Canada says, “I Do” celebrating ten years of Marriage Equality

article by Dean Nelson @GayWhistler

July 20th marks a decade of marriage equality in the Great White North. Canada has long been a leader in gender and sexual minority (GSM – LGBT) rights and with the recent decision by the Supreme Court of the United States to allow same-sex marriages (June 26) we look at some of the hot Gay and Lesbian romantic getaways. Perfect for weddings, honeymoons or just a romantic getaway.

Tofino, BC

ChrisBoar Gay Tofino Wedding — Melanie + Darilyn – Tofino, BC P:Chris Boar

Located on Canada’s West Coast on Vancouver Island is the charming village of Tofino. Popular with storm watchers, surfers, and foodies. This is the perfect LGBT destination if you are looking for something with surreal landscapes, endless romantic beach walks and exploring ancient old growth forests. The Wickaninnish Inn is the most popular place to pamper oneself.

Vancouver, BC

Vancouver Gay Wedding photo by David Buzzard — Levi + Benson – Jack Poole Plaza Convention Centre, Vancouver, BC P: David Buzzard

The emerald of Canada’s crown and getaway to the Pacific, Vancouver, is one of Canada’s most LGBT inclusive. The vibrancy and diversity of this city is unlike any other in Canada. Spectacular ocean front parks, jagged mountains to stunning gardens. You can have a mega wedding at the ocean front conference centre, an intimate garden wedding at Dr. Sun Yet Sun’s classical Chinese gardens, to a rooftop terrance with stunning views of the Coast Mountains and the Pacific ocean. The Loden Hotel has been a great corporate partner of the gay community and hosts a variety of LGBT fundraisers.

Whistler, BC

Gay Wedding at Whistler Mountain on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola — Peak 2 Peak Gondola, Whistler Mountain, BC P: David Buzzard

A stunning resort destination that is equally impressive in the summer as it is in the winter. Best known as the world class ski resort in the winter and golf and mountain biking in the summer. Whistler offers incredible culinary experiences, stunning backdrops and unique adventures.

“I Do” at the top of Whistler Mountain. Whistler welcomes LGBT snow enthusiasts every January for the annual Whistler Pride and Ski Festival.

GayWhistler Wedding Westin — Dodi + Shelley – Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler, BC P: David Buzzard

Sunshine Coast, BC

Located on the mainland of British Columbia just outside of Vancovuer is a hidden paradise with stunning windswept shorelines, majestic fjords, and dotted with quaint coastal communities. Great quirky waterfront stores, cafes and resorts make this romantic getaway extraordinary. Travel Gay Canada recommends Painted Boat resort for your LGBT get away.

Okanagan Wine Country, BC

Sparkling Hill Resort, Vernon , BC — Sparkling Hill Resort – Vernon, BC

For those that are looking for more of a “Napa” Experience look no further than the Okanagan region of British Columbia. Hundreds of estate and boutique wineries dot the region with beautiful rolling hills and fruit orchards. You will also find award winning golf resorts, beautiful fresh water lakes and beaches and mountain biking trails. Perched on a cliff overlooking the beautiful Okanagan Lake is the award winning luxury spa and wellness resort of Sparkling Hill Resort. Here you can experience KurSpa all within the glittering realm of Swarovski Crystal architecture.

Lake Louise, Alberta

Natural beauty doesn’t get more spectacular than this icon of the Canadian Rockies. If gazing out from the Fairmont hotel onto the lake’s calm turquoise waters lapping against the mountains doesn’t put you in the mood, then your pulse may need a check.

Lake Louise has been named one of the world’s top honeymoon destinations because it is secluded, pristine, cozy and so breathtaking you’ll just want to hug someone to make sure you’re still on earth. Banff National Park’s jewel is romantic, no matter what time of year you go there, although spring and fall are ideal, to avoid the summer bus crowds and the winter ski visitors.

Niagara, Ontario

Niagara most famous for Niagara Falls also has many hidden treasures including wineries and charming country inns and incredible live performing arts such as the Shaw Festival Theatre. Travel Gay Canada recommends taking Niagara Helicopter where they will fly you over the Niagara Falls for a bird’s eye view and land at one of the local vineyards for your reception! Pellar Estate, Truis, or Chateau des Charmes are the most popular.

Montreal, Quebec

adam-and-steve Montreal Gay Wedding — Adam & Steve – Montreal, QC P: An English Rose

Quebec’s biggest city is the place to heat things up, with many late-night rendez-vous options, intimate restaurants and loads of sexy, fun-filled possibilities. If all you want is a hotel room in a wonderful setting, you can’t go wrong with properties like Le Place d’Armes, Le Petit Hotel and Gouverneur Hotel.

Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

cape breton gay wedding — Wendy + Leigh – Cape Breton, NS P: David Macvicar

Visiting Cape Breton takes relaxation to new levels, which means you have nothing but time to devote to the one you love the most. Stunning landscapes, fresh seafood, simple Atlantic village vibe, friendly Maritimes charm and music filling the air – fiddle music to be precise. Cape Breton has the most fiddle players per capita in the world so you will have plenty of opportunity to grab your partner, kick up your heals as you try your hand at Cape Breton step or square dancing.