Gay & Lesbian Travel: Rio de Janeiro

Thousands of gays and lesbians live in Rio de Janeiro, a city of more than 10 million residents, and one of the most celebrated gay vacation destinations in the world.

Huge numbers turn out for Gay Pride in early July, and the city's festive Carnival celebration also sees plenty of "family" pour into the city. But Rio is a fascinating, exciting place to visit year-round, possessing a splendid natural setting, a tropical climate (with highs in the mid-80s in summer and mid-70s in winter), and an extremely welcoming personality.