Yes, You Can(cun)! Gay Marriage Allowed in Popular Mexican Resort

Men on beach in Cancun by http://www.flickr.com/photos/joeinqueens/

Gay marriage is popping up all over Mexico.

First marriage for same-sex couples was legalized in Mexico City in March 2010 with those unions recognized throughout the country. Next came the announcement that “thanks to a legal gap in the Civil Code,” marriage equality would be extended to lesbian and gay couples in Cancun (and other parts of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo located in eastern Mexico on the Atlantic coast.)

Specifically, the law allows marriage for “people,” without specifying gender.

A local activist, Patricia Novelo said gay and lesbian marriages are possible in Quintana Roo, “thanks to a legal gap in the Civil Code, which only makes mention of people interested in getting married, without specifying their gender,” according to HispanicallySpeakingNews,

 

SUITE DREAMS: THE INTOXICATING HOTEL HABITA

Story and photo by Paul VanDeCarr You might find yourself intoxicated at the rooftop bar of Hotel Habita, located in Mexico City’s upscale Polanco neighborhood. And it wouldn’t be just because of the drinks, such as the tamarind margaritas. There’s also the splendid tapas, the sixth-floor view of the area, the terrace pool, the ambient music, the fire, maybe the fact that you’ve just enjoyed a spa treatment on-site, and of course the presence of a mover-and-shaker crowd. And that’s just the rooftop. Let’s not forget the 36 guest rooms, which have a cool, minimalist design (glass desks, white walls, grey couches, etc.) and ridiculously comfortable beds. Continuing down to the ground floor, try the menu at the hotel restaurant, Lobby, which holds its own in this famously food-centered district.At Habita, you’re within walking distance of some of the finest Mexican cuisine you’re ever likely to try, such as at Pujol (pujol.com.mx) or El Bajío. The hotel itself doesn’t feel especially gay, but it’s got gay-friendly management and sophisticated international guests who won’t blink at homo PDAs. For a luxurious stay amidst world-class eateries and classy shopping (and, of course, a taxi ride to gay nightspots), Hotel Habita is unsurpassed.

THE RED TREE HOUSE: YOUR HOME IN MEXICO CITY

Story and photo by Paul VanDeCarr Mexico City is a thrilling, if sometimes overwhelming, metropolis—a great destination on its own, or on the way to a beach resort elsewhere in the country. I’m pleased to report on The Red Tree House, a super-friendly, comfortable B&B that serves as an ideal base-camp for your excursions into the wider world. (Not for nothing is their tagline “Your home in Mexico City.”) The place exudes warmth—colorful décor, helpful and fully bilingual staff, and common areas for tasty breakfasts and evening drinks that encourage friendly interactions among guests (about 20% of whom are queer, estimates the manager).There are other hotels more convenient to gay nightlife, but the fact is, you’re bound to take taxis anyway; what’s more, the hotel—in the verdant, hip Condesa neighborhood—is a stone’s throw from a sake bar, a chocolate shop, a half-dozen restaurants of various sorts, and nightlife. The place will charm you, and for a reasonable price. (Rooms are $74/night and up for one person, or $89 and up for double-occupancy.)