Category Archives: Gay News
Gay Cruise with Atlantis this week – MAN OVERBOARD
It seems that a passenger has fallen overboard from an Atlantis cruise off the coast of Mexico on Friday.
ABC7 photojournalist Sean Patrick Lewis aboard the Royal
Caribbean cruise ship Allure of the Seas said passengers were awakened
Friday morning by an emergency announcement, saying a man was believed
to be overboard.
The ship’s captain confirmed the incident to passengers and said all rescue attempts were being made.
An emergency assembly was called so passengers could be counted.
Royal Caribbean has aid a passenger
witnessed another passenger going overboard at about 7 a.m. According to
the statement, footage from the ship’s closed-circuit camera showed the
passenger, a 30-year-old British man, going over the balcony railing in
his stateroom. More details at ABC NEWS.
THE ALLURE OF THE SEAS holds the record for the largest passenger ship ever constructed – though her sister ship, Oasis of the Seas, is just 2 inches smaller!
The ship features a two-deck dance hall, a theatre with 1,380 seats, and an ice skating rink. Many of the ship’s interiors were extensively decorated by muralist Clarissa Parish.
Steven Barry Krumholz, 51, was arrested while on board
the Allure of the Seas while it was docked in St. Thomas. – last year, on their 2011 cruise.
News reports said that Customs and Border Protection agents boarded the
ship and found drugs on another passenger, who said he had
purchased them from Krumholz before the trip and picked them up while on
board.
Agents who searched Krumholz’s cabin reported finding
more than 140 ecstasy pills, nearly three grams of methamphetamine, a
small quantity of ketamine and about $51,000 in cash. While waiting for
the suspect in his cabin, two more passengers came to buy drugs,
according to agents!
I never have liked cruise ships…..
Is Tel Aviv The Best Gay City?
TEL AVIV is being touted by some
as THE BEST GAY CITY.
Hmmmm, really? The BEST? We have watched Tel Aviv grow in popularity over the last 5 years. They do have a powerful PR and Marketing team, I will give them that. Their presence in the media has grown at leaps and bounds over the last 5 years. But are they the BEST? or perhaps the best up-and-coming?
In a world-wide survey hosted GayCities.com and American Airlines,
43 percent of voters cast their ballot in favor of the White City,
pushing it ahead of other proud towns including New York, Toronto and
London.
(New York City with 14 per cent, Toronto with 7 per cent, Sao Paulo with 6 per cent, Madrid and London with 5 per cent each and New Orleans and Mexico City with 4 per cent each.)
I think it all just depends on who you ask and who is surveyed! Tel Aviv is the gay mecca of the Middle East, for sure, and boasts of plenty of
designers, fashionistas, night clubs, fancy beaches, shopping malls and
outlets, DJs, women activists, gays, jews and financiers. You really
couldn’t find a more open-minded place like Tel Aviv outside of Israël. Tel Aviv, in sharp contrast to Jerusalem, is a liberal, hedonistic and secular city, where leisure life revolves around beaches, cafes and nightclubs.
Lonely Planet named it one of its top three cities in the world for
2011, describing it as “the flipside of Jerusalem, a modern Sin City on
the sea rather than an ancient Holy City on a hill” and adding: “There
are more bars than synagogues, God is a DJ and everyone’s body is a
temple.” The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is rarely on the radar.
According to Tel Aviv’s 30-year-old deputy mayor, Asaf Zamir, 16% to 17% of the city’s 403,000 population is gay.
“It’s
a very strong community here, a comfortable arena for the gay
community. Two men walking hand in hand is a very normal thing,” he
said.
The city municipality funded a gay centre and was promoting gay tourism, he added.
They even have a gay pride parade each year – that has grown to about 100,000 local people! And also about 5,000 gay tourists.
Amsterdam, Barcelona, London, Prague…there are so many amazing choices. Just depends on what you want? Value? Nighlife? Culture?
As for Tel Aviv – The weather is hot, the guys are hot, it’s a hot city!
Gay Tel Aviv4U – The official LGBT site
Maui Hawaii Celebrate Gay Marriage this Week
Paradise is a strong word, and I don’t use it lightly. But Maui, Hawaii
is truly a paradise in every way.
It has glorious warm weather all
year, with just enough of a breeze from the trade winds to keep you
feeling refreshed. The tropical greenery and colourful flowers are
spectacular, and there’s nothing better than the relaxing sound of the
surf crashing on the beach as you drift off to sleep every night.
Wouldn’t you want to get married in Paradise?!
A gay Oklahoma City couple is happy to be on Maui and among the
first couples to be joined in a civil union after a state law allowing
such unions went into effect last Sunday.
“We are proud to be part of
it,” said 40-year-old Rich Tucker, a mortgage company owner, shortly
before his Monday sunset ceremony with partner 37-year-old David Dobson,
a Realtor.
“We wanted to have the ceremony somewhere tropical. It’s awesome to have accepting people that accept everyone. No one
is segregated,” Tucker said about Hawaii and the civil unions law.
Dobson added: “In Oklahoma, it’s still very much the Bible Belt.”
Industry insiders have said they expect that the law legalizing civil unions, which took effect Jan. 1, will lead to a boost in tourism among same-sex visitors. Hotel executives said they’re actively reaching out to the gay and lesbian community with promotions and packages aimed at couples who are eager to make their commitment official.
“We’ve had 10 ceremonies booked so far,” said Chuck Spence, owner of the Maui Sunseeker LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered) Resort in Kihei. “Already we’ve also seen an immediate boost in bookings, and not just because of civil unions, but because the law also opens up the perception by the gay and lesbian community that Hawaii is truly a welcoming state. We are aloha.”
