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Michael & Matt
Home
About
Contact
Presets
Blog
Our Trips
Japan
Thailand
Denmark
Finland
Iceland
Italy
Neatherlands
Portugal
Scotland
Spain
Sweden
Bermuda
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Mexico
Ecuador
Peru
Alaska
California
Florida
Hawaii
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Featured
What to Do in Seattle for First Time Visitors: Must-See Attractions, Top Restaurants, Bars & more
Community Support, Local Businesses, Seattle, Travel, North America, usa, washington
September 24, 2025
What to Do in Seattle for First Time Visitors: Must-See Attractions, Top Restaurants, Bars & more
Community Support, Local Businesses, Seattle, Travel, North America, usa, washington
September 24, 2025

If you’re planning a trip—or already lucky enough to call Seattle home—this guide is for you. Here, I’m sharing some outstanding LGBTQ+-owned businesses, the top places to eat in Seattle, the best bars to visit in Seattle, and a variety of iconic (and lesser-known) attractions that Michael and I just can’t resist.

Read more →
Community Support, Local Businesses, Seattle, Travel, North America, usa, washington
September 24, 2025
16 Reasons why Maui, Hawaii Island should be your next Vacation spot
Travel, Beaches, Hawaii, Maui, North America, Island
September 2, 2025
16 Reasons why Maui, Hawaii Island should be your next Vacation spot
Travel, Beaches, Hawaii, Maui, North America, Island
September 2, 2025

If Maui isn’t already on your bucket list, you need to bump it to the top. After (finally) exploring for myself, I can confidently say this island is so much more than pretty beaches and postcard-worthy palm trees. There are all kinds of variety and culture of Maui, Hawaii Island.

Read more →
Travel, Beaches, Hawaii, Maui, North America, Island
September 2, 2025
Helsinki & Reykjavik: What Makes a Nordic Summer Pride Special?
Travel, Gay Pride, Gay Travel, Europe
August 21, 2025
Helsinki & Reykjavik: What Makes a Nordic Summer Pride Special?
Travel, Gay Pride, Gay Travel, Europe
August 21, 2025

Ever wondered how summer Pride festivals shine when the sun barely sets? Michael and I hit Helsinki and Reykjavik to see what makes each city’s celebration so uniquely, spectacularly Nordic—picture rainbow flags on the edge of the Arctic Circle, after-parties fueled by endless daylight, and communities where inclusion isn’t just a slogan but a way of life. Here’s the inside scoop on the events, the energy, and the joy of Pride above the 60th parallel!

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Travel, Gay Pride, Gay Travel, Europe
August 21, 2025
Top Things To Do In Helsinki, Finland: The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary
Travel, Europe
August 18, 2025
Top Things To Do In Helsinki, Finland: The Perfect 4 Day Itinerary
Travel, Europe
August 18, 2025

Discover the top things to do in Helsinki, Finland with our gay-friendly itinerary, cafés, saunas, Pride events, island escapes, and cultural gems await.

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Travel, Europe
August 18, 2025
Costa Rica’s Best-Kept Secrets: LGBTQ+ Adventures In La Fortuna And Jacó
Travel, Central America, Gay Beaches, Nightlife Gay Guide
August 18, 2025
Costa Rica’s Best-Kept Secrets: LGBTQ+ Adventures In La Fortuna And Jacó
Travel, Central America, Gay Beaches, Nightlife Gay Guide
August 18, 2025

Explore Costa Rica’s best-kept secrets in La Fortuna & Jacó with LGBTQ+ tips, hidden adventures, and pura vida vibes for your next unforgettable trip.

