went, we saw everything from full-blown, carefully curated rave looks (harnesses, glitter, leather, mesh – the works!) to guys wearing, well, let’s just say, significantly less and calling it a day 🙂 All of it felt completely normal, welcome, and celebrated.

The vibe here is expression over perfection. Nobody’s judging, nobody’s keeping score. It’s about showing up as you, however that looks on the night.

One practical note heads up from us: Homobloc takes place at The Warehouse Project, which has a few dress-code rules. Certain items (like football shirts) aren’t allowed. We recommend checking the General Info page on The Warehouse Project website. Also bear in mind that this takes place in Manchester in December, i.e., when it's cold! However, Homobloc is indoors, and they have lockers, so we recommend coming here with layers that you can remove once you're inside.

What's the crowd like at Homobloc?

The crowd at Homobloc was mostly male, mixed with LGBTQ+ folks across the spectrum, plenty of allies, and every possible combination of age, body type, and vibe you can think of.

What we loved most was how mixed it all felt. You’ve got seasoned ravers who look like they’ve been doing this since the ’90s, baby gays experiencing their first proper warehouse rave, muscle boys, club kids, pop fans, techno purists…all sweating it out together without any weird hierarchy. No one’s posturing. No one’s trying too hard. Everyone’s just in it.

We found it super easy to make new friends and connect with new people here. Even though we went with a group of friends, naturally, we kept losing each other throughout the night, but somehow found our way back to each other with different faces added each time.

What's the music like at Homobloc?

I would describe the music at Homobloc as techno mixed with pop. One minute we were fully locked into filthy, industrial techno, the next we’d wandered into something euphoric, pop-leaning, or joyfully unhinged that had the entire room singing (screaming?) along.

The lineup usually mixes big-name DJs, underground heroes, and genuinely iconic live acts, which keeps the night feeling unpredictable in the best way. For example, we saw the Sugababes live as well as Beth Ditto. In the neighboring room, we watched Honey Dijon, Pxssy Palace, and Feel It. We were bouncing between spaces, following whichever sound pulled us to the next.

What we loved most is that the music never feels try-hard or exclusive. Whether you’re a hardcore techno head or just here for the emotional release of dancing to something familiar at 2 am, Homobloc gives us the permission we needed to enjoy it all.

Our practical tips for preparing for Homobloc

• Do not bring a bag! I almost got caught out by this one. I was going to put all my layers in my rucksack and check it into the clockroom. Bags larger than A4 are not allowed. However, you can pre-book a locker:
• Pre-book a locker: We recommend booking a locker online beforehand on The Warehouse Project website. Do it sooner rather than later, as they do sell out. For us, one was enough to share for both of our stuff. You receive a code and can return to the locker at any point throughout the night.
• Remember your physical ID: it's an over-18 event, so IDs will be checked.
• The ticket queue is LONG: the VIP queue was the worst. We recommend getting a normal ticket online that gives you a QR code. With this, you can walk in without waiting for ages.
• Bag searches and sniffer dogs: after your ticket is scanned, security will search your bags/pockets, and sniffer dogs are on hand.
• Re-entry is not allowed! Once you're in, you're in. If you leave, you'll need another ticket to get back inside. This is a long 12-hour event from 4 pm until 4 am, so plan around this. Note that food is available to buy inside.
• No darkrooms here! Homobloc is not *that* type of event. Just managing your expectations 🙂

Travel worry-free!

Don't skimp out on your travel insurance: make sure your trip is fun, frivolous, and free! Most importantly, good travel insurance will cover you for loss from petty theft, medical emergencies, flight cancellations, pricey hospital bills, car rental protection, and more.

We recommend reading our article about the importance of travel insurance so you can assess which policy is best for you.

Where to stay in Manchester for Homobloc?

We recommend basing yourself in and around Canal Street, like the DoubleTree by Hilton or the Velvet Hotel. Both are #TravelProud certified hotels and are located on the doorstep of the city's gay scene, right by Manchester Piccadilly train station. New Union is another very gay hotel we recommend, also Adults-Only. Any of these 3 will have a busy Grindr grid during your stay 🙂

Alternatively, book an apartment on Airbnb, or one with a gay host on Misterbnb. Some of our friends just came straight to Homobloc on the Saturday by train/coach and headed back on the Sunday morning without booking a place to stay.

STAY WITH A GAY LOCAL!

Misterb&b is the Airbnb equivalent for the LGBTQ+ community.

Unlike on Airbnb, you know your host is gay, avoiding any nasty surprises when you check in. It is also a great way to meet gay locals and discover the underground gay scene together.

Read more about it and claim $10 off your first booking:

Find out more about Misterbnb

What else is there to do in Manchester for gay travelers?

The gay scene of Canal Street is always a lot of fun. After Homobloc finishes at 4 am, most will head to Cruz101 near Canal Street. If you want to spice up the antics, Basement Sauna‘s got you covered. We've been to Manchester several times and love going out there. Other gay bars and clubs we recommend checking out if you're making a weekend of it include Via, New York New York, and the Eagle.

Other highlights include the Alan Turing Memorial in Sackville Gardens, the impressive street art, brunch/tea at Alice in Wonderland-themed Richmond Tea Rooms, and, if you have time, a tour up to the Lake District.

Read more travel adventures like this in our book!

We've published our very own gay travel book called, ‘Out in the World'. It has all our practical safety tips, first-hand advice, and travel stories from some of our favorite destinations.

We hope it inspires you to have a fun and safe trip!

Click on the book to order:

For more inspiration, check out:

• What it's like partying at the Mighty Hoopla gay festival in London
• All the epic gay festivals in London
• Our take on the gay scene of Bristol and also gay Bath
• Our experience attending the La Demence gay party in Brussels
• Partying in the Mediterranean at the Hoopla Malta gay festival
• Our guide to attending the Winter Pride gay festival in Gran Canaria

The post Is Homobloc the best gay event in Manchester? appeared first on Nomadic Boys.

Gay Winter Pride arithmetic: get into the Construction queue by 10 pm when it opens to get the wristband and locker key. Leave your belongings there, then head out to explore the main stage for a few hours, returning to Construction as needed, skipping the long queue that will have formed.

Later, join the queue for Mantrix tickets when they open at midnight to receive your entry wristband, then return to the Yumbo main stage.

