Category Archives: Gay Resorts
Gay Palm Springs in the Spring
THE SPRING!
All the cool things going on….
Palm Canyon Theater:
Elton Johns AIDA
HURRY! thru 3/13/2011
Alexander Weekend 10th Anniversary
3/25/2011 – 3/27/2011
Palm Springs WestFest & Rodeo
3/24/2011 – 3/27/2011
White Party
4/8/2011 – 4/11/2011
Coachella Valley Music Festival
4/15/2011 – 4/17/2011
Meet the Museum party for the LGBT Community
4/22/2011
Spring and Autumn are actually the best seasons to be in Palm Springs.
Located 120 miles east Los Angeles. The Colonial Spanish heritage, the powerful influence of Hollywood stars and Los Angeles wealthy people in the architecture and lifestyle of this town, and the omnipresence of the desert around, turn Palm Spring an exotic oasis and a top travel reference in south California.
But do you know WHERE you are going to stay??
The choice is simple, if you’re a man….INNdulge.
INNdulge corners the market on comfortable and casual. One section of the structure has the requisite pool and hot tub, and features rooms that are spacious and pampered without being stuffy, with nicely preserved ’50’s style kitchenettes (PS loves its retro history! But new updates are always being done – recently new headboards, desks, tables, dresser’s, flat screen TV’s, and original artwork were added to rooms.)
There is a poolside social hour and INNdulge probably boasts the most spectacular mountain-range view. Practically every Palm Springs Locale is outfitted with misters to combat the desert heat, but INNdulge has the only pool chiller which, when the heat soars to skin-melting temperatures, is quite a draw.
And check this out, last week they installed the desert’s first ever 24 hour security guard. His name is Pablo.
Isn’t that great?!
But seriously, this is the place to stay in Palm Springs. INNdulge Palm Springs is a wonderful example of Palm Springs 50’s architecture….and hospitality. The resort is centered around a kidney-shaped pool. The beautifully landscaped grounds frame the surrounding hotel rooms. The only thing better than the architecture and grounds of the property are the resort’s employees and its owners, who maintain a friendly atmosphere resulting in a loyal repeat crowd.
When in Palm Springs….INNdulge!
601 Grenfall Road Palm Springs CA 92264
ph. 800.833.5675 760.327.1408
Boutique and Luxury Gay Hotels for the LGBT Traveler
small B&Bs and Inns
and a handful of resorts
from Key West to Palm Springs
have labeled themselves
as “gay hotels” and/or
“gay resorts.”
In the 90’s we saw many big name hotels courting the gay travel dollar labeling themselves “gay-friendly” and providing gay perks to gay travelers. From W to Wynn, Marriott to Kimpton, major hotel chains have been targeting lesbian and gay travelers for some time now.
Some estimate that the LGBT travel market is worth an annual $63 billion in the U.S. alone. “There have always been gay inns and B&Bs,” says Lords founder Brian Gorman. “This is the time to take this concept to a far larger scale.”
When the Lords South Beach Hotel opened last month in Miami, its brightly hued decor, trio of plunge pools and Absolut Vodka–partnered bar looked much like any other higher-end Miami resort. But the 50+ room Art Deco confection, which is located a block from South Beach’s main gay beach, is billing itself as the country’s first large-scale, design-driven gay hotel. Not just gay-friendly, but gay through and through. The hotel worked with Out magazine to develop a Concierge App listing top local LGBT hot spots, asked Levi’s to custom-design its gray and white jean uniforms, and is preparing to launch its own social network.
Although the Lords may be the first, it’s not the only LGBT-focused hotel brand opening its doors in the U.S. In January, Fort Lauderdale’s Royal Palms will reopen after expanding from a 12-room gay-friendly guesthouse to a 62-room boutique hotel that caters to an all-male clientele who prefer a clothing-optional environment. With a spa, café, bar and gym, Florida’s Royal Palms Resort and Spa is marketing itself as North America’s biggest “full-service” gay retreat, but it won’t retain that title for long.
Later in 2011, Manhattan will finally usher in the Out NYC, a massive, 90,000-sq.-ft. (8,400 sq m) “urban resort” close to Times Square. This has been in the news for over a year now and quite an exciting project.
The industry trailblazer is Axel Hotels, a Spanish hospitality group with stylish, midrange LGBT-focused properties in Barcelona, Berlin and Buenos Aires. The chain is cheekily billed as “hetero-friendly,” says Axel president Juan Julia, who notes that in the off-season, upward of 30% of the guests at its properties are straight. The five-year-old company is considering additional sites in London and Paris, but first it must tackle New York City — where an estimated 7 million LGBT tourists pump $16.4 billion into the city each year. Axel will manage the 127-room hotel for the Out NYC, whose other components include an 11,000-sq.-ft. (1,000 sq m) disco, upscale restaurant and men’s spa.
