Category Archives: Places US
Gay Maui Hawaii SunSeeker Getting Bigger and Better
GROWING BIGGER
AND BETTER
THAN EVER!
You may remember, when we reported that the staff and owners of Maui Sunseeker were ecstatic because they had bought the property behind the three buildings we all know and love as the current Maui Sunseeker LGBT Resort, pictured here.
That ‘new’ property is known as ‘Serenity’, located at 20 Wailana Place. At one time, Serenity was a ‘wellness center’ and rumor has it that even Whitney Houston stayed there at one time. (OK, so you say she’s been in and out of so many places, that any dive can make that claim…..point taken).
But hang in, the story continues.
”
We talked of great dreams of spas and even an outdoor jacuzzi.
We also asked for opinions in the last newsletter. Some said… ‘We want a 24 hour jacuzzi!’ Others said ‘We want a pool!’ And yet others said, ‘Build us a SPA!’ ‘ says a spokeperson for Maui Sunseeker.
“We can now say that the property behind Serenity (which is behind Sunseeker) known as Sugar Beach, a property located at 26 Wailana Place, is in escrow to be bought by Maui Sunseeker! We are just as thrilled!!”
Imagine a contiguous 1 acre gated compound of adults-only property right on the North Kihei shore that is fully dedicated to the LGBT Community!
“If all goes according to plan, we will close escrow in THIS MONTH and hope to have the ‘Sugar Beach’ property online in May with 4 poolside full suites, upstairs is a 2,000 sqaure foot Penthouse unit with an adjacent junior suite. The addition of these two properties will literally double the amount of land that currently comprises the Sunseeker resort.
Most exciting….in addition to giving the Maui Sunseeker LGBT Resort much more land, we will now have, most importantly, a pool!! Many guests just want a place to relax on property without all the Little Beach brouhaha, now they will have it.”
“When all is complete, we will increase from a 17 room resort to a 31 room resort with breakfast service, a pool, an in-ground outdoor jacuzzi and a total of 6 buildings on one acre of land with much more planned.
We would like to hear what your thoughts are for what’s important in our design and policies as we go forward. Please take a moment to complete our development survey. We want to know what you think of our clothing optional policy and what amenities YOU want to have. Your opinions matter to us, so please share them now as we go through our design.”
It’s going to be an AWESOME 2011 at MAUI SUNSEEKER
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
Amazing Iceberg Photos from Lake Michigan
IS THAT FREAKING WILD? OR WHAT!
A reader emailed these – but didn’t say where they shot at!
The captions said, Icebergs in Lake Michigan sometimes have stripes, formed by layers of snow that react to different conditions.
Blue stripes are often created when a crevice in the ice sheet fills up with melt water and freezes so quickly that no bubbles form.
When an iceberg falls into the lake, a layer of water can freeze to the underside. If this is rich in algae, it can form a green stripe.
Brown, black and yellow lines are caused by sediment, picked up when the ice sheet grinds downhill towards the lake.
Frozen Wave Pixs – Nature is amazing!
The water froze the instant the wave broke through the ice. That’s what it is like in Lake Michigan where it is the coldest weather in decades. Water freezes the instant it comes in contact with the air. The temperature of the water is already some degrees below freezing.
Just look at how the wave froze in mid-air!!!
WOW! Think Spring!
Hotspots for Gay LGBT Travelers to Consider
A recent survey by Community Marketing, Inc. — the gay travel research experts for nearly 20 years –shows that lesbian and gay travelers are planning on doing a lot more traveling this year than they did during the last two. With all this pent-up demand, U.S. LGBT travelers will be heading near and far to spend those restless pink dollars. This year, put these five hot spots on your gay travel radar, and venture beyond the tried and true.
South America Rising
Rio de Janeiro has long been an important stop for in-the-know gay travelers who flock here during their summer (our winter). This South American New Year’s is one of the most exciting celebrations for LGBT locals and visitors alike. But this year, plan on going farther a field. Florianopolis, on the coast Brazil south of Rio, attracts droves of sun-seeking gay and lesbian Brazilians. It was a stop on a recent Atlantis cruise and it’ll be host to the IGLTA’s 2012 convention. This holiday hotspot is renowned for its long spans of beautiful beaches, quaint fishing villages and fresh, delicious seafood. The atmosphere is one that’s relaxed and languid with no rush for anything. Comprising a city scape and an island, both are often referred to as Ilha de Santa Catarina or Floripa for short.
