There has never been a time in history when so much attention revolved around LGBT culture and lifestyle. Same-sex marriages have been legalized in dozens of states and countries and major companies have begun launching gay-targeted national ad campaigns. Needless to say, it’s a good time to be gay! While progress is in hyperdrive, there are places that  welcomed the LGBT community long before this movement began, destinations that gay travelers return to again and again – like New York City and Los Angeles – for their amazing cuisine, nightlife and, of course, strong gay culture. From Bali to Cape Town, we rounded up five amazing destinations that celebrate gay pride not just in June but every month of the year.

Bali, Indonesia

Conjuring screensaver worthy images of sublime beaches, centuries-old temples, pampering villas and spas, Bali is paradise for gay travelers seeking all things holistic (and hedonistic!). One of the gay-friendliest destinations in Southeast Asia, this island in Indonesia is a perennial favorite for jetsetting gay couples.Indonesian food gets high marks – if you’re a fan of spice, and the unspoiled landscapes, amazing art and exoticism makes Bali a magnet for culture vultures. While the gay community (locals, ex-pats and visitors alike) spread throughout the regions (like Ubud and Nusa Dua), the hub of activity is in the area around Seminyak, home to Dhyana Pura, a small street crammed with gay bars and clubs – like Mixwell and Bali Joe – for cocktails, dancing and live drag shows. Don’t be surprised when you recognize the same faces in the morning at Batu Belig, the designated gay beach in Bali.
Where to stay in Seminyak

Oahu, Hawaii

A vacationer’s dream destination, Hawaii became the 16th state in the US to legalize same-sex marriage in 2013, but the Pacific islands have always welcomed the gay community with aloha. Oahu especially – considered the heart of Hawaii – is teeming with gay locals and visitors alike. Oahu is the most cosmopolitan island, offering contemporary restaurants, gay bars, men’s boutiques and diverse nightclubs, while miles of sandy beaches (including a handful of gay beaches like Queen’s Surf) are perfect for chilling out. Most visitors carve out time for the myriad attractions like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head and the ever-famous Ala Moana Center, the largest open-air mall in the world, but just hanging out beachside under that famous Hawaiian sun is also perfectly ideal.
Where to stay in Oahu

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Puerto Vallarta is a gateway to terrific beach towns like Riviera Nayarit and Punta Mita but it’s unarguably the main stomping ground for the LGBT community, with a terrific Gay Pride to boot. This beach town oozes with old-world charm thanks to historic cobblestone streets, centuries-old buildings and unspoiled, sandy shores perfect for romantic strolls. Whether exploring the famed street food or checking out art galleries, there’s never a lack of adventure for visiting couples. After sunset, Puerto Vallarta comes to life thanks to the thriving gay scene, perhaps the most notable in all of Mexico, with at least a dozen gay bars and lounges to bar hop around. After pre-gaming, night revelers make a beeline to CC Slaughters, the premiere gay, multi-level nightclub, or Paco’s Ranch, a massive discotheque that runs to the wee hours of morning… just in time for sunrise!
Where to stay in Puerto Vallarta

Cape Town, South Africa

The oldest South African city is possibly the most beautiful with the commanding Table Mountain as a backdrop from virtually any standpoint, gorgeous beaches (including a pristine gay beach at Sandy Bay), a tranquil waterfront and enchanting vineyards. We’re not surprised it’s a favorite destination for romance-seeking gay couples who can also get their fill of late-night antics thanks to the wild gay nightlife scene. Other gay-owned businesses (like Beefcakes, a campy burger joint that moonlights as a gay bar with drag performances) ensure a proper gay-cation. Interestingly, South Africa was the first country in the world to outlaw discrimination based on sexual orientation (and the first country in Africa to legalize same-sex marriage in 2006). It’s a true pioneer for the LGBT movement, and the strong gay culture is reflective of its forward thinking ways.
Where to stay in Cape Town

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs’ gay history goes as far back as mid-century, when famous actor Rock Hudson escaped from Los Angeles to “be gay” in the desert city. Since, Palm Springs has served as a magnet for the gay community. More than 60 percent of the population identifies as LGBT, and approximately 9 percent of households have same-sex partners. While Arenas Road is home to the handful of gay bars and clubs, gay travelers unwind and let loose throughout the entire city. You’ll likely find the LGBT community showing off their perfect tans at Hacienda Beach Club (a day club where celebrities like Elijah Wood guest DJ) or chowing down on hearty, seasonal plates at retro-modern, and gay-managed Lulu’s. The Palm Springs Gay Pride is one for the books and annual events like the White Party brings thousands of gay travelers the world over.