Nestled along Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Manuel Antonio enchants with its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and thrilling jungle adventures. The property is designed to sit between mainstream hotels and ultra-luxury resorts, while delivering curated programming, thoughtful design, community-focused amenities and genuine inclusion at price points that make quality gay travel accessible to more people.

Lounge by the expansive pool, savour diverse culinary delights at the onsite restaurant, and enjoy amenities like the swim-up bar, the Royal sauna, and luxurious jacuzzis. The dedicated team of Royal Boys will be available day and night, ensuring every moment feels personalized and carefree. When you are done with relaxing and being pampered poolside, you can experience the thrill of zip-lining through lush rainforests, explore hidden waterfalls on ATV adventures, or indulge in sunset sailing cruises. The property was carefully developed and designed based on extensive research of gay male travel statistics to ensure every fine detail is in place to make each guest’s stay memorable.

Some interesting facts of note include, the global LGBTQ+ travel market was valued at approximately $218 billion in 2021 and is projected to continue growing at a compound annual growth rate of more than 15% through 2030. Gay and bisexual men also represent the highest-spending sub-segment within LGBTQ+ travel, with research consistently showing above-average trip frequency and per-trip spend compared to both heterosexual travellers and other LGBTQ+ sub-groups, Kania noted. Additionally, research shows that gay travellers also strongly prefer destinations and properties with visible, year-round LGBTQ+ inclusion. Properties perceived as engaging only during Pride events are consistently rated lower on trust and loyalty metrics. Word-of-mouth and community reviews are also the primary booking influence for gay male travellers, outranking traditional advertising and brand marketing.

Stanley Kania, Owner, Royal Grand Resorts stated, “The research is unambiguous: gay male travelers are among the most valuable, most loyal, and most underserved guests in hospitality. Royal Grand Resorts was built in direct response to that gap — to create welcoming, high-quality spaces where gay men feel genuinely centered, not just accommodated. Costa Rica exemplifies exactly the kind of destination we had in mind: safe, breathtakingly beautiful, deeply sustainable, and ready for a new generation of gay travelers discovering it.“

Reservations are now available via the website. The resort is beautifully secluded, yet it’s only a 30-minute flight from Quepos airport in San José, with private transfer options available. Book your flight today, and be among the first to discover this Costa Rican gem.

The brand’s vision is grounded in a growing body of independent research from Community Marketing & Insights (CMI), the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA), Out Now Global, MMGY Global, and the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) — all pointing to a market that is large, loyal, underserved, and evolving rapidly. Read on to learn more about the trends that help spearhead the development of this unique property.

TREND #1 — MARKET SCALE: A $218 BILLION OPPORTUNITY
The global LGBTQ+ travel market is one of the most significant and consistently underpenetrated segments in hospitality:

• The global LGBTQ+ travel market was valued at approximately $218 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 15% through 2030.
  Source: Coherent Market Insights / UNWTO, 2022

• Gay and bisexual men represent the highest-spending sub-segment within LGBTQ+ travel, with research consistently showing above-average trip frequency and per-trip spend compared to both heterosexual travelers and other LGBTQ+ sub-groups.
  Source: Community Marketing & Insights (CMI), Annual LGBTQ+ Tourism & Hospitality Report, 2023

• LGBTQ+ travelers take more international trips per year on average than non-LGBTQ+ travelers in the same income bracket — a pattern that has held consistent across CMI’s annual research for over a decade.
  Source: CMI, 18th Annual LGBTQ+ Tourism & Hospitality Report, 2023

• The United States alone accounts for an estimated $100+ billion in LGBTQ+ travel spending annually, with gay men representing the largest share of that spend.
  Source: National LGBTQ Task Force / Out Now Global estimates, 2022–2023

TREND #2 — TRAVELER PREFERENCES: INCLUSION IS NON-NEGOTIABLE
Gay male travelers hold brands to a high and specific standard of authentic inclusion — and they make decisions accordingly:

• Over 80% of LGBTQ+ travelers say that a destination’s LGBTQ+-friendliness is a significant factor in their travel decisions.
  Source: IGLTA / UNWTO, LGBTQ+ Travel Research Report, 2021

• 72% of LGBTQ+ travelers research a destination’s legal protections and social climate before booking — a figure that rises among older and higher-income travelers.
  Source: CMI Annual LGBTQ+ Tourism & Hospitality Report, 2023

• Gay travelers strongly prefer destinations and properties with visible, year-round LGBTQ+ inclusion. Properties perceived as engaging only during Pride events are consistently rated lower on trust and loyalty metrics.
  Source: Out Now Global, LGBT2020 Research Programme

• Word-of-mouth and community reviews are the primary booking influence for gay male travelers, outranking traditional advertising and brand marketing.
  Source: CMI Annual Report, 2022–2023

