Author Archives: bestgaytravel
Gay Palm Springs for Easter
There is still time to make plans for Easter in Palm Springs!
Grab a room and make plans for Easter Brunch!
Gay Pride Amsterdam 2019 Travel Deal
What better time to be in Amsterdam than Gay Pride!
Amsterdam Pride is one of the biggest gay events in the world. You will find street parties all weekend long, the best massive circuit parties and of course the famous Canal Parade through the historic Amsterdam Unesco canals on Saturday.
Gay Pride is one of the most busy weekends of the year in Amsterdam. Book NOW – you don’t want to disappointed!
Amsterdam Gay Pride is from 27 July till 4 August 2019, with the Canal Parade and street parties taking place between 2 & 4 August.
Every year Dave from Donovan Travel puts together an awesome package! Dave will hook you up! No matter where you are traveling from, Dave will take good care of you!
Office: (401) 885-3500
Email: dave@donovantravel.com
Best Brazilian Steak House Fogo de Chao
Our favorite Brazilian steakhouse, Fogo de Chão, enhances the guest experience by unveiling new ways to indulge just in time for the holidays.
For a limited time, guests have the option to add a decadent, shareable Dry Aged Tomahawk Ribeye to any dinner experience or they can indulge in premium seafood appetizers including lobster & shrimp or a chilled seafood tower. A recent partnership between Fogo and Coravin will also allow guests to regularly taste and select high-end wines from the new Reserve Wine List without the need to commit to the whole bottle.
“Since Fogo was founded about 40 years ago, we have been leaders in offering premium aged meats to ensure guests have access to the best Brazil has to offer as part of our authentic Churrasco experience,” said Larry Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Fogo de Chão. “Each guest experience is uniquely tailored to individual preferences. Now guests can celebrate the season with a premium Dry Aged Tomahawk Ribeye, perfect for groups, family holidays, or parties that are prime sharing occasions.”
Our 32oz. Tomahawk Ribeye is dry aged for a minimum of 42 days for an even richer flavor to enhance any Fogo dining experience. The cut is available a la carte and is now offered at all Fogo de Chão locations across the U.S. and Puerto Rico for a limited time only.
“Menu innovation is at the core of what we do and who we are at Fogo. We’re always looking to add new, seasonal ingredients to the authentic Brazilian staples on our Market Table,” said Larry Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of Fogo de Chão. “Just like gauchos on the family farms in Southern Brazil, we harvest and source seasonal ingredients for the Market Table to complement our fire-roasted meats. Fall brings an abundance of flavors for guests to indulge as they celebrate the season.”
The fall menu features are available at all locations in the U.S. and Puerto Rico for a limited time and include:
- Butternut Kale Salad: Roasted butternut squash, fresh kale, chickpeas and feta are mixed with protein-rich pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds, then tossed in a honey- citrus vinaigrette.
- Gigante Bean Salad: Marinated gigante beans are combined with bell pepper, onion and fresh herbs before being mixed with a vinaigrette dressing.
- Autumn Lentil Soup: French green lentils, carrots, onions and celery are simmered with tomatoes, garlic and spinach in this savory, gluten-free and vegetarian soup.
- Apple Fig Crostada: Spiced apples are baked with butter and brown sugar inside a flaky puff pastry that is topped with homemade fig compote, balsamic glaze and fresh whipped cream.
- Find a Fogo de Chao Near You!
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- For an inside look into the history and heritage of the gaucho culture, watch the NBC Olympic Games vignette “The Gaucho Way” or visit Fogo.com, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Best Roof Top Bars New Years Eve
Conde Nast CN TRAVELLER probably said it best, “It’s easy to sneer at New Year’s Eve: too expensive, too crowded, too much pressure to have the greatest night of your life. OK, you could hunker down at home – or you could make it really memorable by hitting up one of the best New Year’s Eve parties in the world. From fireworks blasting across breathtaking backdrops to raucous street parties in cool capitals and all-night raves on blissed-out beaches, there’s no shortage of amazing ways to ring in 2019.”
I live in Chicago and SO MANY people go out NYE its so hard and so expensive to get a Cab or Uber or Lyft! Is it worth it?
If you know where to go, it might be!
What better place to see all the fireworks, than from a rooftop bar?!
The is an actual site called The RoofTop Guide!
