Category Archives: Places US
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.
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
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!
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.
Gay Palm Springs Deals!
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SUMMER $99 SPECIAL
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Summer is back and so is our $99 Special! Superior non-pool view rooms are $99 per night plus tax during the week (Sunday through Thursday) and weekend nights discounted (Friday and Saturday). All other rooms are discounted accordingly. This special is available from Now – September 15, 2018 |
Why You Should Use a Travel Agent
When the internet exploded, many travelers went out on their own, searching, looking for deals and bargains, booking things themselves – I never understood that. Why would I want to spend HOURS doing all the work – when a travel professional probably knows most of the answers! Plus, if you are going somewhere for the first time, it can be a daunting task to put the trip together on your own.
They know what deals are happening – they know how you can save money – there are over 100 REASONS to use a travel agent –
here are just a few…..
Convenient One-Stop Shopping
Travel agents can handle every aspect of your trip from airline tickets to lodging,
ground transportation, activities, tours and more.
Consumer Advocate
If you should have a problem during your trip, travel agents can act on your behalf to see that proper restitution’s are made.
Expert Guidance
Travel agents are experts in helping travelers get where they need to go and
in helping to create possibilities most people never would have dreamed
were possible.
Save Time
Avoid the headaches and let the travel agents call around and do all the time consuming work of planning a complex itinerary.
Choice
Travel agents offer you an array of options and price quotes from a variety of
travel suppliers, giving you the upper hand when making your final
travel decisions.
Less Stress
Planning a trip can be stressful. There are so many options and details to worry about.
Travel agents do the work, resulting in less stress for you.
Updated Information
Travel agents are constantly communicating with the travel community, thus
giving you the most up to date info on airlines, hotels, car rental
agencies, travel visas, and other travel services to consider as you
plan your trip.
Customer Service
Travel agents offer that “personal touch” to your travel planning experience-
Offering help and advice that a website cannot provide.
Travel Expertise
Many travel agents are considered experts in the area you are traveling to and have probably
already been to your chosen destination.
Best Value for Your Money Spent
Travel agents can help you to make your dollars go farther while you are
away. They have access to finding all sorts of deals ranging from
flights to hotels to dinner recommendations.
Location, Location, Location!!!!
Travel Specialists can help you to find a place to stay pretty much anywhere
you desire. If it’s a hotel with a view of the ocean in Hawaii or a
jungle hut in the Nilgiri foothills, a travel agent can help you make it
happen.
Knowledge of All the Ins and Outs
Travel specialists can help bring you up to speed on the local laws and regulations of wherever your travels take you.
Avoid International Flight Confusion
Travel specialists can help organize those confusing international flights that internet search engines don’t cover.
Personalized Trips
A travel agent can prepare you a personalized trip based on where you want to go and what you want to do.
Where to Go to Avoid Kids
Want to go somewhere without children running all over the place? A travel
agent can help you to find excellent retreats that are open to adults
only.
Local Traditions
Travel specialists can update you on all local traditions and customs of
places you are visiting, so you make a good impression. For example, in
Japan many people expect their visitors to take their shoes off before
entering their homes.
Complicated Itineraries Made Simple
Travel experts can take care of all the details for those complicated around
the world itineraries and all the extra headaches that go with them,
such as hotel and transportation along the way.
Special Deals Worked Out in Advance – Travel
agents may have a relationship with certain tour operators and could be
able to get you a special price that might not otherwise be available.
Difference in Days to Save Money
Instead of playing around with dates on the internet for hours, your travel
agent can advise you on any changes to your travel dates that might save
you hundreds of dollars.
Staying In-the-Know of Daily Promotions
Travel agents get emails and faxes of daily money saving promotions.
They Are Considered Travel Experts and Specialists – Wouldn’t you rather have a travel expert plan your trip rather than a pre-programmed website?
It just Makes Sense to Use a Travel Agent.
They’re Out There… Use Them
Why do the work if someone else like a travel specialist can.
Travel Agents Must Be Doing Something Right. They Sure Have a lot of Business
Travel agents still sell 51 percent of all airline tickets, 87 percent of all
cruises, 81 percent of all tours and packages, 45 percent of all car
rentals and about 47 percent of all hotels.
It Makes Traveling Easy
Once you find a good travel agent, your dream vacation is just a phone call away.