Hawaii’s hard-fought civil unions law was bitterly opposed by conservative and Christian groups, who said the measure posed a threat to heterosexual marriage and traditional families.
Deacon Walter Yoshimitzu of the Honolulu Roman Catholic Diocese said marriage should be only between a man and a woman.
“Even with civil unions, we believe it is same-sex marriage by another name,” he said.
State Sen. Roz Baker, who represents West and South Maui and was a supporter of the civil unions bill, said she hoped the law would attract couples to Hawaii.
“Let’s face it, too, nowhere is the weather nicer, or are there as many beautiful places to visit year round, than in Hawaii,” she said, adding that “the wedding business has always been good to Maui.” Year round the weather is gorgeous!
But she and West Maui Rep. Angus McKelvey noted that the new civil unions license will be recognized only in Hawaii, so they anticipated it to attract a wave but not a tsunami of same-sex visitors.
“It’s not going to be a billion-dollar law,” McKelvey said.
More significant than its ability to attract visitors, he said, the law was important for gays and lesbians living in Hawaii, because it would give them the same rights as heterosexual couples.
“We still have a long way to go,” said spokesman Don Bentz for Equality Hawaii of Honolulu, a gay rights advocacy group. “If a couple, let’s say, comes from Florida (which doesn’t have gay marriage or civil unions), they have rights here but lose them after the plane ride.”
Frank and Kevin, who own a wedding service on Maui, have been performing ceremonies for heterosexual and gay couples, recognized or not, for many years. They’ve said they expect their numbers to go from nearly 40 ceremonies a year to more than 100.
Maui SunSeeker is going to provide group room discounts and gifts like champagne. Rich and David were the first guests to tie the knot!
He noted that they’re bringing friends – as others certainly will – and that the tourists will spend money at other Maui businesses.
“In regard to tourism, absolutely this will have a great impact. No question,” said Spence, whose hotel currently has 25 rooms and now plans to add more.
Applications and information about civil unions are available online at hawaii.gov/health.
Gay Marriage Comes to Cancun Mexico in 2012 #gaytravel
Everybody wants a
piece of that pink dollar!
The city-state of Mexico City legalized
gay marriage in 2010 and remains the only municipality in Mexico
where such marriages are officially allowed.
Now Cancun and other resort areas on the Mexican Caribbean will have a new attraction for gay and lesbian couples from the US, Canada
and Europe, allowing them to legalize their unions thanks to a quirk in
the local civil code, activist Patricia Novelo.
Novelo said that in January the first same-sex group wedding will be
held in the resort area as part of local support for the human rights of
the gay community.
Gay travel groups in the state say they
are now preparing to market the state as a destination for gay
couples to marry and will promote a mass wedding of gay couples
sometime in January. (It was not clear whether the first 8 confirmed
couples would wed in separate ceremonies.)
The gay travel groups say that travel
agencies on average receive about 200 requests per month from gay
tourists wishing to marry in the Mexican Caribbean.
Annual Gay Travel Data from Community Marketing
NEW YORK CITY is #1, again, for the 16th year in a row, as the #1 Gay Destination.
San Francisco-based Community Marketing, Inc. just released their yearly data. And while some of the results will be less-than-shocking (gay New York City gets high scores, as does gay Miami and gay New Orleans), there are still a few surprises in the 40-page report.
The 16th annual survey of its kind analyzes online responses from more than 6,700 U.S. residents and 540 Canadians, completed between September 20 and October 31, 2011.
Based on the survey and Department of Commerce tourism statistics, CMI estimates that gay and lesbian tourism generates more than $65 billion a year in the U.S. alone.
Here are some of the more interesting findings of this year’s survey:
1. Economy be damned! Overall, the gay and lesbian community reported more trips in the past 12 months, while travel had been down in the past two years’ surveys. Both men and women took an average of more than three leisure trips in the past year.
2. Still, gay travelers like saving money, too. More LGBT travelers call themselves “economy/budget travelers” than “luxury travelers” (though the mid-range market is still the largest). And high percentages of gay men said that discount-laced LGBT hotel packages were motivating factors when choosing accommodations (not so much for lesbians).
3. Kids rule. Once gay globetrotters become parents, the importance of “family-friendly” trumps “gay-friendly” when planning getaways.
4. Anti-gay, stay away? Not always. – I found this one shocking actually. Only about one third of gay men and lesbians avoid destinations with anti-gay laws, indicating that destination boycotts are not so effective (though corporate boycotts are, according to CMI focus groups). More of a deterrent to those surveyed are recent reports of gay bashings—though the two considerations are often intertwined.
5. Location matters. The most important hotel amenities for LGBT travelers are great location and free WiFi. When it comes to choosing one hotel over another, price and gay-friendly reputation are top priorities.
6. Warm weather is a motivator. The majority of respondents surveyed indicated that they are a “warm-weather traveler” rather than an “outdoor/active adventure traveler,” “luxury traveler” or “winter/ski traveler.”
7. Honeymoons are a factor. Of respondents who were legally married or partnered within the past 5 years (577 couples), 43% went on a honeymoon, with 50% traveling to warm-weather destinations.
NYC still rules. And Miami’s back! Gay New York City has retained its position as the #1 leisure (as well as business/leisure combined) destination for all 16 years of CMI’s survey, and in fact this year saw a slight increase over the traditional #2 and #3 spots of gay San Francisco and gay Las Vegas, respectively.
Miami saw significant gains, and is back in the top 10 of USA destinations after being out of the combined leisure/business category since 2006. – I find that one interesting. Most of my friends agree that Miami is so over. The gay vibe has faded and straight people rule the city.
Also in the top 20: Ft. Lauderdale, Seattle, New Orleans, Napa and Provincetown. In Europe, the top destination is England; in Canada, it’s Montreal; in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta.
