Gay Travel: The South Pacific

The pacific has long been a destination that has been hard for gay travel. Due to the conservative nature of most of the islands and high religious influences gay and lesbian travellers have not always been welcomed with open arms. However this is changing due to more private resorts opening and generally more consumer demand.

Cruises

Cruise ships are a good way for the gay traveller to approach the pacific islands. Specific gay and lesbian cruises have been offered by the cruise industry for a number of years. The cruise ships run the gamut from low budget to full on luxury. The cruise market was one of the first travel markets to cotton on the there was money to be made catering to the needs of the gay and lesbian clients. These are still a great way to island hop in the South Pacific.

Resorts

Vanuatu has developed a number of resorts over the last five years that while they are not gay specific, they are private and welcome pink travellers. One area Vanuatu has promoted to same sex couples is devotion ceremonies, which are non-legally binding, but are romantic celebrations.

Gay Tahiti

Tahiti has undertaken a campaign this year to boost it's participation in the gay travel market. Tahiti has avoided this segment of the market until now, but in May 2009 hosted their first rainbow party. The Tahitian tourist authority is keen to see high spending gay travellers.

Gay Samoa: Acceptance In Paradise

Of the remainder of the pacific islands, Samoa is probably the most gay friendly. While much of the local culture is still quite traditional, the attitude to homosexuality is much more relaxed than other islands. The transgender fa'afafine tradition is a normal part of Samoan life.

The pacific islands are full of friendly people, beautiful beaches and nice temperatures. Visiting here, knowing what to expect, will be a great trip for any gay traveller.