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Travel, Central America, Gay Beaches, Nightlife Gay Guide
August 18, 2025
Bangkok and Phuket Unlocked: Gay Marriage in Thailand and Epic Travel Guide
Travel, Bangkok, Thailand, Phuket Travel, Gay Beaches, Gay island
August 17, 2025
Bangkok and Phuket Unlocked: Gay Marriage in Thailand and Epic Travel Guide
Travel, Bangkok, Thailand, Phuket Travel, Gay Beaches, Gay island
August 17, 2025

Explore city buzz and island calm with our Bangkok & Phuket itinerary. Marvel at ancient temples, shop neon-lit markets, and unwind on soft beaches—Your Ultimate guide for LGBTQ+ travellers in Thailand

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Travel, Bangkok, Thailand, Phuket Travel, Gay Beaches, Gay island
August 17, 2025
Bangkok Nightlife Guide for Gay Travelers
Travel, Asia, Bangkok, Nightlife Gay Guide, Nightlife, Gay Bars
August 14, 2025
Bangkok Nightlife Guide for Gay Travelers
Travel, Asia, Bangkok, Nightlife Gay Guide, Nightlife, Gay Bars
August 14, 2025

Bangkok isn’t just another party city; it’s a place where gay travelers can truly belong, connect, and celebrate every shade of love well after the sun goes down. In this guide, I’m peeling back the curtain on Bangkok’s rainbow nightlife: from cozy queer-owned cafés perfect for swapping stories at sundown, to dazzling drag shows, rooftop bars humming with possibility, and wellness sanctuaries to recharge after wild nights out. 

Grab a cocktail, bring your curiosity, and let’s dive in—your most memorable Bangkok nights await.

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Travel, Asia, Bangkok, Nightlife Gay Guide, Nightlife, Gay Bars
August 14, 2025
Finding Gay Bars Around The World: A Global Nightlife Guide
Nightlife Gay Guide, Gay Bars, Travel
August 13, 2025
Finding Gay Bars Around The World: A Global Nightlife Guide
Nightlife Gay Guide, Gay Bars, Travel
August 13, 2025

Discover how to find the best gay bars worldwide, from hidden gems to iconic spots, with tips for safe, vibrant, and unforgettable LGBTQ+ nights out.

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Nightlife Gay Guide, Gay Bars, Travel
August 13, 2025
Best Districts to Stay in Tokyo for LGBTQ+ Travelers
japan, Travel
August 9, 2025
Best Districts to Stay in Tokyo for LGBTQ+ Travelers
japan, Travel
August 9, 2025

Tokyo isn’t just about the mega-districts you hear about in travel ads. It’s a constellation of diverse neighborhoods with their own distinct energetic vibe and surprises around every little corner. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with a partner, you’ll find an area scene that suits you for just what you’re looking for. Let me tell you about some great options to consider.

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japan, Travel
August 9, 2025
Europe’s Most Gay-Friendly Cities: Top Destinations for LGBTQ+ Travelers
Travel, Europe
August 8, 2025
Europe’s Most Gay-Friendly Cities: Top Destinations for LGBTQ+ Travelers
Travel, Europe
August 8, 2025

Discover 10 fun and safe LGBTQ+ hotspots across Europe in 2025. Party in Berlin, sip coffee in Lisbon, stroll LGBTQ+ friendly streets. Pack your bags now!

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Travel, Europe
August 8, 2025
Top 15 Gay Honeymoon Destinations for 2026: Romantic Getaways for LGBTQ+ Couples
Travel, Gay Honeymoon Destinations
August 4, 2025
Top 15 Gay Honeymoon Destinations for 2026: Romantic Getaways for LGBTQ+ Couples
Travel, Gay Honeymoon Destinations
August 4, 2025

Explore 15 hand-picked gay honeymoon spots on five continents, legal safety, top stays, real prices, zero side-eye guaranteed. Plan your dream trip now!


Read more →
Travel, Gay Honeymoon Destinations
August 4, 2025
Why is Helsinki the Happiest City in the World?
Europe, Travel
July 29, 2025
Why is Helsinki the Happiest City in the World?
Europe, Travel
July 29, 2025

The capital city of Finland doesn’t just flirt with joy, it fully embraces it in a its own weird and quirky way. While other cities might aim for a polished look, Helsinki takes a different route: real, natural, warm and welcoming. In Helsinki, they’ll tell you: “We’re not perfect, we’re happy.” And after spending a week here during Pride, exploring saunas on tiny archipelago islands, feasting on plenty of Finnish cuisine, and witnessing a design-forward city that leads with sustainability, I think I understand why it’s so happy here a little bit more.