“BECAUSE EVERYTHING IS BETTER WITH A NICE VIEW!
We believe that’s how it is, that everything is better with a nice view. Therefore we have assembled this guide, a guide to the world’s best rooftop bars. To inspire and for you to, wherever you are or wherever you are going, be able to find an oasis where you can feel the breeze against your skin, sip on a drink and gaze into breathtaking views.
So of course you can count on them to show us 30 Amazing and Fantastic rooftops for a NYE to remember!
From New York and Los Angels, Chicago to Sandiego, London, Dubai , Madrid – all the best rooftops are listed here with details, pricing and more info! get the complete scoop HERE.
Awesome Arizona! Phoenix, Sedona and More
Arizona’s largest city Phoenix, is home to about 1.6 million people.
Phoenix has a higher percentage of gay and lesbian residents than New York, Washington, Chicago and Silicon Valley, according to a poll by Gallup.
In the national survey, 4.1 percent of Phoenix-area residents identified themselves as gay, lesbian or transgendered.
That’s better than New York and D.C. (both 4 percent), San Diego (3.9 percent), Chicago (3.8 percent) and Silicon Valley (3.2 percent). While Maricopa County is politically conservative and has not voted for a Democrat for U.S. president since 1948, Phoenix has a sizable LGBT community, a Democratic mayor and has ordinances in place protecting gay individuals from discrimination.
Greater Phoenix’s fusion of natural splendor and metropolitan verve sets it apart from a lot of big cities—and everyone is invited to experience it. As you explore the city’s urban core, you’ll find a strong LGBT community integrated throughout the area in gay-friendly businesses, events and entertainment.
From the most sophisticated resorts to stylish boutique hotels, Greater Phoenix has plenty to offer when it comes to accommodations. View their list of TAG Approved®* hotels and resorts in Greater Phoenix or discover more places to stay.
You can plan your trip around some of Phoenix’s nationally-recognized annual LGBT events, including the Phoenix Pride Festival and the Rainbows Festival.
During the day in Phoenix, choose from outdoor activities, luxurious spa treatments, shopping at local boutiques or exploring the arts and culture of the Southwest.
At night, the city comes alive with vibrant LGBT nightlife. The Melrose District on Seventh Avenue is a hub for LGBT businesses and clubs such as the popular Charlie’s. Check out this LGBT nightlife guide from Echo Magazine to find more of the best places to dance and drink.
For more information on LGBT events and culture, visit the Greater Phoenix Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce and Phoenix Pride. Read More about LGBT Phoenix here.
Travel to Sedona, that artsy and free-spirited enclave two hours outside Phoenix, for the beautiful red-rock canyons and the adventure that comes with them, the spiritual nature of its vortices of earth energy, and to browse through shops filled with Southwestern arts and crafts.
Recently, Sedona has developed into a full-fledged upscale vacation getaway with an especially keen following among hikers and mountain bikers, New Agers, artists, lesbians and gays. Sedona’s growth has been intense in recent years, marked by debates concerning where and how to develop the town while preserving its character and appeal. The population is nearly 11,000 and continues to rise steadily. GayTravel.com did a great article on Sedona you can see here.
While there isn’t a single activity in Sedona that wouldn’t be considered LGBTQ-friendly, there are some tours and things to do that can be tailor-made for LGBT travelers. For example, a couple may want to book a vortex tour or a spiritual counseling session with a psychic or metaphysical guide who can use Sedona’s healing energy to investigate relationship issues specific to same-sex couples. Or perhaps you would like to book a romantic couples massage therapy session at a spa that welcomes same-sex couples as well as straight couples.
For single LGBT visitors, you can find almost anything you want to do in Sedona, based on your time, interests and budget. There are opportunities to meet other travelers with similar interests if you embark on activities like wine tasting, hot air balloon tours, kayaking, fly fishing, guided hiking and mountain biking, or photography tours. And everyone can enjoy Sedona’s famous annual events like the Sedona PRIDE Festival and its seasonal events, the Sedona Film Festival, the Sedona Arts Festival, the Raw Spirit Festival, the Sedona Marathon and more.
For more on the great state of Arizona check out Pride Guide Arizona.
