In the 1920s and 30s, Germany´s capital was a major destination for homo-inclined visitors, as one of the world's first cities to become socially accepting of gays and lesbians. Several LGBTQ social movements and institutions were founded here, including the Institute Of Sexology and the Scientific-Humanitarian Committee, which campaigned for the equal rights of gay people in Germany in the early 20th century. Tragically, of course, all that came to an end with.the rise of the Nazis, but after the war, Berlin resumed its tolerant ways, and in the 1950s became one of the first cities in Europe to open public gay bars, and the city’s popularity among artists and writers fostered a liberated approach to sexuality, producing some of the first LGBTQ media in popular culture.

These days it´s is home to more than 170 gay bars and numerous monuments in the memory of queer  activists around the city. The nightlife in Berlin is famously popular due to its thriving music scene, and many gay bars and drag nights alike can be found within easy walking distance. Plus in late June through much of July, Christopher Street Day (this year beginning July 22, the culmination of Pride month starting June 28) is one of the world's largest gay pride parades in the world, featuring brightly coloured floats, music, and outrageous costumes.

This fun-loving city - and also one of the world's safest - is a friendly and vibrant destination for rainbow travellers. The premier gay neighbourhood is Schöneberg, a thriving community of gay clubs and bars (such as 24-year-old Prinzknecht considered one of Berlin's best gay pubs), and the 38-year-old Schwules (Gay) Museum. others include Prenzlauer .Berg, Friedrichshain, and Kreuzberg/Neuköln.

Read more in Tripatini contributor Alex Belsey´s post A Pride Month Special: 3 of Europe´s Most LGBTQ-Welcoming Cities.

AndreyPopov