BYTOX – You Might Not Be Able to Cure a Hangover, But You Can Prevent it!
HOW DO YOU CURE A HANGOVER? You can’t technically.
However,
You can PREVENT IT
with BYTOX.
HOW GREAT IS THIS?!
Perfect this time of year, when many of us go to party after party and over-indulge.
Be prepared for the biggest drinking time
(as in alcoholic consumption) of the year.
Let me introduce you to Bytox patches….the
ultimate hangover remedy patch which will allow you to wake up the next
morning with a clear memory and feeling good.
SO EASY TO USE! As you head out to your party, stick the patch on your body and just leave it on till the next morning.
The
specially-formulated Bytox hangover remedy patch effectively replenishes the
vital levels of vitamins and nutrients your body loses when you consume
alcohol. By enhancing and restoring these levels, Bytox reduces the physical
side effects of alcohol consumption. Use the patch before during or after your
night out for maximum relief from hangovers. The patch is 100% safe and really
works! I have used it and tested it with great results!
Bytox has zero calories of course and won’t irritate your stomach, so you
can party in style.
BE
RESPONSIBLE: OBVIOUSLY, THE BYTOX PATCH DOES NOT REVERSE OR PREVENT SENSORY IMPAIRMENT IN
THE OPERATION OF MACHINERY OR VEHICLES AFTER ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION.
For more information visit www.bytox.com. Get a package of 5 patches for about $15.00.
Look for them on store shelves everywhere – order online.
DO NOT USE
IF YOU ARE PREGNANT OR NURSING, OR IF YOU ARE TAKING MEDICATION AND/OR HAVE A
MEDICAL CONDITION. DON’T
DRINK AND DRIVE. BYTOX IS NOT TO BE USED BY ANYONE UNDER THE AGE OF 21.
San Francisco Calendar of Gay Events and Happenings
WsupNow.com was created with the intention to give users the most up-to-date information on gay parties and events nearest to them, at a quick glance.
The first city launched is SAN FRANCISCO.
With WsupNow.com, you can always have gay nightlife at the tips of
your fingers as long as you have an internet connection. “With a simple
time+distance formula,, we’ll show you the events that are happening
nearby and now, but you have the ability to filter events that resonate
with you.
Our goal is to capture every piece of gay nightlife for you, so that
anyone can find the events or parties that are best-suited for them.“
Stuart Leung is the creator of the site. “A friend was coming into town and he wanted to go out on a
Wednesday night. I knew of a couple gayparties that were happening in the city, but drew a blank to
whether any other parties were occurring. I found it frustrating that I had been in San Francisco 7 years and still didn’t know what was going on. And it wasn’t just me, a lot of friends who were connected, didn’t always know what was going on.
I wanted a resource that gathered all gay events in one place instead of me going to 10+ sites to figure out which was the best option. That’s how wsup now was born.“
Just four months old, the site already provide a comprehensive view of all te LGBT and related events from around San Francisco – all in one quick and easy to scan view. Stuart says, “San Francisco has plenty of events to keep me busy (haha). However, once we learn how to efficiently scale, we do plan on expanding to other major metros.”
Check out WSUPNOW.com!
Liverpools Gay Quarter Installs LGBT Street Signage
Liverpool’s “Gay Quarter” (sometimes Liverpool gay village or the “Stanley Street Quarter”) is a relatively modern term to identify the gay scene in Liverpool.
The area encompasses Stanley Street, Cumberland Street, Victoria St and Eberle St, and is where the bulk of the gay bars and clubs are located in Liverpool, in North West England. Stanley St is the main hub of the gay quarter and is where most of the bars are found. On 12th August 2011, the area received official recognition by Liverpool City Council.
Liverpool’s gay quarter was pedestrianised in December 2009.
Stanley Street is now closed to traffic between 10pm-6am seven days of
the week, Cumberland Street is closed between 6pm-6am seven days of the
week, and Eberle Street is closed for 24 hours of the day seven days of
the week.
Liverpool is now the first city in the UK to officially recognise its gay quarter with street signs.
The new signs will
incorporate a rainbow arch and will be used on Stanley Street,
Cumberland Street, Temple Lane, Eberle Street and Temple Street.
The first sign was unveiled outside the Lisbon pub on Stanley Street
by the Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Sharon Sullivan, in a ceremony to
be attended by representatives of the LGBT communities, local
businesses and residents.
Councillor Nick Small, member for employment and skills, said: “We
need to start unleashing the enormous economic potential of the Stanley
Street quarter and as one of the first moves we have to show that this
is our gay village.”
Over the next 2-3 years, much more will done to beautify and bring attention to this neighborhood!
#gaytravel
Gay Travel to Umbria Jazz, Lake Como Italy and East African Safari
Where will you go in 2012??
3 exciting LGBT tours!!
Love To Travel With Pride
Lake Como 2012
An Exclusive LGBT Vacation Event
Together We Welcome
Gay Men, Women and Friends
to join us on Lago di Como, Italy,
Summer 2012
We are offering this vacation on
2 separate weeks.
The choice is yours:
May 26 – June 2 or August 25 -September 1
Villa Stupenda is a stunning 9-bedroom Hotel and combined fully furnished apartment complex situated directly on Lake Como: A completely refurbished 19th Century Villa
Our enticing itinerary will introduce you to the culture and beauty of the Lake Como region of Northern Italy with:
Wine tastings,
A private estate BBQ,
Travel to St. Moritz, Switzerland,
“Sfilata Privata” (reception & private fashion display) in the
House of Armani, Milan, Italy
Spa Day in Bormio, Italy,
An intimate evening boat tour of the Villas of Lake Como,
An unforgettable unique dining experience at Locanda dell’Isola Comacina on Lake Como
As your on-site English Speaking hosts we ensure you a high level of personal service.