Buenos Aires — long and justifiably a gay-popular stop — should be coupled with a visit to Mendoza (wine country) or a quick jaunt across the Rio de la Plata to Uruguay for a visit to the romantic colonial town of Colonia or a jaunt to the much-improved beach resort Punta del Este, the South American jetsetter’s version of St. Tropez..
The Venice of the North
The Scandinavian countries have long been light years ahead of the rest of the world in their treatment of gays and lesbians, offering civil unions and other rights before many Western nations. They’ve typically done so in a decidedly low-key manner, until now.
Sweden is (finally and justifiably) tooting its horn. The country offers same-sex marriage and recently ran a contest culminating in several same-sex couples tying the knot in the air during a flight by SAS, the national airline. This is one reason to reward Sweden with your pink travel dollars, but it’s certainly not the only reason. Once you visit Stockholm, you’ll instantly understand the appeal. It’s a gorgeous city, which like its Italian twin sister, is built on islands. Sailboats, ferries, and other vessels punctuate the vibrant harbor, which is ringed by gorgeous historical buildings, dotted by lush green islands, and bathed in endless light in the summer. In the winter, it’s dark and cold, so pair your visit with a trip to the Ice Hotel , located in Lapland (120 miles north of the Arctic Circle) where you may actually get to see the Northern Lights.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas has grown to be a very popular gay hot spot in recent years. Continuously reinventing itself, Vegas seems incapable of keeping itself from adding rooms, casinos, theaters, shopping, and attractions. This travel hot spot is up to nearly 150,000 rooms. That’s almost 55 million heads-in-beds annually. Their overcapacity is a bust for developers (the much ballyhooed Fountainbleau Hotel didn’t even get off the ground), but a total boon for travelers. Rooms can often be had for a steal. Even truly fabulous properties, like the brand spanking new Cosmopolitan, built for the Champagne crowd, is eagerly welcoming the beer-can set. It is not just because Vegas offers very affordable luxury that it’s sizzling again. It’s also because it’s one of the most authentically gay welcoming destinations in the U.S., much to the surprise of many people.
The Wynn and Encore (which holds more five star awards than any other casino resort, thank you!) has not one, but five gay packages on their website: EncoreLasVegas.com/Pride .- and they have a full time gay concierge . PLUS, they host the homoerotic LE REVE , which is a MUST SEE show! Similarly welcoming hotels include the Mandalay Bay, the Paris, and MGM Grand.
Gay Middle East
Three words you probably never thought you’d read together. While it’s true that the vast majority of the Middle East probably won’t be actively marketing to the LGBT travel segment any time soon, there are a couple of very notable exceptions. Israel, which is the strongest democracy in the region, has a pretty decent track record with respect to rights for their same-sex citizens. Just one example: Legal same-sex marriages performed outside the country are recognized here, thanks to a case brought about, in fact, by the man included below who runs a terrific in-bound travel agency that can help you put together an amazing visit to the region. Tel Aviv, which celebrated its 60th anniversary this summer — it hardly looks a day over 25! — is actively courting the queer dollar. There’s much to love in this destination aside from the hot local women and men, including fine hotels, dining options, and warm stretches of beach lapped gently by the turquoise Mediterranean waves. Beirut — yes, in Lebanon — has also started to reach out to lesbian and gay travelers, with a recent symposium, and at least one out, proud, and highly competent tour operator (listed below).
Singapore
Singapore , nestled in the island-country of Malaysia, has a reputation for religiously strict adherence to rules that would put the Pope to shame. Problem is: That’s no longer true. It’s been slowly changing. Deputy PM Wong Kan Seng emphasized in 2009 that Singapore is a “stable society with traditional, heterosexual family values, but with space for homosexuals to live their private lives and contribute to the society.”
