Steven Hodgson : Traveler - The Gay Passport

imstevenhodgson

imstevenhodgson

Lives in: Madrid

From: Canada

Expert in: Luxury Branding & Holistic Wellness

A Canadian-born marketing and communications expert now calling Madrid home, Steven Hodgson is a curator of the aesthetic and the intentional. With a professional eye for branding and a personal passion for holistic well-being, Steven’s travel dispatches are more than just reviews—they are a study in luxury, fitness, and mindfulness.

From the high-altitude trails of the great outdoors to the refined silence of the world’s most exclusive hotels, Steven explores the globe with a focus on self-love and mental health. Known for his calm, soothing demeanor and a ‘slow-travel’ philosophy, he bridges the gap between high-performance fitness and deep relaxation.

Whether he’s navigating the sophisticated pulse of Madrid or documenting stunning natural landscapes, Steven provides a verified, expert perspective on how to travel well, stay fit, and prioritize your peace of mind.

Hotel Reviews by imstevenhodgson

Gay traveler on an ATV in Mykonos, Greece. Exploring Elia Beach and other gay beaches. Mykonos travel advice and hotels.

Akkadian Gay Only Hotel Mykonos: Man with arms outstretched on a beach. Best gay beach hotels in Mykonos for gay men's travel advice.

Akkadian Gay Hotel Mykonos: Man in swim trunks in a private pool villa. Number one gay only hotel for gay men travel advice.

Axel Beach Mykonos - Adults Only

Nude Tanning & Minimalist Magic in Mykonos

"If you’re after that sleek, minimalist Mykonos aesthetic, Axel Beach Mykonos really hits the mark. I absolutely loved our room, it was spacious and clean, with a private pool that offered enough privacy for a bit of comfortable nude tanning (a must for me!). The main pool and bar area have that high-end energy you want on the island. While the vibe was a bit calmer than I expected and the dinner service was still finding its feet, the overall experience was beautiful and sophisticated."

"As a gay traveler, this place is a 10/10 for comfort. Most of the staff are part of the gay community themselves, and those who aren't are incredibly warm and friendly. It’s rare to find a spot where the service feels this personal and relaxed. You’re on an island that already loves the community."

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Steven and Manu in Thailand. Koh Samui Explorar hotel selfie. Gay couple travel advice. Top hotels in Thailand. Tropical vacation.

Gay travel Thailand, Koh Samui: Steven on beach at Explorar Koh Samui. Topless man in swim briefs relaxing on sand, Thailand hotels.

Gay traveler at Explorar Koh Samui, Thailand. Steven enjoys a pool at one of the top hotels. Gay travel advice for Thailand holidays.

Gay Koh Samui resort: Muscular man in pool at Explorar Adults Only Resort and Spa. Beachfront hotel with palm trees. Best gay hotels.

Gay man in private pool at Koh Samui adults-only resort. Explorar Hotel offers private pool villas for gay travelers seeking luxury and relaxation.

Gay travel Thailand: Steven at Explorar Koh Samui, one of Steven and Manu's top 5 hotels. Muscular man in pool with fruit. Tropical vacation.

Gay man at Explorar Koh Samui Resort & Spa, an adults-only hotel. He's in a pool with a sea view, enjoying his vacation.

Gay honeymoon at beachfront hotels Koh Samui. Man at Explorar Koh Samui Adults Only Resort and Spa. Best gay travel destination.

Explorar Koh Samui - Adults Only Resort and Spa

Clean Lines and Olympic Views on the Gulf

"Explorar feels young, light, and modern, it's perfect if you’re like me and appreciate a clean, simple aesthetic. Our villa was a total dream, with direct beach views, a private pool, and a stunning interior. The main hotel pool is absolutely massive (seriously, it felt Olympic-sized!). I also have to give a shoutout to the restaurant; they do a great mix of local Thai dishes and international comfort foods, which was much appreciated after a long day in the sun"

"Traveling here with my partner, Manu, we felt completely taken care of. The staff have a way of being professional while making you feel totally welcome and at ease. It’s a young, fun property where you don’t have to think twice about being out. We’d return in a heartbeat."

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Steven in a bubble bath at Garrya Tongsai Bay, Koh Samui, Thailand. One of Steven and Manu's Top 5 hotels for gay men travel.

Steven and Manu at Garrya Tongsai Bay, Koh Samui, Thailand. Gay couple in robes at spa, enjoying a Thai massage. Thailand travel.

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui: Muscular man relaxes in a bubble bath at this gay-friendly beachfront hotel in Koh Samui. Wellness and relaxation.

Garrya Tongsai Bay, Koh Samui, Thailand. Stevenin speedos by the pool.

Garrya Tongsai Bay Samui

Family Vibes and Beachfront Birthdays

"This was easily one of our favorite stays. The staff here don’t just treat you like a guest; they make you feel like family. We celebrated Manu’s birthday here, and the team went above and beyond with a personalized cake and a private table right on the beach. The villa itself was gorgeous—think private pools and outdoor bathtubs. Pro-tip: If it starts to rain during your spa session, just lean into it; the sound of the rain on the roof took our massage to a whole new level of zen."

"The warmth and grace of the team at Garrya are what stay with you. As a gay couple, we felt celebrated rather than just 'accepted.' From the lovely check-in to the personalized birthday bubbles, it was a moment we’ll remember forever. This is a property you just have to experience for yourself."

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Amari Phuket

High Tea in the Trees and Coral Sea Views

"The views over the bay from the Coral area are breathtaking. I spent most of my time between the stunning pool near the Italian restaurant and the bar, which has some of the best sea views in Phuket. One experience you can’t miss? The High Tea in the trees. It’s super fun, incredibly pretty, and a total 'Gram moment. Just a heads-up: skip the DIY transport and have the hotel organize your transfer, it’s a bit of a trek from the main hub, and you’ll want to arrive in style."

"While Patong town itself wasn't our favorite vibe, the Amari felt like a safe, elevated sanctuary away from the chaos. It’s a beautiful spot to retreat to with your partner after exploring the island, offering that perfect balance of luxury and local charm."

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Gay travel: Muscular man at The Pavilions Phuket resort, Thailand. Steven enjoys a drink by the pool in this luxury villa.

Steven and Manu at The Pavilions Phuket, Thailand. Two men enjoy a floating breakfast in a pool with a scenic view.

Gay travel: Man relaxes by private pool villa at The Pavilions Phuket, a gay-friendly beach hotel, enjoying breakfast with a scenic view.

The Pavilions Phuket

A Tropical Dream with Exceptional Service

"The Pavilions is a total dreamscape. Everything from the lush grounds to the lobby architecture feels natural and gorgeous. The service here is world-class—whether it’s the buggies whisking you around the property or the in-room dining, everyone is professional and incredibly welcoming. We had an unforgettable dinner at ALTO; every plate that came out was better than the last. It’s one of those rare hotels that makes you want to book your next stay before you’ve even checked out."

"For a couple looking for privacy and high-end wellness, this is the ultimate. The staff are extremely professional and make you feel 100% welcome. It’s the kind of place where you can prioritize self-care and your relationship in a stunning, inclusive environment."

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Steven and Manu's Top 5 Hotels Across Thailand

Steven and Manu’s Top 5 Hotels Across Thailand