Todos Santos, Marrakesh, Siem Reap: the next gay-friendly gems to discover before everyone else
Todos Santos, Marrakesh, Siem Reap: the next gay friendly gems to discover before everyone else
LGBTQ+ travelers seeking authenticity and new experiences are turning their gaze toward less explored horizons. Three cities embody this irresistible trend of 2027: Todos Santos in Mexico, Marrakesh in Morocco, and Siem Reap in Cambodia. These destinations did not wait to become tourist giants before welcoming the community with warmth. On the contrary, they are building their gay friendly identity with genuine sincerity, placing the emphasis on authenticity, respect and inclusion.
This article offers you an immersive report on these emerging gems, far from the well-trodden paths of Miami, Barcelona or Bangkok. You will discover how these three cities are actively shaping their reputation as safe spaces, which establishments embody this new philosophy of hospitality, and how LGBTQ+ travelers can thrive there in complete serenity.
Why these cities are rising on the radar of LGBTQ+ travelers in 2027
Gay travel is no longer limited to the great, overexploited tourist hubs. In 2027, LGBTQ+ travelers seek authenticity, discovery and sincere connections with local communities. Three factors explain the emergence of Todos Santos, Marrakesh and Siem Reap.
Authenticity above all
These three cities do not play the gay spectacle card. Instead, they offer an experience rooted in local reality, where the LGBTQ+ community exists and expresses itself without being reduced to a tourist product. Travelers appreciate this relaxed and respectful approach.
A progressive culture of welcome
Marrakesh is gaining a reputation thanks to its open-minded Muslim majority and its local tolerance initiatives. Todos Santos has attracted LGBTQ+ creatives for years and is developing an inclusive artistic scene. Siem Reap is experiencing an explosion of safe spaces designed for and by the community, particularly in the hospitality sector.
Accessible prices and authentic immersion
Unlike overexploited destinations, these three cities maintain reasonable rates and offer an authentic experience where revenue genuinely benefits local communities. Travelers find a freedom of exploration there, without the aggressive marketing of established gay metropolises.
Desierto Azul Boutique Hotel in Todos Santos: a design haven at the heart of a local scene in full bloom
Todos Santos, a small coastal town in Baja California, has transformed itself into a creative and inclusive haven. At the heart of this movement stands the Desierto Azul Boutique Hotel, a 4-star establishment that perfectly embodies this new gay friendly philosophy of hospitality.
Contemplative design and bohemian atmosphere
From the moment you arrive, the energy of the place envelops you. The Desierto Azul offers air-conditioned accommodations with pool views, private balconies from which to contemplate the desert sunset, and communal spaces bathed in natural light. The lush garden contrasts beautifully with the surrounding aridity, creating an oasis of serenity.
The clean, Asia-inspired design of the suites (Family Suite and King Suite with Pool View) blends modernity and minimalism. Every detail has been carefully considered: gentle air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, a desk from which to contemplate the desert landscape. The private bathroom offers all the amenities needed for optimal comfort and well-being.
A restaurant and bar at the heart of local life
The hotel is far from a retreat unto itself. Its restaurant and bar welcome both the local community and travellers in a warm, convivial atmosphere. This is where first conversations begin, where travel friendships are born. The outdoor pool naturally becomes a gathering place, where LGBTQ+ travellers share their experiences and insider tips.
At the heart of Todos Santos, the new LGBTQ+ creative capital
Located just 900 metres from Playa La Cachora, the Desierto Azul invites guests to freely explore this vibrant, buzzing town. The hotel's bicycle and car rental services encourage guests to venture out to nearby villages, LGBTQ+-friendly art galleries and emerging nightlife spots.
Todos Santos is home to a growing community of LGBTQ+ artists, musicians and creatives from around the world. Strolling along the cobbled streets, discovering artists' studios, sharing a drink with pro-LGBTQ+ locals: this is Todos Santos experienced from the inside, far removed from the traditional tourist trail.