Singapore has a lingering PR problem from its years of threatening gay citizens with the rotten rattan of its buggery-obsessed former colonial masters. Let’s lay that nonsense to rest: these days you won’t be arrested for sharing a bed with your lover. You don’t need to withhold your pink dollars in a vote against the dinosaur technocrats because pink dollars are fueling a renaissance of gay-owned and managed businesses across the island. The tourist area of Chinatown already has several dozen rainbow venues filling up heritage buildings and attracting a steady flow of local clientele and in-the-know regional visitors. Have a look, sir.
Singapore is a sophisticated, educated, modern city with all the amenities you’d expect as a Westerner. There are charming old neighborhoods, friendly, helpful locals, and a shockingly big and developed (well for a socially conservative society) gay scene. Singapore actually has Asia’s hottest gay scene going these days. Homo sex is technically illegal (a legacy of British colonialism), but there are plenty of gay nightlife venues in the historic Chinatown section. Throughout the city, you’ll find the best of the best cuisines from this part of the world, be it Thai, Chinese, or Indian.
This destination also offers great shopping, inexpensive world-class hotels, and some of the friendliest service anywhere in the world. This great experience starts in the air on Singapore Airlines, which boasts one of the world’s safest and highest-rated service records of any airline. Spend four days here and a restful long weekend in nearby Bali, Indonesia, another gay-popular Asian/Muslim destination. Stay in the mystical, natural, yet luxurious highlands of Ubud and visit the nearby beaches.
So step outside the box this year and try something new!
Finding The Best Travel Deals For Your Gay Ski Week With SnowTrax.com
and the holiday season
is well underway.
What wintertime treat is my personal favorite, you ask? Eggnog? Fresh cut pine trees? The gifts? Not even close.
The answer is skiing. What could be greater than speeding down a mountain over smooth, fresh, powdery snow?
This time of year,many people start thinking
about a gay ski week getaway!
Telluride; Utah; Andorra; Switzerland! Where to go? So many choices!
How do you pick? Well for starters, if you are traveling in the US or Canada, there is a great new search engine. A search engine that works the same way users actually think. SnowTrax helps you choose a ski destination based on whatever qualities matter to you – whether you’re craving expert-level steeps or family-friendly cruisers. “We can point you towards the mountains you will enjoy, applying our insider wisdom to suggest resorts based on terrain style, snow quality, après ski scene, and more.”
Even better, they help you hunt down the absolute top value ski package by searching multiple mountains simultaneously. That’s right: uncover surprising travel deals by comparing to-the-minute fares at multiple ski destinations. Why pay more for a driving-distance hotel near Park City than a slopeside chalet at Vail? Choose your destination wisely by finding the cheapest mountains to fly to and the top value ski lodging option.
Diehard fan of Deer Valley? Addicted to Ajax? Even if you have sworn allegiance to one resort, Snow Trax will still rock your world. Compare hotels based on their proximity to ski lifts and bus stops – “we’ve painstakingly mapped the location of ski lifts and shuttle bus stops so you can judge hotels accordingly. View prices for the cheapest flights and the flights that will get you more time on the slopes – we’ll show you flights that can buy you an extra day of skiing in addition to the cheapest fare. Whether you prioritize convenience or savings, SnowTrax gives you all the tools so you can ski smart this season.”
SOON you will be able to search the world with Snow Trax . At the moment, it’s just the US and Canada.
Key features include:
Multi-destination searches: compare packages at 5+ ski resorts simultaneously.
- Vacation optimization: view cheapest flight vs. flight that gives you the most on-mountain time
- Precise location of lodging: organize hotel results by the exact distance from lifts and shuttle stops
- Insider insight: find your ski resort match using our extensive filter system, based on up-to-date statistics and expert opinion
- Real-time pricing: SnowTrax displays to-the-minute rates; no price quotes required
So where are you going to go? Let us give you some ideas:
Aspen Gay Ski Week will be in it’s 34th year in 2011!
