Gay Travel - The South Pacific Beckons
Tuesday, April 27th, 2010 | General
Traditionally the islands of the South Pacific have not been a favourite destination for gay travel. The islands are small and the church is still a major component in most of their national cultures. For this reason the pacific islanders have a reputation for not being gay travel friendly destinations. But this changing and demand is increasing. Some of it is economically driven with tourist boards recognising the gay travel dollar is good for their coffers.
The cruise ship option is often a good choice for the gay traveller. Targeted gay and lesbian cruises are offered by many of the cruise lines. The cruise ship market understood early the need to provide services to the pink market and they have been offering gay cruise timetables for a number of years. Cruising from island to island is a wonderful way to taste island cultures.
One island that has become much more friendly to the gay traveller is Vanuatu. This pacific paradise has opened a number of adult resorts where same sex couples are actively welcomed. They have also been proactively marketing devotion ceremonies for same sex couples as a romantic option.
Tahiti has until recently been a low key player in the gay travel market. However in May 2009 Tahiti held it’s first rainbow party as part of a campaign to attract more gay tourists to the island recognising the economic benefits.
Of the rest of the islands in the Pacific, Samoa and American Samoa are the most gay friendly destinations. The practice of fa’afafine - a transgender lifestyle is a normal part of Samoan culture. So while the people are generally very conservative homosexuality is more readily accepted than in other places.
While the pacific islands may seem a bit daunting for the gay traveller there are a number of viable options available. The islanders themselves are kind and generous people, the beaches unspoilt, and life is relaxed - ideal components for an enjoyable and successful gay vacation in the pacific islands.