TREND #3 — WELLNESS TRAVEL: A DEFINING PRIORITY
Wellness is among the fastest-growing categories in gay travel, driven by demand for experiences that support mental health, community connection, and holistic self-care:

• The global wellness tourism market was valued at $814 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach $1.4 trillion by 2027. LGBTQ+ travelers are a disproportionately high-value segment within this market.
  Source: Global Wellness Institute, Global Wellness Economy Monitor, 2023

• Mental health and stress recovery consistently rank as top wellness motivators for gay male travelers — above physical fitness or beauty treatments — reflecting documented higher rates of minority stress within the gay male community.
  Source: CMI Annual LGBTQ+ Tourism Report; American Psychological Association minority stress research

• Gay-specific retreat programming — including wellness weeks, community connection retreats, and mindfulness experiences curated for gay men — is an underserved and rapidly growing niche within the broader wellness travel market.
  Source: IGLTA Market Intelligence, 2023; Out Now Global LGBT2020

• Access to LGBTQ+-affirming health services near or at properties is an emerging expectation among younger gay male travelers, particularly in markets with established LGBTQ+ health infrastructure.
  Source: IGLTA Foundation research notes, 2022–2023

TREND #4 — SUSTAINABILITY: VALUES-DRIVEN SPENDING
Gay male travelers over-index on sustainable and community-conscious travel behavior, connecting environmental values to broader principles of equity and social responsibility:

• LGBTQ+ travelers consistently over-index on sustainable travel behavior relative to the general travel population — including preference for eco-certified properties, locally owned businesses, and community-reinvestment-focused brands.
  Source: Out Now Global, LGBT2020 Research Programme; Booking.com Sustainable Travel Report, 2023

• 76% of global travelers intend to travel more sustainably, a figure that skews higher among LGBTQ+ respondents, who also report greater willingness to pay a premium for verified sustainable practices.
  Source: Booking.com Sustainable Travel Report, 2023

• Gay travelers place particular emphasis on brands that actively support local LGBTQ+ communities in destination markets — through employment, partnerships with LGBTQ+-owned businesses, and support for local advocacy organizations.
  Source: Out Now Global LGBT2020; CMI 2023 Annual Report

TREND #5 — DESTINATION INSIGHTS: ESTABLISHED FAVORITES, AND WHY COSTA RICA IS DIFFERENT
Destination selection among gay male travelers follows a clear hierarchy — led by legal safety and social visibility — while an exciting new tier of values-aligned destinations is gaining serious momentum:

• Legal protections for gay men are the single most cited factor in destination selection across all major LGBTQ+ travel surveys — consistently outranking price, climate, and cuisine.
  Source: IGLTA / UNWTO LGBTQ+ Travel Research Report, 2021; CMI Annual Report, 2023

• Top established gay travel destinations globally, based on booking volume and traveler surveys, include: Puerto Vallarta (Mexico), Mykonos (Greece), Sitges (Spain), Lisbon (Portugal), Amsterdam (Netherlands), and Bangkok (Thailand).
  Source: IGLTA Destination Reports; CMI Annual LGBTQ+ Tourism & Hospitality Report, 2023

• Circuit travel events — including White Party, Matinee Barcelona, XLSIOR Mykonos, and Black Party NYC — continue to anchor high-value gay travel itineraries, with many attendees extending into multi-night premium resort stays before or after events.
  Source: Industry reporting; IGLTA event impact assessments

• Private villa rentals and boutique resort experiences are the fastest-growing accommodation preference among higher-income gay male travelers, reflecting a broader shift toward privacy, exclusivity, and curated group travel.
  Source: Out Now Global; Airbnb Luxe and villa rental market trend data, 2023–2024

Spotlight: Costa Rica as a Strategic Emerging Destination for Gay Travelers
While established circuit destinations dominate booking volume, Costa Rica represents a uniquely compelling opportunity — and one that aligns directly with where gay traveler values are heading:

• Costa Rica became the first Central American country to legalize same-sex marriage in May 2020, signaling a meaningful shift in legal protections and social climate that directly affects gay traveler confidence in the destination.
  Source: Human Rights Watch; IGLTA Destination Updates, 2020

• Manuel Antonio, on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, has an established reputation as one of Central America’s most gay-welcoming destinations, with a visible and long-standing gay hospitality scene that has grown steadily over the past decade.
  Source: IGLTA member destination reports; Out Now Global destination intelligence

