The Journal
Stories, guides & dispatches from queer travel.
Where we’re going, where we’re sending you, and what we’ve learned planning trips for the kind of travelers who care about more than the lobby.
Lisbon: The Bestmates Guide to Portugal's Golden City
Seven hills, a dedicated gay guesthouse, and a clothing-optional beach an hour from the center: here's how Bestmates does Lisbon, from a firsthand trip and real client bookings.
Editor’s Picks
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Why Use a Travel Advisor — A Queer Perspective
Booking a trip yourself works fine — until it doesn't. Here's what queer travelers actually get out of working with an advisor that you can't get from a search bar.
May 2, 2026 · By Bestmates
Mexico City for Queer Travelers — The Bestmates Guide
One of the most queer-friendly capitals in Latin America, with a food scene that punches well above its weight and a Pride that locals actually show up for. Here's how to do it well.
April 27, 2026 · By Bestmates
The 2026 LGBTQ+ Pride & Events Calendar
Pride parades, circuit parties, charter sailings, and the cultural events worth planning a trip around. Month by month, with booking lead times so you don't show up on the wrong weekend.
April 19, 2026 · By Bestmates
Latest
January 31, 2026
What Is Scarlet Night? Inside Virgin Voyages' Signature Event
The ship goes red, the energy goes through the roof, and everything you thought you knew about cruise entertainment gets thrown overboard.
By Bestmates
January 4, 2026
The Perfect 12-Day Portugal Road Trip
From the Algarve coast to Lisbon's cobblestone streets — a 12-day road trip through Portugal's best.
By Bestmates
The Bestmates Brief
A fresh dispatch in your inbox, twice a month.
City guides, event picks, hotel intel, and the occasional opinion. No churn, no sales pitch.