Come back to Mantrix to continue the night when the main stage closes…again skipping the hour-long queue that will have since grown. Our pleasure 🙂

This is Yumbo Centre on your average night during Winter Pride. It's full of every gay you've ever met because this is one of the largest and best gay festivals out there, especially in Europe. We also rave about the Homobloc gay festival in Manchester if you're heading that way.

We always have a great time in gay Gran Canaria, whether it's for Maspalomas Pride in May or Winter Pride in November. So from our heart to yours, here are the 10 things we wish someone had told us before our first time attending.

1. Book accommodation asap!

Winter Pride is one of the most popular events in Gran Canaria. Gays come from afar and in huge numbers for this epic week. As a result, hotels and Airbnbs get snapped up pretty quickly. Many book a year in advance as soon as the next year's dates are announced, and locals know this, so they whack up their prices during Winter Pride.

STAY WITH A GAY LOCAL!

Misterb&b is the Airbnb equivalent for the LGBTQ+ community.

Unlike on Airbnb, you know your host is gay, avoiding any nasty surprises when you check in. It is also a great way to meet gay locals and discover the underground gay scene together.

Read more about it and claim $10 off your first booking:

Find out more about Misterbnb

We made a last-minute decision to go and booked an apartment we found on Booking.com at the last minute. It was around 10 minutes walk east of Yumbo Centre. If, like us, you also leave it to the last minute to book, we advise checking Booking.com daily for cancellations, as many who have booked a year in advance often book several refundable options and will start canceling them within the month leading up to Winter Pride, so around September/October.

If you're more astute with your planning and are looking to book a place well in advance, our guide to the best gay hotels in Gran Canaria has got your back.

2. Secure your phone and valuables

Not gonna lie, in a packed environment like Yumbo Centre, on a weekend during Winter Pride, your valuables are at high risk of being snatched by crooks. It's a sad reality, but it happens. So our advice is to take out with you only what you need and keep it all zipped/locked away.

We always tried to get a locker in Construction early in the night, as that way you have a place in Yumbo where you can keep your valuables nicely locked away, and the entrance allows you to go in and out throughout the night as much as you want.

My favorite place to store things like the hotel key, lube, chewing gum, etc., is in my socks. However, for larger items, one thing I've recently discovered any am loving is getting a running arm band from Amazon and placing it instead above your calf. Ideally, get one with at least two zips, one for the phone and the other for other valuables. That way, you feel it close to you, don't need a bag, and have easy access to your phone when you need it.

It's also quite hot – makes you look like a gay Lara Croft…check out our photo of it at one of the pool parties:

Seby got his iPhone stolen at one party we went to – the thief took it from his shoulder bag when he wasn't looking. The one thing we were thankful for is being able to claim it back from our travel insurance…make sure you get one as a failsafe!

Travel, Twerk, and Chill!

Don’t be that queen who skips travel insurance. ‘Cause nothing ruins a trip faster than tears, tantrums, and tragic bills…

Stay covered, stay fabulous, and keep your vacation free, fun, and frivolous!

Unlock Travel Protection

3. Plan your pool parties

There are lots of things happening in and around Winter Pride. Centre stage is the main stage of Yumbo Centre, which will host a party every evening. Entrance is free, and there's always a crowd. Between the main stage of Yumbo, the surrounding clubs/bars, and the Six Pack area, you'll have a blast in the evenings.

During the day, there are several other events worth checking out, including several pool parties. At first, it can feel overwhelming knowing which one to buy tickets for. What we found after years of going to both Winter Pride and Maspalomas Pride is that if you only go to one pool party, we recommend the Tropicana Pool Party at Ocean Club, often on the Friday of Winter Pride. It's the largest event, drawing thousands of people, and it's a short cab ride from Yumbo. Any major celebs in town will be performing here. When we went in 2025, we saw the Venga Boys performing here.

The Wet and Wild Pool Party at the Amadores Beach Club is another favorite. It's set in a pretty location. However, the downside is that it involves a 45-minute taxi ride (or free shuttle bus from Yumbo), which puts some people off. We found that a lot more gays went to Tropicana at Ocean rather than Wet and Wild.

4. Poppers are illegal in Spain!

Yup, it's a thing, sadly. A lot of our friends found this out the hard way. Police are everywhere in and around Yumbo Centre during Winter Pride, doing spot checks, and if they find poppers on you, they will confiscate them. More on the police presence below, but our advice is take care if you are bringing poppers – stash them somewhere safe in your underwear when out and about, or leave them at your hotel.

An unofficial local tip off we were given is if you want to buy them, head to the adult shop opposite Noxon Club and ask for ‘Channel number 5' 🙂

5. Plan your nights out in Yumbo

The opening paragraph in this article? It really is a thing. Queues for clubs during Winter Pride can get pretty bad, with some going for hours. The worst is Mantrix, which is open till 8 am: when the main stage closes at 3 am, crowds head to Mantrix to continue the party, so the queue can be pretty overwhelming. That's why we recommend going there at midnight when the ticket office opens and getting the wristband, which allows you entry whenever you want.

The same for Construction. Another very popular haunt. But if you get there early enough, you can purchase a locker and therefore have a place to leave your stuff as you dance around Yumbo. Just remember to bring some cash, as locker payment is cash only.

6. Police are everywhere

Pickpockets and dealers do very well during Winter Pride. Thankfully, the police are out in their numbers carrying out random stop and searches.

The advantage is that we felt that little bit safer, although we still caution you to take extra care with your valuables in busy spaces.

The downside, well, if you're carrying any poppers or other candy, you'll want to be a bit crafty. Stash it in your crotch, and you'll be fine. They only check your pockets and bags. If they find anything naughty, they will confiscate it, and in the worst-case scenario, take your details.

7. Download PideTaxi: no Uber or Bolt in Gran Canaria!

A constant bane each time we visit. It may change soon, and we will update this article as soon as it does. But in the meantime, we have to grapple with the fact that there is no Bolt or Uber in GC. The alternative is to rely on vacant yellow taxis in the street. Most of the time, we managed fine, but during busy periods, such as leaving a busy pool party when hundreds of gays are also trying to hail a cab, it's a pain in the backside.

Another way around this is to download the PideTaxi app, which is the closest thing we could find to Uber in the Canary Islands.

