Category Archives: News and Happenings
Airports Moving to Gender Neutral Bathrooms
Picture it: Kansas City, 2023. A grandmother enters a restroom at the Kansas City International Airport (KCI), but stops abruptly when she sees a man inside, using a sink. She looks confused. The man glances at her over his shoulder.
“I’m just trying to figure out which way the ladies’ room is,” the woman tells him with a nervous laugh.
The man explains: There is no dedicated men’s or ladies’ room here. This is a unisex bathroom. Choose any stall with a green light over the door. A red light means a stall is occupied.
The woman raises her eyebrows and pauses, but says, “okay,” and walks toward the stalls.
“And then we can meet back here and wash our hands together,” the man says. They laugh.
This is the new all-gender washroom experience in KCI’s airport terminal, which opened in February 2023.
In July 2023, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport announced the opening of its own first multi-user all-gender bathroom, explaining in a statement that the change “helps create a better flow for travelers and reduces waiting and congestion.”
Beautiful and CHEAP beach towns to retire in
I was born in a small town in Michigan but always knew I was a big city gay boy! So I moved to the Detroit area when I was 20. Spent about 17 years there but loved going to Chicago for events and buying trips. We eventually moved to Chicago and we have spent the last 21 years living here and READY TO LEAVE THE US! The taxes have gotten outrageous. The cost of living keeps going UP AND UP. As I think about retirement, there is NO WAY we can stay here. Plus, I want a beach town. Relaxed life and lower cost of living.
FOR US, Puerto Vallarta Mexico is our choice and we are packing now and planning to sell our condo next year.
I follow the site Thrillistand they did a great article called
How many times have you been on an island vacationdreading your return to “real life,” wishing there was a way this beachside bliss could last just a little longer?
There are SO MANY cool places to move to and you can save so much money!
Imagine living in Portugal on a budget of $1500 a month?!
Live in Columbia for $500 a month
Though the European coastlines can be comparatively expensive, there are still bargains to be had in Split. This little town on the Adriatic Sea has beaches that people from all over the world travel days to lie on, yet beers are still under three bucks in most bars and rent in the city center can be had for less than $600! Check out this great article on Thrillist!
Best Gay Pride Parades & Celebrations in the World
Who has the best Pizza in Chicago?
Who makes the best Tiramisu in Italy?
Who has the best Canelons in Barcelona?
Ask 10 different people and you probably get 10 different answers!
The BEST whatever is subjective – but we do see repeat patterns.
THRILLIST listed the top 10 best international prides!
NOMADIC BOYS listed 10 largest gay prides in the World
VISIT THE USA lists the top 5 Gay pride celebrations in the US not to be missed
WIKIPEDIA has compiled a list of the largest LGBT events in the world.
AFAR lists their top 10 biggest LGBTQ Pride Celebrations around the world.
Check them out! You will some places come up often, and a few surprises!
HAPPY PRIDE!
Best Gay Travel Guide
INNdulge in Palm Springs Turns 25
INNdulge Palm Springs is a legendary award-winning gay men’s resort located in the heart of Warm Sands, one of the most popular gay areas of Palm Springs. They are Rated FIVE PALMS by Planet Out, the most trusted source in gay travel.
This month they turn 25! It’s their 25th anniversary! Due to covid restrictions, only the guests at the resort this month will celebrate the anniversary. But owner Jon Jackson says he will plan a 2021 big celebration, as soon as restrictions loosen up.
Built in 1958, INNdulge is a Mid-Century jewel and is featured in the Historic Inns of Palm Springs guidebook. Twenty-four poolside rooms surround a 24-hour heated pool and 12-man Jacuzzi.
CLOTHING IS FOREVER OPTIONAL! INNdulge has one of the largest pool courtyards in Palm Springs, with lush landscaping framing incredible views of the San Jacinto Mountains.
Guests enjoy an expanded continental breakfast, in-room safes, TV-DVD players with large DVD library, on-site gym, guest internet stations and property-wide wireless are all complimentary.
WINTER HEADED YOUR WAY???? Book a get away now in Palm Springs at INNdulge!
