This also includes sexual orientation of the employees. Besides, there are several countries in the world that have adopted similar policies. Here, we’ll take a look at some of the best countries that are LGBTQ friendly:

1. Portugal

This country began allowing same-sex marriages in the year 2010. If your spouse is a permanent resident of the country, you can get a marriage visa of two years. About 85 percent of Portugal’s residents accept homosexuals as their neighbors. More than half of the homosexual population agrees that the country’s cities are excellent for living.

The most favorable cities among them for the LGBTQ people are Lisbon and Porto. In Lisbon, some of the best spots for the queer individuals are Bairro Alto, Principe Real, and Arroios. These areas are also home to the most LGBTQ-friendly hotels, bars, and homes.

2. Spain

Spain is among the safest countries for the LGBTQ individuals in the world. It is also one of the nations that are the most culturally liberal. The country has seen a lot of changes in the past few years. In fact, Spain had allowed same-sex activities in the 19th century. However, they were forbidden in the mid-20th century. In 1979, the law prohibiting such activities was reversed.

Same-sex marriages and adoption became legal in the country in 2005. Around 84 percent of Spain’s population supports same-sex marriages. Among the most LGBTQ-friendly cities in the country are Madrid and Barcelona. You’ll come across many bars, clubs, hotels and other establishments here that are queer-friendly.

3. Norway

Same-sex marriages became legal in Norway in the year 2009. The country also allows members of the queer community to enroll in the military. Today, Norway is one of the most LGBTQ-friendly countries in the world. It is also among the countries that include sexual orientation in its anti-discrimination law.

Since 2009, same-sex couples have been able to adopt children. Artificial insemination is also available in Norway for the lesbian couples. If you’re looking for some LGBTQ-friendly hotels, bars, and events, head to Oslo, Trondheim, and Bergen.

4. Finland

A country with one of the most advanced laws for the LGBTQ community, Finland is yet another queer-friendly destination. Same-sex marriages and adoptions were approved in 2014 by the Finnish government. Lesbian couples were granted access to IVF in 2007.

About 87 percent of Finland’s residents said that they don’t have any issues with queer neighbors. Among the major hotspots for the LGBTQ community in the country is Helsinki.

5. Iceland

Since 2006, this country has been quite progressive with regards to the rights of LGBTQ individuals. Same-sex marriages became legal in Iceland from 1996. Discrimination with regards to housing and employment are not based on gender identity or sexual orientation. You’ll also find several attractions for the queer community in Iceland.

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The city provides the most accepting environment for the queer individuals. Louisville welcomes those from the community looking to visit Kentucky or move to the state.

High on Municipal Equality Index (MEI)

Louisville scored high on Municipal Equality Index in the Human Rights Campaign of 2017. It was the first and only city in Kentucky to earn this perfect score. The Municipal Equality Index or MEI examines how inclusive are the city’s municipal laws of queer individuals.

It also examines the inclusiveness of the city’s policies and services with regards to its LGBTQ residents. The authorities maintain a commendable support system for the LGBTQ community in the city. They also ensure that the city embraces diversity and maintains its inclusive environment.

Queer-friendly neighborhoods

There are several LGBTQ-friendly neighborhoods in Louisville. They include Smoketown, Old Louisville, Clifton, and Germantown. Old Louisville is located a short distance away from the downtown. It is one of the most diverse neighborhoods in the city. Residents enjoy their relaxing picnics in its Central Park. The neighborhood also hosts concerts and is popular for its summer tradition of free theater.

The free theater is hosted in Central Park during the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival. The Smoketown neighborhood also has a fantastic environment for queer individuals. This is made possible with its many establishments that are owned by members of the LGBTQ community.

One would come across the city’s only bar while getting around in the Germantown neighborhood. Clifton is popular for its diversity and draws the artsy people with its locally-owned art studios and boutique shops.

Two major festivals

Louisville hosts two well-attended festivals that gives queer individuals the chance to have loads of fun. The locals make the entire city colorful in June when they put on their rainbow-covered clothes. This is the time when the Kentuckiana Pride is celebrated in this part of the world.

Festival-goers can have a wonderful time attending concerts and joining the annual parade. The LGBTQ community comes together once again in September with fun and fanfare for the Louisville Pride Festival. One can enjoy a day filled with art, music, drag performances, dancing, and other exciting activities.

An array of LGBTQ entertainment

Members of the queer community would definitely feel at home while in Louisville. This is because of its fabulous offerings in LGBTQ-friendly venues. It has a gay theater company that comes up with great performances throughout the year. Besides its two major pride festivals, the city also hosts an annual LGBT film festival. This event celebrates the queer community through narrative and documentary films.

A large population of LGBTQ people

According to the findings of a survey done in 2015, Louisville has a large queer population. The city was at number 11 in the list of metropolitan areas with the highest number of LGBTQ residents. Those wanting to move to the city would certainly have access to a sizable community that’s highly inclusive. Louisville’s residents not only embrace but also value diversity along with equality and acceptance of all individuals.

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