• Costa Rica’s world-leading eco-tourism infrastructure — it generates over 99% of its electricity from renewable sources and has committed to carbon neutrality — makes it an exceptional fit for the sustainability values that gay travelers consistently report prioritizing.
  Source: Costa Rica Tourism Board (ICT); National Geographic Geotourism data
• The destination offers premium-quality nature, adventure, and wellness experiences at accessible price points compared to European and Southeast Asian circuit destinations — making it well-suited for Royal Grand Resorts’ upscale, non-ultra-luxury positioning.
  Source: Costa Rica Tourism Board market positioning data; IGLTA market intelligence
• Costa Rica is seeing growing interest from the North American gay travel market specifically, driven by direct flight access from major US cities, short travel time, and the combination of natural beauty, legal safety, and established gay-welcoming infrastructure.
  Source: IGLTA Americas region market updates; Google Trends LGBTQ+ travel search data, 2023–2024

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Free and open to the public, the festival is expected to draw more than 100,000 attendees and feature over 5,000 female athletes competing across 14 sports, in addition to 21 live concerts, mentorship opportunities, speakers and panels, female art exhibitions, and a festival village. Marking the series’ 20th anniversary, Virginia Beach joins Super Girl’s nationally recognized festivals in Oceanside, CA and Jacksonville Beach, FL.

Stretching 1.5 miles from the 1st Street Jetty to the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier, the festival features women’s surfing, skimboarding, skateboarding, beach volleyball, sand soccer, lacrosse, flag football, lifesaving, BMX, a 5K run, sand hockey, and free fitness classes.

Music and VIP Experience

The 2026 music lineup features headliners Switchfoot, Lupe Fiasco, Gym Class Heroes, Collie Buddz, B.o.B, and Bryce Vine, alongside female artists HIRIE, Hannah Wicklund, Emily Zeck, ANORA, Flailing Idiot, Hello Sister, McKenzi Brooke, and more.

Festival admission is free, but advance online registration is required for access to the live concerts. Attendance is limited, with tickets only available until capacity is reached. For an elevated experience, VIP and VIP Premium packages will also be available, featuring premium viewing areas, complimentary drinks, lounge access, deluxe restrooms, express entry, and more. VIP Premium additionally includes private pit access and a complimentary meal. Purchase VIP tickets.

The event runs daily Saturday, Sept. 5 through Monday, Sept. 7, 2026 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.  Access to the surfing, concerts, classes, speakers, and all elements are free to attend.

The competition will be televised from December to March on 28 national and regional broadcast partners, and will be streamed live on Sept. 6 – 7 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST via 10 digital partners, including at www.supergirlvb.com and twitch.tv/supergirlseries.

Visit www.supergirlvb.com for event details and the full festival schedule.

Follow @SupergirlPro on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for the latest updates and announcements.

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Tapping directly into the popular blind box collectible trend, the limited-run collection features five vinyl figures celebrating signature elements of the Porter travel experience: from the founding Dash 8-400 and new E195-E2, to Mr. Porter (the raccoon brand mascot), and iconic onboard glassware.

This collection highlights how Porter’s brand loyalty has evolved alongside its network. Over its history, Porter has transformed from a regional operator into Canada’s third-largest airline, now operating a fleet of over 80 aircraft serving Canada, the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.

Known for elevating the experience of economy air travel across North America, the airline has launched their limited-edition 20th birthday collection of five “little things” passengers love about Porter—including the aircraft, complimentary drinks in glassware, and Mr. Porter himself.

Porter Airlines revolutionized short-haul flying in 2006 with a commitment to effortless travel, genuine hospitality, and amenities that enhance the traveller’s journey, all delivered in style and comfort. In recent years, Porter has expanded its award-winning service to destinations throughout Canada, the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean.

Porter built its reputation on the details; the quiet, personal, easy-to-miss moments that make economy flying feel considered rather than a compromise. Taking the tangible details—and shrinking them into a series of collectibles—The Little Things Blind Boxes marks the start of the airline’s 20th birthday celebrations.

“We’ve always believed care shows up in the little things, which for us are tangible and intangible details that make passengers feel welcome and cared for,” said Kevin Jackson, president, Porter Airlines. “As part of our 20th birthday celebration, we want to capture that feeling in something you can actually hold. These blind boxes are more than a travel souvenir, they’re little Porter moments, small enough to fit in your hand.”

The line-up:

Introducing little things from Porter that make flying economy enjoyable, now in mini form.

Each box contains one of The Little Things (Ratio 1:5):

• Mr. Porter: He’s Porter’s little raccoon superstar and a mini travel companion.
• De Havilland Dash 8-400: The iconic Dash 8 has been a member of the fleet since day one.
• Embraer E195-E2: A big little thing taking traveller’s to many new places.
• Little Drink: There’s nothing quite like a generous pour served in a real glass at cruising altitude. Cheers!
• Little Luggage: A little luggage that’s just the right size for a big trip.

