SAN ANTONIO, TX: Where I Rediscovered My Pride

Written by: Manny Velasquez-Paredes

Photos by: Visit San Antonio & Connextions Magazine

Manny Velasquez-Paredes (MVP) is an award-winning Travel Journalist, a social media junkie, motivational speaker on LGBTQ issues and Diversity, and an avid traveler, who brings the traveling LGBTQ family’s perspective to Connextions Magazine. MVP has visited 5 continents, lived and studied in three of them. MVP and his family enjoy traveling and creating memories. MVP travels for work and works to travel!

LGBTQ+ Pride is not just a one-month-a-year event; it’s a mindset, a celebration of LGBTQ+ diversity that deserves recognition every day of the year, it’s our day-to-day existence. This year, we are highlighting different places to visit not just during Pride.

Our first stop may not be the first state that comes to mind for LGBTQ+ travelers, but it’s a hidden gem that offers a welcoming and vibrant experience. From its inclusive community to its diverse nightlife scene, San Antonio, Texas embraces diversity with open arms. Yes, that Texas, the one with many anti-LGBTQ+ laws, however, San Antonio’s LGBTQ+ community is thriving and is a shining star showering LGBTQ+ travelers with many fun adventures.

As a gay traveler, I had the pleasure of exploring the dynamic City of San Antonio and discovering its many hidden treasures. San Antonio prides itself on its friendly and inclusive atmosphere, making LGBTQ+ visitors feel right at home.

Throughout my stay, I encountered nothing but warmth and acceptance from the locals, whether I was exploring the city’s landmarks or enjoying its nightlife. The city’s commitment to diversity is evident in its numerous LGBTQ-friendly establishments and events, creating a safe and welcoming environment for travelers of all gender identities, and its people are so friendly that beckons visitors to return.

I must admit that I was extremely apprehensive that I was traveling to Texas from Florida, where the LGBTQ+ community is also under attack by its legislators who keep passing anti-LGBTQ+ laws. I have never been one to bow down to unfair laws, in fact, I do a lot of work behind the scenes to fight these laws.

You see, most travel writers will tell you that we do this type of work because we love it, and not for the financial gains. So, like most travel writers, I also have a day job, and mine is to oversee a very successful and award-winning LGBTQ Center in Florida; as its Director, I get to be on the front lines of the fight for LGBTQ+ rights.

My kids make fun of me because I am always wearing something with a rainbow on it, whether it’s my shoes, socks, belt, or t-shirts, I live proudly 365 days of the year and on leap years too!

However, in the spring of 2023, Florida passed several anti-LGBTQ laws. Homophobic violence rose and our community was exhausted from all the fighting. Subconsciously, I started wearing less and less rainbows in my everyday outfits. Perhaps to protect myself or to protect my family.

So, when I was invited to visit San Antonio, although I was eager, I was also a bit scared. I wondered if it would be ok for me to wear Pride t-shirts while I was there, after all, I was visiting during Pride Month! That’s when I realized I was shying away from my community in my own home state and that needed to stop. So, I packed my rainbow t-shirts and shoes and made my way to San Antonio, Texas.

WHERE I SLEPT!

The Hotel Gibbs is a boutique hotel that offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities. Situated in the heart of downtown San Antonio, it provides convenient access to popular attractions such as the River Walk, just steps from the Alamo, and the vibrant entertainment and dining scene of the city. The hotel’s central location is ideal for all guests. Being within walking distance of major attractions, dining options, and shopping destinations makes it a great choice for both leisure and business LGBTQ+ travelers looking to explore San Antonio.

The first thing that caught my eye was the old-fashioned and luxurious elevators in the lobby, which are just for decoration, the actual elevators are hidden behind it. The wall was kept with the elevator doors due to its historical importance and beauty. The rooms are well-appointed, featuring

contemporary design elements and amenities such as flat-screen TVs, plush bedding, and complimentary Wi-Fi. But what truly caught my attention about the hotel was the hallways. The Hotel Gibbs was created as an office building, and as such, the hallways have maintained that look and feel, even though the rooms are quite modern. Some guests have reported seeing or experiencing ghosts in the hotel, I am prone to seeing things, however, I didn’t witness any during this trip.