Palais Riad Lamrani in Marrakesh: authentic Moroccan character and genuinely warm hospitality
Marrakesh, the ochre city of a thousand and one nights, more than lives up to its reputation as a safe space for LGBTQ+ travellers. Nestled at the heart of the medina, the Palais Riad Lamrani is its perfect embodiment.
A traditional riad reimagined for inclusive hospitality
The Palais Riad Lamrani is more than a hotel: it is a gateway into the very essence of Morocco. Located just 300 metres from the medina souk and 400 metres from the legendary Jemaa el-Fna square, this 4-star hotel offers the intimacy of a traditional riad residence alongside the modern comforts that LGBTQ+ travellers seeking well-being have come to expect.
The air-conditioned rooms reflect an authentic Moroccan aesthetic: colourful zellige tilework, noble materials and furniture with clean, refined lines. Each room features a television, a minibar and, above all, a fully appointed private bathroom complete with a bathtub, quality bathrobes and a hairdryer. The bathrobes become a cherished relaxation ritual after long, immersive walks through the souks.
Hammam, garden and terrace: the three pillars of Moroccan well-being
The Palais Riad Lamrani cultivates a serene atmosphere through its traditional hammam, its flowering interior garden and its terrace overlooking the ochre rooftops of the medina. This is where LGBTQ+ travellers restore themselves after a day of intensive exploration.
The hammam holds a special significance: far more than a simple thermal treatment, it is a space of deep relaxation where tension simply dissolves. The contrast between the heat of the hammam and the coolness of the water creates a unique sensory experience, one profoundly rooted in Moroccan culture.
The interior garden offers a moment to breathe. Surrounded by flowers, gentle fountains and colourful zellige tilework, one feels immediately at ease, soothed by the timeless architecture of the riad. The terrace becomes your personal refuge in the late afternoon, with views over the slumbering medina.
The warm welcome of a team that understands the importance of inclusion
What sets Palais Riad Lamrani apart among Marrakesh's riads is its explicit commitment to gay-friendly hospitality. The team understands and respects the specific expectations of LGBTQ+ travellers: discretion without condescension, tailored services, and recommendations for inclusive restaurants and bars nearby.
Located just 4 km from Marrakech-Ménara Airport, the riad remains easily accessible while retaining its aura of authenticity. Services include a luggage storage room and a shared lounge where travellers meet and exchange their Moroccan experiences.
Marrakesh itself offers a growing LGBTQ+ scene, though a discreet one. Palais Riad Lamrani serves as an ideal starting point for exploring this local community, meeting Moroccan creatives, and understanding how inclusion is gradually progressing in this part of the Maghreb.
MEN's Resort & Spa in Siem Reap: a space conceived for and by the community in Southeast Asia
Siem Reap embodies the new face of gay tourism in Southeast Asia: inclusive, shaped with the community in mind, and radically transparent in its positioning. The MEN's Resort & Spa is far more than a hotel; it is an architectural safe space dedicated to gay men aged 18 and over.
A revolutionary concept: a resort 100% conceived for gay men
MEN's Resort & Spa applies a radical philosophy of inclusion through design. Reserved exclusively for adult gay men, this 3-star establishment makes no attempt to conceal its positioning. That transparency is its greatest strength: every traveller knows exactly what to expect and arrives without apprehension, in a space where he can truly be himself.
Located just a 5-minute drive from Pub Street, the beating heart of Siem Reap's nightlife, the resort benefits from a strategic position that allows easy access to local life while preserving its intimacy.
Vibrant rooms, modern Asian design, and optimised comfort
The air-conditioned rooms at MEN's Resort & Spa burst with bold colours and contemporary Asian décor. This dynamic aesthetic breaks away from the austerity found in certain male-oriented hotels and creates a joyful, liberated atmosphere where every colour tells a story.