Here’s a deep dive into what actually makes Helsinki one of the happiest cities on Earth.

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Europe, Travel
July 29, 2025
A Weekend Guide to Walla Walla: Washington’s Wine Country
North America, Travel
February 7, 2025
A Weekend Guide to Walla Walla: Washington’s Wine Country
North America, Travel
February 7, 2025

There’s something magical about Walla Walla. Maybe it’s the way the golden light spills over the rolling vineyards at sunset, or the way the town feels like it’s been plucked straight out of a storybook. Whatever it is, this little corner of Washington’s wine country has a way of wrapping you in its warmth and making you feel right at home.  

I recently spent a few days exploring Walla Walla, and let me tell you—it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave. From the cozy accommodations to the incredible food and wine, every moment felt like a celebration of the “good life”. If you’re planning a trip (and you absolutely should), here’s my personal guide to making the most of your time in this enchanting town.

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North America, Travel
February 7, 2025
Top 9 Solo Travel Destinations for Gay Men in 2026
Travel
February 17, 2024
Top 9 Solo Travel Destinations for Gay Men in 2026
Travel
February 17, 2024

Is there any better way to see the world than through your own eyes and yours alone? In a world that's becoming increasingly interconnected and accepting, solo travel has emerged as a liberating experience for many. For gay men seeking adventure, culture, and community, there are tons of destinations around the world that provide unforgettable experiences tailored to your specific interests. The problem? Figuring out where in the world to go and what you’ll enjoy the most!

From lively gay districts partying to the wee-hours of the morning, to sprawling landscapes with beautiful sights and people, here are some of the best places for gay men to travel to solo in 2024.

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Travel
February 17, 2024
3 Days in Sonoma: How to Spend the Weekend and Where to Stay
Travel, North America
February 17, 2024
3 Days in Sonoma: How to Spend the Weekend and Where to Stay
Travel, North America
February 17, 2024

As summer began to wind down and we witnessed the temperature drop, it was enough of a sign for my husband and I to seek a peaceful escape to California’s wine country. While Sonoma is sometimes overlooked from the nearby Napa Valley, we were not only curious to see what the other side of the hills may look like but we were also drawn by its distinct reputation as the perfect home-base to exploring California wine country.

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Travel, North America
February 17, 2024
Cruise Down the Douro River Valley with this Full Itinerary (Top Sights and Wineries)
Travel, Europe
January 3, 2024
Cruise Down the Douro River Valley with this Full Itinerary (Top Sights and Wineries)
Travel, Europe
January 3, 2024

Our river cruise on the Douro River spanned 6 days throughout the valley and reached as far as Salamanca, Spain. Understandably, I held the most excitement to see Salamanca again since I once spent a summer there studying Spanish. I haven’t been back to the region since 2012, so navigating down the Douro River felt like a homecoming of sorts.

Our Itinerary:

  • Exploring the Baixa district of Porto, Portugal

  • Touring Casa de Mateus via Cais da Régua

  • Visiting Salamanca via Cais de Barca de Alva

  • Exploring picturesque São João da Pesqueira

  • Régua, Pinhão, and Lamego

Read more →
Travel, Europe
January 3, 2024
8 Things to Do in Osaka, Japan for First-Time Visitors
Travel, Asia, Food
December 22, 2023
8 Things to Do in Osaka, Japan for First-Time Visitors
Travel, Asia, Food
December 22, 2023

As we drifted through Southern Japan’s countryside towards Osaka, I couldn’t help but get excited thinking about the street-food I’ve heard so much about. Pulling into Osaka station, I noticed our host, Eriko, ecstatically holding a handmade sign with prominent letters, “Welcome to Osaka!” Visiting Japan in 2017, we were already well acquainted with the incredible hospitality that’s ingrained in Japanese culture, but I couldn’t help but crack a grin as we were greeted with hugs and excitement to show us her beautiful city.

