AS THE LARGEST METROPOLIS in South America and one of the largest cities in the world, it’s only natural São Paulo offers a diverse array of experiences for travelers. And that goes for LGBTQ travelers as well, thanks to the extensive variety of businesses, events and nightlife that cater to this market segment.
“São Paulo has a very good cultural life, from excellent parks to museums, galleries and theaters, and festivals year-round,” said Clovis Casemiro, Brazil coordinator, International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association, of which the São Paulo Convention and Visitors Bureau is a member. “For the gay and lesbian tourist, we offer around 100 gay-friendly places to go, from restaurants to bars, discos, saunas and shops.”
Most LGBTQ activity focuses around two specific neighborhoods: the area around Arouche and República, and the blocks around Paulista Avenue and Frei Caneca Street. Casemiro noted Arouche offers a good neighborhood for bar hopping — the younger crowd often heads to a dance club called Freedom, while “bear” parties provide a lively vibe at Cantho, and ABC Bailão spins classic dance music.
Indeed, it could take several weeks to discover all the nightlife the city has to offer. “São Paulo is home to the best discos in Brazil,” said Casemiro. “The largest and most famous is The Week, where the best DJs and parties are always on. Flexx Club and Bubu Lounge are for the young generation, and on Sunday night go to Blue Space, which has the best drag shows in town.”
Of course, no article about LGBTQ São Paulo would be complete without mentioning the annual gay pride parade, the largest such event on the planet, attracting more than 2 million revelers every May. The celebration actually lasts the entire month, with parties, dance and theater performances, cultural fairs, concerts and other entertainment. Local travel companies like Tibitur Turismo help travelers connect with experiences like this and can also provide details about attractions like the Museu da Diversidade Sexual (Museum of Sexual Diversity), which focuses on the struggle for LGBTQ human rights, and the city’s best hotels — including super-stylish boutique properties like the Emiliano São Paulo, Hotel Unique and Hotel Fasano.
Read This Next
All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedMarch 2024
Mar 27, 2024Udaipur Unveiled: A Walking Tour in Rajasthan’s Most Romantic City Reveals Its Many Layers
Anyone who makes their way to Rajasthan in northern India has likely heard of Udaipur’s allure. The city revered for its lakes and marble palaces is considered by many who know not only the Indian subcontinent but the planet as a whole to be the most spectacularly romantic city on Earth.
Sponsored Content
A New Perspective on Incentive Travel
Incentive travel has long been a way for organizations to drive sales and reward employees with opulent trips to exotic destinations. Today it encompasses even more.
Daily
Mar 27, 2024Go Island Hopping in Spain with Meliá Hotels International
It’s time to start planning summer travel. Consider a chic island getaway off the coast of Spain. Spain’s Meliá Hotels International offers a collection of hotels throughout the islands that highlight the Spanish lifestyle.
Daily
Mar 27, 2024“Deal or No Deal” Interactive Game Show Comes to Holland America Line
Holland America Line expands its entertainment offerings by launching the game show brand Deal or No Deal on nine ships. TimePlay, an entertainment software company, powers the show format, with a highly adaptable design and strong brand identity, on more than 85 ships worldwide.
Sponsored Content
Travel Tips to Help Protect Your Health and Your Trip
Five Tips to Help Minimize Potential Travel Problems
eFlyer Reviews
Mar 27, 2024Hotel Indigo La Paz Puerta Cortés Review
Hotel Indigo La Paz Puerta Cortés is an oasis where the desert meets the sea, nestled between the Sea of Cortez and La Paz Bay in Mexico. With an emphasis on providing guests a relaxing experience through wellness and culture activities, the hotel is a short 10-minute drive from Downtown La Paz, Mexico. Upon entrance under the porte cochere you are greeted with a palette of whites and browns, a theme constant throughout the property.
Japan Airlines Purchases 32 Airbus, 10 Boeing
eFlyer News
Mar 27, 2024eFlyer Lead
Mar 27, 2024Aeromexico Named Most Punctual Airline in the World
Cirium, a global aviation analytics company, recently released the most on-time airlines in the world for early 2024. The study found Aeromexico as the most improved airline in February, with a 90.66 percent on-time performance, a 12.5-point increase in on-time performance over January 2024.
Sponsored Content
Unearth Seoul’s Hidden Gems
Filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, Seoul invites travelers to unearth its many gems, and Seoul Tourism Organization is here to help travelers do just that. Through thoughtfully created initiatives like the Theme Tourism County Competition, Seoul Tourism Organization works closely with local districts to identify and showcase what makes each district unique and charming in all seasons.
Daily
Mar 27, 2024Hyatt Regency Chicago Unveils Renovations This Spring
Half a century ago, several architecturally significant buildings not only changed the face of Chicago but also reintroduced the city as a world-class travel destination. Roughly a year after the Sears Tower (now Willis Tower) emerged as the then world’s tallest building, Hyatt Regency Chicago opened its doors in August 1974. A second tower was constructed in 1980, making it one of the most ambitious hotels the city had seen, down to its above-ground skyway and underground concourse.
ShareThis