Calling itself a luxury lifestyle resort collection, G Worldwide intends to launch properties in New York, Florida, California, and Las Vegas, according to its website. The hotels are described as being “uber high-tech facilities” operated by “some of the most innovative, creative people in design, food & beverage, nightlife, events, and hospitality.
Is there enough money and travelers to go around?
It appears so. Look at all the gay cruises. While many LGBT travelers do not wish to “ghettoize” themselves by staying in gay-only establishments, gay cruises have proved that there is a certain kind of gay consumer who wants to travel among a like-minded crowd. I for one, would much rather stay in an all gay hotel, than a mixed hotel where straights may roll their eyes at me as I walk by in my pink kaftan!
“These places provide a concentrated feeling of community,” said Thomas Roth, president of Community Marketing, a company in San Francisco that specializes in gay and lesbian market research. “Especially for the many people who don’t otherwise have the opportunity to be the majority.”
At a time when acceptance of gay people seems to be increasing, such resorts might seem superfluous. But Mr. Roth said his company’s research indicated a strong interest in them.
“We can’t assume there is a ‘gay customer’ anymore,” he said. There is a lot of diversity among people who identify themselves as lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender, he said, and “some want all gay all the time — especially if they’re from, say, Omaha. So something like the Out NYC could be extremely successful.”
Gay Travel – Luxury Style to Turks and Caicos! Where the Boys Are…Ooh la la!
Turks & Caicos is one of the best-kept secrets in today’s luxury vacation market!
This stunning haven of over 40 islands boasts some of the most exquisite beaches in the world.There are miles of coral reef close to shore, making it the ideal vacation paradise for the modern eco-tourist. Professional and amateur divers alike will explore the most beautiful reef structures and exotic marine life in the world!
In between dives you may also wish to enjoy the 18-hole golf course at the Provo Golf Club, rated among the top ten courses in the Caribbean.
You can even try your luck at the American casinos!
The island welcomes all people, including the LGBT traveler. Looking to travel to the Turks & Caicos?
StraightOut Adventures Inc. is the premiere vacation provider for gay men who pursue the world of unique adventure and pampered luxury. May 8 -15, 2010 the company offers a weeklong vacation to the Turks & Caicos. The trip combines the hot trend of villa vacations with a top Caribbean destination, taking gay travel to the next level in service and luxury.
Their team is dedicated to your personalized holiday experience. You’ll be taken care of for the duration of your vacation. With a full staff to attend to your every need, there is nothing that they haven’t already thought of! The luxury begins with personally escorting you from the airport to your gorgeous hilltop villa. Unwind and take in the 360-degree panoramic view of turquoise seas and tropical gardens. Sit back and relax.
Your private chef, classically trained in French Cuisine prepares all your favorite foods, and tempts your palate with fine Caribbean cuisine found only on the islands. Enjoy full-service, open bar with unlimited premium spirits and wines. Sapodilla Bay Beach is the most beautiful and peaceful beach on the island. In addition, StraightOut Adventures has announced they will be teaming up with Ben and Dave’s Six Pack
And guess what! It’s only a two-minute walk from your villa.
Your week will be chock full of activities and entertainment – including a catamaran eco boat tour, where you will sail historic landmarks and snorkel the barrier reef. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in a gourmet cooking class with wine tasting, as well as a welcome party with authentic island entertainment.
The duo is all about having fun, getting to know everyone and exploring great vacation destinations, starting with the gorgeous Turks and Caicos, May 8-15.
Ben and Dave will be blogging about their trips, doing shows on-location, featuring interviews with celebrities who live and vacation on the islands!
So whether you vacation with a loved one or simply want to have an adventure with a friend, this vacation package is for you!
Relax, be entertained, and discover the best that life has to offer.Have we piqued your interest?
Head on over to StraightOut Adventures today to
find out more about the trip May 8-15, 2010.
Take your vacation from ordinary to extraordinary!
Straight Out Adventures is the premier vacation provider for gay men who pursue the world of unique adventure and pampered luxury.Service is our top priority! The Straight Out Adventures team is dedicated to your personalized holiday experience. Relax, be entertained, and discover the best that life has to offer.
New Gay Travel Guide
Gay Travel Survey – Gay Travelers Prefer to Stay in Gay Owned and Operated Hotels
We do have some gay friends that would rather choose a 4 or 5 star straight hotel, over gay accomodations.
Pink Choice , one of the largest and most trusted websites for gay and lesbian hotel reviews, today announced results from its first annual Gay and Lesbian Travel Survey. The results shed some light on the health and direction of gay travel in 2009 and going into 2010. Over 500 individuals completed the survey.
