7 Gay Wonders of the World: Luxury Edition

Go big or go home. Our third annual "bucket list" travel compilation pulls out all the stops. From picturesque properties and exclusive experiences to LGBT happenings that will connect you with our global community, EDGE encourages you to live your dream and push your boundaries - in high style, of course.

LONDON AND BEYOND
We love London, and it isn't just because Ben is big. From Gothicly gorgeous Westminster Abbey to the masterful musicals of the West End, the U.K.'s glorious capital offers culture, history and more, including those spiffy Queen's guardsmen in their delightfully erect furry hats.

The coming year is a great time to visit England: the value of the pound has plummeted since Brexit, making luxury in London more affordable than ever. Be sure to leave a few days to hit up Manchester to the north. The industrial city has been reborn as a gleaming, vibrant showstopper.

New Orleans
There's a reason why it's called The Big Easy. New Orleans possesses a scrappy, comeback-kid attitude that we could all us a bit of these days. The French Quarter's timeless debauchery is worth dipping your toe in, but venture into other neighborhoods to discover hidden gems that are sweeter than a brandy milk punch on a hot summer's day.

Riviera Nayarit
Mexico's western coast plays host to some of the most luxurious resorts in the western hemisphere. Melt away the winter amid sandy beaches, crystal waters, and plentiful cocktails. A short drive from bustling Puerto Vallarta, five-star treatment beckons, whether you're looking for established international brands or boutique eco-lodges.

Vienna
Austria's capital has long been an epicenter of gay opulence, dating back to Prince Eugene of Savoy, who commissioned both Belvedere Palace and the Winter Palace as playgrounds for his same-sex trysts. Civil partnerships were introduced in 2010, while those visiting will discover countless caf�s, coffeehouses and culture catering to the LGBT community.

Hawaii
While we love Hawaii for its pristine beaches and dreamy landscapes, the state has also made headway in its efforts for the LGBT community. Act 135 ensures that transgender people in Hawaii have equal access to health services, while the recently passed CARE Act will strengthen resources for LGBT seniors and their families of choice in relation to healthcare.

For those headed to Hawaii to scope out early retirement or simply unplug, plan on plenty of time, multiple islands, and a reputable authority like luxury tour operator Island Destinations to help plan a bespoke itinerary.

Taipei
One of the most LGBT-friendly locales in Asia, Taiwan could pass a bill legalizing same-sex marriage within months, thanks to the progressive agenda of the country's first female head of state. Taipei, the ultra-glamorous and utterly seductive capital of Taiwan, boasts the largest Pride on the continent, which takes over the city the last Saturday in October.

Belmond
Since its original acquisition of Hotel Cipriani in Venice nearly 40 years ago, Belmond has become a benchmark for luxury across land and sea. With a current portfolio of 47 hotel, rail and river cruise experiences, a Belmond vacation is the ultimate bucket-list getaway, particularly with its newest offerings: two luxury barges set to embark in Champagne and Alsace in summer 2017.

Additional contributions by Jill Gleeson.