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Travel, Asia, Food
December 22, 2023
Top 10 Things to Do In Honolulu Hawaii
Travel, Beaches, North America
December 22, 2023
Top 10 Things to Do In Honolulu Hawaii
Travel, Beaches, North America
December 22, 2023

Visiting Honolulu is much more than visiting a big city. Before I stepped off the plane onto the island, I thought the tropical paradise would be limited to me experiencing just Waikiki, but I quickly learned that I had access to much, much more—I could see the entire island! What I didn’t know is that when people say they are going to visit Honolulu, they can easily get from place to place all around Oahu. From one side of the island to the other, it may only take only a couple hours drive.

This is my photoblog of my first trip to Honolulu — for more info on what to see in Hawaii, check out our guides!

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Travel, Beaches, North America
December 22, 2023
12 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen Denmark
Travel, Europe
December 21, 2023
12 Best Things to Do in Copenhagen Denmark
Travel, Europe
December 21, 2023

Few places have as special a place in my heart than Copenhagen, Denmark. It's the city where I tried smørrebrød for the first time, drank my entire bodyweight in beer, and got engaged. So, I may be a bit biased, but I do believe Copenhagen should be very close to the top of the list when thinking about making the trek to Europe.

This is my complete photo journal on my first visit to Copenhagen. For more on visiting Denmark, check out our guides!

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Travel, Europe
December 21, 2023
How to Spend a Weekend in Cedar Rapids Iowa: What to Do, Where to Eat, Where to Stay
Travel, North America, Food
June 15, 2023
How to Spend a Weekend in Cedar Rapids Iowa: What to Do, Where to Eat, Where to Stay
Travel, North America, Food
June 15, 2023

Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a hidden gem nestled in the breadbasket of the Midwest. The city boasts a rich cultural scene with numerous art galleries, museums, and theaters. The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of works by renowned American artist Grant Wood, including his iconic painting, "American Gothic." Additionally, the Paramount Theatre showcases a variety of live performances, ranging from Broadway shows to local productions, providing entertainment for all tastes.

Read more →
Travel, North America, Food
June 15, 2023
5 Reasons Why Key West is One of the Top Gay Travel Destinations in 2026
Beaches, Travel, North America
January 8, 2023
5 Reasons Why Key West is One of the Top Gay Travel Destinations in 2026
Beaches, Travel, North America
January 8, 2023

Key West, located at the southernmost point of the Florida Keys, is a vibrant and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. With its laid-back atmosphere, stunning beaches, and rich history, Key West has something to offer for everyone.

Catching a redeye flight from the west coast, the trip was long but totally worth it as we descended into the aquamarine paradise. The first thing we noticed driving through the historical district was the colorful and quintessentially Caribbean architecture. Tropical pastel colors of lime and rose mixed with wooden lacework patios and awnings that sat behind charming white picket fences adorned with palm trees and heaps of bougainvillea.  

Read more →
Beaches, Travel, North America
January 8, 2023
Where to Stay in Bermuda for First Time Visitors
Beaches, Travel, North America
January 3, 2023
Where to Stay in Bermuda for First Time Visitors
Beaches, Travel, North America
January 3, 2023

If it is your first time planning a trip to Bermuda and you are looking for the perfect place to stay, look no further. The Hamilton Princess & Beach Club is Fairmont’s luxury premier hotel in Bermuda, and it will make you want to never leave…

Read more →
Beaches, Travel, North America
January 3, 2023
8 Things You Must See in Edinburgh & the Scottish Highlands
Travel, Europe
January 3, 2023
8 Things You Must See in Edinburgh & the Scottish Highlands
Travel, Europe
January 3, 2023

A land of rolling hills, brisk air, and plenty of scotch. Though the weather may be a bit unpredictable, you are sure to have an enchanting visit in the land of the Scots.

