if you're going to have a car, middletown, on the cromwell border (north) is a decent reach to hartford, and can be more cost effective than some of the other areas. Middletown is extremely progressive and LBGTQ+ friendly.

if no car, new britain along the fastrak line is a good and convienent way into down town hartford and the surrounding areas.

i've found that in connecticut, most people don't give a shit about your orientation if you are a good neighbor and take care of yourself and be outwardly friendly, but not too invasive.