Honolulu Gay Pride
The 2018 Honolulu Pride™ Parade + Festival will be Saturday, October 20, preceded by Rainbows Over Waikiki — Pride Banners brightening Waikiki for two weeks leading up to the main events.
Rainbows Over Waikiki — dozens of Pride Banners sharing LGBTQ aloha — will kick off 2018 Honolulu Pride™ Month on October 9. Sponsor your banner here. The Pride Parade, on Kalakaua Avenue in the heart of Waikiki, begins on Magic Island at 11am on Saturday, October 20. Register your group here. The Pride Festival, at Diamond Head Greens, follows the Parade, and continues until 6pm.
Official 2018 Honolulu Pride™ caps, shirts, pins and more are now available. Click here to visit our online store, and get your Pride on!
And be sure to check out special offers from our Travel Partners here.
Plus there are already more than 25 additional events hosted by Hawaii’s LGBTQ+ communityscheduled during October. Save the Dates, and we’ll see you soon!
Get all the details HERE!
BE SURE TO STOP BY
THE BEST BAR
IN HONOLULU
Almar Luxury LGBT Resort in Puerto Vallarta
Almar Resort Luxury LGBT Beach Front Experience is the only oceanfront gay resort in Puerto Vallarta situated in the heart of the Zona Romantica, Puerto Vallarta. And it is straight-friendly!
Almar Resort is the haven you have been waiting for! An adults-only, gay resort set in the tropical landscape of Puerto Vallarta in the most exclusive Zona Romantica. Pamper yourself with a breathtaking ocean view suite, fully-equipped with everything your heart desires. Relax and rest assured with personalized service that will make your stay an unforgettable experience.
I recently spent a week here. The rooms were fantastic and the staff is friendly and helpful. 5 STARS! Puerto Vallarta may be known for a destination that never sleeps, but that won’t stop you from getting a pampering night’s rest while you visit.
Almar Resort’s 78 suites welcome you with a contemporary and luxurious style that encourages relaxation, besides fantastic views of the Mexican Pacific. Beds feature luxury cotton bedding and goose feather pillows; bathrooms are equipped with rain showerheads, L’Occitane bath products and microfiber vêtements. I had a great nights sleep every night on the fluffy pillows, listening to the sounds of the waves below. And it is so wonderful to wake up and enjoy a cup of coffer (or bloody mary) on the balcony. Rooms run different prices at different times of the year. I was there in January, high season and it was about $180 a night.
While staying at Almar you are free to enjoy the classy Mantamar Beach Club/ Bar & Grill at Los Muertos beach, featuring a sparkling infinity pool, cozy oceanfront cabanas, lounge beds and gourmet fine dining.
The food delivery services is reinventing Puerto Vallarta Old Town’s eating ritual in a great way. This service is aim to people who care about eating fresh, home-cooked, chef-prepared meals; browse through our menu and enjoy your favorite food with your favorite people, from freshly-made sushi to delicious hamburgers and seafood sandwiches. And reasonably priced as well! Ceviche, guacamole, shrimp dishes, salads, gourmet pizza’s, lots to choose from! All excellent!
Mantamar Beach Club is THE place to be for the LGBT community in Puerto Vallarta. Mantamar is all about lifestyle, offering comfortable surroundings, a gourmet menu, live entertainment and special events that will surprise you every time you visit. Here you will discover the definition of perfect relaxation, whether you enjoy it as a romantic moment on the silky sand beach or at the infinity pool with new friends and a margarita in hand. Resident DJ keeps the music flowing all day.
NEW ADDITION – Wine, dine and party at the hottest spot in Puerto Vallarta: our exclusive The Top Sky Bar. Relax at a sumptuous sauna table or along our plush seating with the most breathtaking panoramic view of the city.
Have it all by day or by night at The Top Sky Bar: fine dining, top shelf cocktails, happy hour, gourmet dining, DJs and the hottest shows in Puerto Vallarta.
Almar Resort Luxury LGBT Beach Front Experience is the only oceanfront gay resort in Puerto Vallarta considered an oasis for unique experiences, located just a few steps from the famous “Malecón” boardwalk and the gay bars in the Zona Romantica. Upgrade your vacation experience with a gorgeous getaway at Almar Resort!
Almar Resort
Amapas 380
Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
Gay Palm Springs Deals!