For payment, most taxis accept cards and will give receipts if you're claiming business expenses. But it's worth carrying some cash just in case.

For airport taxi transfer, a cab to/from the Airport from the Yumbo Centre area costs around €40-50 and takes around 30/40 minutes. There is a bus that takes around 1 hour and only costs around €4-5 per person. However, check the timetable as they're not that frequent.

8. Remember to bring cash when you go out

We found the same thing when partying in gay Berlin: Gran Canaria is still not entirely contactless. We found we needed cash to pay for drinks in certain places, the lockers in Construction, some club entrances, and other minor expenses. Most of the taxis we took were able to accept card payments, as did all supermarkets and restaurants.

We found that having a mix of €50, €20, and €10 notes on us each time we went out worked a treat.

9. Remember to hydrate!

Obviously, rehydrating is important during Winter Pride, whether you're drinking alcohol, or, taking other candy… But one heads up we recommend is considering rehydrating with electrolyte-rich drinks if possible.

We got into Gatorade as our go-to mixer. Other electrolyte drinks to consider include coconut water and Powerade. Just keep an eye on the sugar content of some of these drinks and make sure you balance that out.

10. It's hot, remember to apply sunscreen!

Whilst the rest of Europe is probably freezing in the winter weather, here in Gran Canaria temperatures will be around 68-77°F (20-25°C). That may not sound boiling, but it's enough to burn the skin, especially if you're outside all day wearing skimpy, tight shorts and nothing else!

At some of the pool parties we went to, we found we had to reapply sunscream every few hours. These are day events when the sun is at its peak. The same applies if you go wandering in the dunes or to the gay beach.

Read more travel adventures like this in our book!

We've published our very own gay travel book called, ‘Out in the World'. It has all our practical safety tips, first-hand advice, and travel stories from some of our favorite destinations.

We hope it inspires you to have a fun and safe trip!

Click on the book to order:

For more, be sure to check out:

• 10 interesting facts about Gran Canaria we bet you didn't know
• The best gay Pride events in Spain
• Our gay guide to Barcelona
• Everything you need to know about Barcelona Pride
• Our first timer's gay guide to Valencia

The post 5 Things You Need To Know Before Attending Winter Pride Maspalomas in Gran Canaria appeared first on Nomadic Boys.

You haven’t really been to Brussels until you’ve survived La Demence. And by survived, we mean stumbling out of Fuse at sunrise, blinking like a newborn mole, wondering what year it is. Or worse, making it to the ING Arena for the Saturday main event and realizing you’ve basically signed up for a gay marathon with lasers.

La Demence is one of those parties that starts as a night out and somehow becomes a life event. There’s no dress code, just a slow but inevitable shedding of clothing until everyone looks like they’ve been tumble-dried in testosterone. The music? Filthy good. The crowd? Pure bedlam. The energy? Relentless.

We lost track of time, dignity, and possibly a shoe. But we gained memories, new friends, and a renewed respect for Brussels’ ability to party like it’s hosting the Gay Olympics.

La Demence didn’t just test our limits. It redefined them — loudly, sweatily, and with lasers. Another epic gay festival to check out is Homobloc in Manchester.

What is the La Demence gay party?

We’d heard about La Demence for years, whispered in dark corners of gay bars like some mythical creature… “You haven’t lived until you’ve done La Demence,” they said. Turns out, they were right…

It all started back in 1989 and has gone from strength to strength every year since. La Démence is French for ‘the madness'. Accurate. After a weekend there, we totally got it.

The main event is the Halloween weekend: 3 nights that test the limits of your stamina, your hydration levels, and your self-respect. Friday and Sunday happen at Fuse, a dark, sweaty labyrinth where shirts mysteriously vanish. Saturday moves to the massive 15,000 capacity ING Concert Arena, where thousands of men descend for what feels like the gay Olympics meets an emotional breakdown – with lasers.

There’s also the New Year’s Day edition, a full-blown resurrection party where everyone crawls out of the previous year and straight back onto the dance floor.

La Demence isn’t the kind of party you go to. It’s the kind that swallows you whole, chews you up, and sends you home smiling, dehydrated, and already planning your next round.

When and where does La Démence happen?

The main La Demence party takes place over the Halloween weekend end of October and early November in Brussels. The opening party takes place on the Friday night of that weekend at Fuse club, the large main event at the ING Arena (10,000 capacity) on the Saturday evening, and the closing party back at Fuse club on the Sunday evening.

These are each huge parties! They start around 10 pm and go on until 9 am the next day – the opening party until 12 noon.

A second La Demence party happens on New Year's Day at the Fuse club. It's just as wild as the Halloween one and easily one of the best gay New Year's parties to check out.

And if you want EVEN MORE La Demence craziness, be sure to check out the next La Demence gay cruise, which takes place every July.

How much does it cost to attend?

The main gay Halloween La Demence parties each cost around €50, with some combo tickets available if you buy for 2 or all 3 events, making it cheaper. Check the tickets section on the La Demence website for more info.

Obviously, you'll also need to factor in the cost of your train/flight to Brussels, as well as the cost of your accommodation (see more on this below).

What should I wear for La Demence?

Our advice, the less you wear, the better 🙂 Think short shorts, jockstrap if you dare, and shoes you don't mind getting mucky. Throw in a harness for good measure. We also like sport socks that go up mid calves – not only do they look hot, but they're a handy place to store things like gum, lip balm, lube, and other candy treats you'll want quick access to. Don't worry, lockers are provided at both clubs.

The one thing we'd make a point of is finding a way to secure your mobile safely, as pickpocketing is rife at these parties, especially at the large Saturday party at the ING Stadium. I bought a running arm band to place above my calf to store my phone, which was fine. Seby had a small bag that hung across his body. However, this was not enough, and he got his phone stolen. Alternative options we would suggest include getting a low, hard-to-reach zip pocket on the shorts or a fanny pack/bum bag.

We recommend looking over our gay pride outfits article for ideas of accessories to get for the parties. One idea Seby had was flashing neon sunglasses you can get from Amazon, so we could find/locate each other if we ever got separated.

What's the crowd like at La Demence?

The first thing that hit us wasn’t the music. It was the sheer wall of men. Thousands of them. Everywhere.