We began our adventure in the capital city of Edinburgh. Arguably the historic center of Scotland the city boasts breathtaking architecture, a bustling food scene, a history of paranormal activity, and of course, the birthplace of the world’s most famous wizard. Edinburgh is an incredibly walkable city with many of its main attractions located in the central part of the city known as Old town.

Read more →
Travel, Europe
January 3, 2023
How to Spend a Weekend in Berkeley
Travel, North America, Food
August 16, 2022
How to Spend a Weekend in Berkeley
Travel, North America, Food
August 16, 2022

We got to get away for the weekend with our friends to Berkeley. Each time we come to Berkeley, we are continually reminded of why it’s an artist’s paradise. The city and surrounding communities are welcoming microcosms fit for families and lowkey getaways. The food and drinks are hard to beat anywhere else in the Golden State. This trip we focused on exploring local vendors and finding the best local eateries around.

Read more →
Travel, North America, Food
August 16, 2022
Top 7 Restaurants in Los Cabos & Cabo San Lucas
Food, Travel, North America, Central America
February 21, 2022
Top 7 Restaurants in Los Cabos & Cabo San Lucas
Food, Travel, North America, Central America
February 21, 2022

Flying to Cabo for the first time, we had no idea there would be such great food options. From delectable brunches, street tacos, and fine dining, Los Cabos and Cabos San Lucas have incredible restaurants to choose from. Here is our list of the top 7 recommended restaurants to try in Cabo. We are so excited to bring you this list of extraordinary bites and flavors. Our week spent in Cabo was made even better by our tour guides at OutBound Travel, a new LGBTQ+ travel company that specializes in transforming traditional trips into unique and exciting LGBTQ+ adventures. From the destinations to the entertainment, every part of the experience is custom designed by the OutBound experts. Truly, this experience provided a place where our entire group could be themselves and celebrate as one family. We cannot wait to get back to Cabo again, and we’ll be sure to return to the best restaurants around in Los Cabos.

Read more →
Food, Travel, North America, Central America
February 21, 2022
Bermuda Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
Travel, Beaches, North America
February 20, 2022
Bermuda Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
Travel, Beaches, North America
February 20, 2022

Honestly we never really considered making the trip out to Bermuda until recently, but we are so glad we made the spontaneous decision to go. The archipelago has more to offer than we could’ve ever imagined. We cannot believe it’s taken us this long to get to this gem in the middle of the Atlantic.

Bermuda is unexpected, underrated, and extraordinary. Once we had spent just 24 hours there, Bermuda already had our hearts! We were amazed at the crystal blue water and pink sand beaches scattered all over the island. We loved learning about the island's architecture, culture, and history. It was incredibly interesting to be in such a tropical place with a tradition of afternoon tea and pictures of Queen Elizabeth everywhere. We only wish we had more time to take it all in, but of course, we cannot wait to get back to Bermuda one day and again cheers with a Dark and Stormy in hand.

Conveniently located in the mid-Atlantic, Bermuda is less than a two-hour flight from most east coast gateways, Bermuda is perfect for getaways year-round.

Visiting Bermuda for the first time, the cost can be intimidating. As an isolated set of islets, Bermuda boasts itself as a luxury tourist destination. Where it asks for high dollars, it does not fall short of delivering a quality vacation you’ll never forget. This is a destination you’ll want to pull all the stops for, which is why we recommend planning your trip well in advance and opting to stay at a hotel or resort that will have everything you need to make it the trip of your dreams.

Read more →
Travel, Beaches, North America
February 20, 2022
How to Make a Dark and Stormy | Bermuda's Signature Cocktail Recipe
Food, Travel, North America
February 20, 2022
How to Make a Dark and Stormy | Bermuda's Signature Cocktail Recipe
Food, Travel, North America
February 20, 2022

What is a Dark and Stormy?

Simply put, a Dark and Stormy (otherwise known as Dark ‘N’ Stormy) is a cocktail served on the rocks in a highball glass with dark rum and ginger beer and garnished with a fresh slice of lime.

