Gay-Friendly Saba Island in the Caribbean

Recently, an article from the Miami Herald put the spotlight on a small island in the Caribbean highlighting its friendliness-and in particular-its gay-friendliness. The small island of Saba is part of the Netherland Antilles which is known to be more "friendly." In addition to being gay friendly, the island is safe-virtually crime free. If you are looking to escape the party atmosphere and enjoy the natural wonders of the Caribbean, then this is the island for you. It is stunningly beautiful with its lush rainforest and steep volcanic rocks.

What to Do

The island appeals to nature lovers and adventurers. Locals refer it to the island as the Unspoiled Queen. Perhaps her most prized attraction is the marine park surrounding the island which is a virtual paradise for scuba divers and snorkelers. If you aren't a diver, you can choose to snorkel or get your certification on the island. There are several gay-friendly dive operators on the island including Sea Saba (click here to visit their site). The gay tour company, Alyson Adventures, offers a dive package including up to 11 dives plus accommodations and some meals. Click here to see details.

In addition to diving and snorkeling, there are other ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the island. One of the more popular ways is to hike to the top of Mt. Scenery and enjoy the spectacular view from the highest point on the island. Guided hikes are offered through the Saba Trail Shop. Or you can take a taxi tour. Local taxi drivers have a wealth information and stories to share and will tailor the tour to your interests.

Where to Stay

With a generally gay-friendly local community, you are unlikely to have problems with lodging. There are places which promote themselves as gay friendly such as Juliana's Hotel (http://www.julianas-hotel.com/index.htm) and the Queen's Gardens (http://www.queensaba.com/about_the_island).

How to Get There

Saba island is only a 90-minute ferry ride from the nearby St. Maarten. There are daily flights to St. Maarten from North America, South America and Europe.

Sources:
Miami Herald: Tiny island offers big welcome to gay travelers. http://www.miamiherald.com/living/travel/story/1023362.html> Accessed on October 10, 2009.
Travel Agent Central. < http://www.travelagentcentral.com/caribbean/saba-tiny-island-lot-offer> Accessed on October 10, 2009.
GayDive.Com: A Gay and Lesbian Scuba Diver's Guide to the Caribbean. < http://www.gay-dive.com/caribbean.htm> Accessed on October 10, 2009.
Sea Saba: Not Diving Today? < http://www.seasaba.com/MainPages/Non-DivingActivities.htm> Accessed on October 10, 2009.