La Demence is about 95% male, and about 94% of those are infuriatingly attractive. Think every accent in Europe colliding under one roof – Spanish, French, Italian, German, all communicating fluently in the language of sweat and side-eye. There’s no one “type” either: gym gods, leather guys, first-timers clutching their drinks like flotation devices, and plenty of regulars who clearly know exactly what they’re doing.

It’s hot, loud, and scented with that unmistakable mix of musk, sweat, and pure testosterone…basically, Eau de La Demence. In other words, heaven. Everyone’s friendly, flirty, and out for the same reason: to dance like it’s an Olympic event and make lifelong squirrel friends.

By sunrise, we’d lost our voices, our dignity, and possibly a sock. Worth it? Every sweaty second!

What's the music like?

If we had to sum it up in one word, relentless. La Demence doesn’t do “warm-up sets”. It’s full throttle from the moment you walk in until the lights come up and you realise your legs are no longer accepting commands from your brain.

The music is pure, unapologetic European gay club energy. Heavy tech-house, throbbing tribal beats, and those huge diva vocals that sneak in right when you think you’re done dancing. Then suddenly you’re back at it, arms in the air, screaming lyrics you don’t even know.

Each floor has its own flavour: Fuse’s main room goes deep and dirty, while the upstairs space gives more of that sweaty, hands-in-the-air euphoria that feels half spiritual, half scandalous. At the ING Arena, the scale is next level. Lasers, confetti cannons, and thousands of men moving in perfect rhythm to DJs like Pagano, John Dixon, and Chris Bekker, who somehow manage to keep the energy peaking for eight straight hours.

By 7 a.m., we were convinced time had stopped. Or maybe it was just our ability to count. Either way, the beat never does.

Our practical tips for preparing for La Démence

• Book your tickets in advance: as soon as you've committed to going, we recommend booking your tickets on the La Demence website as soon as possible, as they sell out, especially the opening night party at Fuse club. Ticket resales are usually available if this happens from others who have to cancel. Tickets are often available for sale at the door, but if an event sells out, this only happens from around 4 am.
• Stock up on €2 coins for Fuse club lockers: you'll need a locker to store your clothes. The lockers at the Fuse club require a €2 coin to open them, and an additional one if you return to them. Whilst you can get these at the bar, it's handy to just plan and come with several to save you time.
• Pre-book your locker for the Saturday party at the ING Arena: follow this link to do this, otherwise expect a long queue for one on the night.
• Taxis Verts: consider downloading this local app as an alternative to Bolt and Uber. The ING stadium is quite far from Brussels city center, and a ride on Uber can cost upwards of €70, especially in the early hours when everyone is searching for a driver.

• Parties go on till late! These are huge parties that go until 9 am the next day, the opening party until 12 noon, so our advice is to factor in plenty of relaxation and chill out time in between so as not to exhaust yourself!
• Pack your electrolyte supplements: let's be real, most will be taking an assortment of candy for these parties. Help your body recover in between each event and give it the TLC it needs, starting with electrolyte supplements.
• Pickpockets are everywhere! As with all big gay events that have tight-knit dark spaces, pickpocketing is rife! The best thing is to leave as much as possible in your locker. But if you must carry your phone/wallet with you, we recommend planning for a way to keep this as secure as possible, difficult for a pickpocket to steal.
• Get travel insurance: whether it's with your bank provider, mobile phone carrier, or a company like Heymondo, just make sure you're covered for loss. Seby got his new iPhone stolen, but thankfully, we were able to swiftly report it to the local police and claim a cash payout from our travel insurance.

Travel worry-free!

Don't skimp out on your travel insurance: make sure your trip is fun, frivolous, and free! Most importantly, good travel insurance will cover you for loss from petty theft, medical emergencies, flight cancellations, pricey hospital bills, car rental protection, and more.

We recommend reading our article about the importance of travel insurance so you can assess which policy is best for you.

Where is a good place to stay in Brussels for La Demence?

Each time we visit Brussels for La Demence, we strive to stay in and around the city center, preferably on the southern edge, as this is where Fuse is located. Staying within walking distance of Fuse was quite handy.

When it comes to searching for gay friendly hotels in Brussels, you're in luck. Belgium is one of the most gay friendly countries in the world, so you'd be hard-pressed to find a place that does not welcome gay travelers. Most hotels in Brussels have the Booking.com #TravelProud certification, including the Brussels Marriott Hotel Grand Place, Hotel Fleur de Ville, and the Pillows City Hotel.

On our recent visit to La Demence, we used Misterbnb to book an apartment close to the Brussels Midi Eurostar station, which is also a short walk to Fuse.

STAY WITH A GAY LOCAL!

Misterb&b is the Airbnb equivalent for the LGBTQ+ community.

Unlike on Airbnb, you know your host is gay, avoiding any nasty surprises when you check in. It is also a great way to meet gay locals and discover the underground gay scene together.

Read more about it and claim $10 off your first booking:

Find out more about Misterbnb

What else is there to do in Brussels for gay travelers?

Those who want to continue partying after the events finish will likely head to a chill or Macho Sauna. Obviously, we recommend prioritising rest and downtime in between the 3 big parties. The Brussels gay scene also includes gay bars like Stacion BXL and Le Dolores, and the cruising Stammbar. If you fancy a drag show, check out Chez Maman, the Potiche Cabaret Bar, and Cabaret Mademoiselle.

If you're in town long enough, there's plenty to do in Brussels, such as visiting the iconic Atomium building (close to the Saturday ING Arena party), exploring the city center, Grand Place, the quirky Manneken Pis statue, and the Royal Palace.

Brussels is also a joy for foodies, particularly those of us who love French fries (frites) as much as Seby does. Brussels is famous for them. Other culinary highlights to try include waffles, moules-frites (mussels with fries), and, of course, my favorite, Belgian chocolate.

Read more travel adventures like this in our book!

We've published our very own gay travel book called, ‘Out in the World'. It has all our practical safety tips, first-hand advice, and travel stories from some of our favorite destinations.

We hope it inspires you to have a fun and safe trip!

Click on the book to order:

For more inspo, you know you need to hit up these gems:

• Our take on what the most gay friendly cities in the world are
• Heading to London? Use our London gay guide to plan your trip
• One epic gay event we love is Maspalomas Pride in Gran Canaria
• We love a gay music festival, and Mighty Hoopla in London gives us LIFE
• Our Valencia gay guide will entice you to explore this region of Spain

The post Our complete guide to attending the La Demence gay party in Brussels appeared first on Nomadic Boys.