Tour Price: € 2199,00 per person dbl*
*With early booking discount of € 200,00 per person if deposit is received before 31 January 2012.
Non-refundable deposit of €200,00 is required to confirm your space at the time of booking.
Contact us now to book this Italian adventure:
1-800-565-2238 (North America)
+39 338 897 7965 (Italy)
“Passionately delivering a unique travel experience”
UMBRIA JAZZ FEST
in Perugia, Italy. July 2012!
One of the best Music Festivals in the World
Your one or two weeks in Umbria offers you the sights and sounds, the foods,
the music, the enchantment of Umbria and Tuscany.
7 – 14 July 2012
One Week – Umbria Jazz
EUR €1999 pp
7-21 July 2012
Two Week – Umbria Jazz Extended with
Tuscany & Umbria Touring
EUR €2999 pp
Prices include:
* Private Transfers from Rome or Florence
* 7 or 14 Nights accommodation at Il Borgo Torale
* Tickets to 5 Umbria Jazz events with transfers
* Private Day Tours in Umbria and Tuscany: Wine Tasting, Sightseeing, Food experiences
* On site Canadian Hosts
* Always stay in touch Italian Mobile Phone during your stay
* Included Special Events
Prices are in EURO’s (€) and are based on 2 people sharing a one bedroom, king size bed, apartment.
Studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments are available: Please enquire about pricing.
Contact us today to assist you with
booking your perfect holiday in Italy
1 800 565 2238 (toll free North America)
001 39 338 897 7965 (Canada to Italy)
0039 338 897 7965 (Europe)
Our Events are Unique Vacation Experiences Personally Designed for the Inquisitive World Traveller.
“Passionately delivering an exceptional travel experience”
Visit with us and Feel the Difference!
East Africa Safari
03 October 2012
This LoveToTravel exclusive East African Safari includes all the famous Tanzania and Kenya Safari highlights and attractions.
Explore East Africa on this relaxed
lodge and tent-camp safari adventure.
This is a small group, six (6) member, 15-day safari.
Highlights Include:
Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Masai Mara, Nairobi and Amboseli National Park
Price: USD $6100 per person, Single Supplement: USD $710
Included in the price:
-14 nights in lodges / permanent tented camps with en-suite bathrooms
-all transport in fully kitted out 4×4 safari vehicle
-game reserve drives as mentioned
-meals and activities as mentioned in itinerary
-accommodation
-park entrance fees
-experienced local guides
Tour Code: 2Y12P5900
Contact us today to Book this Exciting East Africa Safari Event
1 800 565 2238 (toll free North America)
001 39 338 897 7965 (Canada to Italy)
0039 338 897 7965 (Europe)
We would love to hear from you: jclement@lovetotravel.ca
Our Events are Unique Vacation Experiences Personally Designed for the Inquisitive World Traveller.
New York City and Columbus Ohio Rank High for Gay Travel
The results for the first annual LOGO TV NewNowNext Travel Awards are in and
we have some winners to share with you — and one of them (hint: pictured ) is a bit of a shocker to some people – but not really.
First a recap of how this all went down.
To start with, a group of professional travel writers were polled — the NewNowNext Travel Awards Academy
— and they gave their nominations in 10 categories.
From
their expert input, nominees in all 10 categories were submitted and
then opened it to voting by the readers or Tripouttravel.com and
Newnownext.com.
Thousands voted and some interesting places took the top
position — most notable is probably Columbus as the NewNowNext
destination. – But as we found out this year, Columbus is an up and coming gem, that many LGBT folks are discovering!
Here’s the full list of the 2011 NewNowNext Travel Award winners:
Best US Destination: New York City – no shocker here – they always win.
Best Global Destination: Montreal
Best Luxury Hotel: Peninsula Chicago
Best Resort: Encore Las Vegas – OUTSTANDINH hotel.
Best Hotel Chain: W Hotels & Resorts
Best Airline: Jet Blue
Best Annual Event: Mardi Gras, Sydney
Favorite Travel Show: The Amazing Race
Sexiest Spot: Rio de Janiero
NewNowNext Destination 2011: Columbus, Ohio
We’re thrilled that Columbus took that award and happy for all the other winners as well.
Gay Pride March is Canceled and Banned in Belgrade Serbia
Over a hundred people were hurt including around 90 police officers, two seriously. “We are shocked,” he said. “With this the state capitulated … a democratic state should be able to guarantee two hours of security to its citizens.”
LAST YEAR, Serbian riot police fought running battles in Belgrade with mobs of ultra-nationalist youths who tried to disrupt a gay pride gathering that was addressed by the country’s top EU official.
It’s sad. I think many of us who have the luxury of celebrating in cities like New York City, Chicago, Toronto, West Hollywood, Amsterdam and even Sao Paulo, forget how good we have it. Other countries, it can be very scary…
Traditionally conservative societies across the Balkans have been slow to accept open homosexuality and many gay rights events in the region have ended in violence.
Goran Miletic, a human rights activist and an organizer of the pride parade, condemned the decision as a capitulation to hooligans, but said the rally would not go ahead.
We personally attended the Gay Pride in Budapest this year. Government officials were worried there as well. But they deployed 1500 officers in riot gear, to protect the 2500 gay pride marchers for 4 hours. And while there were hostile protesters in the crowd, no one was seriously injured. I think this shows that a city was able to eat the cost, to make the event happen, for the good of LGBT people, and it sent a message to the city, saying violence would not be tolerated in Budapest.
Wallabyway.com Releases Awesome BURNING MAN Videos
Pictured – Meet Garet and Dusty, Seattle’s adventure seeking (sometimes nudist) boyfriends who go by “The Scenic Boys”, who with a dozen friends built The Emerald City Glam Cocks camp, a 20-foot structure completely with disco ball dance club on which to survey the land …and the guys.