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SUMMER $99 SPECIAL
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Summer is back and so is our $99 Special! Superior non-pool view rooms are $99 per night plus tax during the week (Sunday through Thursday) and weekend nights discounted (Friday and Saturday). All other rooms are discounted accordingly. This special is available from Now – September 15, 2018 |
Why You Should Use a Travel Agent
When the internet exploded, many travelers went out on their own, searching, looking for deals and bargains, booking things themselves – I never understood that. Why would I want to spend HOURS doing all the work – when a travel professional probably knows most of the answers! Plus, if you are going somewhere for the first time, it can be a daunting task to put the trip together on your own.
They know what deals are happening – they know how you can save money – there are over 100 REASONS to use a travel agent –
here are just a few…..
Convenient One-Stop Shopping
Travel agents can handle every aspect of your trip from airline tickets to lodging,
ground transportation, activities, tours and more.
Consumer Advocate
If you should have a problem during your trip, travel agents can act on your behalf to see that proper restitution’s are made.
Expert Guidance
Travel agents are experts in helping travelers get where they need to go and
in helping to create possibilities most people never would have dreamed
were possible.
Save Time
Avoid the headaches and let the travel agents call around and do all the time consuming work of planning a complex itinerary.
Choice
Travel agents offer you an array of options and price quotes from a variety of
travel suppliers, giving you the upper hand when making your final
travel decisions.
Less Stress
Planning a trip can be stressful. There are so many options and details to worry about.
Travel agents do the work, resulting in less stress for you.
Updated Information
Travel agents are constantly communicating with the travel community, thus
giving you the most up to date info on airlines, hotels, car rental
agencies, travel visas, and other travel services to consider as you
plan your trip.
Customer Service
Travel agents offer that “personal touch” to your travel planning experience-
Offering help and advice that a website cannot provide.
Travel Expertise
Many travel agents are considered experts in the area you are traveling to and have probably
already been to your chosen destination.
Best Value for Your Money Spent
Travel agents can help you to make your dollars go farther while you are
away. They have access to finding all sorts of deals ranging from
flights to hotels to dinner recommendations.
Location, Location, Location!!!!
Travel Specialists can help you to find a place to stay pretty much anywhere
you desire. If it’s a hotel with a view of the ocean in Hawaii or a
jungle hut in the Nilgiri foothills, a travel agent can help you make it
happen.
Knowledge of All the Ins and Outs
Travel specialists can help bring you up to speed on the local laws and regulations of wherever your travels take you.
Avoid International Flight Confusion
Travel specialists can help organize those confusing international flights that internet search engines don’t cover.
Personalized Trips
A travel agent can prepare you a personalized trip based on where you want to go and what you want to do.
Where to Go to Avoid Kids
Want to go somewhere without children running all over the place? A travel
agent can help you to find excellent retreats that are open to adults
only.
Local Traditions
Travel specialists can update you on all local traditions and customs of
places you are visiting, so you make a good impression. For example, in
Japan many people expect their visitors to take their shoes off before
entering their homes.
Complicated Itineraries Made Simple
Travel experts can take care of all the details for those complicated around
the world itineraries and all the extra headaches that go with them,
such as hotel and transportation along the way.
Special Deals Worked Out in Advance – Travel
agents may have a relationship with certain tour operators and could be
able to get you a special price that might not otherwise be available.
Difference in Days to Save Money
Instead of playing around with dates on the internet for hours, your travel
agent can advise you on any changes to your travel dates that might save
you hundreds of dollars.
Staying In-the-Know of Daily Promotions
Travel agents get emails and faxes of daily money saving promotions.
They Are Considered Travel Experts and Specialists – Wouldn’t you rather have a travel expert plan your trip rather than a pre-programmed website?
It just Makes Sense to Use a Travel Agent.
They’re Out There… Use Them
Why do the work if someone else like a travel specialist can.
Travel Agents Must Be Doing Something Right. They Sure Have a lot of Business
Travel agents still sell 51 percent of all airline tickets, 87 percent of all
cruises, 81 percent of all tours and packages, 45 percent of all car
rentals and about 47 percent of all hotels.
It Makes Traveling Easy
Once you find a good travel agent, your dream vacation is just a phone call away.
We highly recommend Dave at Donovan Travel!
Donovan Travel
Let Dave help YOU with YOUR next Trip!