One thousand of each item are available. With 20 chances to find an extra little secret (Ratio 1:500)*:

• Golden Porter Pass – This is unlike anything Porter has offered before. 20. Free. Flights. This is equivalent to 10 round trips to any Porter destination.

Blind boxes are sealed collectible packages, and the surprise reveal is a little moment of joy in itself. Per the cultural phenomenon, each The Little Things Blind Box — measuring 10.4 cm x 10.4 cm x 12.7 cm (4.1 in. x 4.1 in. x 5 in.) — contains a sealed foil bag to be opened after purchase to reveal the collectable item. Each blind box also includes a keychain to turn the little thing into an accessory.

This limited-edition collection is now available exclusively on porter20.com, while quantities last. Expected shipping begins late November.

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While Kingston comes alive with Pride programming and queer-focused events throughout June, its inclusive energy extends well beyond Pride Month. From community events and locally loved businesses, to walkable neighbourhoods and a lively waterfront, Kingston offers 2SLGBTQ+ travellers a destination where they will feel welcome in every season.

Just a short train or car ride from Toronto, Ottawa and Montreal, the city makes for an easy Pride Month getaway and a compelling year-round escape for travellers seeking a 2SLGBTQ+ friendly city with plenty to see and do.

See below for more details on Pride programming, local businesses, and experiences that travellers can look forward to in Kingston.

Kingston Pride

This year’s Pride week (June 6-14), themed ‘Resilience & Liberation in Action’, places a special emphasis on uplifting the trans community. Event highlights include:

• Two Spirit Celebration – June 7, from 1-5pm
• Drag in the Park – June 9 from 7-9pm
• Queer-oke – June 12 at 8pm
• Pride Parade – June 13 from12-1pm

Drag Bingo

Kingston drag queen, Rowena Whey, hosts her signature drag bingo event on the second Thursday of every month. Drag Bingo includes a drag show, comedy and Bingo with prizes provided by Daft Brewing. Drag Bingo during Pride Week will take place on June 11 from 7-10pm.

Kingston Pride Fundraising Boat Cruise

An annual boat cruise along the St. Lawrence River that closes out Kingston Pride. Guests can enjoy burlesque and drag performances, dancing and raffle prizes. This 19+ event will be held on June 13 from 7-10pm (boarding begins at 6:40pm at 1 Brock Street (Crawford Wharf). Tickets are available here.

Matt’s Hockey Homecoming & Community Pride Skate

On June 13, Matt Kenny, former Kingston hockey player, marathon runner, 2SLGBTQ+ and disability advocate, returns to the ice with former teammates for the first time in over 20 years as part of Matt’s Hockey Homecoming & Community Pride Skate, taking place at the INVISTA Centre in partnership with Tourism Kingston. This free community initiative runs from 8:45am-12:00pm, featuring Matt’s Hockey Homecoming game, a Youth Skills Workshop, an Inclusive Coaching Seminar led by You Can Play and a Community Pride Skate.

ReelOut Queer Film Festival

Founded in 1999, ReelOut is the city’s annual queer film festival, showcasing national and international 2SLGBTQ+ stories. Beyond the festival, ReelOut hosts year-round programs and events that spark dialogue, foster inclusion and center queer voices.

Rainbow Registered Businesses  work to create a welcoming and comfortable experience for all visitors year-round. In June, these businesses kick things up a notch with Pride programming, including the below:

• The Smith Hotel: To celebrate Pride, The Smith donates $5 per room night to Kingston Pride and matches the total donation.
• Kingston Penitentiary: Through staff training and inclusive policies, Kingston Pen Tours remains committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive experience for all.
• Cher-Mere: The spa includes gender-neutral booking forms, extensive inclusive language training for the team and educational staff talks with members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community. For Pride Month, the spa donates a portion of their earnings to TransFamily Kingston. Every month, the spa selects a local charity to donate to, demonstrating their commitment to inclusivity and community care in Kingston.
• Kingston Gaming Nexus: Hosts monthly 2SLGBTQ+ board game nights. The next event is June 26 from 6 to 9 pm, they will also be hosting a Pride-themed trading card event on June 20, 5–9 pm and June 27, 6–9 pm.
• Black Dog Hospitality Restaurants: During June, all Black Dog restaurants are offering Pride-themed drinks, with a percentage of the proceeds going to Trellis HIV & Community Care. Specialty drinks include:

• • Atomica: Peach Please (vanilla vodka, peach schnapps, cream, orange, and simple syrup)
  • Black Dog: Watermelon Kiki (watermelon Absolut vodka, Galliano, watermelon puree, lime, prosecco sidecar)
  • Dianne’s: Pink Pony Club (Malibu, pineapple, cranberry, lime, 7Up)
  • Harper’s: Glitter & Gold (pink lemonade vodka, raspberry vodka, lemon, mango, simple syrup, soda, edible glitter)

So plan your getaway to Kingston during Pride Month, or any other month of the year. Visit Kingston has everything you need to start planning.