We highly recommend Dave at Donovan Travel!
Donovan Travel
Let Dave help YOU with YOUR next Trip!
800-252-2660 E-MAIL THEM
Gay Friendly Travel ARIZONA
Currently, five municipalities have ordinances that ban discrimination; however, Arizona has no statewide laws that protect gay and transgender individuals from being fired based on their sexual orientation or gender identity, or discriminated against in housing and public accommodations.
Created by ONE Community, a member based coalition of LGBT and allied individuals and businesses; the UNITY Pledge is a public declaration to support and advance workplace equality and non-discrimination policies in housing and public accommodations for LGBT individuals and their allies in Arizona.
“We can’t think of a better way to welcome MillerCoors into the UNITY Pledge family than during Pride Night with our partners at the Phoenix Mercury,” said Angela Hughey, President and Co-Founder of ONE Community. “You can’t go wrong with good beer, good basketball, and equality for all,” concluded Hughey.
ONE Community is a coalition of socially responsible businesses, organizations and individuals who support diversity, inclusion and equality for all Arizonans. We are committed to reshaping Arizona’s image through educating, empowering and connecting our diverse LGBT and allied communities on the benefits of inclusion and its direct impact on attracting and retaining top talent and businesses—and thereby, ensuring our state’s economic sustainability.
Halloween in Key West 2017
Fantasy Fest will take place as scheduled, despite Hurricane Irma’s Sept. 10 , 2017 passage through the Florida Keys.
Attendees at Key West’s renowned annual Fantasy Fest can anticipate creative costuming, offbeat artistry and a blend of colorful new events and longtime favorites for masked and costumed revelers.
Themed “Time Travel Unravels” and scheduled Friday, Oct. 20, through Sunday, Oct. 29, the 2017 festival features several dozen masquerade balls, costume contests, exotic parties and showcases for quirky creativity, all climaxing in the lavish Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade.
Event organizers encourage participants to “time-travel” to any past or future era to find inspiration for their costume finery and float designs. The most imaginative are to be rewarded with prizes and enthusiastic acclaim from Fantasy Fest crowds.
The extravaganza begins with the family-friendly Goombay street party in historic Bahama Village, a celebration of Key West’s Caribbean roots set for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 20 and 21. Friday night brings the Royal Coronation Ball, where a king and queen are crowned to preside over the festivities.
New to the festival schedule is Sunday evening’s Zombie Bike Ride, a family-friendly procession of oddly lively “undead” in tattered zombie garb, pedaling past Key West’s Atlantic Ocean beaches to prowl historic Duval Street.
Subsequent events include Tuesday’s tutu party, a culture crawl, themed soirees for costumed characters and Wednesday’s wacky Pet Masquerade. The “animal antics” feature dressed-up dogs, cats and other domestic species competing for costume prizes alongside their human companions.
Thursday brings another festival newcomer, the Smallest Parade in the Universe, providing a “tiny” foretaste of the glittering Duval Street parade that highlights Fantasy Fest. A miniature procession of artist-made 18-inch floats is to traverse a make-believe Duval, while audiences view the creative constructions both live and via large-screen video.
Thursday’s enticing events also include two traditional favorites: the “over the top” Headdress Ball, to be held at the new Key West Amphitheater at Truman Waterfront Park, and the tantalizing Toga Party at Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Duval Street.
The following day, Duval becomes a carnival of creativity as vendors offer colorful costumes, arts and crafts, food and libations in the mile-long Fantasy Fest Street Fair.
Friday’s festivities also include the Masquerade March, a zany walking parade that begins at the local cemetery. It typically features thousands of revelers dressed in masks and costumes that range from brilliant to bizarre.
The madcap merriment is to culminate Saturday night, Oct. 28, during the Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade through Key West’s historic downtown. Tens of thousands of spectators converge to cheer the parade’s elaborately costumed marching groups, dancers in bright feathered costumes and dazzling motorized floats.
Festival information and schedule: fantasyfest.com
Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY
Social: Facebook • Twitter • Instagram • Youtube • Keys Voices blog
Gay Palm Springs Super Deal
COLD WHERE YOU LIVE????
GETAWAY TO SUNNY PALM SPRINGS!!!
Time is running out.
Book now and take advantage of the savings.
