10 gay honeymoon hotspots

(CNN) –

Gay couples can now legally marry in 18 countries — a statistic that increasingly raises an important question: Where’s the best spot for a same-sex honeymoon?

More and more destinations are now catering to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) travelers.

John Tanzella, chief executive of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association, says it’s an encouraging trend, but he worries there’s a risk of gay vacationers being targeted as a “niche.”

“When you’re planning that dream trip it’s still important to work with travel professionals who understand the needs of gay travelers as individuals,” he adds.

Among travel organizations that seem to be getting the message is the Association of British Travel Agents, which is the latest to compile a list of destinations offering same-sex honeymooners a friendly atmosphere and catering to a broad range of tastes.

Here’s its 10.

Cape Town, South Africa

The dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain rises above this gorgeous city bathed in almost year-round sunshine.

It’s a great place to relax for a couple of days, then travel out to the numerous wineries in the lush green countryside close to the city.

Where else can you see penguins sunning themselves on a beach?

Cape Town is considered the most gay-friendly city in Africa and attracts LGBT people from across the continent, adding to an interesting local cultural mix.

The gay village, with its range of clubs, bars, bathhouses, cafes and guesthouses is in De Waterkant.

Honeymoon hotspot: The lively Cafe Manhattan (74 Waterkant St., Cape Town; +27 21 421 6666).

Lesbos and Mykonos, Greece

We get the word “lesbian” from the island that was home to Sappho, who wrote erotic poetry to other women in the 6th century B.C.

It’s now a popular destination for modern-day Sapphists.

The island’s main town, Mytilini is charming old world Greek, with winding streets and quiet churches.

Mykonos has a vibrant gay scene for men and women, with lots of clubs and hotels.

Honeymoon hotspot: Many gay travelers hang out on Super Paradise and Elia beaches, which can get noisy at night — and somewhat naked during the day.

Miami and the Florida Keys

Miami’s Caribbean climate sets it apart from the rest of the United States.

The city also has some of America’s most interesting architecture, plus world-class art galleries and classical music performances.

A day in Little Havana, the center of the not-so-little Cuban community, can feel like a visit to another country.

Couples can time their trip to coincide with one of three of the planet’s biggest gay events.

There’s the White Party in November, the Winter Party in March and Aqua Girl Weekend in May.