January 16-23, 2011
New England’s Hottest Gay Ski Week
Stowe Vermont Gay Ski Week 2011 – Winter Rendezvous 2011
Jan. 19 through 23 in 2011
Winter Pride- Whistler Gay Lesbian Ski Week,
January 30th-February 6th, 2011
GayWhistler.com is a year-round promoter of Whistler to the gay and lesbian community and produces and promotes GayWhistler ski week, WinterPRIDE every year.
As the “Top Gay Ski Week” in the country, as ranked by Gay.com, T-11 is back and better than ever.
Telluride, Colorado. February 26th- March 5th, 2011
16th year, the wild and rockin’ winter sports celebration known as Lake Tahoe WinterFest takes place
March 6 through March 12 in 2011
Elevation 2011, is our ninth annual Mammoth Gay Ski Week!
March 16th-20th in Mammoth Lakes,California. 2000+ people and 7 parties.
Nestled in the heart of Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Crested Butte is committed to preserving the pristine landscape and mountain lifestyle. The Matthew Shepard Foundation Gay Ski Week will debut in the Spring with plenty of Sun and Snow for a full series of fun ski events and parties on March 19 – 26, 2011
Vail Gay Ski Week – March 30-April 3rd. 5 days of affordable fun in a friendly atmosphere.
SnowTrax !
Best Gay Travel Guide
Christmas and Holidays at Hearst Castle in San Simeon
Hearst Castle,
William Randolph Hearst’s
iconic palace in the San Simeon hills, is one of the most popular attractions in San Luis Obispo County, CA all year around; 90,000 Sq Foot of FABULOUS! 56 bedrooms, 61 bathrooms, 41 fireplaces and 19 sitting rooms! Jaw Dropping!
But, during the holidays, the opulent historic landmark becomes even more exquisite and alluring. From Thanksgiving through to the New Year, visitors on the “Experience Tour” will get in the Christmas spirit amid the castle’s 1920s-era holiday décor, including two 18-foot, decorated Christmas trees. “Christmas at the Castle” is enchanting!
Every year the staff at Hearst Castle works hard to decorate the estate for the Holidays, creating a special atmosphere that is sure to get you in the Holiday spirit.
Hearst Castle does not have a specific themed tour for Christmas. The main house and all three guest houses will be decorated for the holidays.
During the holidays the Evening Tour program includes Living History Docents dressed in 1930s period clothing along with the holiday decorations in many of the rooms. Two 18-foot Christmas trees fill the Assembly Room as Living History Docents dressed in 1930s period clothing socialize before dinner. Weekend Evening Tours are difficult to reserve, but we have many available during the week.
All of the Hearst Castle tours are highlighted by stops at each of Hearst’s two swimming pools. The Neptune Pool is a magnificent Greco-Roman style pool that features unparalleled coastline views from the hilltop. The Roman Pool is an indoor pool decorated from ceiling to floor with 1″ square mosaic tiles. QUITE MAGNIFICENT!
We did a story on the castle a couple years ago – and when ever we go to visit, we always stay this nearby quirky landmark, called the Madonna Inn. Read that post here on New Gay Travel Guide .
Gay Travel and ReLocation to Maryland and Mount Rainier
Mount Rainier is a city in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Bordering Washington, DC, Mount Rainier got its start as a streetcar suburb.According to local tradition, surveyors from the Pacific Northwest named the town, giving the streets names such as “Shasta” and “Cascade”.
Mount Rainier has attracted a significant gay and lesbian population. In 2000, same-sex couples accounted for 1.0 percent of households, almost double the national average. IN fact, in 2004, gay and lesbian families were showing up in greater numbers in the nation’s suburbs and rural areas. The trend is a product both of migration from the cities and of cultural changes that have encouraged same-sex couples to become more visible .
Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley, a Democrat, told a radio caller Thursday
he would sign a gay marriage bill – if he’s re-elected
and the state legislature were to pass one.
Malley had previously only been in favor of civil unions.
These fabulous photos were sent to us from a reader.
Those crazy clouds are called “lenticular clouds” They’re caused when the air flow is just right so when it flows over Mt. Rainier , the air gets pushed upward where it cools and condenses into clouds. Depending on how smooth the flow is, you can get some amazing clouds formations as we’ve seen so far to day. Here is more information on what causes them from an earlier blog entry.
