The unique geography of Chile allows visitors to explore volcanoes, ski or snowboard in the Andes, lounge on picturesque beaches and enjoy a night out in the gay district of Santiago all in one day. In short, Chile offers is a great place for gay travel. Rich in varied landscapes and important landmarks, visitors to Chile can experience the statues of Easter Island, arid deserts, exceptional architecture and churches, the Mirador de Chepu Penguin Colony, the world-famous Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia and the Elqui Valley in La Serena, which teems with legends of extraterrestrial activities, all in one trip.

With many cultural, historic and natural attractions to choose from, Chile offers a variety of options for gay vacations, which include snowboarding or ski strips to world-renowned Andes resorts, touring Chiles wine country, pilgrimages intent on experiencing the countrys deep tradition of Catholicism and exploring churches, family vacations on the beaches of Vina del Mar, sightseeing adventures to take in the breathtaking landscapes of Patagonia and learn of ancient island civilizations, or urban excursions centered on experiencing the cosmopolitan culture and nightlife in Santiago.

As a country that has been deeply influenced by both the Catholic Church and the military, Chile would certainly not be described as a bastion of gay rights; however, as a whole, the country is slowly becoming more progressive and is beginning to become more accepting of the LGBT community. Gay life in Chile centers largely around Santiago, which is where singles, couples and families on a gay vacation will find the most welcoming atmosphere and the highest concentration of gay-friendly and gay-owned establishments. Santiagos gay community is primarily found in the Barrio Bellavista, which is a trendy neighborhood with charming shops, cafs and eateries and is also home to most of Santiagos bathhouses, gay bars and gay clubs. Although it is not likely that you will see rainbow flags hanging for rooftops or same-sex couples walking through the streets hand in hand, it is quite common to find gay magazines openly displayed in newsstands and couples sipping coffee at cosmopolitan sidewalk cafs.

A night on the town in Bellavista often begins around 9 or 10pm with dinner at a gay-owned restaurant, such as Capricho, followed by drinks or dancing at one of several gay bars or gay clubs, which can easily go into the early morning hours. Gay travelers have a selection of gay clubs to choose from that range from the typical fare you would find in most urban areas to more risqu options complete with live sex shows. Santiago also has several bathhouses for those who are so inclined, including one slightly upscale option with a clientele made up primarily of professionals. Do keep in mind that playing safe is as important in Chile as it is in the United States.

Santiagos central location in this long, narrow country makes it an ideal choice as a home base for exploring all that Chile has to offer. Because it is also the most welcoming location for gay vacations, Santiago is a popular choice for gay vacations. When planning a gay vacation to Chile, working with a travel agency well-versed in gay travel in this region will assist you in designing a memorable vacation that is safe, fun-filled and meets your travel needs whether you are traveling as a group of single friends, a couple or a family.

Author Howie Holben created this article about gay travel to Chile. He operates Spirit Journeys, a gay holidays company that offers exceptional gay spiritual retreats and travel opportunities. There is more info on Howie and spiritual gay retreats at www.SpiritJourneys.com.