Hotel Safety Advice – Travel Safely Guidelines
HOTEL INDUSTRY RELEASES TOP 5 REQUIREMENTS TO TRAVEL SAFELY
Face Coverings, Physical Distancing to be Standardized at Hotels; Download the Guest Checklist
WASHINGTON (July 16, 2020) – The American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) today released the “Safe Stay Guest Checklist” for guests on how to travel safely while also creating a standardized safety experience nationwide. This checklist is part of AHLA’s Safe Stay guidelines, an industry-wide, enhanced set of health and safety protocols designed to provide a safe and clean environment for all hotel guests and employees.
The Safe Stay Guest Checklist includes:
1. Require face coverings in all indoor public spaces and practice social distancing in all common areas.
2. Choose contactless options, where available, including online reservations, check-ins, and payments.
3. Consider daily room cleaning, only if necessary. Ask the hotel about your options.
4. Request contactless room service delivery.
5. Refrain from traveling if you have, or recently had, any symptoms of COVID-19 or contact with anyone diagnosed with COVID-19.
“The top priority for the hotel industry is the health and safety of guests and employees. Utilizing these best practices, including requiring face coverings and practicing social distancing in public spaces, will create an even safer environment for all our guests and employees,” said Chip Rogers, President and CEO of AHLA. “As an industry, we want every guest to experience a clean and safe hotel no matter where they stay. We applaud governors who have standardized the use of face coverings in all indoor public spaces and we urge all lawmakers to help make this a national standard by implementing this requirement in their states. These preventative measures make it safer and easier for Americans to travel while also supporting hotel and tourism employees.”
Gay Puerto Vallarta Begins to Reopen!
On June 14, 2020 the official newspaper register of the State of Jalisco has published provisions for Puerto Vallarta Shopping Centers, Gyms reopen at 25% capacity and with measures of social distancing required. In this measure, The commercial shopping centers Galerías, La Isla or Macroplaza will be allowed to open which have been closed for three months now. However, shoppers of commercial plaza will not be able to use common areas such as children’s play areas, communal dining rooms, since fast food restaurants will only be able to deliver takeout products; parking lots will only receive 25% of their capacity. Movie theaters will remain closed for now.
Also June 15, 2020 public and hotel beaches are allowed to reopen in Puerto Vallarta per the the Jalisco governor Enrique Alfaro. He made it clear on Friday during his visit to Puerto Vallarta that hoteliers should take care of social distancing on their beach fronts, while the city municipalities monitor that public areas are not saturated with people. Hotel pools and common areas can also be open but now are reduced to 25% of their capacity, taking care that the common areas are not saturated and urging social distancing measures.
READ MORE AT GAY PV.com
When will New York City and Broadway Reopen?
From ABC NEWS; After three gloomy months and 21,000 deaths that made it the nation’s most lethal hot spot, New York City slowly began reopening Monday (June 9th, 2020) in the biggest test yet of Americans’ ability to keep the coronavirus in check.
Owners of smaller shops were eager to reopen, even if they didn’t expect much business.
“We are going to be open every day for the sake of showing life,” said eyewear designer Ahlem Manai-Platt, who was reopening a lower Manhattan store.
From TRAVEL PULSE; Phase 1 includes construction and manufacturing, mostly, along with some retail clothing, electronics, jewelry and luggage stores, among others.
Each phase will take two weeks before moving into the next phase, unless confirmed cases of the virus continue to drop more dramatically and then New York State Gov. Andrew Cuomo will consider speeding things up.
Fortune magazine estimated that New York City is losing $173 million a day. “The coronavirus crisis is shrinking New York City’s economy on a scale far more vast than the squeeze on any other U.S. metropolis,” Fortune wrote.
The short answer to the question of when one of the world’s great destinations will reopen to tourism is not until the end of June, when Phase 3 kicks in. Phase 3 includes the bulk of the hospitality industry, with restaurants and other food-service businesses allowed to reopen for dine-in service, as well as hotels that are not already open servicing overnight guests.
Phase 4 includes arts, entertainment, museums, theaters and movie theaters.
New York City has more than 40 major theaters hosting first-run plays and musicals, not to mention Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway productions. Now the shows won’t go on again until Tuesday, Sept. 8, at the earliest, and more likely not until after the first of the year. Many people don’t realize how tightly packed a 1,000-seat theater can be, making social distancing difficult. And reduced capacity makes it financially cumbersome for Broadway shows to continue. READ MORE HERE.
Palm Springs Events in 2020!