Watch what happens as three Aussie Burning Man virgins travel halfway around the world to take on the world’s most epic festival. This is some awesome video footage in the links below!
5 minutes Inside Burning Man
NSFW 17 minutes Welcome Home – Burning Man Adventure
WallabyWay on Facebook
Hong Kong To Launch Asia’s Biggest LGBT Festival this Month
Pink Season, Hong Kong’s first ever and Asia’s biggest LGBT festival kicks Get The latest on the Pink Season at Pinkseason.hk
off on 30 September. It is an unprecedented collaboration between local
LGBT organizations and artists over a 2.5-month period.
The Pink Season schedule covers the Electric Pink music party Sept. 30th,
the glamorous Mr. Gay Hong Kong pageant Oct. 15th,
Floatilla – Party at Sea Oct. 16th,
Out in the Open – The All Inclusive beach carnival Nov. 6th,
Drag Overdose Nov. 12th,
Gay Day @ Disneyland Dec. 4th
plus the solidly established HK Lesbian and Gay Film Festival Nov. 18-Dec. 1st.
Organizers are still planning for more activities with local artists and organizations,
while looking to add a distinguished speaker series, plays, dance shows,
painting exhibitions, and much more.
PinkSeason on Facebook
Hocking Hills…SouthEast Ohio’s Hidden Gem of Nature and Waterfalls
Surrounded on three sides by Hocking Hills State Parks, The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls, in Logan, Ohio, features a setting that puts guests in tune with the harmony of nature, the peace of solitude and the simple joys of the Earth’s beauty. It was beautiful! And they have been green certified, by the Hocking Hills Tourism Assoc. The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls is THE place you want to make sure you stay at! It is the original, in this area. Over the years, many mom and pop inn’s have sprouted up, but this one is THE BEST. And it has a wonderful history. After two and a half years in the making, the vision became a reality when The Inn opened in 1987. Those two plus years were not without struggle. Located in each room at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls, is a brief history of The Inn. It states: “This is not a Pollyanna-glad-girl story, however, the struggle to withstand backbreaking work, mind-bending discouragement, seemingly countless physical, emotional and financial blocks, is a long tale…” A story not unlike many great entrepreneurs. The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls is distinguished by the 1840′s log houses that are homes to The Inn’s gourmet kitchen, dining rooms and tavern. Constructed with 18-inch wide logs and the original plank floor, the main dining room offers a romantic setting. Outside dining on the gorgeous and lush patio offers guests the opportunity to view hummingbirds at feeders and dine under the stars. The Inn is a barn-like structure housing 9 antique-furnished rooms each with its own private bath. The porch and veranda feature a spectacular view of the Hocking Hills. A large common room is available for guests or business meetings. Ideal for a tranquil romantic getaway, each Hocking Hills Cozy cottage is situated on two acres of natural wooded beauty and has the charming ambiance of a gas log stove and private deck. Relax and unwind in a whirlpool hot tub for two after a day of hiking the Hocking Hills. Sit on the back deck and sip a glass of wine and admire the brilliant evening sky full of stars. The new Rooftop Garden is a 1000-squarefoot rooftop herb and flower garden with walking paths. There is a small gazebo and it is ideal for smaller weddings of up to 20 people. The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls provides the PERFECT romantic backdrop for ceremony/dinner/honeymoon. Owner Ellen says, “We’ve created an environment that makes the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls an ideal place for your ceremony. The Inn’s 75 acres is perfectly suited for small, intimate gatherings of up to 50 people. Make your day unique and unforgettable by allowing us to help you envision, create, plan, and fulfill your special day. Your every last wish is delightfully anticipated!” Each season, the Inn, presents a new menu. “We have incorporated Ohio’s vast cultural influences into our style of preparation. Local Ohio products inspired by classic, culinary traditions yield a delicious way to explore our national heritage.” – Breakfast, lunch and dinner’s available. Full bar and extensive wine list.
(Photo Left-Joe Braun)
Hocking Hills Ohio,
where waterfalls, remarkable hiking trails and amazing wildlife await!
We just discovered this hidden gem last month – and WOW! What a treat!
This is a photographers paradise. Hikers will love it. Take a deep breathe of fresh air….and just relax with nature.
Whether it’s antiques, fine art, breathtaking scenery, a hike to Old Man’s Cave or a getaway in a woodland cabin, you’ll find it all just outside Logan in southeast Ohio. Just 60 minutes from the beautiful city of Columbus!
There is so much that makes Hocking Hills State Park unique. Cascading waterfalls, breathtaking cliffs, deep recess caves and forestland as far as the eye can see are just a few distinctive features of the region. And everything to see is FREE.
Located in the picturesque sandstone region of Southeastern Ohio,
The natural history of this region is as fascinating as the caves are beautiful. Here, in these sandstones and shales, one can read Ohio’s history from the rocks. The scenic features of the six areas of the Hocking Hills State Park complex are carved in the Blackhand sandstone. This bedrock was deposited more than 350 million years ago as a delta in the warm shallow sea which covered Ohio at that time. Subsequent millions of years of uplift and stream erosion created the awesome beauty seen today.
And of course, you can still see the erosion at work when the spring rains fill up Queer Creek near Old Man’s Cave and she pours her excess into what is called Cedar Falls.
The Cedar Falls area is where we stayed. The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls is recognized by SELECT REGISTRY, as one of the distinguished Inns of North America.
Mammoth rock formations, caves and waterfalls native to the Hocking Hills, Ohio region share their breathtaking beauty with the Inn’s charming cottages, log cabins and antique filled bed and breakfast rooms.