I didn’t expect to fall for Valencia as hard as I did. One minute I was landing for a quick city break, the next I was googling “apartments in Ruzafa” after my third agua de Valencia, which by the way is mostly cava with a splash of orange juice and a whole lot of mischief.

Valencia is that perfect blend of beach life, culture, and beautiful chaos that sneaks up on you. One moment you are strolling through centuries-old streets, the next you are standing under the futuristic arches of the City of Arts and Sciences, feeling like you have wandered onto a Star Wars set, minus the lightsabers and with much better tapas.

My gaydar started pinging the second I arrived in Ruzafa. This neighborhood is the heart of Valencia’s queer scene, full of drag shows, rooftop bars, and cafés so cute I had to stop just for one more coffee and maybe another photo or two.

And when Pride season hits, Valencia does not just celebrate, it shines. Think beach parties, open-air concerts, and that effortless Mediterranean energy that makes time blur into sunshine and smiles.

Sun, sangria, and sass. That is Valencia. And I'm completely hooked!

Traveling without Internet? *Gay gasp!* 

Get Ubigi eSIM, scan the QR, and connect faster than a twink on Pride weekend. No stress, just data. Claim 10% off your first order with promo code: NOMADICBOYS. 

Book your plan up to 6 months ahead: it activates when you land. Prep now, slay later, and make every destination your runway.

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1. Is Valencia safe for gay travelers?

Absolutely. Valencia is one of the safest and most welcoming cities in Spain for gay travelers, which we rate to be one of the most gay friendly countries in the world.

I saw many same-sex couples holding hands in public throughout the city. I felt completely at ease being my unapologetically gay self everywhere I went here. The city has a relaxed Mediterranean attitude where nobody bats an eye. Locals are friendly, open-minded, and genuinely proud of their inclusive culture.

The police and city authorities are also very supportive of LGBTQ+ rights, and Pride is officially recognized and celebrated. On a national level, Spain has recently launched the 028 Rainbow Line, a 24/7 support service for victims of queerphobia and discrimination (28 relating to the day in June when Pride is usually celebrated).

Of course, like in any big city, petty crime (like pickpocketing) can occur in crowded areas, so stay alert, especially at night. But compared with many European capitals, Valencia is relaxed, welcoming, and feels like a city where you can just be. At no stage did I ever feel intimidated when out walking the streets solo.

2. Where is the gay area of Valencia?

Valencia’s main gay area is the lively neighborhood of Ruzafa (also spelled Russafa), just south of the city center. It’s where I instantly felt the city’s queer pulse – a few rainbow flags draped over balconies, stylish bars spilling onto the streets, and an easy, welcoming vibe that feels effortlessly cool.

By day, it’s full of brunch spots, vintage shops, and art galleries. By night, it turns into a buzzing social hub with drag shows, cocktail bars, and pop-up parties that seem to appear out of nowhere.

3. Where is the best place to stay in Valencia?

For gay travelers, the best place to stay in Valencia is hands down Ruzafa, close to the nightlife and packed with LGBTQ-friendly spots. You’ll find great listings on Misterb&b, as well as at Boonies Hotels, founded by Markus Boonies from Cologne, a brand dedicated to stylish, community-driven stays for gay travelers, and also a #TravelProud certified hotel.

On a budget, Purple Nest Hostel is a colorful, social base near the old town, perfect for meeting fellow travelers and joining spontaneous nights out.

For a splash of luxury, Palacio Vallier is an elegant boutique gem in the historic center, where classic design meets modern indulgence, truly one of Valencia’s finest.

STAY WITH A GAY LOCAL!

Misterb&b is the Airbnb equivalent for the LGBTQ+ community.

Unlike on Airbnb, you know your host is gay, avoiding any nasty surprises when you check in. It is also a great way to meet gay locals and discover the underground gay scene together.

Read more about it and claim $10 off your first booking:

Find out more about Misterbnb

4. What are the best gay bars and clubs in Valencia?

Valencia’s gay nightlife might not be massive, but it delivers everything you need for a seriously fun night out. The bulk of the gay bars in Valencia can be found in the Ruzafa area, which includes the cozy Bubu gay bear bar and La Boba y el Gato Rancio.

On weekends, my go-to gay club was The Muse, a lively disco-bar that’s perfect for warming up until around 2/3 am, and then heading to Deseo 54, which continues into the early hours.

A few other gay clubs in Valencia to note, which are more queer-friendly/mixed, include Picadilly – a wild, anything-goes kind of place where drag queens, students, and disco lovers all share the same dance floor. And then there’s Latex, a popular electro-music club that embraces every flavor of our LGBTQ+ family.

5. Is there a gay beach in Valencia?

Valencia’s main gay beach, Platja de l’Arbre del Gos, is located around 5 miles (8km) south of the city center, located between the Pinedo village towards El Saler. Sometimes it's referred to as the Pinedo Beach.

You wanna be heading to the clothing-optional area located about halfway down (around 10 minutes walk), next to an abandoned factory behind the dunes. The gay section is right here. It’s liveliest on weekends and during the summer/warmer months when locals flock here for lazy beach days and sunset drinks. Even on weekdays, it gets a nice after-work crowd once the city starts to cool down. You’ll find everything from couples and groups of friends to solo travelers just soaking in the Mediterranean calm.

To get there, I took an Uber from Ruzafa, which took about 15 minutes and cost roughly €15. You can also take Bus 25 from the city center at Porta de la Mar, heading toward El Saler (around 30 minutes), and get off at the Coll Vert Camping stop, then follow the trail of gays to find the gay beach, who'll be walking back towards the large chimney by the beach.

We noticed a small forest/bushes area behind the dunes/abandoned factory…where guys go to play 🙂

Heads up, there are no facilities here, so plan and bring your own towel, snacks, water, condoms, lube, etc…

6. What are the best gay events and festivals in Valencia?

Valencia knows how to throw a party, and the city’s events calendar proves it. The highlight of the year is Valencia Gay Pride, usually held in late June, when the streets explode with color, music, and glittering chaos. The parade winds through the city with floats, drag queens, and crowds dancing long into the night.

