The Next Gay Mecca

by John Polly, Special to 365Gay

São Paulo, Brazil’s biggest city, may the business-like older sibling to Rio’s tanned and tarty beachgoing heartthrob, but don’t let its imposing, skyscraper-jammed cityscape fool you. It’s not all work in this surprisingly stylish, sassy South American super-city. A burgeoning style mecca is growing that’s full of boutique hotels, swank restaurants, luxe lounges, artsy fun and truly friendly locals.

Yep, they still don’t get too many tourists here so chances are the attractive Paulistas will be rather happy to see you. And if you come for Gay Pride (the parade drew nearly 3 million participants last June, making it the world’s biggest) there’ll be no shortage of Brazilians along the Avenida Paulista as part of your welcome wagon.

Still, São Paulo can be overwhelming. Traffic can get downright snarly during rush hours (Local execs navigate the city by helipcopter. Really.) and you do have to be mindful of your personal belongings (don’t look too touristy) in dodgy areas. But more and more the city is full of great shopping in the leafy and hip Jardins ’hood (hit the Rue Oscar Freire with your credit card in hand), abuzz with a bustling spirit, and a showplace of contemporary and fun retro design (think 60s-70s urban chic). And after dark, you can mix it up at world-class uber-clubs or kitschy drag-fests.

And do be prepared. Even if São Paulo doesn’t boast the sexy, balmy beach breezes of Rio, there are still no shortage of those classically attractive Brazilians to charm you.

Travel Tip #1: Summer Down South
While you might think it’s going to be winter down in Brazil come May-September, that’s actually the best time to visit. The arts season in São Paulo will be in full swing, and the city will be thriving. And considering their...

Travel Tip #2: Gay Pride = Gigante!!!
With 3.5 million folks turning out for São Paulo’s Gay Pride Parade, it’s the world’s largest. (Who knew?) Come and experience the throngs. This year, it’s the weekend of May 23-25, with the parade happening on Sunday, May 25th.

Nightlife: Sao Paulo
The 411 on São Paulo's after-dark options.

Clube A Loca, Rua Frei Caneca 916, Paulista Jardins, São Paulo | P: 55-11-3159-8889
A Loca is a bit of a mix of everything. Cute hipsters, muscle daddies, glam (and not-so-glam) trannies and drag queens—who turn out some loopy shows onstage.

Cantho, Largo do Arouche 32, Centro, São Paulo | P: 55-11-3723-6623
A popular weekend dance-a-teria cranking fun tunes from the 70s, 80s and 90s and beyond. Kind of cruisy, kind of kitschy.