Hi all! Clark Daugherty here again with the next installation of LGBT Friendly Travel!!!!

This week we are going to Denmark!!!

Follow the Rainbow to Copenhagen and discover what the fuss is all about! Known as one of the most welcoming destinations in Europe. Denmark was one of the first countries to legalize same-sex marriage, and the first to establish a National Association for Gays and Lesbians (LGBT Denmark).  Denmark’s capital city, Copenhagen, is also home to an array of sparkling cultural attractions as well as an inviting nightlife and club scene. You’ll also find a city renowned for its history and unpretentious hip and cool atmosphere featuring an abundance of bars, restaurants and hotels including numerous LGBT events throughout the year. Copenhagen is an image of cool and laid-back mentality, and is historically renowned for its vibrant pulse and relaxed way of life. The first gay bar, Centralhjørnet, opened more than 80 years ago, and the city boasts its very own gay radio station, Radio Rosa. The gay scene flourishes in Copenhagen, and nearly every entertainment is within a half square mile in the city’s “SoHo” like area in the Latin Quarter. In 2014, Denmark celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the world’s first country to recognize registered partnerships for same-sex couples. Copenhagen is a popular destination for trendsetters world-wide, and is a perfect mix of old-world charm and innovative charm. Marvel at the fairytale land of Kings and Queens of all kinds. Explore castles and palaces alongside cool and quaint districts bustling with trendy and avant-garde fashion boutiques and lively cafes. Copenhagen flourishes in exciting new art venues, chic design cafes, bars and exclusive nightclubs. Explore the Danish Design Centre and check out the architecture of the new waterfront buildings. New Nordic Cuisine is here to stay and no more so than in Copenhagen. Spearheading the movement, chefs in Copenhagen have a focus on using local and organic ingredients with a throwback to traditional cuisine native to Denmark – all re-introduced with an innovative twist. Copenhagen boasts a total of 15 Michelin-rated restaurants including the 3-times winner of World’s best restaurant, noma.  

There are numerous LGBT events in Denmark each year. Any of them would be great to build a vacation around. Here are a couple of examples: 

Copenhagen Pride

Every year in August, Copenhagen Pride offers activities where LGBT issues are at the centre of attention. It is both festive, colorful, and political with awards, parties, concerts, films and other kinds of entertainment. During Copenhagen Pride Week there are plenty of activities around Copenhagen, with City Hall Square - renamed Pride Square - as the focal point of action. Access to the square and all events there are free to attend. However you can show your support for the Pride by buying the official Pride bracelet - on sale at the square. The parade always ends on Pride Square aka Copenhagen City Hall Square, and is followed by a live show and an after party.

Aarhus Pride

Aarhus Pride is a celebration of diversity in Aarhus. The purpose of Aarhus Pride is to contribute to the respect for and acceptance of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people (also known as LGBT people) and make the LGBT culture visible in Aarhus. Come and be a part of the parade or watch it when it comes through central Aarhus and ends in a festival at Officerspladsen under the rainbow of ARoS Aarhus Art Museum. Everyone is welcome to join Aarhus Pride – regardless of gender, sexual orientation, age, ethnicity, religious or political beliefs. You can join the parade or watch it when it comes through town with music and joy.

Feel free to reach out to me at clark.daugherty@cruiseplanners.com to learn more about travel to Denmark.

DON’T FORGET TO STAY TUNED FOR OUR NEXT DESTINATION – SWEDEN!!!!!