LGBTQ+ people have also flocked to bars, community centers, bookstores, and more in search of a sense of belonging. Now, after over a year of global lockdowns, canceled events, and closed doors, many of these thriving community hubs are in need of a little extra love. So in this Pride month, we are here with the top 5 LGBTQ+ places all around the world to celebrate in 2021 that you shouldn’t miss out on.

Gay’s the Word, London

More than just a bookshop, Gay’s The Word has been the epicenter of queer life in London for four decades. Once a hub of political activity, the shop now provides a sanctuary for LGBTQ people of all ages and an incomparable stock of queer literature.

For more details: https://www.gaystheword.co.uk/

Delirio, Madrid

At the essential Spanish gay bar Delirio, there you’ll find colorful lights, pop music, and tracks that have been massive hits on the gay scene from across decades. It’s open every day until late, so it’s a great spot for locals as well as tourists to visit.

For more details:  https://www.facebook.com/PanDelirio/?__xts__%5B%C2%AB0%C2%BB%5D=68.a

Bluestockings, New York

Bluestockings in New York City’s only queer, transgender, and sex worker cooperatively-owned bookstore and activist center. This is the perfect spot to pick up a copy of Mikki Kendall’s Hood Feminism and stay for the Queer Book Club. Recently it moved to a new location on the Lower East Side.

For more details:  https://www.facebook.com/bluestockingsnyc

Palms on Oxford, Sydney

At Palms, you’ll still find sticky floors, plastic schooners, deeply filthy bathrooms, and unabashedly cheesy playlists that fill the tiny space with an irreplicable feeling. It may be only one bar and one RSL-style dancefloor but a night at Palms is always memorable.

For more details:  https://www.travelgay.com/venue/palms-on-oxford/

Madame Quad, Hong Kong

Madame Quad is a skate shop that sells gear and accessories for roller derby, but it also doubles as a hangout spot for the LGBTQ+ community. The shop was founded by two members of Hong Kong’s most LGBTQ-friendly team, the Hong Kong Roller Derby, whose teammates usually hang out by the shop.

For more details:  https://www.madamequad.com/

Candy Darling, Barcelona

Barcelona bar Candy Darling is a joyful, friendly space that represents fun and queer freedom. Located just next to Plaça Universitat, visitors can head there to take in a performance, whether it’s a drag show, circus act, or burlesque, or gaze in amazement at the pieces of powerful queer art in the space.

For more details: https://www.facebook.com/candydarlingbar/