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The tradeshow is a major driver of tourism revenue and international trade. Travel and tourism revenue is projected to increase by 6 per cent and reach $140.9 billion this year according to the Canadian Tourism Outlook Report, produced by Destination Canada and Tourism Economics.

As one of Canada’s top service exports, tourism is projected to contribute nine to 10 per cent (up to $30 billion) toward Canada’s goal of securing an additional $300 billion in non-US exports by 2035. Tourism’s opportunity to contribute to Canada’s trade diversification efforts starts on the tradeshow floor, where Canadian sellers (attractions, hotels, and Destination Marketing Organizations) will connect with international buyers (travel agents and tour operators). More than 50,000 of these business to business appointments will connect Canadian tourism experiences to global markets.

All of Canada’s target markets attend Rendez-vous Canada, which is experiencing increased interest from markets including Brazil, France and China since Canada’s Approved Destination Status (ADS) was reinstated in November 2025. Registration from American buyers is strong and overall buyer registration from all markets is at an all-time high.

Rendez-vous Canada 2026 by the numbers: 

·       Over 1,400 attendees registered

·       500+ buyers from 24 international markets (100+ more buyers than 2025)

·       900+ sellers representing more than 500 Canadian tourism organizations, including Indigenous entrepreneurs

·       60,000+ pre-scheduled business-to-business appointments

Hosting Rendez-vous Canada in Toronto will deliver strong economic and sector benefits.

·       The preliminary direct economic impact is approximately $6.7M

·       An additional $5.7M comes from estimated indirect and induced impacts — that is business-to-business activity resulting from the direct impact

·       More than 4,000 hotel room nights secured in Toronto

·       The 2025 event in Winnipeg generated an estimated $4.6M in economic impact and $89.6M in business was signed over three days in 2025.

Spotlight on Toronto and Ontario Tourism Businesses:

Rendez-vous Canada is an opportunity to showcase Toronto’s diverse culinary scene, culturally rich neighbourhoods, and year-round lineup of attractions, festivals, and sporting events to over 500 buyers and tour operators from key global markets. This year’s event also comes ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026, giving buyers a firsthand look at how Toronto is preparing to welcome the world.

Last year, Toronto welcomed a record 28.2 million visitors, generating an all-time high of $9.1 billion in visitor spending. International arrivals were the city’s fastest-growing segment, rising 8 per cent to 1.4 million visitors, led by strong growth from the U.K. and Germany. Hosting international buyers helps strengthen demand in established markets like Europe and Mexico while expanding opportunities in Asia. To support continued growth and diversification, Destination Toronto has increased visibility and accelerated in-market activity in the U.K., Germany and Mexico alongside the critical U.S. market.

More than 85 Ontario tourism businesses and organizations will participate in the marketplace, meeting with international buyers to build relationships and secure future visitation for destinations and experiences across the province.

Hosting Rendez-vous Canada 2026 in Ontario provides an important opportunity to strengthen international partnerships and showcase the diversity of experiences available throughout the province, from outdoor adventure and Indigenous tourism to culinary, cultural and major event experiences.

In addition to attending RVC, approximately 215 buyers and travel trade media will take part in 17 pre- and post-familiarization tours throughout Ontario. These immersive journeys will introduce participants to destinations and experiences across the province, offering first-hand opportunities to experience Ontario’s vibrant communities, iconic attractions and diverse tourism offerings.

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Highlights for Pride Season 2026

Supported by Miami’s Pride‑365 approach and a rich, inclusive local scene, these events collectively position the city as a sun-soaked, culturally immersive escape for LGBTQ+ travellers. Whether attending high-energy festivals, engaging with local arts, or enjoying iconic Miami Beach settings, visitors can celebrate Pride in a destination that balances vibrant entertainment with authentic cultural experiences.

Looking for another great reason to explore more of Greater Miami and Miami Beach this spring? The Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau has launched Explore Miami, a limited-time program running April 1 through May 31, 2026, featuring special offers, discounts and experiences at cultural institutions, attractions, outdoor adventures and more across the destination. From museums and wildlife encounters to live performances and historic sites, the program encourages both visitors and locals to discover something new while taking advantage of exclusive deals.

Explore Miami invites invites both locals and visitors to dive into the best of Greater Miami and Miami Beach’s experiences, as there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Along the way, take advantage of exclusive deals, buy one get one specials, and complimentary perks that make exploring even more rewarding. See below for some of the amazing offerings, and explore the full lineup of experiences and participating offers at exploremiami.com.