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INNdulge Palm Springs
For reservations: (760)327-1408
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WHERE TO STAY in Chicago
It’s funny, we have lived here about 10 years and have always known about these three hidden gems.
Yet, I talk to people who have lived here their whole life! And they are not familiar with City Suites, The Majestic and The Willows.
Willows and Majestic are tucked away in quiet neighborhoods, where you can blend right in with the locals. While City Suites is right on Belmont amidst the buzzing energy!
Summer and Fall are fantastic times in Chicago! Whether you are a local and have friends traveling that will need rooms or you are a traveler reading this – it’s NEVER TO EARLY TO RESERVE YOUR ROOM. The small inventory of rooms in Boystown and Lakeview always sell out.
IMPORTANT DATES TO KNOW:
Market Days August 13-14, 2016
Out in the Park at Six Flags Sept. 10, 2016
Halloween in Chicago – October 29-31, 2016
(not to mention, every weekend is a great weekend, in Chicago!)
In Boystown/Lakeview you get small, intimate restaurants and a treasure trove of shopping neighborhoods with unique shops and art galleries! Golf courses, the Lincoln Park Zoo, Wrigleyville and the Cubs Stadium, Old Towne, marinas and harbors, Hollywood gay beach, Andersonville, plus endless waterfront walking and bike paths, are all very accessible!
For years, visitors and locals alike have branded The Majestic Hotel the pre-eminent boutique hotel in Chicago. Offering the atmosphere of a well-appointed, upscale English country estate, this 100 percent, non-smoking Hotel offers the perfect haven of relaxation amidst the energetic city life found in the popular Lakeview neighborhood.
Broughton Hotels has 3 properties in the area. The Majestic Hotel, The Willows Hotel & The City Suites – each welcome you with an abundance of personality, style and charm that epitomizes the essence of their environments.
Exuding the charm of historic buildings – circa 1920s – They are a collection of boutique hotels that combine a stylish, unique and alluring atmosphere with a location that is ideal and accessible – just 10 minutes north of downtown Chicago’s business, financial and shopping districts – and brimming with the quintessential qualities of an upscale, city hotel. You can be just steps away from all of the gay events, in a cool neighborhood!
All three properties in Boystown pride themselves on their personalized care, premier service and exceeding the needs of their discriminating leisure and business travelers. The staff is passionate here and ensure an enjoyable and memorable stay – something you don’t often see in the big hotels downtown. These properties boast a welcoming “neighborhood” charm yet with all the luxury boutique services and amenities of a full-service hotel.
Many packages are available depending on your interests. Everything from theatre and dining to comedy and baseball!
Use CODE BGC When Booking!
MAJESTIC HOTEL
The Majestic 773.404.3499
The City Suites 773.404.3400
The Willows 773.528.8400
Waterfront condominium vacation rentals
Beaches, boats, lighthouses, quaint shops, a variety of restaurants, and exciting nightlife awaits you as you enjoy one of our beautiful waterfront condos…
Majestic Getaways offers premier condo rentals in major locations throughout the Midwest;
including Saugatuck and Douglas Michigan. 140 miles from Chicago, these Small towns = BIG Fun! Visit the twin cities of Saugatuck and Douglas Michigan for a welcoming, casual atmosphere that makes you feel like part of the community. Lots of LGBTQ folks from the Midwest flock here to get away from the bigger city life to enjoy the small town feel and great outdoors. Grassy dunes, white sand beaches and quaint streets of shopping make these harbor towns the perfect getaway.
St Joe Michigan. St. Joseph is carefully nestled on the southern tip of what has been termed “The Riviera of the Midwest.” This deepwater port town is a growing resort community – part of a “small town” chain stretching from the state line in a spectacular arc along Lake Michigan. The lakeshore is peppered with remarkable sand dune formations and lined further inland with a lush countryside that produces some of the nation’s finest orchards and vineyards. It is the largest non-citrus fruit growing region in the nation.
Located just 90 miles from downtown Chicago, St. Joseph is a quaint community situated within the larger Benton Harbor/St. Joseph MSA.
South Haven Michigan. One of Michigan’s featured Beachtowns, South Haven defines resorting on Lake Michigan’s eastern shore with majestic vistas and dazzling sunsets.You’ll feel this rich heritage as you gaze over our 100-year old lighthouse -a welcoming beacon in an often turbulent world.