The Fallas Festival in March is one of the wildest I’ve ever seen. The whole city fills with giant sculptures that are later set on fire, fireworks light up the sky, and every street turns into a block party. It’s absolute mayhem in the best possible way.

Valencia is also gearing up to host the Gay Games in 2026 from June 27 to July 4, 2026. It’s going to be a ten-day mashup of sports, culture, parades, concerts, and connection — the kind of event where you compete, cheer, and party side by side.

7. Is there a gay sauna in Valencia?

Yes, there’s a gay sauna in Valencia, called Sauna Olympic. While it’s not exactly Berlin-level wild, it definitely does the job. The space is clean, decent-sized, and has a big steam room, a three-part Jacuzzi, and a proper dry sauna. When I went, it wasn’t packed, but it wasn’t empty either, maybe around 50 guys floating in and out. Enough variety to keep things interesting, let’s say.

The crowd was friendly, mostly locals with a few tourists sprinkled in, and the vibe was relaxed rather than intense. Heads up, check the opening hours before going. On weekdays, including Fridays, it shuts at midnight. But on weekends it's open throughout the evening.

8. Where are the gay cruising spots in Valencia?

One of Valencia’s main cruising spots is around the Pont del Real Bridge, along the old Turia riverbed between the Royal Bridge and the Calatrava Bridge. It’s a discreet stretch of park and pathways that comes alive after sunset, especially in the warmer months.

The vibe is relaxed but charged, with guys walking, chatting, and seeing where the night leads. It feels more like a quiet local hangout than a full-on scene, but if you know, you know. Just keep it respectful, stay aware of your surroundings, and enjoy the mix of mystery and Mediterranean moonlight!

9. Where's the best place to eat in Valencia?

Valencia is a food lover’s dream, especially at lunchtime. The menú del día reigns supreme here: a fixed-price set offering a starter, main, dessert, drink, and coffee all in one. Some of my favorite picks: La Cantina de Ruzafa — their menú del día (around €11) is simple, generous, and full of fresh flavors. 64 Restaurant (inside a hostel) surprised me with an elevated multi-course menú del día that felt like a treat.

For a top-tier romantic Spanish restaurant, Ricard Camarena Restaurant is about as good as it gets: a two-Michelin-star chef pushing creative interpretations of Valencian cuisine with exquisite plating and local ingredients. Other fancy and romantic options to check out include Asoko Valencia for Japanese food and La Lambrusquería for Italian.

And don’t skip the Mercado Central, one of Europe’s largest food markets, perfect for sampling local cheeses, cured meats, and a quick bite between adventures. This is the place to come and try one of the city's most famous dishes – The Valencia Paella!

10. What are the main things to see and do in Valencia?

Valencia completely won me over with how effortlessly it blends history, beach life, and futuristic architecture. It’s one of those cities where you can explore a Gothic cathedral in the morning, wander through palm gardens in the afternoon, and feel like you’ve stepped into a sci-fi movie by evening. A few not-to-miss-must-sees include:

• The Old Town (Ciutat Vella): Valencia’s historic center is pure magic, with narrow cobbled streets, lively plazas, and centuries of history packed into one walkable maze. I loved getting lost between the Cathedral, Plaza de la Virgen, and the Silk Exchange, where every corner feels like a film set waiting for its close-up.
• City of Arts and Sciences: an architectural masterpiece that looks straight out of the future. I spent hours wandering through its museums, aquarium, and opera house, feeling like I’d stepped into a postcard from another planet.
• Valencia Cathedral and El Miguelete Tower: a mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque styles, this cathedral is a stunner. Climb the Miguelete Tower for sweeping views across the city’s terracotta rooftops.
• The Botanical Garden (Jardí Botànic): a tranquil green oasis hidden behind ancient walls, perfect for escaping the city buzz. I wandered for ages among tropical palms, cacti, and rare plants.
• El Carmen District: the city’s bohemian heart, packed with street art, quirky cafés, and indie bars. I spent hours just wandering here, snapping murals, sipping coffee, and people-watching the effortlessly cool locals.
• La Lonja de la Seda (The Silk Exchange): a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s finest examples of Gothic architecture. The intricate ceilings and twisted stone columns are jaw-dropping.

Read more travel adventures like this in our book!

We've published our very own gay travel book called, ‘Out in the World'. It has all our practical safety tips, first-hand advice, and travel stories from some of our favorite destinations.

We hope it inspires you to have a fun and safe trip!

Click on the book to order:

Travel, Twerk, and Chill!

Don’t be that queen who skips travel insurance. ‘Cause nothing ruins a trip faster than tears, tantrums, and tragic bills…

Stay covered, stay fabulous, and keep your vacation free, fun, and frivolous!

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For more inspiration:

• Use our Gran Canaria gay guide to plan your trip
• Our Barcelona gay guide will inspire your trip
• Read what the best gay Pride events in Spain are
• Sitges is another gay haven in Spain that we love
• Read about the best gay vacation spots in the world
• If you're heading to Gran Canaria, check out Maspalomas Pride in May and Winter Pride in November

The post Gay travel guide to Valencia for first-timers appeared first on Nomadic Boys.

“Do we really need another festival?” Seby asked as I tried to fit yet another pair of shorts into my carry-on.

“Yes,” I said, “this one comes with sunshine, sea views, and shirtless men handing out cocktails — it’s basically a cultural experience.”

And that’s how we ended up at Hoopla Malta. Partly because it looked fabulous, and partly because it coincided perfectly with my birthday (Seby insists that was just a coincidence). Imagine: beach parties where drag queens ruled the stage, poolside sets that turned strangers into friends, and that effortless Maltese magic that makes everything feel like a holiday even when your legs are still shaking from dancing.

By day, we floated between beach clubs and the sea. By night, we danced under warm island skies, surrounded by thousands of joyful, beautiful souls celebrating life, love, and awesome pop hits.

Hoopla Malta wasn’t just a party. It's a celebration of everything we adore about our community: connection, laughter, and unapologetic joy. Here’s how it all went down, from the birthday chaos to the morning-after hazelnut croissants, and why we’re already plotting our return. Another gay festival we love is Homobloc in Manchester, which we recommend checking out.

What is Hoopla Malta?

Hoopla Malta is the Mediterranean spin-off of London’s Mighty Hoopla, a three-day celebration that takes over beaches, pool clubs, and open-air venues across the island.

