Washington, D.C.

The historic heart is Dupont Circle, the area around Connecticut Avenue and P Street NW. It has been the center of gay and lesbian life since the 1970s, at first mainly because of its affordable brownstones and central location. In recent years much of the scene has moved to neighboring Logan Circle and U Street. Also worth a look are the up-and-coming Shaw neighborhood, with its African American history, and the restaurants around 14th Street.

A classic meeting place is JR's Bar on 17th Street, whose outdoor patio is still busy today. Things get younger and a bit louder in Logan Circle and on U Street, for example at Trade and Uproar. The highlight of the year is Capital Pride in June, one of the most politically charged Pride events in the US. The parade moves through the streets in the shadow of the Capitol and the Supreme Court, and federal employees, members of Congress and diplomats from queer-friendly nations often march along.

The most pleasant times to visit are the mild spring from April to June and the golden fall between September and October. In spring the famous cherry blossoms turn the Tidal Basin into a sea of pink and draw visitors from around the world. High summer is often hot and humid, and winter tends to be cool. If you want to experience Capital Pride, plan your visit for June.

From New York, the flight takes about an hour and a half, and the train about three hours. Flights from London take about eight and a half hours and land at Washington Dulles or at Reagan National Airport, which is close to the city. From Reagan National the Metro runs straight into the center; from Dulles you continue on the Metro's Silver Line or by shuttle bus. In the city, the Metro and buses get you around well, and many sights and scene neighborhoods are within walking distance anyway. For a city stay you will rarely need a rental car.

In the District of Columbia, same-sex marriage and comprehensive protection against discrimination are written into law. Dupont Circle, Logan Circle and U Street are known as open and queer-friendly. As in any big city, it is wise to stay aware of your surroundings at night and not to carry valuables openly. US citizens are traveling domestically; UK citizens need no visa for stays of up to 90 days but must have an approved ESTA before they fly, so check the current rules before you travel.