It might seem strange to equate Israel, the home of the Holy Land and some of the most devout religious groups in the world, with a vibrant and hospitable environment for gays to enjoy. That is, however, the reality. Israel is home to many of the most historical and culturally rich cities and towns in the world, each of which have grown increasingly tolerant of the gay scene in recent decades. Beginning in Tel Aviv, gays will find this city to be a popular and up and coming gay destination for travelers throughout the region and beyond. The city has sunny beaches to enjoy by day, and parties and gay cruising areas to visit by night. For the cultural tourist, there are plenty of museum and ancient archaeological sites to explore all over the country. The weather is fantastic year round, gays from all over the world regularly visit the country, so there is plenty for everyone to take part in and enjoy. Major cities that are known to be most accommodating to the gay scene are Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and Haifa.
Stay updated with gay events in Israel
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Gay rights in Israel - Visit countries that support the gay community
Same-sex sexual activity legal |
Yes |
Equal age of consent |
Yes |
Anti-discrimination laws in employment |
Yes |
Anti-discrimination laws in the provision of goods and services |
Yes |
Anti-discrimination laws in all other areas |
Yes |
Same-sex marriage |
No |
Recognition of same-sex couples |
Yes |
Stepchild adoption by same-sex couples |
Yes |
Joint adoption by same-sex couples |
Yes |
Gays, lesbians and bisexuals allowed to serve in the military |
Yes |
Transgender allowed to serve in the military |
Yes |
Right to change legal gender |
Yes |
Commercial surrogacy for gay male couples |
Yes |
- If you're a gay traveler planning to visit Israel here are some recommendations and tips to make the most of your trip;
1. Explore Tel Aviv; Known as the "Gay Capital of the Middle East " Tel Aviv offers a lgbtq+Q+ scene. You'll find plenty of bars, clubs and events to enjoy. Don't forget to join the Pride Parade in June which attracts participants, from over the world.
2. Experience the Nightlife; Tel Avivs Rothschild Boulevard, Florentin and Dizengoff Street are home to gay venues. Consider checking out Shpagat for a laid back bar experience or Apolo for a dance club night.
3. Enjoy the Beaches; Hilton Beach in Tel Aviv is particularly popular among the lgbtq+Q+ community. It's a place to relax, socialize and soak up the Mediterranean sun.
4. Discover Jerusalems lgbtq+Q+ Scene; While not as prominent as Tel Avivs scene Jerusalem does have a growing community with some establishments worth visiting. Video Pub and Mikveh Bar cater specifically to lgbtq+Q+ individuals.
5. Stay at Accommodations; Many hotels across Israel are welcoming to lgbtq+Q+ guests. There are also accommodations that specifically cater to this community. Consider options like Rothschild 22 or Vera in Tel Aviv or The Arthur Hotel, in Jerusalem.
6. Enjoy your trip. Immerse yourself in Israels inclusive atmosphere!Here are some suggestions, for immersing yourself in the lgbtq+Q+ community while visiting Israel;
7. Utilize lgbtq+Q+ apps and resources; Connect with the lgbtq+Q+ community using popular apps like Grindr, Scruff and Atraf. In addition websites like Gay Tel Aviv Guide can provide you with the information on events and venues.
8. Explore lgbtq+Q+ film festivals; Both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem host lgbtq+Q+ film festivals. TLVFest takes place in Tel Aviv during June while the Jerusalem Film Festival usually occurs in July.
9. Dive into lgbtq+Q+ history in Israel; The Aguda, Israels lgbtq+Q+ Task Force, operates a community center in Tel Aviv that offers resources and educational materials on lgbtq+Q+ history and culture within Israel.
10. Visit Eilat; This charming Red Sea resort town is renowned for its beaches and coral reefs. Although Eilat has a lgbtq+Q+ scene there are occasional gay parties and events to enjoy.
11. Discover inclusive religious spaces; The Jerusalem Open House for Pride and Tolerance provides an environment for those in exploring Jewish religious practices from an lgbtq+Q+ inclusive perspective.
12. Consider joining an lgbtq+Q+ friendly group tour; Companies such as Outstanding Travel and Gayway offer group tours specifically tailored to meet the needs of lgbtq+Q+ travelers across destinations, throughout Israel.
13. Connect with organizations; Reach out to lgbtq+Q+ groups, like the Aguda or Jerusalem Open House to engage with activists in your area and stay updated on the news and issues impacting the lgbtq+Q+ community in Israel.
14. Immerse yourself in Gay Pride Week; Plan your visit around Tel Avivs Gay Pride Week, which features a variety of events, parties and cultural activities leading up to the Pride Parade.
15. Indulge in delights; Discover lgbtq+Q+ friendly eateries scattered across Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Some top recommendations include M25 located within Tel Avivs Carmel Market well as Café Kadosh nestled within Jerusalem.
16. Explore the thriving arts scene; Tel Aviv is renowned for its flourishing arts scene, boasting galleries, museums and captivating street art. Don't miss out on visiting attractions like the Eretz Israel Museum or the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. For an experience consider joining a street art tour in Florentin—a neighborhood, within the city.
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