It is ran by Ellen Grinsfelder and her husband Terry Lingo. It was Ellen’s mother, Anne Castle who had a vision in Hocking Hills. Anne was a well respected businesswoman who gave up her corporate life to establish a place where the ever-growing number of urban dwellers could retreat to a natural setting.
Over the years, 12 Cozy cottages were added and nestled into the woods, affording privacy and tranquility.
For large groups or just more space, 5 larger renovated, fully equipped 19th Century log cabins feature privacy and cooking facilities. So you really have 3 choices when selecting your place to stay.
Plush robes, fine soap, lotions, and lip balm add an extra touch for cottage guests. Towel warmers and hair dryers are also provided. Fresh baked cookies await your arrival in the cottages.
The Sumac Cottage is handicap accessible. Two Dog Friendly Cottages are Trillium and Yarrow. Children of all ages are welcome in some of the cabins. The rooms and cottages are not set up to accommodate them. Additional features offered in the Supreme Cottages.
And what about a commitment ceremony? The Hilltop Garden is simple, but beautifully landscaped with local flowers, fruit trees and benches. Couples desiring an outdoor wedding make this an ideal setting. It offers sitting or standing room for up to 50 guests.
SPA! AHHHHHHHH. A quiet retreat awaits those seeking the luxury of spa services gently balanced with a closeness to nature. There’s a moment when it all comes together — when you discover the best in yourself. In the middle of your busy schedule, it’s easy to miss these special times that can awaken you to life’s possibilities. Open daily, the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls offers packages, treatments and gift certificates for men, women, couples and groups.
The Inn continues to grow and review its mission, constantly evolving. It’s idea has remained the same throughout 23 years of operation. Simply put, it says, “We are a Country Inn in a peaceful, natural setting, where people can connect with the earth and universe. We are dedicated to high standards — standards of Excellence. We have committed ourselves to quality food, quality surroundings, quality service and quality employees.”
WHEN TO GO? Pretty much anytime during the year. In the winter it’s like a wonderland, in the summer it looks like something us city dwellers, only see in magazines. Witness the fall colors in Autumn or the magic of the holiday season.
Insider hint – WEEKDAYS are better than weekends, in my opinion. It is less busy.
Editors note – No TV or computers here. This is about GETTING AWAY FROM IT ALL! ESCAPE! There is wi-fi available in the main building, should you absolutely feel the need to check in with the rat race!
Hocking Hills Official site
Hocking Hills State Park
Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls
Inn’s and Spa’s Special Event Calendar
A Gay Ol’ Time in the South of France by Guest Author Davey Wavey and GayTravel.com
Special Guest Author:
I just got back from a week-long Pilates adventure in the south of France, and I have only one word: Wow.
Admittedly, I was a bit skeptical about the trip. For one, it was a group trip with planned day excursions—something I’ve never done. Second, as someone who enjoys warm, friendly people, I was put off by the reputation of rudeness that the French people seemed to have earned. Third, the trip was gay—and the idea of being surrounded by a group of gay men for a week was nothing short of overwhelming.
In my mind, group trips were to travel what McDonald’s is to food. Everything seemed packaged, processed and lacking flavor. I was wrong; traveling with friends-to-be enhanced the trip several-fold. As someone who has only traveled alone, I quickly realized that group trips are safe, easier and free from logistics. All the work was done for us. We’d start each day with a Pilates class and the hop of the van for the day’s adventures. There was no thinking, planning or fretting over maps. It was all the fun of traveling without the stresses and tensions.
When it comes to rudeness, the reputation of the French people precedes them. I anticipated upturned noses and well-honed attitudes, but found only warm, loving and hospitable people. In fact, shopkeepers, waiters and residents alike were all genuine and friendly. After buying some cheese, a storeowner gave us some free samples of her Parmesan frits for the car ride home. Another, a complimentary bottle of wine to serve with dinner. Maybe it’s different in Paris—but the south of France is teeming in good energy and loving people. I couldn’t help but think that some sort of cosmic karma was at work; if you are warm and friendly, people will tend to mirror that back to you. Maybe a smile really can go a mile.
Not only was the trip a group experience, but it was also gay. Very gay. The trip was organized by a husband-husband team and all the vacationers were gay men. That’s a lot of gay, and the idea of being surrounded by so much gayness seemed a bit overwhelming—but my hesitation proved to be unfounded. The organizers were incredible and each of the vacationers brought something amazing to the experience. We bonded over our gayness, and it was insightful and empowering to hear the stories of our varied experiences and across different generations. We made something of a community within a community, and I’ll cherish the connections we forged.
The moral of the story is pretty-straight forward:
Challenge yourself, what you believe and what you’ve been told. Despite the concerns of myself or others, my Pilates adventure in the south of France proved to be one of the best vacations of my life. If you’ve never taken a gay group trip, do it. And if you’re looking for a place to visit, I hear that the French people are very friendly.
Gay Key West – Island House Celebrates 35 Years with Sweepstakes
the longest continuously operated gay guesthouse in the world, proudly announces its 35th anniversary in business and its 10th anniversary under its current owners, Jon Allen and Martin Kay, who transformed it into a leader among the world’s premier gay guesthouses.
To mark this milestone, Island House is offering all 39 rooms at $13, the price it charged when it opened in 1976, for the night of June 25, 2012. The special offer is available exclusively through a special sweepstakes. 39 winners will be chosen randomly among those who complete the entry form at http://apps.facebook.com/sweepstakeshq/contests/141910. Sweepstakes participants are also encouraged (but not required) to “like” Island House Key West at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Island-House-Key-West-Gay-Hotel-Resort/56402142064 and post a comment with the phrase “35 and fabulous.” The offer is valid through midnight on Labor Day (September 5, 2011).
