The pacific has long been a destination that has been hard for gay travel. Due to the conservative nature of most of the islands and high religious influences gay and lesbian travellers have not always been welcomed with open arms. However this is changing due to more private resorts opening and generally more consumer demand.
The cruise ship option is often a good choice for the gay traveller. Specific gay and lesbian cruises have been offered by the cruise industry for a number of years. The cruise ships run the gamut from low budget to full on luxury. The cruise market was one of the first travel markets to cotton on the there was money to be made catering to the needs of the gay and lesbian clients. These are still a great way to island hop in the South Pacific.
The island of Vanuatu has become a more welcoming gay destination over the last five years. The opening of a number of adult only resorts welcoming same sex couples has been a boost. There is also a strong market in offering devotion ceremonies for gay couples. These are not legally binding but can be a romantic vacation experience.
Tahiti has until recently been a low key player in the gay travel market. However in May 2009 Tahiti held it’s first rainbow party as part of a campaign to attract more gay tourists to the island recognising the economic benefits.
Of the remainder of the pacific islands, Samoa is probably the most gay friendly. While much of the local culture is still quite traditional, the attitude to homosexuality is much more relaxed than other islands. The transgender fa’afafine tradition is a normal part of Samoan life.
Visiting the pacific islands as a gay traveler can be a wonderful experience.