Don’t you hate going on vacation and finding out you just missed a really cool event?
Plan your 2020 trip to Palm Springs now, using this guide!
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WORST and Dangerous places for Gay Travelers
Forbes ran a great article recently stating – Topping the LGBTQ+ Danger Index is Nigeria, which is considered the worst country for violence against gay travelers. There, people can be put in prison for up to 14 years just for being gay, and some states even have the death penalty under Sharia law.
Compared to places like Sweden – Sweden is the safest country in the world for LGBTQ travelers. Same-sex marriage has been legal there since 2009, and the country has more Pride festivals per capita than anywhere else in the world.
Journalists looked at the top 150 most-visited countries in the world by the number of incoming tourists, then ranked them using eight factors, including laws against gay relationships, legal protection against discrimination and more. According to the report, a few factors, such as adoption recognition and worker protections, may not affect travelers directly but are a good indication of overall attitudes within the culture. “These issues can affect everything, from your ability to show public displays of affection to being able to share a hotel room bed to the capacity at which you can use dating apps without being caught by the local police,” reads the report. Read the full article HERE.
Showtime September in Palm Springs
September in Palm Springs means movies, music, and more! You can spend your days lounging by the pool at INNdulge and still enjoy plenty of night life with these great late-summer events.
Key West to Display Flag at WorldPride NYC
The Florida Keys & Key West tourism council and the Key West Business Guild plan to showcase the inclusive spirit of the subtropical LGBTQ visitor destination in New York City’s WorldPride March and PrideFest street festival slated for Sunday, June 30.
New York City’s 2019 Pride is to take place in conjunction with the first WorldPride celebration held in the United States, and millions ofrevelers are expected to attend. The 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising also is to be commemorated in the event known asWorldPride NYC/Stonewall 50, with activities scheduled throughout June.
The Pride March is to feature a Keys contingent carrying a 100-foot section of the 1.25-mile “sea-to-sea” pride flag fabricated by the late rainbow flag creator Gilbert Baker. Baker and his assistants spent three months in Key West in 2003 sewing about 17,600 linear yards of fabric into the rainbow banner that was unfurled along Key West’s Duval Street from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean on June 15, 2003. The event marked the 25th anniversary of his creation.
WorldPride march participants carrying the flag are to include current and former Keys residents, their friends and families from across the U.S.
“We look forward to showing that Key West is one of the leading destinations to visit by displaying one of the most iconic pieces of history to be created for the LGBTQ community,” said Alan Beaubien, president of the guild’s board of directors.
Welcoming some 300,000 LGBTQ visitors each year, Key West lies at the tip of the Florida Keys island chain and is renowned for its inclusive recognition that all people are created equal. The philosophy was epitomized by the famed One Human Family initiativecreated by local artist J.T. Thompson. After Key West city commissioners adopted the One Human Family motto for the city in 2000,Florida Keys officials embraced it for the entire 125-mile-long string of islands.
The PrideFest street festival is slated for 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday along Fourth Avenue from Union Square to Astor Place. The Florida Keys & Key West booth is to feature Keys giveaways and information on vacationing in the environmentally and culturally rich destination.
“It is important to be present at this historic moment to remind everyone that our islands serve as a place free from judgment for LGBTQvisitors and residents alike,” said Guy Ross, the tourism council’s LGBTQ sales manager. “By participating in WorldPride 2019, we can showcase why we remain such a special, much-loved and much-celebrated destination.”
(The original flag, below)
Florida Keys & Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/gay and fla-keys.com
Key West Business Guild: gaykeywestfl.com
Social: Facebook • Twitter • Instagram • Youtube • Keys Voices blog
Gay Palm Springs Summer Deals
Visiting Greater Palm Springs is always a good idea, especially during the summer. The warm, sunny season packs an abundant amount of fun opportunities and one-of-a-kind summertime experiences that only the oasis can offer.
From leisurely vacations to exciting cool activities throughout the region, it’s all here waiting for you! So, pack your sunscreen, sandals and bags because the oasis is bringing the heat this season – in all the best ways possible!
Read on for severn reasons to visit Greater Palm Springs this summer and get your ready for the ultimate destination escape.
