If you want Rio without the crime or Hawaii without the price tag, you come to Florianópolis, Brazil. With its sandy beaches, tanned denizens, and thumping gay clubs, it's no surprise that this hidden gem is known as the "Ilha da Magia," or Magic Island. On top of that, it has a full-blown gay scene to rival Rio's and São Paulo's.
In February, Florianópolis -- or Floripa, for short -- becomes a stomping ground for Pop Gay, a pageant competition that ...
If you want Rio without the crime or Hawaii without the price tag, you come to Florianópolis, Brazil. With its sandy beaches, tanned denizens, and thumping gay clubs, it's no surprise that this hidden gem is known as the "Ilha da Magia," or Magic Island. On top of that, it has a full-blown gay scene to rival Rio's and São Paulo's.
In February, Florianópolis -- or Floripa, for short -- becomes a stomping ground for Pop Gay, a pageant competition that features the city's best drag queens. It's part of Floripa's Carnaval celebrations, which take over the city in a truly awe-inspiring way. But the fun doesn't stop during the off-season. This sub-tropical island also boasts several queer megaclubs that give Floripa's queer scene its own unique style and attitude.
Floripa offers more than sun and sex, however. When you're not partying the night away at Praia Mole, cruising amongst the dunes of Barra da Lagoa, or stripping down nude at the almost exclusively gay Praia Galheta, you can choose from any number of charming restaurants. Visit Santo Antonio for a beautiful sunset and traditional Portuguese fare, or stop by Jurerê for luxury shopping at Brazil prices. (The exchange rate will have you living like a queen.) Even Centro has its share of cultural attractions and classy culinary spots. However, many visitors like to stay in Lagoa for its chill vibes, boho-chic queer scene, proximity to the beach, and delicious seafood. And did we mention that Floripa is like Hawaii but without the price tag? You can surf, hike, sail, paddle board, dive, and climb at any of Floripa's 42 beaches -- and all without breaking the bank. You'll also be in one of the greenest, lushest, most brilliant spots on the planet: a rainforest-laden wonderland of toucans, macaques, lagoons, grottos, shipwrecks, and stunningly blue water.