Oluwaseyi Aladeselu

Punta Cana can be the perfect Caribbean escape to disconnect and relax. With miles of private tranquil beaches lined with soft white sand – you'll be sure to get lost in the crystal-like waters, warm sun and kind locals. It’s the perfect place to indulge in an all-inclusive vacation and take advantage of its perks. And yet, there are still plenty of options to venture out of the resorts and meet the local life on the island.

Chicago, Illinois is a truly unique city with unexpected gems all around. Though dubbed the "Windy City," Chicago also comes alive in the summer. Stop by a neighborhood fest, relax along the Riverwalk, or enjoy a glass of wine on your favorite rooftop. You can also hit a festival: Pride, Puerto Rican parade, Taste of Chicago, Lollapalooza, blues fest, etc. You won't be disappointed with a Chicago Summer, but the city also has a lot to offer during the winter (especially around November through January.) So if you don't mind a little cold, add a Chicago winter escape to your list.

When looking to head out to Europe, the Iberian Peninsula hosts an ideal destination for LGBTQ+ travelers and new travelers looking to embark on their first adventure. Madrid, Spain is an excellent and welcoming city with a vast community of LGBTQ+ hubs throughout. In addition, Madrid itself is a history lovers' playground, a perfect mix of tradition and culture, where one can get lost repeatedly, indulging in the beauty of Spanish architecture, vibrant city life and flavorful food and wine.

Head to Charlottesville and enjoy gradually sipping your way around town with incredible food, wine and views. Looking for a sign to escape to Virginia Wine Country? This is your sign! Here's the perfect guide to Virginia for the ultimate wine lover. Hop on a horse for a unique winery tour or in a hot air balloon for endless views or winery hop. Either way, grab your partner or friends and make it an experience to remember.

Welcome to the nation's capital! Even though well known as being the political epicenter, Washington DC has so much to offer from its history-filled cherry blossoms to its many (free) museums and exclusive exhibits. Come explore the city, taste amazing food or visit DC, MD, and VA all in one day by ferry or simply roam icon neighborhoods like Georgetown. Just remember to keep in mind, that from a staycation to a girls' weekend trip or a solo escape, Washington DC is always a great idea.

The paradisiacal beaches of the island of Aruba are true romantic heaven, one that also happens to be one of the more progressive, LGBTQ+ friendly destinations in the Caribbean. While same-sex relationships are legal in Aruba, same-sex marriage is yet to be legalized. However, the laidback island is very much an open and safe destination for gay individuals and couples, providing a worry and judge-free space to celebrate love and personal choices of all kinds. Despite that many gay clubs and bars closed throughout the pandemic in Aruba, it remains one of the top LGBTQ+ destinations in the southern Caribbean.