Ecuador has been for many years one of the world’s most amazing destinations for travelers from all over the globe. It’s beauty, history, culture and the Galapagos Islands have made Ecuador one of the top destinations on the planet. However, it remains unknown or in the back burner for most gay men, who feel safer with more traditional travel choices like gay cruises or events in different cities of the United States and Europe.
Juan Maldonado, a dual-citizen of USA and Ecuador, and a proud resident of Wilton Manors (Florida’s “gay Mecca”) is determined to change this by promoting his home country as a fabulous destination for gay travelers that is both safe and uncomplicated.
Even though most of Latin America is traditionally conservative, Ecuador is 1 of only 5 countries in the World whose constitution provides citizens equal rights regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity since 1998. Ecuador is also one of the few countries in the world to have banned conversion therapy. Under the 2016 Gender Identity Law, transgender people may change their legal gender solely based on self-determination, without undergoing surgery. As of July 2019, same-sex marriage is legal.
Aside from its LGBTQ rights record, Ecuador is simply an uncomplicated choice for North American gay travelers for several reasons. For example, its capital -Quito- is less than 4 hours away from Florida (which is about the same as flying to Denver). No visa or vaccinations are required for Americans and Canadians, and most Ecuadorians speak English. The official currency is the US Dollar, so there’s no need to worry about exchanging money or losing value. In fact, dollars go a long way in Ecuador -as much as 3 times- due to the very low costs of labor, food, gas, transportation, rent, etc.
For these reasons, and the fantastic year-round weather in Quito and other cities on The Andes, Ecuador has been recognized for many years as a top destination for retirement and boasts a growing number of gay expats from North America. For the 7th year in a row, Quito has won the title of “Leader Destination in South America” in the World Travel Awards (i.e. the Oscars of tourism), and the Galapagos has been for decades one of the most coveted natural destinations in the planet. Prestigious publications like Lonely Planet, Condé Nast, Forbes and websites like TripAdvisor amongst many others, have recognized Ecuador’s unmatched beauty and potential.
As an avid traveler himself, Maldonado acknowledges that male gay travelers’ preferences and expectations are unique and don’t necessarily fit canned travel packages that are available for the general LGBTQ market. “Our strategy is simple yet unique: we provide an all-male, all-inclusive (cruise-like) experience: all accommodations, meals, transportation, travel insurance, activities, and excursions are included, and you can book with as little as $250. The itineraries have been designed to provide the perfect mix of nature, culture, gastronomy, fun, and relaxation. The convenience factor is also a priority: small groups, private transportation, WiFi 24/7, English-speaking guides, and a 24/7 personal concierge for safety. Lastly, the term ‘all-gay’ doesn’t apply only to our travelers, but our bi-national team which includes gay tour guides and concierge staff, drivers, and gay-owned or gay-friendly accommodation and service providers.”
Maldonado was born in Quito and moved to the United States in 2006. After many years working for consumer products, he decided to follow his passion for hospitality and started a vacation rental business by acquiring several properties in Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, where he and his husband Bob have hosted over 2000 guests from 35+ countries. After a couple years of research and behind-the-scenes work, Maldonado and his best friend in Ecuador launched Ecuador Gay Travel in 2019.
Ecuador Gay Travel, LLC is the only all-gay tour operator with offices in both Ft. Lauderdale and Ecuador. The company offers premium travel experiences to and from Quito, the Galapagos Islands, and Fort Lauderdale, with all-inclusive tours and itineraries designed for and by gay men. Its bi-national team has a combined experience of 35 years in the tourism industry in Ecuador and Florida.
Ecuador Gay Travel is a proud Member of the IGLTA (International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association), the GFLGLCC (Greater Fort Lauderdale Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce) and the Ecuador LGBT Chamber of Commerce.