Each suite offers:
Flat-screen cable television
Stocked minibar
Personal safe
Private bathroom with rainfall shower
Comfortable bathrobes and premium towels
These details reflect a deep understanding of gay travellers' expectations: privacy, quality, and attention to the small luxuries that transform a standard stay into a memorable experience.
Spa, sauna, pool: the temples of well-being
The MEN's Resort & Spa places a strong emphasis on relaxation and wellness. The large spa bathtub invites guests to unwind at length, while the sauna offers a convivial space where conversations arise naturally. The outdoor pool becomes the social heart of the resort, a place where solo travellers discover an instant community.
The pool bar and spa bar allow guests to enjoy cocktails in a gay safe and friendly environment, with no ambiguity, no need for codes or excessive discretion.
Restaurant, excursions and the freedom to discover Angkor Wat
The restaurant, open until 11:00 pm, serves Asian and Western dishes suited to every palate. It is a space for sharing, where travellers dine together and forge lasting connections.
The MEN's Resort & Spa offers far more than accommodation: an excursions desk organises full-day visits to the legendary temples of Angkor Wat (15 minutes by car) and cultural explorations of the surrounding region. The bicycle rental service also encourages independent exploration of Siem Reap and its neighbouring villages.
Located just 20 minutes from Siem Reap International Airport, the resort offers an airport shuttle service for an additional fee, ensuring a stress-free arrival.
Siem Reap as a new landmark gay destination
Siem Reap is only beginning to reveal its gay appeal. The very existence of the MEN's Resort & Spa signals a transformation: the city is actively welcoming the LGBTQ+ community and building genuinely inclusive infrastructure. Pub Street, just nearby, offers accessible bars and clubs. The temples of Angkor, the rice field landscapes, the authentic Khmer culture: all of this becomes available to the gay traveller with no compromise on safety or authenticity.
Practical tips for travelling with peace of mind in these lesser-known destinations
Travelling to these three emerging gems requires preparation that differs slightly from well-established destinations. Here are our tried-and-tested recommendations.
Documents, visas and legal considerations
Mexico (Todos Santos) requires no visa for French nationals, and LGBTQ+ status is widely accepted. Same-sex marriage is legal at the federal level. Marrakesh (Morocco) requires a simple visa on arrival for French citizens. While same-sex relations are theoretically penalised under Moroccan law, the reality on the ground in tourist areas is considerably more tolerant. Siem Reap (Cambodia) grants an easy tourist visa on arrival. The country has no law criminalising homosexuality, making it a legally safe destination for LGBTQ+ travellers.
In all cases, consult your government's official travel advisories before departing.
Money, costs and realistic budgets
All three destinations remain significantly more affordable than Miami, Paris or Amsterdam. In Todos Santos, expect to pay 80 to 150 euros per night for a quality four-star hotel. In Marrakesh, the Palais Riad Lamrani offers similar rates. In Siem Reap, the MEN's Resort & Spa provides excellent value for money, ideal for extended stays.
You will save significantly on food, transport and activities. A delicious meal costs 5-15 euros, a drink 2-4 euros. Take advantage of this affordability to extend your trip and explore in depth.
Health, vaccinations and well-being
Check your vaccination status before travelling. For Marrakesh and Siem Reap, consult your doctor regarding typhoid fever, hepatitis A and B. Pack a medical kit including antimalarials if recommended, as well as sun protection and insect repellent. All three destinations offer access to quality medical care, particularly near tourist hotels.
Respecting local cultures without compromising your safety
Respect and freedom go hand in hand. In these destinations, the warm welcome does not require you to set aside your LGBTQ+ values. Stay natural, stay authentic. Simply avoid excessive public displays of affection in sensitive non-tourist areas, for example certain ultra-conservative neighbourhoods of Marrakesh. But in gay-friendly riads, inclusive hotels and tourist areas, you are free to be yourselves.
The teams at hotels such as Desierto Azul, Palais Riad Lamrani and MEN's Resort & Spa know precisely which areas the LGBTQ+ community can enjoy without concern. Do not hesitate to consult them for personalised recommendations.