Sandusky Ohio. Sandusky is midway between Toledo to the west and Cleveland to the east. Thrill seekers will have no trouble getting their kicks in Sandusky, home to the world-renowned Cedar Point Amusement Park, boasting 17 roller coasters, plentiful children’s attractions and carousels.
Outside the park, the city entices travelers with its sandy white Erie shores, stunning coastal trails, mysterious Seneca Caverns and numerous refreshing water parks. The downtown waterfront boasts historic architecture, charming boutiques and unparalleled views over Lake Erie.
and Chicago Illinois – Besides Pizza, hot dogs, skyscrapers and world class shopping, Chicago is also known for it’s waterfront. Spanning Over 30 miles of beaches and waterfront that offer the perfect settings for playing, relaxing and soaking it all in. An 18 mile bike path, kayak rentals, dinner cruise on Lake Michigan it’s all here! And you can rent a place Downtown Chicago located in the heart of the city, overlooking the Chicago River!
WATERFRONT VACATION RENTALS by MAJESTIC GETAWAYS offers premier condo rentals! Visit their website for more details and photos. Call them at (269) 349-7700!
Palm Springs Summer Events and DEALS
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to experience some of the best restaurants the Valley has to offer.
Restaurant Week is the perfect time to visit your favorite restaurant or try something new, as chefs prepare delicious 3 courses meals for your dining pleasure, priced at $26 or $38. JUNE 3-12th!
Desert area hotels and attractions are offering great rates too!
4th Annual Splash House Pool Party
Splash House heads back to the desert for this summer for its fourth year in Palm Springs, June 10-12 and August 12-14. The festival returns to the colorful crowd favorite of the Saguaro Hotel and checks in for the first time at the iconic multi-pool Riviera Resort & Spa. After Hours found its home at last year’s memorable Air Museum parties, and Splash House will host its biggest late-night program yet this summer on the tarmac.
Idyllwild Jazz in the Pines AUGUST 20-21
The Idyllwild Arts Foundation proudly presents the 23rd annual Jazz in the Pines Festival featuring over two dozen bands. Performers and fans of jazz, blues, and R&B have a breathtaking mountain campus to themselves after the departure of the Idyllwild Arts Summer Program’s thousands of arts-lovers and before the first semester of the Foundation’s residential high school, Idyllwild Arts Academy.
And as always – shop local!
Palm Springs VillageFest THURSDAY NIGHTS
Every Thursday evening in downtown Palm Springs, enjoy a diverse array of artists, artisans, entertainers, assorted fruits, vegetables, fresh flowers, jewelry, international cuisine, and don’t forget the sweets.
COD Alumni Street Fair SATURDAY AND SUNDAY MORNINGS
Open-air shopping at its best. Open from 7 a.m. Saturdays and Sundays all year. Bargains galore. A great way to start your day.
BEST PLACE TO STAY WITH THE BEST LOCATION ?? InnDulge!
Travel with Your Emotional Support Dog
A therapy dog is trained to provide comfort and affection to people. Therapy dogs are widely used at hospitals, retirement and nursing homes, hospices, schools and even disaster areas. People who have learning disabilities also use therapy dogs as a means of building their self confidence for learning.
Research has found that therapy dogs help make people feel better. Interacting with therapy dogs is said to ‘temporarily affect the release of some of the brain’s neurotransmitters, including dopamine and oxytocin, while cortisol levels decrease.’
Therapy dogs are either therapeutic visitation dogs, animal-assisted therapy dogs and facility therapy dogs. However, they also work alongside people who need a companion beside them at all times.
Therapy dogs are typically well tempered dog breeds and don’t shed excessively, which allows most people to interact with the dog. They’re also well socialized with various environments and people. That lets the dog feel comfortable with traveling around and being exposed to different people and environments. In this article, we’re going to examine what people should know when flying with therapy dogs.
Flying with therapy dogs in the United States
People are allowed to go flying with therapy dogs in the United States. There are, however, rules and regulations they must follow before boarding a plane with their companion.
In order to fly with a therapy dog in the United States, the dog’s owner must have appropriate documentation.
This documentation needs to be reported at least 48 hours before the person’s scheduled flight departure time. Regulations concerning that matter require that requests to go flying with a therapy dog are reported during that time frame, allowing the airline to verify the documentation with the owner’s doctor. In other words, the airline won’t allow therapy dog owners who haven’t previously contacted the airline in advance to board their flight with their dog in tow.