800-252-2660 E-MAIL THEM
Gay Friendly Travel ARIZONA
Currently, five municipalities have ordinances that ban discrimination; however, Arizona has no statewide laws that protect gay and transgender individuals from being fired based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, or discriminated against in housing and public accommodations.
Created by ONE Community, a member based coalition of LGBT and allied individuals and businesses; the UNITY Pledge is a public declaration to support and advance workplace equality and non-discrimination policies in housing and public accommodations for LGBT individuals and their allies in Arizona.
“We can’t think of a better way to welcome MillerCoors into the UNITY Pledge family than during Pride Night with our partners at the Phoenix Mercury,” said Angela Hughey, President and Co-Founder of ONE Community. “You can’t go wrong with good beer, good basketball, and equality for all,” concluded Hughey.
ONE Community is a coalition of socially responsible businesses, organizations and individuals who support diversity, inclusion and equality for all Arizonans. We are committed to reshaping Arizona’s image through educating, empowering and connecting our diverse LGBT and allied communities on the benefits of inclusion and its direct impact on attracting and retaining top talent and businesses—and thereby, ensuring our state’s economic sustainability.
Gay Palm Spings Your Winter Getaway!
Superior rooms (non-pool view) start at $99 during the week (Sunday – Thursday) and weekends discounted
(Friday and Saturday). All other room types discounted accordingly.
Palm Springs is welcoming visitors to its new dynamic downtown with new fashionable restaurants, new chick shops and boutiques, new fun entertainment venues as well as welcoming public spaces for gathering, celebrating and relaxing. With warm days and balmy nights, this complements the ambiance that is positively seductive. With 360 days of sun-kissed weather and drop-dead gorgeous scenery, it’s no wonder Palm Springs is like no place else and a comeback as Hollywood’s playground with a growing nightlife, burgeoning art scene and edgy vibe.
Palm Springs, California lies on the western edge of the Coachella Valley, within the Colorado Desert. Located approximately 110 miles southeast of Los Angeles and 140 miles northeast of San Diego, it’s an easy two hour drive. The permanent year-round population is about 45,000, and doubles during the winter season.
Palm Springs has more than 350 days of sunshine with less than 5 inches of rain. Winter temperatures average in the 70’s with nights in the mid-40’s. The dry desert heat of summer pushes daytime temperatures into the 100’s, which is enjoyed by sun seekers from around the globe.
Doesn’t this look better than piles of snow…..
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Barbados gives LIFE SENTENCE to Homosexuals
I have NO DESIRE to go somewhere, where being a homosexual is illegal!
Homosexual acts are illegal in Barbados, with a life sentence. The Society of American Travel Writers selected Barbados to host their next annual convention in 2018.
The law against sodomy has not been enforced for years. THEN WHY HAS IT NOT BEEN STRUCK DOWN???? More than 70 other countries have similar laws, and the same laws remain on the books in 12 states in the US. There is even a sodomy law in Canada that has not been officially removed from the books.
Visitors – straight and LGBT – do not face any danger or prejudicial treatment in Barbados beyond what one might encounter from individuals in any country who harbor prejudicial tendencies. Barbados, like many places in the region, is moving forward on human rights issues, and the Board believes Barbados is a friendly, welcoming and story-rich island.
NO MORE CUBA says Donald Trump
Donald Trump never liked President Obama’s decision to ease the US embargo on Cuba. MANY US travelers FLOCKED TO CUBA!~
Now his administration has decreed new restrictions on how its citizens can interact with Cuba’s socialist government, including a lengthy list of entities they are forbidden to do business with.
The push for normalization under president Barack Obama encouraged many more Americans to visit the island for ostensibly educational and people-to-people to purposes, though tourist trips remain technically illegal. Trump, while not closing off all new travel, has tried to make it more of a hassle. The new restrictions both limit what Americans can do and increase the responsibility of trip organizers to make sure the rules are followed.
These new rules don’t appear likely to kill travel to Cuba, but stays could get more expensive as demand shifts to hotels not on the list or the already popular privately-owned bed-and-breakfasts. That’s assuming Americans aren’t scared off by the Trump administration’s travel warnings, issued after a bizarre saga of alleged sonic attacks on American and Canadian diplomats. (see more at QZ.com)
Under the new rules, most individual visits to Cuba will no longer be allowed, and U.S. citizens will again have to travel as part of groups licensed by the Treasury Department for specific purposes, accompanied by a group representative. Americans also will be barred from staying at a long list of hotels and from patronizing restaurants, stores and other enterprises that the State Department has determined are owned by or benefit members of the Cuban government, specifically its security services.