HIGHLIGHTS OF SPECIAL OFFERS INCLUDE:

Deering Duo Discovery

Step into history and let curiosity run wild at the Deering Estate, where the past and paradise perfectly mingle. Enjoy a Buy One Get One Free deal on Adult General Admission and double the adventure without doubling the price. Breezy bay views and trails that totally leaf visitors wanting more make this 1920s treasure equal parts museum and nature escape.

Gator Bites and Airboat Delights

Snap into adventure at Everglades Alligator Farm with 50% off children’s general admission plus an airboat ride that makes a splash. This wild and wonderfully walkable attraction features more than 2,000 gators, exotic snakes and close up wildlife encounters at every turn. A small, easy to navigate layout pairs perfectly with shady trees, orchids, ponds and waterfalls for a breezy Old Florida vibe. Live alligator shows and feeding time deliver a jaw dropping experience packed with bite.

Smell the Savings in the Air

Sniff out something scent-sational at Tijon Miami with a buy one get one half off deal on perfumes or immersive experiences. This fragrance playground blends science and style, letting creativity take the lead through hundreds of global oils and dreamy notes. Mix, match and make magic in a real perfumer’s lab, then bottle up a signature scent worth bragging about. Double the aromas, double the fun and half the price makes this deal simply unforgettable.

Bayside Bliss

Step into a slice of European elegance at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens where art, history and gardens bloom in perfect harmony. Wander through jaw-dropping architecture and labyrinthine gardens while soaking up sweeping Biscayne Bay views. Seasonal savings make this cultural gem even sweeter with 50% off adult admission. Time to make history, beauty and a little magic part of the Miami daycation.

Four Miles of Adventure, Half the Price

Swing into wild savings at Zoo Miami with 50% off admission for up to six adventurers. Wander four miles of lush trails and meet 2,500-plus creatures from tigers to koalas in sprawling, sun-soaked habitats. Explore the only subtropical zoo in the continental U.S. where the Everglades, Amazon, Africa and Asia come to life under Miami skies. Leaf through a jungle of over 1,000 plant species and let the wild side roam free.

Below is a complete list of attractions and museums participating in Explore Miami:

• Deering Estate
• Everglades Alligator Farm
• Fantasy Theatre Factory at the Sandrell Rivers Theater
• Flamingo Adventures at Everglades National Park
• Freedom Tower Miami
• GableStage at The Biltmore
• Jungle Island
• Miami Marlins
• Museum of Graffiti
• Oleta River State Park
• Pérez Art Museum Miami (PAMM)
• Paradox Museum
• Phillip And Patricia Frost Museum of Science
• Sky Tours Miami
• Tequila Town
• Thriller Miami Speedboat Adventures
• Tijon Miami
• Vizcaya Museum & Gardens
• Wynwood Walls
• Zoo Miami

Pet-Friendly Travel

Miami goes beyond simply welcoming pets — it makes travelling with them effortless and enjoyable. With rooftop cocktails at sunset, oceanside brunches, and curated pet-friendly events, the city blends animals seamlessly into its vibrant dining, hospitality, and cultural scene. 

Pet-Friendly Dining & Drinks 

Pet-Friendly Stays 

Miami is a sun-soaked, pet-friendly escape where style, wellness, and joyful companionship go paw in paw. 

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At the heart of the expansion is YOUYU Noodle Bar Ottawa, a bold new culinary experience inspired by the electric atmosphere of Asia’s night markets. YOUYU serves freshly hand-pulled noodles, slow-simmered broths, and authentic, flavour-forward dishes influenced by the street-food scenes of Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Bangkok.

Phase 2 also unveils a dedicated Baccarat Room, offering an exclusive gaming sanctuary shaped by Asian elegance and sophistication. With luxury finishes, an intimate ambiance, and a focus on cultural authenticity, the space creates a refined environment where tradition meets thrill.

The overall casino experience expands significantly with an enhanced gaming floor, elevating Hard Rock into a true world-class entertainment hub. Guests will enjoy up to 40 live table games, featuring favourites like baccarat, blackjack, roulette, and a range of specialty games, alongside 1,500 slot machines designed for immersive play and big-win excitement.

Rounding out the expansion, Hard Rock’s signature music memorabilia collection grows with new, iconic pieces from some of music’s greatest trailblazers. Each artifact is carefully curated to tell a story, inviting guests to explore, reminisce, and feel that unmistakable Hard Rock spirit in every corner.

Explore more of the property, and book a dining experience or overnight stay via their website.

