Though the culture of the country is typically conservative, Mexico is a tolerant, welcoming place to visit. There are anti-discrimination and gay rights laws throughout the country, and large local gay scenes in the major cities. If you are looking for gay friendly environment, then there are many places in Mexico to accommodate you.

Mexico City is the largest city in the world and filled with culture and history. There are more than one hundred and fifty museums in this city alone. Sites to see include colonial mansions and the third largest pyramid in the world. There is a variety of lodging to appeal to many different tastes. You can find anything from an affordable Bed and Breakfast to high end luxury hotels.

The city was one of this first in Mexico to legalize same sex marriage. It has a large gay community, the center of which is called La Zona Rosa (The Pink Zone). It is named after the color of the cobblestones. The neighborhood is also packed with gay friendly dance clubs, but the party starts early. Many of the locals ride public transportation, which shuts down at eleven pm, so the clubs may be filled to capacity a little earlier than you might expect.

Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular spots on the west coast. This is a quaint town that has developed over the years to provide modern convenience with ATMs and internet cafes. Take advantage of tours to the hot springs or take an excursion into the jungle with a river hike.

This is one of the best cities for the gay traveler. There are several gay beaches to choose from, but if you are in the Playa Los Muertos at the right season, you might be able to catch sightings of whales or a school of dolphins. At night, you can take in a drag show or play some gay bingo.

Cancun is not just a Spring Break destination. This is the place for anyone who wants a beach vacation with the right price tag. This island was made for tourism, and the beaches are beautiful. Head to downtown Cancun to get away from the tourist traps and find local shopping and restaurants.

While it has a huge reputation as a Spring Break destination, it is also becoming a favorite for those looking for gay friendly environments. The Cancun International Gay Festival is held in May and in November there is the Cancun/Rivera Maya Gay Fall Festival. The number of gay bars is always increasing, and the beach is in the south of the hotel district.

The beautiful people and amazing weather are what people go to Mexico for. There are many more cities to entertain and welcome you, but these are a few of the favorites for gay tours to Mexico.

Howie Holben gay vacations to Mexico advice. He is the caretaker of Spirit Journeys, a gay tours enterprise. Spirit Journeys proposes spiritual gay vacations all over the world.