Traveling with Pride: It's a Woman's World

Summer may be over but that's no excuse to miss out on some of the hottest lesbian getaways of the year.

Just because summer has come to an end, that's no reason to hunker down. There are plenty of opportunities to travel and party within the lesbian community.

Whether you're looking for an all-inclusive cruise that will whisk you along warm waters and offer tropical sunsets, or a destination week packed with activities from morning until night, here are two not-to-miss itineraries from the grand dame of lesbian travel, Olivia.

Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta

Olivia has been a leader in the lesbian community for more than 40 years, and has been a leader in spectacular travel experiences since 1990. Founded by Judy Dlugacz and a small group of friends, these powerhouse women changed the face of how we look at travel since 1990.

Since that time, Olivia has hosted nearly 200,000 women on cruises, resort adventures, and riverboat vacations around the world. Everyone is welcome and itineraries are structured to accommodate all types of women, regardless of age, race or marital status. And, of course, there's the entertainment. Olivia is known for curating award-winning performers including Melissa Etheridge and Wanda Sykes, along with notable figures such as Edie Windsor and Suze Orman.

Live like a rock star at Olivia's Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta vacation, October 10-17, 2015. Rooms are ready for entertaining with extra large Jacuzzis, stocked mini bars, streaming music and RockSpa bath amenities. Of course, you might not be spending too much time in your suite with an all-inclusive full itinerary and wellness package. Whether you're ziplining, swimming with the dolphins, or simply relaxing by the pool or beach, the sun is nearly always shining in Mexico.

Olivia also brings back their Health & Wellness program, where guests can enjoy morning and afternoon yoga classes, meditation, fitness classes, and other health and nutrition programming. It'll strike a nice balance with all of the culinary options available throughout the week. The resort offers six unique dining options, from Mexico's fiery flavors at Frida to Italian and Mediterranean fare at Ciao, along with buffets, brick oven pizza, and 24-hour room service if you need to take a break from the action.

Speaking of action, Olivia is known for its high-quality entertainment. The Hard Rock Hotel Vallarta line-up includes Dana Goldberg, voted one the "Top Five Funniest Lesbians in America" by Curve magazine; Jessica Kirson, who was voted the "Best Female Comic" by the MAC association in New York City; Gloria Bigelow, who recently appeared in "Fierce Funny Women" on Showtime; along with DJ Rockaway and DJ Lisa Pittman.

Take a look at last year's event:

Mexican Riviera Cruise

All aboard! Listening to the wishes of longtime travelers as well as those new to the brand, Olivia has charted Holland America's MS Veendam, a perfectly sized vessel for the ultimate lesbian takeover. The ship can accommodate up to 1,350 passengers amid its stately accommodations, which have recently been enhanced as part of Holland America's $200 million Signature of Excellence commitment to new upgrades. Features include a $2 million art and antique collection, spacious staterooms (many with private verandahs), private resort-style pool, as well as plenty of dining options and on board entertainment.

The eight-day itinerary begins with arrival in San Diego, where it always seems to be sunny and 75 degrees. Arrive early and take advantage of some of its signature attractions, including the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. Hillcrest is the city's gayborhood in all its glory, packed with shops, bars, and restaurants -- the perfect spot to stroll and unwind before embarking.

Once on board, you'll have two days at sea to sunbathe on deck, make new friends, enjoy planned programming such as "Show Your Roots Day," or indulge in a spa treatment. Olivia has curated A-list entertainment as well, including Academy- and Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter Melissa Etheridge; television star and advocate Meredith Baxter; the hilarious Suzanne Westenhoefer and Vickie Shaw, DJ Asha, and more.

The next three days are packed with on-shore excursions at some of western Mexico's most coveted destinations. Explore Old Town in Puerto Vallarta or head inland for an eco-safari, ziplining through the Sierra Madre, or other outdoor adventures. Animal lovers will love the following day in Mazatl�n, where you can visit Mexico's largest estuary or visit endangered gulf turtles at Mangrove Sanctuary. The third and final day at port brings passengers to Cabo San Lucas, where you can walk along Lover's Beach, wander among the cobblestone streets of San Jose del Cabo, and stock up on tequila. Another two days at sea provides the perfect respite with new friends and plenty of sunshine.

Getting There
With flights from many west coast destinations, getting to Puerto Vallarta or San Diego couldn't be easier than on Alaska Airlines. A longtime supporter of the LGBT community, Alaska Airlines is offering a discount on flights to Puerto Vallarta and San Diego, as well as discount travel to other LGBT events throughout the fall including Orlando Pride, Atlanta Pride, Palm Springs Pride, and Atlantis events.