Transport and logistics
In all three cities, taxis and traditional transport services remain reliable. Opt for digital platforms (Uber, Grab) for greater transparency. Bicycle and car rental services offered by hotels provide more flexibility.
Allow for longer travel times than in major cities. The roads to Todos Santos require 1.5 hours from La Paz. Marrakesh and Siem Reap are more straightforward, but keep some time in reserve for the unexpected.
Connecting with the local LGBTQ+ community
This is the secret of these emerging destinations: they offer an authentic connection with the local community. Ask your hotel for insider tips, local LGBTQ+ artists and restaurants run by inclusive creatives.
In Todos Santos, take part in art exhibitions. In Marrakesh, seek out riads run by owners who are attuned to LGBTQ+ issues. In Siem Reap, MEN's Resort & Spa itself offers a valuable network of connections.
These connections transform a trip into a genuine life adventure, rich with meaningful encounters.
Key takeaways
Todos Santos, Marrakesh and Siem Reap embody the new face of gay travel in 2027: authentic, inclusive and far from the overcrowded circuits of Miami or Barcelona
Three exemplary properties embody this trend: Desierto Azul Boutique Hotel in Todos Santos (bohemian design and creative scene), Palais Riad Lamrani in Marrakesh (Moroccan authenticity and hammam), and MEN's Resort & Spa in Siem Reap (a safe space 100% dedicated to gay men)
These destinations maintain accessible rates (80-150 euros per night at four-star level) while offering an authentic and enriching experience
Legal safety varies (Mexico entirely gay-friendly, Morocco pragmatic in tourist areas, Cambodia with no law criminalising homosexuality)
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Todos Santos, Marrakesh and Siem Reap?
Todos Santos: October through April offers the most pleasant temperatures (25-30°C). Avoid July and August, which are too hot and arid. Marrakesh: November to March is ideal (15-25°C). Summer (May to September) becomes stifling. Siem Reap: November to February brings a dry, cool climate. The rainy season (May to October) makes visits less comfortable, though the landscapes turn lush and green.
Can I be openly LGBTQ+ in these three destinations?
Yes, with some nuance. In Todos Santos and Siem Reap, open expression is natural and unrestricted. In Marrakesh, discretion is advisable outside tourist areas; however, within gay-friendly riads and tourist spaces, you are entirely free. Hotel teams understand the issues at play and will guide you with confidence.
What documents are required when travelling as a gay couple?
No documents specific to LGBTQ+ status are required. Your passport is sufficient. That said, for matters of joint inheritance or medical decisions, it is worth carrying documents attesting to your civil partnership or recognised marriage if you have one, such as a civil union certificate or marriage certificate. None of the three destinations will ask for clarification of this kind, but it remains sound general practice.
Is there an organised gay scene (bars, clubs, organisations) in these three cities?
Todos Santos: a small town with no dedicated gay bars, but a discreet LGBTQ+ creative scene woven into the local culture. Marrakesh: a handful of gay-friendly bars and riads, somewhat underground yet accessible. Siem Reap: Pub Street offers several welcoming bars, and the MEN's Resort & Spa itself serves as a socialising hub.
How can I support local LGBTQ+ communities while travelling?
Spend your money at LGBTQ+ restaurateurs, artists and local service providers. The three flagship hotels featured in this article employ teams who are mindful of the importance of inclusion. Ask them for recommendations so you can direct your spending toward marginalised local creatives. Attend local cultural events. Your presence, your spending and your authentic connections become a political act of support for these emerging communities.
Ready to discover these hidden gems before they go mainstream? Explore the Desierto Azul Boutique Hotel in Todos Santos, immerse yourself in the authenticity of Palais Riad Lamrani in Marrakesh, or join the community at MEN's Resort & Spa in Siem Reap. Book with confidence on MyGayHotels.