Think sun-drenched afternoons, drag performances that deserve their own standing ovation, and DJ sets that keep you dancing long after sunset.

For us, it felt less like a festival and more like a giant, open-hearted queer holiday where strangers instantly became friends, hangovers were worn with pride, and every outfit was a form of self-expression. It’s vibrant, welcoming, and the perfect excuse to escape reality for one unforgettable weekend.

When is Hoopla Malta?

The next Hoopla Malta will take place 25-27 September 2026. For full details on venues, tickets, and lineup, check the official Hoopla Malta website. Tickets for the event can also be purchased on the website.

Traveling without Internet? *Gay gasp!* 

Get Ubigi eSIM, scan the QR, and connect faster than a twink on Pride weekend. No stress, just data. Claim 10% off your first order with promo code: NOMADICBOYS. 

Book your plan up to 6 months ahead: it activates when you land. Prep now, slay later, and make every destination your runway.

Get an Ubigi eSIM data plan

Where does Hoopla Malta take place?

Hoopla Malta mostly takes place around St Paul’s Bay, located around 20 20-minute Uber drive north of Valletta. I'll be honest, it's not the nicest of areas, pretty run down, but a handy base during the festival to be close to the action. When we went, we based ourselves here during the festival, then stayed a few extra days in a hotel in Valletta as a base.

Every year, the setup shifts a little, but the recipe stays the same: sun, sea, and a whole lot of dancing. In 2025, we partied our way through Café del Mar by the water, lost ourselves at Gianpula Village until the early hours, and ended it all with the Sunday beach bash at Little Armier. The main hotel base in St Paul's Bay is the Bora Bora Hotel, which basically turned into one long, very gay poolside social.

The Hoopla Malta vibe: what to expect?

“What’s the vibe?” Seby asked as we walked in, sunglasses already on even though we were indoors. “Somewhere between Pride parade and poolside paradise,” I said, which sums it up nicely.

Hoopla Malta is pure sunshine energy. From the first beat, everyone’s smiling, dancing, and somehow managing to balance a drink, a fan, and a flirt all at once. It’s the kind of place where strangers become friends before you’ve even ordered your first spritz, and every song feels like the anthem of your summer.

You don’t come here to pose, you come to play. We left with sore feet, full hearts, and a camera roll that could single-handedly power gay Instagram for months!

The other major highlight is the acts they draw to perform. When we went in 2025, we saw Melanie C – Sporty Spice! She was absolutely brilliant. Others included Leigh-Anne from Little Mix, Trixie Mattel, Ultra Nate, and Jodie Harsh.

Where to eat and hydrate at Hoopla Malta?

One thing Hoopla Malta nailed? Food and drinks.

Every venue — from Café del Mar to Gianpula Village— had proper kitchens serving everything from burgers to pasta, plus bars that kept the cocktails flowing and the gays hydrated. No sad festival snacks here, just full plates and even fuller glasses.

What's the toilet situation like at Hoopla Malta?

We’ll be honest, we went in fully expecting the usual festival bathroom horror story. You know the type: long queues, mysterious puddles, and a single sheet of toilet paper guarding the realm.

But Hoopla Malta completely surprised us. Every venue we went to had loads of toilets, minimal queues, and staff constantly cleaning and restocking like clockwork. Even late at night, things stayed impressively spotless (and smelled… decent!).

It’s one of those little details you don’t really think about until you realise you’re not spending half your night queuing. Credit where it’s due, they’ve seriously nailed the toilet game.

Where to stay in Malta for Hoopla Malta?

Hoopla Malta will collaborate with the host hotel, which will offer deals for attendees. When we went in 2025, Bora Bora in St Paul's Bay was the host hotel and therefore Ground Zero for everything. We were advised to base ourselves in or around the host hotel as it was close to the main venues, like Cafe Del Mar, or where you could get a Shuttle Bus to venues further out, like Little Amier Beach and Gianpula Village.

If we were to do this again, we would probably base ourselves in Valletta, as the area for the 2025 Hoopla (St Paul's Bay) was quite rundown and not the most attractive. There is also a small gay scene in Valletta to check out, with queer venues like Cafe Society, Da Gino Bar, and Kaktus Malta.

We've published a detailed article about the best gay hotels in Malta to check out for more inspo on this.

STAY WITH A GAY LOCAL!

Misterb&b is the Airbnb equivalent for the LGBTQ+ community.

Unlike on Airbnb, you know your host is gay, avoiding any nasty surprises when you check in. It is also a great way to meet gay locals and discover the underground gay scene together.

Read more about it and claim $10 off your first booking:

Find out more about Misterbnb

Read more travel adventures like this in our book!

We've published our very own gay travel book called, ‘Out in the World'. It has all our practical safety tips, first-hand advice, and travel stories from some of our favorite destinations.

We hope it inspires you to have a fun and safe trip!

Click on the book to order:

For more inspiration:

• Read our interview with local Clayton about what gay life in Malta is like
• Use our Things To Do in Malta guide to get some inspo for exploring the island
• Read what we rate to be the most gay friendly countries in the world
• We love a gay beach, so much so that we published a guide to the best gay beaches in the world
• Read all about the best gay festivals and parties in London
• One epic gay event you can't miss out on is the La Demence gay party in Brussels

Travel, Twerk, and Chill!

Don’t be that queen who skips travel insurance. ‘Cause nothing ruins a trip faster than tears, tantrums, and tragic bills…

Stay covered, stay fabulous, and keep your vacation free, fun, and frivolous!

Unlock Travel Protection

The post Our experience attending the Hoopla Malta gay festival appeared first on Nomadic Boys.

I’ve been to the Greek islands before: Mykonos sunsets, Santorini selfies, me whining about the heat while Seby happily devours an entire wheel of feta. But never like this.

Out Adventures invited us on their Greek gay cruise, and I thought, why bother ferry-hopping with the tourists when you can sail in style with 60 gays, a rainbow flag flying high, and my husband in speedos so tight they deserve their own seat at dinner?

Life onboard felt like summer camp meets Greek mythology with a splash of RuPaul. Mornings were for plunging into secret coves, afternoons for Greek salads bigger than Seby’s head, and evenings that always began with “just one glass of wine” before spiralling into me choreographing a Beyoncé routine on deck under the stars.