It’s usually a sign of rain within 24 hours because typically the moist
flow that precedes a storm around here is the perfect set up for these clouds.
PRETTY AMAZING!
Avoid The Winter Blues…Book Your Gay Palm Springs Getaway Now with INNdulge
Holidays and Winter
IN GAY PALM SPRINGS!
Looking for a break from Winter weather (and all the stresses of the holiday season)? Look no further! Sunny Palm Springs, California, is the perfect choice for December and January Getaways!
After all, who needs to deal with snow and ice, when you can bask by the pool in the Palm Springs sun instead! Palm Springs always delivers sunshine (more than 330 days each year). And that’s not all. You can also count on an incredible list of December special events and activities, great dining options, and enough shopping options to satisfy even the most extreme shop-a-holic!
So much to do!
(Photo-INNdulge Palm Springs Courtyard)
In Palm Springs, December fun starts early with the Annual Festival of Lights Parade on December 4th. Historic Palm Canyon Drive comes alive with dozens of floats covered with tiny lights, marching bands, singers, and holiday entertainers to get you in the Holiday mood. The fun continues on December 9th with the Walk of the Inns, a free walking tour of the Old Spanish and Mid-Century Modern boutique hotels and Inns in the Tennis Club neighborhood – complete with cookies and apple cider.
Holiday Entertainment!
The month of December is filled with a variety of entertainment options! Coyote Stageworks presents “A Tuna Christmas” December 2nd through the 19th in downtown Palm Springs, Kathy Griffin performs at the McCallum Theatre. The Fabulous Palm Springs Follies present their annual Christmas Show. The Judds bring their Reunion Tour to The Show in Rancho Mirage, The Palm Springs Cultural Center presents The Young Americans in the Magic of Christmas December 17th, 18th and 19th at the Palm Springs Convention Center, Andy Williams (Yes, he is still alive) does his Christmas Show at the Agua Caliente Casino, and the Desert Winds Freedon Band performs at the Palm Springs Art Museum’s Annenberg Theater. More? There is more! Believe it or not, this is just a sampling of the entertainment options available in and around Palm Springs in December! You can find information and ticket links on all these and many other events are listed on Palm Springs Gay Info . Check them out!
Shop til you drop!
Did you say you needed to do a bit of shopping? When it comes to shopping, Palm Springs has something for everyone! Downtown Palm Springs is filled with boutique and specialty shops with unique gifts, one of a kind collectibles, chic clothing boutiques, and more! Sprinkled among them are great some options that are especially suited to LGBT shoppers – R&R Menswear, Don Vincent, Just Fabulous, the Palm Springs Aloe People, GayMart, Gear Leather, BearWear, Palm Springs Piercing, and Q-Trading to name a few!
Just a bit North on Palm Canyon Drive, there’s an entirely different shopping experience. Uptown Palm Springs is filled with an incredible collection of art galleries, antique dealers, and furniture stores. Oh, and did we mention Trina Turk’s exclusive boutique? Don’t miss it on your next visit!
How about designer Out Mall Shopping?? The Desert Hills Premium Outlets, just 15 minutes away, offer some of the very best bargains on name brand clothing and other gifts. (think Armani, Gucci, Hugo Boss, and Dolce Gabanna). It’s one of the largest outlet malls in all of Southern California, and it’s right on our doorstep!
Here for the Holidays and beyond!
The weeks of Christmas and New Years are always packed in Palm Springs. People come from all over the world to enjoy the Holidays – Palm Springs Style! The LGBT Hotels, Resorts and Inns are decorated and festive, and many of them have special holiday activities planned for guests! The bars and clubs are busy, with nightly specials and events leading up to New Year’s Eve Be sure to book early at your favorite hotel and restaurants, though. After the 25th, the hotels are almost all sold out, so book early if you are coming in late December!
FYI – Insiders Travel Tip – January offers lots to do also. The Palm Springs International Film Festival January 6-17. This is a really big event! PLUS, Martin Luther King Weekend January 14-17. This is always a sellout.