We first got tried the Dark and Stormy at its classic home—in Hamilton, Bermuda. Crisp turquoise waters surrounding, we checked into the Hamilton Princess to find the supplies to make a Dark and Stormy there waiting for us on the balcony. The humidity hit us like an ocean wave, but looking out to the paradise beyond was enough inspiration to take a seat in the sun and enjoy a taste of Bermuda’s most coveted beverage.

Read more →
Food, Travel, North America
February 20, 2022
A Weekend in Nashville | What to do, Where to Eat and Where to Stay
Food, Travel, North America
December 10, 2021
A Weekend in Nashville | What to do, Where to Eat and Where to Stay
Food, Travel, North America
December 10, 2021

Nashville is known for several things but most notably, Nashville is known for its country music scene and is the definition of what a music scene should offer. There are dive bars, open mic nights and honky tonks lined along Broadway - the main music strip in Nashville.

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Food, Travel, North America
December 10, 2021
Top 10 Best Restaurants in San Diego
Food, Travel, North America
October 27, 2021
Top 10 Best Restaurants in San Diego
Food, Travel, North America
October 27, 2021

If you have never been to San Diego, there are so many things to do and places to see and food to eat. You have to experience some of San Diego’s amazing culinary options and indulge yourself in the Global food scene that is offered. These are the top 10 restaurants in San Diego that you must try if you are visiting or if you live there.

Read more →
Food, Travel, North America
October 27, 2021
Juneau, Alaska Travel Guide | Best Things to Do & Where to Eat
Travel, North America
October 3, 2021
Juneau, Alaska Travel Guide | Best Things to Do & Where to Eat
Travel, North America
October 3, 2021

We never thought much about making the trek up to Juneau, Alaska, but when the opportunity presented itself and we felt a touch of spontaneity, we hopped on a short flight schedule from Portland, and we are so glad we did. Juneau Alaska is surrounded by beauty—mountains, rivers, ocean, and ice collide in a beautiful and wild way. Though Juneau is located on a peninsula, it feels very much like an island, as it’s only accessible by plane or boat. You can only drive about an hour in any one direction into the wilderness before you can’t drive any further. It is so isolated and yet so full of culture, great food, and spirit! Juneau is one of the most underrated places we’ve ever had the pleasure to visit.

There’s so much to do and see in the area, we wanted to create a short guide of some of our favorite things. For those planning to venture to Juneau, make sure to also hit some of the other great spots in South East Alaska, such as Haines, Sitka, and Skagway.

Read more →
Travel, North America
October 3, 2021

Hi, I’m Matt! I’m a travel journalist, writer, and photographer traveling the world to capture and tell the stories of LGBTQ+ people. I also run SideQuests Travel, hosting small-group LGBTQ+ trips around the world. Best known from Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, I’m breaking barriers by making gay travel safer, more accessible, and more fun around the world. My hope is to introduce you to some incredible gay-friendly and queer-owned restaurants, bars, clubs, accommodations, hotels, tour-guides, and destinations that will peek your travel-game and help you make some unforgettable memories. Thank you for being here! - Matthew Schueller

Matthew Schueller gay travel blogger barcelona spain

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Happy Mother’s Day to the mothers that love, support, and back their gay sons. 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️
Happy Mother’s Day to the mothers who defend their queer children.
Happy Mother’s Day to the mothers who open their arms to those wh
Brothers 👨🏻👨🏻💞
For the record, the gay agenda is just living. 💞 recovery from the last 2 days in DC at the first ever #TrendingUp conference — I met so many incredible movers and shakers who are killing it online fighting for LGBTQ+ & women’s right
A day to remember 🤍

Overwhelmed with this city, these people, and the beauty of this incredible planet we call home.

I cannot believe we saw all of this in just one day. 😳 #CapeTown’s a place where you can hike to the South Western-most poi
GenZ photo dump ⬆️ 

The first two are giving travel delusion 😂 (and the last)

Where in Africa would you want to go? We have the Africa bug and need travel buddies 🤩

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