Steven Hodgson : Traveler - The Gay Passport

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.

Steven and Manu's Top 5 Hotels Across Thailand

Steven and Manu’s Top 5 Hotels Across Thailand

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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Mykonos

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.

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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Koh Samui

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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Koh Samui

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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Phuket

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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Phuket

Le Méridien Bangkok

Expansive Skyline Views and Elite VIP Club Areas

"This hotel sits right in the heart of Bangkok's prime district, offering modern, comfortable rooms that highlight expansive and truly impressive views of the city skyline. The top-floor VIP Club Area is an absolute must-visit, featuring an amazing, welcoming team alongside complimentary food and beverages. The property embraces a bold, avant-garde interior decor concept that sets it apart from traditional hotels, providing a sophisticated lifestyle experience."

"The location is perfect for those wanting to be in the center of the LGBT+ neighborhood. The hospitality is deeply inclusive and welcoming, providing a safe, upscale city sanctuary where travelers from the community can feel completely free and well looked after."

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Thailand, Bangkok, Silom/Sathorn (Gayborhood)

Saccharum Madeira - Portugal

Photo-Shoot Worthy Decks and Rooftop Breakfasts

"This hotel is absolutely amazing and hands-down one of the best properties I have ever visited. The service is spectacular, and the architecture is a visual masterpiece: every corner, from the stunning sun decks and restaurants to the amazing infinity pool, could be used for a professional photo-shoot. The premium guest experience includes complimentary snacks and drinks, and the a-la-carte rooftop breakfast is an absolute triumph."

"I felt extremely welcome, integrated, and safe throughout my entire visit. The staff are charming, chatty, and professional, and the sophisticated, inclusive atmosphere makes it a premier recommendation for gay travelers visiting Madeira."

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Portugal, Madeira

NEXT Hotel Madeira - Portugal

Sleek Common Areas and Central Funchal Explorations

"Hotel Next delivers a beautiful, modern, and exceptionally clear vibe that feels fresh and stylish. The rooms are super comfortable, the gym facilities are great, and both the breakfast and the pool area are a perfect 100/100. The location is excellent, putting you close to the center of Funchal for easy city walks, local dining, and sightseeing before returning to a sleek retreat."

"I felt safe, accepted, and entirely well treated by the team. The staff ensure a highly open-minded, inclusive environment where any guest can feel completely comfortable and at ease while enjoying their holiday."

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