Auckland
View of Auckland from the Sky Tower
If you want to fling yourself far from this country, book a flight to New Zealand for an exotic journey. Not only is the country downright beautiful (plenty of TV show’s and movies are filmed here due to its sprawling and scenic landscape), it loves the LGBT community. In fact, the flagship airline Air New Zealand (www.airnewzealand.com) is so gay-friendly (think pink flights and in-flight gay weddings), it’s destined to raise your spirits even before you land. Auckland, the largest city in New Zealand, is incredibly cosmopolitan with plenty to do in Ponsonby, a trendy neighborhood chockfull of cafes, boutique shops and modern galleries. We love gay-owned OBJECTSPACE (www.objectspace.org.nz), which features a collection of emerging talent. The stylish Coco’s Cantina (www.cocoscantina.co.nz) offers delicious Italian fare (reservations are a must), and you’re just a short ferry ride to amazing vineyards on Waiheke Island (www.waiheke.co.nz). Stay at Langham Auckland (www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/auckland), the only five-star hotel in a prime location near all the attractions.