Great Getaways and Super Savings!
Although the Holidays themselves tend to be busy, early December is a great time to snag a discount rate at many of the Palm Springs LGBT Hotels and Inns; making the idea of a Winter Getaway even more attractive! INNdulge Palm Springs is offering an exciting December and January Special of $99 this year!
Noted for its Mid-Century architecture, the award wining INNdulge epotimizes that popular Mid-Century vibe that has made Palm Springs the favorite of architectural entheusiasts and gay travelers. December is a fabulous time to enjoy these very special rates, as the weather is sunny most of the time, and the evenings cool down just enough to wear your favorite resort appareal. All rooms feature extra large king beds and pool views. New furnishings and large flat screen televisions add to the package. Don’t miss this very special rate! Certian holiday periods are exlcuded, and larger rooms are slightly more expensive. Call 1-800-833-5675 for details or visit the INNdulge website.
For more information, visit Palm Springs Gay Info – the official website of the Desert Gay Tourism Guild, a non-profit organization of LGBT and LGBT friendly hotels, restaurants, bars and shops in the Greater Palm Springs area, and throughout the Coachella Valley.
New Gay Travel Guides
Best Gay Cities
Best Gay Palm Springs
GLBT Travelers Take It From ‘Mild To Wild’ In Greater Fort Lauderdale
Greater Fort Lauderdale
has long rolled out the rainbow carpet for GLBT guests, but now “America’s Favorite Gay Resort Town” is offering GLBT travelers the chance take their vacation from “Mild to Wild” with the destination’s latest mobile site.
The new “Mild to Wild” GLBT mobile site is easy to navigate, and lets users select what type of activities they would like to experience in Greater Fort Lauderdale ranging in levels from Mild, Medium to Wild day or night!
The Mild to Wild digital stylist randomly generates morning, afternoon, evening and late-night activities and events, as well as Foursquare deals from participating businesses. Visitors can Play Gay on Greater Fort Lauderdale’s new GLBT mobile site and input their travel dates to customize the Event Calendar, browse GLBT-owned and GLBT-friendly accommodation choices, as well as enter to win a free beach getaway.
“‘Mild to Wild’ is all about coming OUT and enjoying more in Greater Fort Lauderdale, from the waterways, to the great restaurants, shopping and nightlife throughout the area and especially in our ‘Gayborhood’ of Wilton Manors, home to the destination’s largest GLBT population,” said Nicki E. Grossman, president of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. “We invite all of our GLBT guests to check out the new mobile website, and customize how wild, or mild, they want their next Greater Fort Lauderdale visit to be. Remix as often as you like to get a fresh batch of fun!”
To view the new “Mild to Wild” mobile site and to get more information on GLBT offerings throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale, visit Sunny.org .
Kent Connecticut Is Becoming The Place For Nuptials, Hiking, Camping and Sking
GUEST AUTHOR LYNDON EVANS
shares his take on Kent, Connecticut.
When folks think of travel and tourism in Connecticut most think of the southeastern part of the state from Essex/Deep River over to Mystic and up to the casino area of Uncasville and Mashantucket. But I’d like to tell you about my part of Connecticut the western side.
Recently the Litchfield County Times ran an article by Kathryn Boughton about same-sex marriage and how the village of Kent is becoming the place to celebrate nuptials.
A quiet revolution has been taking place in Kent as same-sex couples have made their way to the beautiful little town to solemnize their marriage vows. Town Clerk Darlene Brady said that the number of marriage licenses issued in the town has more than doubled since a New York State minister started to promote Kent as a location for gay and lesbian weddings. She reports there have been 161 gay marriages in Kent since 2008 and another 13 civil unions performed before that.
Also boosting the number of same-sex marriages are the occasional unions between current town residents and weekenders, she added. But the largest number of weddings comes through the Rev. Sara Henderson of Pawling, N.Y., who has reached out to the gay community through her Web site, gaylesbianweddings4u.com. Ms. Henderson is an interfaith minister and a graduate of The New Seminary in New York City. She was ordained at St. John the Divine Cathedral in New York City. On her Web site she defines “interfaith,” as a “spiritual philosophy [that] honors and values the fundamental beauty and wisdom in all religious traditions/spiritual paths.”