1. Fewer Crowds
El Paseo Shopping DistrictThose who frequent the Coachella Valley know that visiting in the summer is the region’s best kept secret. While the months of June, July and August are considered to be a slower time of year for the region, it’s also the best time for visitors to experience the oasis with fewer crowds and less traffic. Explore nearby popular attractions without worrying about long lines or packed spaces, dine reservation-free at many local restaurants and enjoy hotel pools and amenities as much as you want during your stay, no wait times involved.
2. Great Prices
Score on sizzling deals by visiting the oasis during the summer months. Lots of local hotels and high-end resorts offer lower rates during this time of year, not to mention great discounts on golfing, dining and spa services as well.
OUR FAVORITE – INNdulge Palm Springs – with Special rates through September 15th!
INNdulge Palm Springs is a legendary award-winning gay men’s resort located in the heart of Warm Sands, one of the most popular gay areas of Palm Springs. INNdulge is rated FIVE STARS on Trip Advisor for the past five years running. Built in 1958, INNdulge is a Mid-Century jewel and is featured in the Historic Inns of Palm Springs guidebook. Twenty-four poolside rooms surround a 24-hour heated pool and 12-man Jacuzzi. CLOTHING IS FOREVER OPTIONAL! INNdulge has one of the largest pool courtyards in Palm Springs, with lush landscaping framing incredible views of the San Jacinto Mountains. Expanded continental breakfast, in-room safes, TV-DVD players with large DVD library, and property-wide wireless are all complimentary.
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3. Summer Chill Deals
Spa Treatments at Westin Mission Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & SpaNothing can really compare to the excitement Chill Deals bring during the sunny season in the oasis. Snag cool prices on even cooler activities in the region by checking out these deals on the Greater Palm Springs website. Find everything from specials on summer spa treatments at the Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa, to behind-the-scenes summer chill tour packages at The Living Desert and unbeatable golf course offerings at Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort, as well as much, much more!
4. Explore New Places
Lots of exciting change has occurred in the region since last summer, which has brought many new shops, restaurants and hotels to the area recently. Plan your trip accordingly and get ready to explore new restaurants like The Pink Cabana at Sands Hotel & Spa in Indian Wells. A beautifully-decorated space decked in Moroccan influence, the restaurant features Mediterranean cuisine for lunch and dinner, as well as lively libations. Also new to the region is the Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar Opens a New Window. in downtown Palm Springs. This outdoor space comes complete with umbrellas and misters, making it the perfect spot for relaxing while sipping on a cocktail, meeting up with friends for a quick bite or treating yourself to organic soft-serve ice cream. While in the downtown area, take an evening stroll and check out the new stores nearby. Recently opened locations include H&M, Kiehl’s, Francesca’s and MAC Cosmetics.
5. Dine During Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week
Reservoir Palm SpringsSavor the season and get a taste of what the oasis is serving up during Greater Palm Springs Restaurant Week. Over 100 local Coachella Valley restaurants will participate in this year’s delicious dining event, which takes place from Friday, June 1 through Sunday, June 17, 2018. Come out and grab a bite of some of the best foods the region has to offer, while also discovering unique local dishes at amazing price points. Find more information on participating restaurants and menu offerings on dineGPS.
6. Party at the Pool All Day
Whether you like to sit by the pool with a drink in hand, lounge in the water or have a poolside dance party, the summer fun does not stop in the desert. Neighborhood hotels like The Saguaro Palm Springs offers guests access to an Olympic-sized pool and two outdoor hot tubs during music-filled weekend pool parties, while the Ace Hotel and Swim Club offers guests two on-site pools for upbeat partying. Day passes for visitors are available through the front desk as well at both properties. For more laid-back vibes this season, head on over to ARRIVE for a refreshing swim or catch a movie during their Dive-in Movie Series Opens a New Window. , open to everyone 21 and over and always free of charge. Or how about making a splash during Splash House 2018 – known as the Coachella of all pool parties in the region! Happening over two weekends, June 8-10 and August 10-12, this poolside music festival will be hosted at The Renaissance, The Riviera and The Saguaro.
