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Vermont
Since voting to legalize civil unions between members of the same sex in the summer of 2000, Vermont has become a focal point for gay tourism, with a romantic punch. Civil unions are open to out-of-state residents, which has boosted the number of gay and lesbian visitors to the state looking to get hitched. With its stunning greenery (turning to unbelievable reds, yellows and browns in autumn), incredibly cozy inns, majestic mountains and live-and-let-live citizens, you couldn't ask for a more intimate spot to get to know your new spouse.

STATE OF CIVIL UNION
Unimaginable only a few years ago, in July 2000 Vermont enacted the first state law in the country to grant legal recognition to same-sex couples, joining a pantheon of progressive-minded countries, such as Norway, the Netherlands, and France, in creating such rights - - truly a momentous turning-point. Unique among the 50 American states, Vermont has always gone its own way. When the original 13 colonies first formed the United States, Vermont chose to remain an independent nation, and did so until 1791. Today, Vermont has once again demonstrated its fundamental independence and fair-mindedness.

Does that mean Vermont has become the new gay mecca? Not really. Outside of progressive college towns like Burlington and Montpelier, this is still a pretty conservative state where, especially in small towns, showy or "out of the ordinary" behavior is not well received. A fear many Vermonters seem to have is that out-of-staters will invade Vermont expecting to find a gay paradise. You will find a natural and historic paradise in the form of spectacular mountains, rolling hills, mighty forests, covered bridges, and red-barn-dotted farmland. But you'll only find two gay bars (in Burlington and Brattleboro) and a handful of gay B&Bs. And, many clerks are on record saying they will refuse to grant Civil Union licenses despite their legal obligation to do so. Still, if you want to get legally "C.U.'d" in the eyes of the state (out-of-towners welcome -see sidebar), it's divinely just that the only place you can do it as a homosexual happens to be one of our most beautiful states. With a little planning, you can get hitched in unforgettable and romantic style. Choose among the picture-perfect, historic, and romantic inns we've hand-selected from a long list of candidates. Contact a gay-friendly town clerk (see sidebar), invite your nearest and dearest, and tie the knot. Just leave the clattering "Just Married" cans at home.