The Economy is Impacting Gay Travel
Fifty-six percent of respondents said that the current economy had affected their travel plans and that they would be spending less on travel than in previous years. However, 63% said that they had not needed to shorten their vacations and 54% had already booked their trips for 2010. “The gay travel market has been impacted by the bad economy but people are still traveling. They may be looking to spend a bit less but as the results show, many are already booking for 2010,” said Stephen Mascilo, a co-founder of Pink Choice.
Gay Travelers Prefer Staying in Gay Owned Establishments
Seventy-one percent of respondents preferred to stay in an accommodation that was gay/lesbian owned and operated. That’s not surprising but over 50% indicated they weren’t bothered one way or the other. “We were surprised that over 50% of the respondents said they would be comfortable staying in a non gay owned establishment. It might reflect society’s changing attitudes towards gay and lesbian travelers,” said Stephen. Future surveys will examine this question further.
Price is the Main Factor for Choosing Travel Arrangements
When it comes to travel arrangements, less than 15% of members said they choose an airline specifically because of its GLBT policy. Based on this data, airlines that have spent time and money promoting gay friendly flights may not see much return. Over 50% said ticket price was a major deciding factor and 35% based their decision on flight schedules.
Western History and Hollywood Glam Meet in Gay Tucson at Hacienda del Sol
How could you not love 350 days
of sunshine every year?!
TUCSON is the second largest city in Arizona with a growing metropolis of 1 million that keeps getting better and better. The city’s geography is a postcard image of cactus forests, rolling hills and awe-inspiring mountains.
Tucson is known as a laid back, casual place that is very gay friendly. While there are plenty of lively and trendy places to go, people tend to come here for a relaxing and grounding experience.
Colorful history and culture abound! Native American, Spanish Colonial, Mexican and pioneer influences are found in architecture, cuisine, festivals and attractions.
1n 1929, Hacienda del Sol was little known by the Tucson community. It was at first a private residence, that then became a girls’ college prep school – attended by members of Pillsbury, Vanderbilt, Maxwell, Westinghouse and Campbell families.
In the late 1940’s, the property became a guest ranch – and they quickly attracted the big names of Hollywood, who were looking to get away from it all. Clark Gable, John Wayne, Spencer Tracy and Katherine Hepburn were among some of the famous guests who stayed here.
Situated on 34 stunning acres, Hacienda del Sol has gorgeous gardens and grounds, historic buildings, hiking on the property, horseback riding on site, pool, hot tub, spa services, and a selection 30 unique rooms – no two are alike! And all of them feature custom built furniture and original artwork.
OUTDOOR is a keyword here. People are drawn by the spectacular beauty of the Sonoran Desert, hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, jeep tours and hot air ballooning. Designer golf courses, and world-class birding are options to experience the beauty of Arizona.
Besides the outdoors though, there is an eclectic mix of shopping and renowned attractions. The Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum (part zoo and part botanical gardens), Old Tucson Studios (Old West theme park), Pima Air and Space Museum, and Kartchner Caverns – a stunning “live” limestone cave discovered in the 1970’s.
The Lost Barrio is a restored warehouse district filled with importers of really interesting furniture, architectural elements and cool home accessories from around the world. Costume designers from Los Angeles frequent the Fourth Avenue funky shopping district near University of Arizona, known for high-quality vintage clothes.
Of course, all of the big name retailers can be found at the upscale La Encantada along with trendy restaurants. Dining options from family-run cantinas that have been in business for half a century (El Charro downtown) to innovative and award-winning restaurants and chefs.
THE GRILL at the Hacienda del Sol was opened about 12 years ago and has been recognized as one of the finest restaurants in all of Arizona. No detail was spared in design, and it was built around the original dining room and kitchen.
The creative menus include fresh items right from the Hacienda gardens. The restaurant has been featured in national magazines and won awards such as “Best of” Award of Excellence by Wine Spectator. It also been named Best Grill, Best Special Occasion Place, Most Romantic Dining, Best Sunday Brunch! – And if you are a wine connoisseur, The Grill has one of the most extensive wine lists in the country!
Hacienda del Sol offers an authentic hospitality to GLBT guests that is so refreshing! And they are perfect hosts, with activities and amenities to keep you as busy – or as relaxed! – as you wish.
Voted one of the best Romantic Inns
Voted one of the best Inns in the US
Zagat has awarded them “Excellence in every category!”
Lush landscapes, crystal-clear water and breathtaking mountain peaks. From small communities to one of the fastest growing cities in North America, Arizona offers travelers amazing sights, adventure, and you will find many open arms and hearts to the GLBT community.
SPECIAL OFFER!
Book a stay at Hacienda del Sol by APRIL 1st – for anytime in 2009 – and choose a free bottle of wine from Hacienda’s Excellent 50 under $50 wine list. PLUS, enjoy early check in and late check out.
Enter code “progay” when you book online at Hacienda Welcome.com
or when you call 1-800-728-6514 mantion “hacienda welcome”.