The therapy dog documentation letter needs to be drafted from the dog owner’s mental health doctor and possess a professional letterhead. It also must not be more than a year old. The dog owner also needs to have a mental health disability, meaning their mental illness must physically and mentally impair them from regularly living their life. Other documentation to bring includes the dog’s certification records, health certificates and vaccine records.
People who want to go flying with therapy dogs must take care of getting their pet cleared for flight before even boarding the plane. This allows both owner and pet to be prepared for the flight well in advance.
Hotel Germs in your Room
No one really knows who was in their hotel room before them. Or what kind of mess they made. Maybe it was a bachelor party and the boys got drunk and threw up. Maybe it was used for prostitution and all the sexually transmitted diseases it brings. Yes it happens, especially in the best hotels. Or maybe someone got a really bad virus infection. Worse somebody died in the room. Hotel germs are a fact of life. With so many people using these rooms, hotel germs will tend to be higher than in your house.
The important question is did the cleaning staff really clean everything properly? The TV remote control, the bed light lamp switch, the toilet seat and handle. Cleaning staff are under enormous pressure to clean fast. On average, housekeepers clean 13 to 15 rooms a day, but it can be as high as 30 at some hotels. And there is no universal standard for cleaning hotel rooms.
Like our hospitals, hotels are becoming places where anti biotic resistant bacteria are beginning to thrive. Why? Because of the constant use of commercial cleaning agents combined with heavy use of antibiotics in our meat production systems have created these super bugs. Hotel rooms are places where a huge number of people from all over the country and World bring their own strains of bacteria. And if they bring that strain of disinfectant/antibiotic resistant bacteria you are screwed. As the video below shows, staff are also using sponges and toilet brushes to clean other surfaces which adds to the problem. Fecal contamination from toilet brushes can be deadly, especially if they are used to scrub surfaces other than the toilet.
Just because your room looks spic-n-span doesn’t necessarily make it so. Our friends at Oyster.com dish the dirt on hotel cleaning practices and offer tips on how to freshen up after checking in.
First of all, let’s just start out by saying that not every hotel room is secretly swarming with skin cells of past guests, E. coli, and/or unidentified bodily fluids. Every hotel has different protocol, schedules, and cleaning staff that determine just how clean your temporary home is going to be. We aren’t dumb (and neither are you); we know that not all maids are spending hours scrubbing, buffing, and spraying down every surface and crevice of our hotel rooms. But after digging, we uncovered some pretty dirty secrets of hotel “cleaning” practices, hiding in the sheets, on your pillows, across the bathroom counter, in the glasses you drink from — pretty much everywhere. Think you’re better off not knowing about how dirty the bedsheets are or what infectious bacteria is colonizing on that remote control? Trust us, it’s better to know — and know how to deal with it. And we’re here to help.
Glasses and Mugs. Tv remotes and telephones. Bedding and more!
READ ABOUT IT AT JETSETTER.
Davey Wavey Checks out Palm Springs
DAVEY WAVEY and a couple friends head to PALM SPRINGS to check out the
clothing optional InnDulge hotel resort! WATCH
Then they have some margaritas and check out the gay club Hunters.
FALL in Love with Palm Springs
Just in time to book a warm winter getaway, JetBlue Airways has announced it will begin a seasonal flight schedule to include the return of a nonstop flight from JFK to PSP starting January 14, 2016.
The new flight will operate five times a week, Thursday through Monday until May 1, 2016. Seats are on sale today with introductory fares of $99 one way. This is the ninth destination in California for JetBlue.
“The City of Palm Springs continues to experience a tremendous renaissance and we are delighted to welcome JetBlue to Palm Springs International Airport,” said Mayor Steve Pougnet. “Their arrival is just more proof that Palm Springs is the premiere resort destination in Southern California and beyond.”
This sun drenched desert oasis vacation destination is returning to its glory days as a Hollywood playground, a central gathering spot for modern architectural design aficionados, musicians and artists drawn by nature’s inspiration, and an increasing crowd of cool-seekers.
It could be the surge of super hip (and becoming super large) events like the Palm Springs International Film Festival, Modernism Week, and Coachella and Stagecoach Music Festivals. Or the openings of incredibly unique museums such as the Architecture and Design Center in downtown Palm Springs, or nearby Sunnylands, with an public garden and walking paths inspired by Vincent Van Gogh’s paintings.
