Part of what makes travel so enriching and enjoyable is that it connects us to different walks of life and gives us the opportunity to grow as we learn about new cultures, people and ways of life. Diversity and inclusion are what allow all the colours of society to shine through and brighten all of our lives.
In Sydney and New South Wales, the LGBTQIA+ community is very much celebrated and appreciated in their contribution to making this such an incredible place to visit. In fact, Sydney is internationally renowned as a queer capital! We take a look at what this means below.
Stretching across February and the beginning of March, more than just one-off event, Mardi Gras is affectionately referred to as ‘Gay Christmas’ by locals. This celebration crescendos with the famous Mardi Gras parade: a colourful and flamboyant display of the inclusivity of the LBTQIA+ community. However, there are a number of other events which take place around this time from Pride gatherings to theatre productions and dance performances. There is also the family-friendly Fair Day where you’ll find stalls, entertainment and everything in between at Victoria Park.
Often demarcated by vibrant rainbow crossings and walkways, LGBT-friendly neighbourhoods are an excellent way of creating a safe and encouraging space for individuals to celebrate their identity. In Sydney, a few prominent examples of these neighbourhoods can be found in Oxford Street and King Street. Not only do these areas have the biggest LGBTQIA+ venues and businesses, they are home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, bars and independent shops which thrive on this mindset of open-mindedness. There are also sections of beach dedicated to the LGBTQIA+ community in Clovelly, Tamarama and Coogee, demonstrating Sydney’s commitment to creating a truly inclusive city.
Sydney’s queer-focused clubs and bars make up some of the city’s best nightlife venues. You’ll find many of these on the aforementioned rainbow strips. Among them is Oxford Hotel, ‘a multiple level rainbow utopia’ with something for everyone and every mood. There is also the Malborough Hotel which has a basement dance space but also plenty of areas to enjoy a chat in the spirit of inclusivity. And of course, The Imperial is the place to go for all the biggest and best drag shows in Sydney.
Indeed, Sydney and New South Wales pays more than just lip service to the LGBTQIA+ community. By incorporating safe places across the city, Sydney is setting an example for what true inclusivity means. Sydney and New South Wales is not just an excellent place to visit for those from the LGBTQIA+ community, but for everyone, as this is a city which knows the value of welcoming all to its shores.