Gay Trip Ideas For Ireland
Gay vacations to Ireland have been a popular choice dating back to at least the time of Oscar Wilde. While Ireland may not have been nearly as LGBT-friendly in his time, it has come a long way since the days of folks – like Wilde – being sent to hard labor camps or jail for what was then known as “indecency.” In fact, up until 1861 the act of sodomy was punishable by death, but today Ireland has recently moved ahead of the U.S. when it comes to LGBT rights by legalizing civil unions for same-sex couples in 2009, after decriminalizing homosexuality in 1993.
While this may not necessarily mean that every rural village – or even every metropolitan area – in this largely Catholic country now fully embraces same-sex relationships, Ireland has become a much more accepting, welcoming country as a whole and is a truly remarkable choice for gay travel. Most of Ireland’s larger cities, including Cork, Dublin, Galway and Waterford, now have a thriving community, establishments that are LGBT-friendly or LGBT-owned, annual community celebrations and a plethora of attractions that could easily fill your whole vacation; however, you also will not want to miss visiting the Irish countryside and exploring quaint villages sitting at the top of breathtaking cliffs along the coast.
There are now many Irish cities that have LGBT organizations, popular hangouts, annual celebrations and a thriving community, but Dublin remains the unquestionable center of Irish LGBT life, making it an absolute must-see during gay travel to Ireland. The nightlife in Dublin is an interesting blend of upscale clubs with dress codes and a casual LGBT pub scene, which allows those on gay vacations to Ireland to experience different aspects of LGBT life in Dublin. Depending on when you arrive, you may also have the opportunity to take part in one of Dublin’s annual community events, including the Dublin Lesbian and Gay Film Festival in July, Dublin International LGBTQ Pride in June, and the popular Dublin Gay Theatre Festival, which takes place each May.
Other happenings throughout the year are listed in Ireland’s most popular community magazine, GCN, so those who want to experience the scene during Dublin gay vacations will want to grab a copy when they get to town. Aside from community activities, there are many attractions you will likely want to visit while in Dublin, including the Oscar Wilde House Museum, the Hugh Lane Gallery, the Old Jameson Distillery, the Guinness Storehouse, the Book of Kells and The George, which is Dublin’s most famous LGBT bar.
Folks planning gay tours should consider partaking in group gay tours to ensure that they do not miss out on the plethora of historical, cultural and natural attractions that this intriguing, romantic nation has to offer.
Thoughts on Ireland authored by Howie Holben. Spirit Journeys offers gay nude yoga and provides gay travel information.
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