For more advice on Cuba, call our Specialist Dave at Donavan Travel 1-800-252-2660
Halloween in Key West 2017
Fantasy Fest will take place as scheduled, despite Hurricane Irma’s Sept. 10 , 2017 passage through the Florida Keys.
Attendees at Key West’s renowned annual Fantasy Fest can anticipate creative costuming, offbeat artistry and a blend of colorful new events and longtime favorites for masked and costumed revelers.
Themed “Time Travel Unravels” and scheduled Friday, Oct. 20, through Sunday, Oct. 29, the 2017 festival features several dozen masquerade balls, costume contests, exotic parties and showcases for quirky creativity, all climaxing in the lavish Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade.
Event organizers encourage participants to “time-travel” to any past or future era to find inspiration for their costume finery and float designs. The most imaginative are to be rewarded with prizes and enthusiastic acclaim from Fantasy Fest crowds.
The extravaganza begins with the family-friendly Goombay street party in historic Bahama Village, a celebration of Key West’s Caribbean roots set for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 20 and 21. Friday night brings the Royal Coronation Ball, where a king and queen are crowned to preside over the festivities.
New to the festival schedule is Sunday evening’s Zombie Bike Ride, a family-friendly procession of oddly lively “undead” in tattered zombie garb, pedaling past Key West’s Atlantic Ocean beaches to prowl historic Duval Street.
Subsequent events include Tuesday’s tutu party, a culture crawl, themed soirees for costumed characters and Wednesday’s wacky Pet Masquerade. The “animal antics” feature dressed-up dogs, cats and other domestic species competing for costume prizes alongside their human companions.
Thursday brings another festival newcomer, the Smallest Parade in the Universe, providing a “tiny” foretaste of the glittering Duval Street parade that highlights Fantasy Fest. A miniature procession of artist-made 18-inch floats is to traverse a make-believe Duval, while audiences view the creative constructions both live and via large-screen video.
Thursday’s enticing events also include two traditional favorites: the “over the top” Headdress Ball, to be held at the new Key West Amphitheater at Truman Waterfront Park, and the tantalizing Toga Party at Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Duval Street.
The following day, Duval becomes a carnival of creativity as vendors offer colorful costumes, arts and crafts, food and libations in the mile-long Fantasy Fest Street Fair.
Friday’s festivities also include the Masquerade March, a zany walking parade that begins at the local cemetery. It typically features thousands of revelers dressed in masks and costumes that range from brilliant to bizarre.
The madcap merriment is to culminate Saturday night, Oct. 28, during the Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade through Key West’s historic downtown. Tens of thousands of spectators converge to cheer the parade’s elaborately costumed marching groups, dancers in bright feathered costumes and dazzling motorized floats.
Festival information and schedule: fantasyfest.com
Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY
Social: Facebook • Twitter • Instagram • Youtube • Keys Voices blog
Halloween in Palm Springs
It’s time to get on your broom and make your way to Palm Springs!
Halloween is an evening for fashion or at least careful consideration into planning a well-crafted costume that screams “creative,” “fierce,” “original,” or “over the top.”
And please stay at our favorite pick – INNdulge Palm Springs.
Bring your best costume with you or borrow from their well-stocked costume closet!
They will have their costume contest on the same night as the Arenas Road street festival.
Tuesday October 31, 2016.
Book now so you don’t miss out on all the fun!
Puerto Vallarta Gay Hotel Turns 15
Casa Cupula Prepares
to Celebrate its Quinceañera!
Puerto Vallarta’s Luxury LGBT Boutique Hotel Celebrates 15th Anniversary
Casa Cupula, Puerto Vallarta’s legendary boutique resort hotel, is set to celebrate its 15th birthday with a three-month celebration of the property’s history, present, and future, culminating in a grand Mexican-style quinceañera celebration.