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“Philadelphia is a city that shows up for everyone. We don’t just welcome diversity—we celebrate it. The Philly Pride Visitor Center is putting that spirit into action,” said Kathryn Ott Lovell, president and CEO of Philadelphia Visitor Center. “We’re building a starting point for tourists, a dedicated space for this community, and a true reflection of what our city stands for. Our hope is that the Philly Pride Visitor Center becomes a place where LGBTQ+ visitors feel like they belong from the moment they arrive.”

Located in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic Gayborhood, the Philly Pride Visitor Center will serve as a vibrant and welcoming gateway to LGBTQ+-friendly experiences across the Philadelphia region and the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Center will offer comprehensive visitor services, including itinerary planning, attraction ticketing, and travel information, with a special focus on LGBTQ+-affirming destinations, businesses, and cultural institutions. A curated selection of souvenirs, many from LGBTQ+-owned businesses, will also be available.

“Pennsylvania has always been a place where people come to write the next chapter of their story, and that includes our LGBTQ+ community. By opening the new LGBTQ+ Visitor Center, we are making it clear: you belong here. This space will showcase destinations across our commonwealth where LGBTQ+ travelers will find community, pride, and a warm Pennsylvania welcome,” said Anne Ryan, Deputy Secretary of Tourism, Pennsylvania Department of Community & Economic Development.

Visit Philadelphia supported the opening of the nation’s first LGBTQ+ visitor center within the National Park System, the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center in New York City, recognizing Philadelphia’s important connection to those historic events. The nation’s first LGBTQ+ sit-in took place in Philadelphia at Dewey’s restaurant in 1965, and the Annual Reminders at Independence Hall were among the earliest public demonstrations for gay rights in the United States. Now, Visit Philadelphia and the Philadelphia Visitor Center bring this concept home with the Philly Pride Visitor Center, continuing the story of LGBTQ+ history where so much of it began.

“The Philly Pride Visitor Center reflects our commitment to inclusive tourism and to making sure every traveler feels seen, welcomed and celebrated,” said Angela Val, president and CEO of Visit Philadelphia. “For more than 20 years, Visit Philadelphia has worked to show LGBTQ+ travelers that they belong here. This new center gives visitors and residents a place to connect with Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ history, discover affirming businesses and see how this city helped shape a national movement. It is both a resource hub and a testament to Philadelphia’s role in advancing LGBTQ+ rights.”

The new Center will also act as a starting point to learn about the powerful and ongoing story of Philadelphia’s LGBTQ+ community. Based on input from the community, historical content will be curated by Mark Segal, founder of Philadelphia Gay News, to ensure an authentic representation of the city’s LGBTQ+ legacy.

“Philadelphia has always been a trailblazer in LGBTQ+ history, from the first Reminder Day marches in 1965 (four years before Stonewall) to the Dewey’s sit-in, where LGBTQ+ youth stood up to a restaurant’s refusal to serve them, the first statewide anti-discrimination order under Governor Milton Shapp, and the nation’s first LGBTQ+ senior housing,” said Mark Segal, founder and publisher of Philadelphia Gay News. “Our city helped launch the fight for representation in media, shaped national policy, and created safe, visible spaces for our community. Now, with the opening of the Philly Pride Visitor Center, Philadelphia proudly honors that legacy and reaffirms its commitment to those who call this community home.”

The investment in dedicated LGBTQ+ visitor infrastructure reflects both values and data. According to Community Marketing & Insights, 63% of LGBTQ+ travelers already view Philadelphia as a welcoming destination, and the community represents $1.4 trillion in annual purchasing power.

As a legacy project tied to the U.S. Semiquincentennial in 2026, the Philly Pride Visitor Center joins national efforts to commemorate the nation’s founding by honoring the diverse communities that have shaped it. The Center reflects a long-term investment in inclusive tourism infrastructure that will serve visitors far beyond 2026.

Philadelphia expects record visitation in 2026 to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, major sporting events including the FIFA World Cup, MLB All-Star Game, and PGA Championship, and cultural programming like the inaugural city-wide ArtPhilly festival.

For over two decades, Visit Philadelphia has been a national leader in LGBTQ+ tourism marketing, beginning with “Get Your History Straight and Your Nightlife Gay” in 2004 — the country’s first LGBTQ+-specific tourism television commercial. This commitment continues through initiatives including “In Pursuit of a More Perfect Union: Drag Queen Story Time on Independence Mall,” helping Philadelphia Gay News set the 2024 Guinness World Record for the largest drag story time reading, and installing the “In Plain Sight” TQ+ sculpture as a bold celebration of the trans and queer community in Philadelphia.

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“From our origins in Spain to our global destinations, AIRE has always honoured ancient bathing traditions while creating transformative, sensory experiences,” says Amadeo Serra, CEO. “Toronto’s international spirit, creative energy, and vibrant cultural scene make it the perfect home for our Canadian debut.”