7. Find Your New Favorite Ice Cream Flavor
Ice Cream & Shoppe – Try out a new flavor each day you’re in the oasis by checking out the latest and greatest in ice cream parlors and sweet tooth destinations. Each location serves up unique decadent desserts and cold treats, while also providing ideal photo spaces for Instagram-worthy shots. The ever-popular Ice Cream & Shoppe is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, providing a Palm Springs-inspired gift shop and a rotating flavor list of ice cream that includes champagne sorbet, brownie sundae and a variety of vegan options. Also serving up must-try flavors and vegan indulgences is Kreem – the newest on the frozen delight scene in Palm Springs. Here, summer days consist of hand-crafted ice cream, coffee floats and an array of caffeinated drinks from Heart Coffee Roasters. Other ice cream establishments to check out include Great Shakes, Nitroinfusions and Lappert’s Ice Cream.
Source; Visit Greater Palm Springs
World Pride in New York City 2019
NYC Pride is proud to unveil the location and initial talent line-up of the official Opening Ceremony of WorldPride. The Wednesday, June 26, 2019, 7-10pm Ceremony will be formatted as a benefit concert at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. Proceeds from the ticket sales to this historic concert event will support Ali Forney Center, Immigration Equality, and SAGE – three leading organizations in the LGBTQIA+ movement based in New York City.
Prolific entertainer and internationally-recognized humanitarian, Whoopi Goldberg, will host the ceremony, featuring a growing medley of acclaimed speakers and performers. Cyndi Lauper, iconic performer for the LQBTQIA+ community and New Yorkers alike, leads the initial release of the talent line-up.
Cyndi Lauper is a groundbreaking Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award-winning artist with global record sales in excess of 50 million. Her unmistakable voice, influential style, and infectious performances have catapulted her to stardom from her roots in Queens.
Chaka Khan, one of the world’s most gifted and celebrated musicians, will also perform at the WorldPride Opening Ceremony.
DAYA also joins the star-studded lineup for the WorldPride Opening Ceremony benefit concert.Ciara, a Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter, producer, model and actress has sold more than 23 million records and 16 million singles worldwide, including chart-topping hits “Goodies,” “Ride,” “Oh,” “1, 2 Step,” “Body Party,” and “I Bet.”
Billy Porter is a Tony and Grammy Award-winning actor, singer, director, composer, and playwright from Pittsburgh, PA. He currently stars as ‘Pray Tell’, in in the FX series “Pose,” for which he has received both a Golden Globe and Critics Choice nomination for Best Actor in a Drama Series. Todrick Hall is a multi-talented singer, rapper, actor, director, choreographer, and YouTube personality who rose to prominence on American Idol.
Tickets start at $45
The Ali Forney Center is the nation’s largest and most comprehensive agency dedicated to LGBTQ homeless youths—assisting nearly 1,800 young people per year through a 24-hour Drop-In Center, which provides over 65,000 meals annually, medical and mental health services through an on-site clinic, and a scattered-site housing program.
SAGE is the world’s largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) older people. Founded in 1978, and headquartered in New York City, SAGE is an organization that offers supportive services and consumer resources to LGBT older people and their caregivers.
Immigration Equality is the nation’s leading LGBTQ immigrant rights organization, representing and advocating for people from around the world fleeing violence, abuse and persecution because of their sexual orientation, gender identity or HIV status.
June 30, 2019 as NYC Pride welcomes all to a final celebration of pride from 7-10pm in NYC’s iconic Times Square.
The evening will provide a full slate of influential speakers and global musical talents who represent the cultural diversity, tenacity, and grace of the LGBTQIA+ community. One of the renowned artists slated to perform is Grammy-Award winning singer-songwriter, Melissa Etheridge.
Margaret Cho is set to host the occasion in Times Square.
Cho is a Grammy and Emmy Award nominated stand-up comedian, actress, and singer-songwriter. Through her hard work, Margaret has had the opportunity to be heard, to extend her point of view and become regarded as a true pioneer in her field.
Jake Shears and MNEK will also perform at the WorldPride Closing Ceremony.
THE PROM is the joyous Broadway hit that New York Magazine calls “smart and big-hearted” and The New York Times declares a Critic’s Pick! It’s a new musical comedy about big Broadway stars, a small town, and a love that unites them all.
Deborah Cox will perform in Times Square at the WorldPride Closing Ceremony on June 30th!
Deborah Cox possesses one of the most powerful and versatile contemporary voices of our time. The Canadian born star has an impressive list of #1 Billboard hit records, including twelve #1 songs on Billboard’s Hot Dance Club Play chart.
Additional talent will be announced in the weeks ahead.