Perhaps it’s the parties… pool parties in the summer, cocktail parties by the pool in winter. Mai Tais at tiki bars. S’mores by firepits in the evening under the stars. Bachelorette parties abound. This is where people get away to.
Maybe it’s the Hollywood glitz and glamour. The Rat Pack lived, loved and played here…it doesn’t get any better than that. Stars such as Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope and Lucille Ball all built homes here (that you can now rent!), adding a touch of stardust. Wearing a favorite vintage outfit, shopping for midcentury modern treasures in Uptown Design District, dining alfresco in downtown bistros under the warm sun…now that’s a vacation.
But frantic and hurried it is not. The pace is relaxed, the colors are saturated by the warm desert light, and the living is easy. Nestled at the base of the majestic San Jacinto Mountains, the City of Palm Springs is the ancestral home of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians. The streets, lined with palm trees, are perfect for exploring boutique shops, art galleries and museums while soaking up the warm sunshine.
WHERE TO STAY?
INNdulge, of course!
Our favorite place to stay in Palm Springs! Whether you want to socialize with friends or spend time with someone special – we love this place!
Book now for the winter and grab a $99 a night room special!
- 24 Poolside Rooms & Garden Suites
- Complimentary Continental Breakfast
- Large Heated 24-hr Pool
- Pool chiller during summer months
- In room DVD Players
- DVD Library
- 12 Man 24-hr Jacuzzi
- Wi-Fi Property Wide
- Full Kitchens in all Suites
- Microwaves
- King Sized Beds
- Refrigerators
- Coffee Makers
- Hair Dryers
- On Site Gym
Gay Marriage in The Virgin Islands
The Virgin Islands are the western island group of the Leeward Islands, which are the northern part of the Lesser Antilles, and form the border between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Politically, the eastern islands form the British Virgin Islands and the western ones form the Virgin Islands of the United States. The British Virgin Islands is an overseas territory of the United Kingdom comprising approximately 60 islands and cays including Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada.
The U.S. Virgin Islands is one of five inhabited insular areas of the United States, along with American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, and Puerto Rico. The territory comprises a number of islands including St. Croix, St. John, St. Thomas and Water Island.
Previously, Virgin Islands Senate President Neville James raised eyebrows for his statement issued after the SCOTUS ruling saying “I’ve always known marriage to be an act between a man and a woman. Notwithstanding the Supreme Court decision, that is how it will remain. Call me old-fashioned, but it is what it is.”
Seems the islands have had a change of heart….St Croix Source reports….Gov. Kenneth E. Mapp on Thursday signed an executive order bringing Virgin Island’s law into conformance with the Supreme Court’s ruling on marriage equality, Government House announced. The measure now awaits the signature of Senate President Neville James, who is acting lieutenant governor while Lt. Gov. Osbert Potter is out of the territory.
Mapp announced June 30 the Virgin Islands law defining marriage as only a union between a man and woman was null and void, and promised to issue an executive order to the effect.
“This ruling does not require any minister or person of faith to marry anyone they do not wish to marry or to change any religious documents in any way,” the governor said. “But the ruling does affect the behavior of civil society and, as governor of the Virgin Islands, I am responsible for the conduct and behavior of the public sector.”
“Accordingly I will be issuing an executive order which will set forth the parameters that will allow any and all legitimate marriage licenses in the nation to be recognized in the Virgin Islands.”
Gay Days at Disneyland Anaheim
About 12 weeks away!
It’ll be here before you know it!
GAY DAYS ANAHEIM @ Disneyland!
This is one of our favorite parties – and favorite cities!
Gay Days Anaheim 2015
October 2 – 4
The schedule is awesome this year and you can pick and choose which parties and events you wish to attend. Coco Peru will be back this year and the fabulous WILLAM from Ru Pauls drag race fame. The parties run Friday thru Sunday but I encourage you stay a few more days. There is SO MUCH to see and do in Anaheim and Orange county. CHECK OUT THESE PAST ARTICLES! Shopping, dining, fresh air, art galleries and ocean waves. The historic Packing District showcases culinary offerings and events in a communal gathering space in the heart of downtown Anaheim, and celebrates their one year anniversary next month. You could spend an entire day here.