Casa Cupula gained notoriety in 2002 when it became Mexico’s first high-end LGBTQ property. In the years since the then-five-bedroom guesthouse and oasis for gay travelers has grown into an 18-room full resort complex and an integral part of elevating the reputation of Puerto Vallarta as Mexico’s gay vacation mecca.
“I don’t think anyone would have imagined how the LGBT community has gained so much acceptance over the last 15 years,” said Casa Cupula founder Don Pickens, who still owns and manages the property. “Back then, Puerto Vallarta’s reputation as a leading LGBT destination was not as well-known. Today it is celebrated by the city and is a major driver of Puerto Vallarta’s tourism-based economy.”
“We have been part of a great movement to modernize the image of Puerto Vallarta by showcasing the contemporary and luxurious offerings found in our Romantic Zone, Puerto Vallarta’s ‘gayborhood,’” Pickens added. “Today, Vallarta is proud to be one of the most important international gay destinations, and Casa Cupula is still rated among the top hotels of any kind in Vallarta.
During the property’s 15-year run, it has continuously updated its offering, adding rooms and suites of various sizes, as well as three pools; a Jacuzzi and sauna; full concierge services that refer guests to hand-selected LGBTQ-friendly activities; Pump Gym & Spa; and Taste Restaurant, one of the top dining venues in Puerto Vallarta.
Any 15-year-old deserves a great present and Casa Cupula is no exception. This year the new “Frida Suite,” will honor iconic early 20th century Mexican LGBT artist Frida Kahlo. Designed to reflect Kahlo’s love for Mexican traditions and culture, the suite’s debut will be part of the extended quinceañera celebration of Casa Cupula’s birthday.
A quinceañera is one of the most important Mexican celebrations, presenting a birthday girl or boy to society at the age of 15. Casa Cupula’s grand celebration of its own 15 years will include multiple events throughout the season, starting with a quinceañera party on Nov. 24. A drag queen contest at the event will see a brand ambassador crowned to represent Casa Cupula for the season. This will be followed by a banquet on Dec. 2 to celebrate the boutique property’s leading role in Puerto Vallarta’s thriving LGBT community, inviting both local leaders and Casa Cupula alumni to celebrate together. The festivities will culminate with a major event in January, to be headlined by an as-yet-to-be-named world-famous “hostess”.
Casa Cupula invites past and new guests to join in on the celebration, enjoying a fourth night free on stays from Nov. 27 to Dec.19. For more information and to book, please visit www.casacupula.com.
Comic Con in Palm Springs
ALSO -Don’t miss out on their SUMMER SPECIAL happening now until September 15, 2017. Superior non pool view rooms are only $99 per night plus city tax, during the week (Sunday – Thursday) and discounted on weekends ( Friday & Saturday).
All other rooms discounted accordingly
(not available during holidays or special events)
Transgender Travel Information and Tips
The New York Times ran a great piece this week about Transgender travel. It also discussed gay/lesbian travel to non friendly places.
Gender expression is a risk factor. “In some countries, they expect men to have a certain appearance; if you are not dressed for your gender, they can arrest you,” Mr. Williams said. In other countries, homosexuality may be legal but not culturally accepted, “so if you end up in the wrong neighborhood, it can get you in trouble.” As Americans, he said, “we have a strong tradition to be yourself, but in some countries the safest approach is to be the person they want you to be.”
TRAVEL + LEISURE also did a great article you might find helpful.
And The National Center for Trans Equality gives this advice.
The right to travel freely is a fundamental human right, yet travelers across the country continue to express concerns about the intrusive security screening procedures used by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Trump Travel Ban
The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the United Nations Specialized Agency for Tourism, expresses its deep concern and strong condemnation over the recently announced travel ban by the United States of America (USA) to nationals of seven countries (Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen).
The travel ban, based on nationality, is contrary to the principles of freedom of travel and travel facilitation promoted by the international tourism community and will hinder the immense benefits of the tourism sector brings in terms of economic growth and job creation to many countries, including the USA.
“Global challenges demand global solutions and the security challenges that we face today should not prompt us to build new walls; on the contrary, isolationism and blind discriminatory actions will not lead to increased security but rather to growing tensions and threats”, said UNWTO Secretary-General, Taleb Rifai.
“Besides the direct impact, the image of a country which imposes travel bans in such a hostile way will surely be affected among visitors from all over the world and risk dumping travel demand to the USA” added Mr Rifai.