While Kent may becoming the “Rainbow Wedding Capitol of CT”, Kent and the surrounding area has a great deal to offer those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of other tourist areas of Connecticut. Kent (and similar small towns in Litchfield County) has long been a getaway, second home or primary residence for many writers, actors, artists, singers and politicians. Sorry no name dropping .. okay just one, Henry Kissinger.
Kent is a reasonable drive from New York City time wise and once you get off I-84 in either Danbury or Brookfield, you traverse Route 7 in the northerly direction (Route 7 begins in Norwalk, CT and ends at the Vermont/Canadian border) towards New Milford. As you’re driving up Route 7 to Kent those of you who enjoy antiquing will have the time of your life. When you get to New Milford be sure to get off Route 7 long enough to take a ride around the village square and it’s quaint New England setting. Back on Route 7 make a quick stop at one of the couple of shops in Gaylordsville and then it’s onto Kent. Route 7 in spots runs parallel to the Housatonic River and up in Bulls Bridge be sure to check out the covered bridge.
As far as places to stay, once you get away from Danbury which has the usual prolifera of hotel chain accommodations you’ll find bed and breakfast inns. One of these is The Inn At Kent Falls (photo at top) which is listed at the website Purple Roofs, is gay owned & operated, and has been voted Best B&B for 2010 by Connecticut Magazine. A photo at the Inn’s website taken during winter looks like something right out of the Miller or Budweiser Christmas holiday commercials. Speaking of winter you skiers will like staying in Kent and skiing at nearby Mohawk Mountain.
Campers and RVers will find the Kent area a place to stay with Macedonia Brook State Park in which the Macedonia Brook traverses the picnic and campground with some pools of water deep enough to sit in or swim and cool off on a hot summer day. A bit further up Route 7 and almost into Sharon is the Housatonic Meadows State Park which shoulders the Housatonic River. No trip to Kent is complete without taking in the cascading Kent Falls and driving up to West Cornwall and taking a photo of probably one of the most famous covered bridges in New England, the West Cornwall Bridge. Auto racing enthusiasts will enjoy Lime Rock Park in Sharon with its winding race course and picturesque Connecticut background. For those who just like to drive there is no better and scenic road than Route 7 going into Massachusetts and onto Vermont.
So nuptials or not, with the fall foliage season coming soon why not take a trip to Kent Connecticut and see what the western side of my state has to offer. By the way you antiquers may what to consider renting a U-haul trailer to take home the goodies you’ll buy.
Gay Lesbian Travel to Philadelphia…A New Hotspot?
Philadelphia was named a “Best U.S. Destination” by LOGO, the gay and lesbian network owned by Viacom’s MTV Networks. An international panel of travel journalists compiled the list, made up of Philadelphia, Chicago, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Provincetown and San Francisco, for LOGO’s annual “TripOut Gay Travel Awards.”
Travelers can vote online for their favorite U.S. destination among the six contenders through October 18, 2010. To vote for Philadelphia, go to Visit Philly or Trip Out Gay Travel .
“Philadelphia is an exceptional getaway for gay travelers,” said Ed Salvato, one travel expert who participated in the “TripOut Gay Travel Awards” nomination process. “This city stands out for its historic attractions, friendliness and gay nightlife scene.”
“We’re grateful to LOGO for the recognition, and we encourage our loyal visitors to vote early and often,” said Meryl Levitz, president & CEO, Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation. “Philadelphia is welcoming, open and authentic, and it is clearly one of the best destinations in the country.”
This past July, Philadelphia’s historic Gayborhood celebrated its 40th anniversary with a two week long party, complete with special events and discounts throughout the neighborhood. Restaurants, bars and gay friendly hotels, the whole town was full of excitement and fun!
The Greater Philadelphia Tourism Marketing Corporation (GPTMC) makes Philadelphia and The Countryside® a premier destination through marketing and image building that increases business and promotes the region’s vitality.