Island House Key West began operating as a modest, 16-room all-men’s guesthouse in 1976. When Allen and Kay took possession in the late ’90s, the ramshackle 39-room guesthouse sprawled languidly across several dilapidated buildings, sorely in need of abundant TLC.
“We are honored to have served more than 125,000 guests in more than a third of a century,” says Allen, “We’ve never rested on our laurels. We pride ourselves on our focus on customer satisfaction and professional, attentive service. We’ve invested well over two and a half million dollars since purchasing the property. If you haven’t visited us recently, come see all that’s new at Island House Key West.”
After a massive investment of capital and time, they unveiled the new and much improved Island House Key West in 2001, transforming it into Key West’s most luxurious and pampering oasis for men. Having spent $2.5 million in award-winning upgrades over the past decade, Island House is unmatched in its class. Recent upgrades and renovations include:
Transformed rooms with new ceilings, walls, floors, furniture, bathrooms and beds;
The poolside Café and Bar, including an extensive wine list, serving continuously 24/7;
A well-equipped gym and health club with Jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna;
Spa services available at the resort or en suite;
An extensive clothing-optional sundeck on the 2nd floor with a refreshing misting system; and
One of the highest staff-to-guest ratios among any resort in Key West.
With rates ranging from $124 in low season to $529 for the largest suite in high season, the resort is packed with upscale amenities at rates far less than comparable mainstream hotel properties, including: WiFi throughout the property, parking (as available), coffee, tea, an evening social hour (with wine and cocktails) and purified water – all available on a complimentary basis. The luxurious value offered by the resort has been noted in the foremost LGBT travel media, which has bestowed the following accolades:
“Best gay resort in the world” (OutTraveler.com)
“Gay travel’s first five-star resort” (Passport Magazine)
“Four Crowns,” their highest rating (Spartacus Hotel Guide)
In parallel with Island House’s stunning transformation, Key West has also undergone a quiet metamorphosis. America’s most beautiful tropical island is becoming a must-stop destination for connoisseurs of sophisticated yet relaxed tropical getaways boasting dozens of casual yet topnotch new dining spots; urbane wine bars and cocktail lounges; new galleries and performance spaces; and luxurious new mainstream hotel resorts.
“Come experience the new-and-improved Key West,” says Steve Smith, Sales Manager at Florida Keys Tourism. “Just be sure to sample a little of what makes this a special destination for LGBT visitors, like our hot gay bars and clubs, snorkeling and kayaking adventures, Fantasy Fest, Gay Spring Break, Key West Gay & Lesbian Visitors Center and Tennessee Williams Museum, the AIDS Memorial, and more.”
To book, call 800-890-6284 or visit IslandHouseKeyWest.com.
Join the online discussion with Island House Key West:
Sweepstakes entry form
FACEBOOK PAGE
Twitter @IslandHouseKW
Gay Travel Tips from David Bromstad and Passport Magazine
HGTV’s David Bromstad has been adding color to our lives since 2006, when he won
the first season of the network’s Design Star competition show.
His popular
interior makeover program, Color Splash, begins its seventh season in July,
2011. David resides in Miami, where he currently lives
with a boyfriend of almost seven years and their French bulldog, Dozer. – We met David last year in Chicago – he is just as charming as you imagine he would be!
He tells PASSPORT MAGAZINE this month…
You can own any hotel room in the world, which
would it be and why?
Of course I love Miami. I’ll have to say The
Setai’s presidential suite. It’s 10,000 square feet, $30,000 a night, and the
pool up there overlooking the ocean is unbelievable. The design is really classy
and classic and a little bit of Asian overtone— very contemporary.
If you were hired to make over an airline, which fashion designer would
you bring along to create the outfits?
Oh, Dolce & Gabbana for
sure.
What is your number one travel tip?
I would say, be prepared. Always bring
something to read and liquids to drink onto the flight because you don’t know
what you’re going to get served, when, or how often. If you’re in coach, they’re
going to come by once with a tiny little cup of water and that’s not going to
last you a four, five, or six-hour trip. If I’m flying coach I always bring
food, water, drinks, and lots of stuff to do.
Read More at PASSPORT.
Gay Travel to Playa Del Carmen Mexico
Just 60 kilometers from Cancun, a similar distance from the archaeological Maya site of Tulum, is Playa del Carmen, an old fishermen’s suitege known as Xaman H’a in the Maya language.
Playa, as it is called by its inhabitants and visitors, has now become the second most popular destination on the on the Riviera Maya. Look at that water!!
Playa del Carmen provides everything one could wish for in a Caribbean location with all the amenities that international travelers require, as well as smaller personalized establishments, numerous bars and discotheques, shopping centers, restaurants serving traditional and international cuisine, cultural centers, water sports and golf.
It is a fascinating town that attracts visitors from all over the globe who want to see for themselves what it’s all about: to immerse themselves in its atmosphere, feeling the soft white sand underfoot, enjoying the bohemian nightlife on sandy shores and listening to waves break on the beach of Playa del Carmen as they sip a tropical drink. Young people all over the world identify it as the place to go to get to know other cultures and ways of life.
Playa del Carmen lures painters, musicians, dancers and poets looking for ways to leap the boundaries of the every day and enter a fantastic universe, where ideas flow like rivers and creativity springs inspired by nature. The streets of Playa del Carmen are the favorite stage for anyone with a mission: folk dancers, concheros in pre-Hispanic costumes executing their mystic ritual dance, street performances, strolling minstrels who narrate local legends and artisans working at their craft to the fascination of passers-by.