Where History Meets Ritual

Set in the heart of Toronto’s Fashion District, AIRE Toronto is located in a restored Edwardian Classical building originally built in 1912 for the Copp Clark Publishing Company. Recognized today as a designated heritage site, the structure retains its original wood beams and soaring pillars, now reimagined as the setting for AIRE’s signature candlelit bathing rituals.

“Honouring the building’s literary and industrial past is at the core of our design approach,” says  Serra. “Vintage books and printing presses echo its publishing history, while its new role celebrates a different kind of art, the art of relaxation.”

Toronto Location Features

Spanning 23,000 square feet, AIRE Toronto will include nine thermal baths and a range of distinctive design elements and amenities:

• The Palestra Outdoor Bath: an open-air bath where guests can immerse in an atmosphere of deep stillness and warmth, unlike anything else in Toronto.
• The Flotarium: a saltwater bath designed for effortless floating.
• The Thousand Jets Bath: an invigorating hydrotherapy experience.
• Tepidarium, Caldarium, and Frigidarium baths: each with its own specific temperature from cold to hot, designed to awaken the senses and restore balance.
• The Wine Bath: a private bath infused with the antioxidant properties of Spanish tempranillo grapes, offering benefits for both skin vitality and relaxation. 

Additional features include a dry sauna, vaporium, 12 massage rooms, and two warm marble beds. 

“In Toronto, guests will discover a space where silence, candlelight, and the hypnotic sound of water create an atmosphere unlike anything else in the city,” adds Serra. “It’s a place to disconnect fully and rediscover balance.”

The Experiences

Guests will be guided through a circuit of thermal baths at varying temperatures, a ritual revered since antiquity for its profound physical and emotional benefits. The journey unfolds by candlelight, AIRE’s signature element that transforms historic spaces into havens of silence and tranquility.

In addition to the Ancient Baths, AIRE Toronto offers an array of massages and rituals designed to help body and mind release the stress of everyday life. Each treatment includes access to the thermal circuit, combining the restorative power of water with therapies that promote peace and renewal. Highlights include:

Signature Wine Experience
Among AIRE’s most distinctive rituals is the Signature Wine Experience. The journey begins with 30 minutes immersed in a private wine bath, followed by a cranial massage with a nourishing hair mask and a 45-minute relaxing full body massage. Guests then continue through the thermal circuit and are offered a tasting of Matarromera wine paired with a curated selection of cheeses. 

Orange Garden                                                                                                                   

Elevate your natural beauty with this tribute to AIRE’s signature fragrance, Orange Garden. This treatment includes a full body massage and a 25-minute face massage with Gua Sha, complemented by a cooling hydrogel face mask and scalp massage. Guests also enjoy access to the thermal baths and a refreshing juice. 

AIRE Toronto is located at 510A Front Street West in Portland Commons. For more information visit beaire.com.

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Boston’s annual Christmas tree, a heartfelt gift from Nova Scotia, symbolizes over a century of friendship and gratitude. Each year, a magnificent white spruce, carefully selected from Nova Scotia’s forests, is sent to Boston to thank the city for its vital emergency aid after the 1917 Halifax Explosion. The 54th tree will be honoured on December 4th on the Boston Common with special ceremonies and strong community engagement on both sides, highlighting the enduring spirit of generosity and friendship. 

Beloved favourites like First Night Boston ring in the New Year, while Snowport in the Seaport and the SoWa Winter Festival showcase the city’s creative spirit. Visitors can explore immersive arts during WINTERACTIVE and honour Black contributions during Black History Month. 

Boston is set to launch its first annual Frostival, a new signature seasonal experience that will feature drone shows over Boston Common, new light installations, culinary events, and winter activations across downtown, the Kennedy Greenway, and Back Bay. Full details will be revealed in the coming weeks—stay tuned for an unforgettable new celebration of food, art, and local spirit. 

Winter in Boston also means sports and spectacle. Cheer on the Bruins, Celtics, or Patriots. This mix of rivalry and camaraderie captures what local fans call Boston’s warm‑hearted winter energy. And of course, 2026 marks the Winter Olympics with many Boston natives heading to Milan to showcase how the city embraces winter sports at the highest level. 

Romantics will find plenty of reasons to linger. Stay in elegant hotels like The Langham, XV Beacon, or The Liberty, many offering igloo dining, fireside bars, and special winter packages. Cozy dinners await at Mistral in the South End and Bistro du Midi in the North End—paired with skyline cocktails at Igloo Bar at the Envoy or the après‑ski ambiance of The Lodge at Publico. And be sure to reserve at one of the restaurants that will be named on the highly anticipated Michelin Guide in Boston

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