"When it comes to the Mediterranean, Mykonos has long been a crowd-pleaser of the queer jet-set and circuit party crowds. But with recent, increased direct flights from the U.S. and a boom in high-style hotels like The Setai, The Norman, and The Lighthouse, LGBTQIA+ travelers are discovering a welcomed alternative in Tel Aviv. The city’s unrivaled beach culture with dynamic, Bauhaus-heavy architecture at its backdrop is reason enough to visit, but LGBTQIA+ travelers find themselves attracted to Tel Aviv most for its open, inclusive, and bohemian spirit. Prior to the COVID-19 crisis, Israel was already seeing record-breaking tourism numbers, attracting Ricky Martin, Andy Cohen, and Neil Patrick Harris as its recent, notable gay guests of honor at Tel Aviv Pride. While that celebration undoubtedly lives up to the hype in this extroverted city, travelers should also consider touching down for Purim in March. A feast for the eyes, the Jewish holiday is marked with lively parties spilling out onto the streets and lots of queer attendees dressed in lavish costumes that rival even the best Halloween celebrations in New York and West Hollywood." - Travel + Leisure Editors