All along its busy promenades lined with handcrafted stores a mere sampling of Mexican and International creativity and on the city’s famous Playa del Carmen Fifth Avenue, meeting place of extravagant characters, visitors can taste the delicious local dishes at any of numerous sidewalks cafes, where a marimba, trio from Veracruz or heavy rock band entice diners inside. Playa del Carmen, once a sleepy fishing suitege, ensconced in the very heart of the Riviera Maya, Mexico is now one the fastest growing communities in the world. Playa del Carmen has a first-class hotel infrastructure and all the services of a cosmopolitan tourism destination.
On the horizon, the hazy outline of the legendary island of Cozumel beckons. Regularly scheduled ferries take visitors from Playa del Carmen to the Mexico’s largest island and world renowned diving site, where turquoise blue waters entice divers to discover the coral wonders hidden beneath the surface.
Playa del Carmen has been transformed in recent years in the most popular destination for the gay community. This Mexican paradise offers the gay community all the services necessary for their stay, from hotels, restaurants, private beaches, bars and discos. Mexico is considered a destination gayfriendly, and Playa del Carmen is adding gay clubs and restaurants, all the time.
TO STAY – we recommend Acanto Boutique Hotel, known as one of the best boutique hotels in Playa del Carmen. Set behind Hacienda style gates and built around a lush tropical courtyard with swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sun decks and chaise lounges for sunbathing, we offer a cozy Romantic yet family friendly atmosphere where their experienced staff will cater to your every need.
All of the guestrooms are very deluxe! And include Full kitchens, Granite counter tops, air conditioning, ceiling fans, Plazma TVs and phones, balconies or terraces and private bathrooms. There is free wireless Internet access in the lobby area, free on-site parking beach club access and discounted Gym and spa rates.
Just one block from the beach which is adorned with miles of powdery white sand and clear blue waters and just 1/2 block from Playa’s popular 5th Avenue which offers an array of shopping and dining experiences!
Playa del Carmen, magic, eclectic and yet steeped in tradition is the doorway to those who want to enjoy the natural beauty and culture of the Mayan World, explore the region, mingle with its people and discover the parks of the Riviera Maya.
Today, the new alternative to traditional tourism is eco-adventure travel that offers everything from walks through exuberant jungles to millenary cenotes (sinkholes) and Mayan suiteges, cave diving in the underground river system to solitary lagoons, refuge of monkeys and other marvelous wildlife.
Try it! You will love it!
Playa Del Carmen Acanto Boutique Hotel
Buenos Aires Argentina Still Leader in LGBT Gay Travel…but More of Latin America is Expected to Follow
Latin American cities
jockey for gay tourists
For the last few years, Buenos Aires has been growing in popularity with gay travelers. Plus, will the fall of the Peso, it is super affordable!
It is estimated that this year, 20% of the travel revenue flowing into Argentina, is from LGBT travelers.
Global Post writes, “Rio de Janeiro is trying to lure tourists with pictures of muscular men.
But the brochure, with the slogan “live the Rio sensation,” isn’t aimed at women.
It’s for gay men.
And it’s part of an effort by Rio to position itself as the global capital of gay tourism.
Brazil is the largest nation to recognize same-sex civil unions and this week marks Rio’s inaugural diversity week. It follows months of gay-friendly initiatives, including vocational training for transvestites, anti-bullying projects aimed at gay and lesbian students and legislation outlawing discrimination in nightclubs.
The country is hoping that its openness will also prove a moneymaker, drawing gay men — and their money — from around the world. Last year 25 percent of Rio’s tourists, or about 880,000 people, were gay, reports the Guardian.
But Rio isn’t the first Latin American city to try to lay claim to the gay tourist market.
After Argentina legalized same-sex marriages, Mexico City offered a free honeymoon to the first couple of wed under the new law.
Last year, the city opened an office that caters to gay tourists with the goal of turning Mexico City into the No. 1 gay-friendly destination in Latin America, reported CNN.
And Buenos Aires isn’t about to give up its reputation as a gay mecca. Last year Argentina became the first Latin American country to legalize gay marriage.
Gay tourism makes up about 20 percent of overall tourism to the country, according to the tourism ministry.
“Whichever angle you look at — be it travel, be it where you stay, be it dancing tango — there’s everything for gays now,” said Welsh tourist Kalervo Barker. “We we gays tourists feel really comfortable here.”
There is an informative video at Global Post, worth watching.
Rail Europe LGBT Discount to FAB FOUR
The “Fab Four” deal gives travelers a 10% discount on rail passes to European countries well known for gay and lesbian travel. The “Fab Four” countries are Switzerland, Denmark, The Netherlands, and Germany.
These “fab four” countries are well-known as top destinations for charming gay and lesbian travelers. Switzerland has a lively gay scene and offers travelers an exciting mix of bars and restaurants, shopping, and beautiful sites. Denmark also extends a warm welcome to gay and lesbian travelers, as it was the first country to fully recognize same sex marriages. The Netherlands and Germany aim to celebrate gay pride at its finest as well, with Amsterdam and Hamburg’s biggest gay pride festivals taking place in August.
Offering travelers easy and seamless travel throughout these destinations, Rail Europe’s ‘Fab Four’ promo is valid for more than 25 of Rail Europe’s rail passes. Whether you’re savoring Germany’s best brews, gliding along the Swiss Alps, biking around beautiful Amsterdam, or enjoying bustling Copenhagen, Rail Europe offers the best way to travel around Europe’s most iconic gay destinations this summer.
Not only are there wonderful events happening all the time in these fab countries, but the gay and lesbian nightlife and overall acceptance of gay people makes them wonderful travel destinations. Check out Passport Magazines World Beat section for events you can check out while hopping from country to country.
The rail system runs throughout Europe, making travel between these countries quick and easy. Flaunt your spontaneity, hop on a train, and make your own unforgettable gay tour of Europe.