FREE tickets and Paid tickets HERE
**To remain in compliance with the City there will be an extensive bag check and no provided restrooms. Please plan accordingly. **
Prohibited Items:
Weapons of ANY kind, Fireworks/explosives, Illegal Substances, Large or hard-sided coolers, Picnic Baskets, Pets, Glass containers of any kind, Alcohol (alcohol will be sold at the Festival), Instruments, Large backpacks, Laser pointers, Professional still camera equipment (no detachable lenses, no tripods, big zooms, or commercial use rigs), Audio/video recording equipment, Drones, No illegal vending is permitted. No unauthorized/unlicensed vendors allowed, nor Hoverboards.
Permitted Items:
Sunscreen, Hats, Sunglasses, Earplugs, Hilarious GIFs to send in response to your friends’ texts, Non-professional film, and digital cameras, Factory sealed bottles of water (non-glass containers), Phone charging case or phone charger, or Small backpacks or bags
Can I Travel with my Small Dog to Mexico?
From Trip Savvy –
Many people travel with their pets to Mexico. If you would like to take your dog or cat with you on your Mexican vacation, there are a few steps you should take in advance. Note that for Mexican regulations only dogs and cats are classified as pets: other animals may be imported but the regulations are different. Mexican regulations allow travelers to enter the country with up to two dogs or cats, but if traveling by air, airlines will only allow one pet per person. If you will be traveling to Mexico with more animals, you should contact the Mexican consulate or embassy nearest you for more information.
You should have your pet examined by a veterinarian and your pet’s immunizations must be up to date. Carry the following documents when entering Mexico with your pet:
- Either APHIS Form 7001 (pdf) Vet Health Certificate OR a certificate of good health issued by a veterinarian and printed on letterhead (handwritten documents are not accepted) in English and Spanish with the vet’s professional license number or a photocopy of the license, and the vet’s signature. Take the original and a simple copy.
- Proof of rabies vaccine administered at least 15 days before the pet’s arrival in Mexico. The vaccination certificate should state when the vaccine was administered and how long it is valid, as well as the product name and lot number.
- Within 6 months of entering Mexico, your dog or cat must have be treated against internal and external parasites by a licensed veterinarian and the products used must be reflected on the health certificate. Cats and dogs must have treatments for ticks shortly prior to entering the country. Tick-borne infections such as ehrlichiosis are not unusual in the country, so it is wise to protect your pet.
When you arrive in Mexico with your pet, SAGARPA-SENASICA (Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries, and Food) personnel will conduct a brief physical inspection and verify that your pet is in compliance with the above requirements.
Travel by Air
If you are traveling by air you will need to check with your airline well in advance about their rules and extra charges for transporting pets. The airline has the final say on whether or not they will carry your pet (and each airline may have different rules), so be sure to check all the requirements with them prior to purchasing your ticket. Some airlines do not transport animals at all. Most airlines will allow small pets to travel in the cabin with you, but the pet will need to be in an airline-certified travel crate that fits beneath the airplane seat.
Registration Fee will be Paid to travel to Europe 2021
A few news outlets, including CNN, Esquire, and Travel & Leisure, mistakenly reported earlier this week that U.S. travelers will need a visa to travel to Europe. That is incorrect, reports the Chicago Tribune.
To be more specific, travelers to 26 European countries that comprise the Schengen Area of Europe will only need a passport and a credit or debit card to apply online for a European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) permit. (The fee is expected to be about $7-$8).
Americans will need to register online and pay a fee before traveling to Europe starting in 2021.
The travel authorizations are valid for three years and an unlimited number of entries.
Officials with the European Commission and the U.S. State Department confirmed that ETIAS is simply a travel authorization for visa-free travelers, similar to the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) to screen people in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
The EU delegation to the United States tried to clear it up, tweeting Friday, “Neither the #ESTA nor the future #ETIAS (EU equivalent) are visas. They carry out pre-travel screening for travelers benefiting from visa-free access.”
ETIAS and ESTA don’t require consular interviews nor the same degree of background checks as regular visas, but do require a payment and registration prior to travel.
U.S. nationals are currently able to travel for up to 90 days within the Schengen Area, the 26 EU countries that allow border-free travel among themselves.
U.S. nationals will not need a prior permit to visit the United Kingdom.
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!
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.