This wasn’t just another gay trip to Greece. It was the gay odyssey I never knew I needed: fabulous, scenic, ridiculous, and a little bit scandalous…

Who are Out Adventures?

Think of them as the cool gay uncles of travel: globe-trotting, endlessly organised, and always ready with a cheeky cocktail suggestion.

Seby and I have known about them for years and did a gay cruise to Antarctica with them. They specialise in LGBTQ+ small-group trips, from safaris in Africa to Antarctica expeditions. Their focus is always on community. You don’t just show up, tick off a few sights, and leave. You eat together, explore together, laugh together, and by the end, you’ve somehow collected a dozen new squirrel friends.

The gay cruise format is exactly that: intimate, fun, and free from the mega-ship chaos of those floating cities that look like shopping malls at sea. Instead, it felt personal. We actually got to know everyone on board, which is why when Seby inevitably started holding court about French wine at dinner, there was a captive audience nodding along.

Out Adventures makes it easy. They handle the logistics, you bring the sunscreen and sass.

Our Cruise Itinerary and Route

We started in gay old Athens, which is always a thrill because nothing says “holiday mode” like Seby insisting we climb the Acropolis in 35-degree heat before we even board a boat. From there, the real magic began: sailing into the Aegean with our rainbow flag flapping in the wind and 60 gays buzzing with anticipation.

Our first stop was Poliegos, a tiny, uninhabited island with water so blue it looked Photoshopped. We dived straight off the boat into coves that felt like private swimming pools. Seby swam gracefully, I belly-flopped with enthusiasm.

Then came Poros, with its charming harbour and narrow streets, where Greek cats dramatically outnumber humans. Folegandros followed, a quieter island that felt like Greece in “zen mode”. Stunning cliffside villages, fewer crowds, and the perfect excuse for me to drink retsina at sunset without interruption.

And then there was Santorini. Beautiful? Absolutely. Overhyped? Completely. The views were jaw-dropping, but the crowds were suffocating. Watching that famous sunset from our boat with a glass of rosé was heavenly. Wading through the packed alleys of Oia? Less so.

Things picked up again in beautiful Paros (laid-back beaches, delicious food), the very gay Mykonos (where subtlety goes to die), and finally Syros, a hidden gem with neoclassical charm that was the perfect finale.

Life on Board

Life on board our little gay flotilla was a mix of summer camp, floating village, and occasionally, disco at sea. The boat itself wasn’t some faceless mega-cruise ship. It was intimate, cosy, and just the right size for 60 gays to mingle without feeling like we were trapped in a floating shopping mall.

Days fell into a glorious rhythm. Mornings usually began with a dip in the Aegean before breakfast. Seby gliding gracefully into the water like a French dolphin, me shrieking at the temperature like a Greek tragedy in motion. Afternoons meant lounging on deck with the sun beating down, gossip flowing, and someone inevitably pulling out a speaker to turn the top deck into an impromptu dance floor.

Meals were shared, which meant you actually got to know people beyond a polite “hi” in the corridor. It was like family dinners, if your family consisted entirely of gays.

Nights ranged from chilled conversations under the stars and even a toga party for those of us who enjoy a bit of dress up.

Food and Drink on Board

If you ever worry about going hungry on a gay cruise, let me reassure you: we ate like Greek gods. Meals were served family-style, which meant large platters of salads, grilled meats, fresh fish, and of course, enough feta to keep Seby smiling for a lifetime.

Sharing food like that turned every meal into a social event, with people passing dishes across the table and swapping stories as easily as they swapped wine refills.

Breakfast was usually simple and fresh, which was exactly what you needed after a late night on deck. Lunches were relaxed affairs, often after swimming stops, when we were starving. Dinners were the real show, with long conversations and flowing wine.

Excursions and Activities

One of the best parts of this cruise was how varied the excursions were. Every island came with its own personality, and Out Adventures made sure we got a taste of each one. Some days were about history and culture, wandering cobbled streets and learning about local traditions. Other days were pure hedonism, with lazy afternoons on hidden beaches where the only decision was whether to swim before or after lunch.

Poliegos was all about nature, with those unreal turquoise waters that made even Seby gasp mid-bite of feta. Poros gave us quaint harbour strolls and a cat population that treated us like honoured guests. Folegandros was slower and calmer, the kind of place where you lose track of time sipping wine while the sun sets. And of course, Mykonos delivered on its reputation with beach clubs, cocktails, and enough glitter to last a lifetime.

There were also activities on board when we were sailing between islands. We swam straight off the boat into hidden coves, snorkelled in water so clear it felt like floating in glass, and occasionally napped in the sun like professional holidaymakers. Every stop added a new layer to the adventure, and no two days ever felt the same.

The Gay Vibe and Community Feel

What made this trip so special was the people. There is something uniquely comforting about being surrounded entirely by LGBTQ+ travelers, where you never have to second-guess yourself or wonder if holding your partner’s hand will raise eyebrows. The cruise instantly felt like a safe, welcoming bubble where everyone could just relax into themselves.

It was not about wild parties or late nights. It was about connection. Meals felt like big dinner parties, where conversations drifted from travel stories to life back home, and by the end of the week we knew everyone’s quirks and inside jokes. Days exploring the islands often ended with small groups gathering in little cafés, enjoying local food, or simply watching the sunset in good company.

There was an incredible sense of camaraderie on board. Some people came as couples, some as friends, some as throuples, and some travelled solo, but by the second day it felt like we were part of one big floating family. Seby and I loved how quickly barriers broke down. By the end, it was hard to imagine the trip without the laughter, warmth, and easy companionship of the people we met.

How to find out more…sign me up!

If you are tempted to swap ferries for a fabulous floating gay adventure, check out the Out Adventures Gay Tours page for more awesome trips they are planning around the world.

Read more travel adventures like this in our book!

We've published our very own gay travel book called, ‘Out in the World'. It has all our practical safety tips, first-hand advice, and travel stories from some of our favorite destinations.

We hope it inspires you to have a fun and safe trip!

Click on the book to order:

For more inspiration:

• Use our Athens gay hotels guide to plan your trip
• Our Greece gay hotels guide will also have your back
• We've published a gay guide to Cyprus
• Read what we rate to be the top gay holiday destinations in Europe
• Our Mykonos gay hotels guide will help you heaps

The post What’s a gay cruise in Greece like? appeared first on Nomadic Boys.