For more information about travel to Philadelphia, go to Visit Philly where you can build itineraries; search event calendars; see photos and videos; view interactive maps; sign up for newsletters; listen to HearPhilly, an online radio station about what to see and do in the region; book hotel reservations and more. Or, call the Independence Visitor Center, located in Historic Philadelphia, at (800) 537-7676.
New Gay Travel Guide
LGBTQ Gay Travel to Virgina! Rainbow Over Richmond
Richmond Businesses Launch
“Rainbow Over Richmond”
With more than 30 Events in 60 Days, Richmond, Va.
is a must-visit for LGBTQ travelers
Local businesses have announced “Rainbow Over Richmond,” a series of events taking place from August to October, exploring and celebrating LGBTQ and LGBTQ-friendly culture and community.
With more than 30 events in 60 days , LGBTQ travelers will have a chance to participate in a variety of activities, from movie premiers to VA PrideFest.
“We’ve seen the Richmond community grow for the past 30 years,” said LaDifference owner and Rainbow Over Richmond supporter Andy Thornton. “It’s a great, friendly and inviting place for LGBTQ travelers to explore and visit.”
Rainbow Over Richmond kicks off on August 29 when the Richmond Triangle Players present Gen Silent, a documentary focusing on how many LGBTQ seniors, with the threat of discrimination from the healthcare industry, consider going back into the closet. Several events follow throughout September, including Pride-themed events every Friday hosted at local businesses, including Barcode and the 2300 Club.
Virginia’s annual Pride festival, PrideFest, will be on Sept. 25 from 6-10 p.m. at Kanawha. Attendees can take advantage of Pride festivities with PrideBus, a free shuttle service running from Shockoe Bottom to Carytown, with a special LGBTQ-themed club route until 2 a.m. PrideBus is presented by GayRVA.com, Richmond’s premier LGBTQ news resource.
Several ongoing events will take place during Rainbow Over Richmond, including the Nazi Persecution of Homosexuals 1933-1945 exhibit at the Gay Community Center of Richmond and a handful of new and unique showings at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Art fans also can checkout The Linden Row Inn, a TAG-certified boutique hotel centrally located in Richmond that will showcase the Ironisense Art Exhibition beginning Sept. 3. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden will feature several events including the Rose Fest, informal tours with performances by the Virginia Opera and tango lessons on Sunday.
LGBTQ travelers also are encouraged to check out the Second Street Festival, a festival celebrating Richmond’s African-American community October 2-3. One week later, music lovers can check out the Richmond Folk Festival, a free event featuring music and dance from across the world.
Travelers can choose from a variety of TAG-certified hotels including Maury Place, The Linden Row Inn and the Crowne Plaza Downtown. For more information, an events calendar or additional LGBTQ-friendly accommodation recommendations, please visit Rainbow Over Richmond , or call 1-888-RICHMOND.
New Gay Travel Guide
Burning Man 2010 – Still Has a Gay Edge
Nearly 20 years old,
and growing bigger every year
the Burning Man Festival
is an annual liberal festival that takes place the last week of August/week before Labor Day. In 2010 Burnin’ Man begins August 30th and finishes September 6th. The theme for 2010 is Metropolis.
Larry Harvey sort of started Buring Man in San Francisco in 1986. And In 1990, an event was planned by Kevin Evans and John Law on the otherworldly, remote and largely unknown dry lake known as Black Rock Desert, about 100 miles north of Reno. Evans conceived it as a dadaist event with temporary sculpture to be burned and situationist performance art. He asked John Law, who also had experience on the dry lake and was a defining founder of Cacophony Society, to take on central organizing functions. In the Cacophony Society’s newsletter, it was announced as Zone Trip #4, A Bad Day at Black Rock (inspired by the movie of that name).
Trying to explain what Burning Man is to someone who has never been to the event is a bit like trying to explain what a particular color looks like to someone who is blind! There are no rules about how one must behave or express oneself at this event (save the rules that serve to protect the health, safety, and experience of the community at large); rather, it is up to each participant to decide how they will contribute and what they will give to this community.
THIS IS NOT A RESORT! You “rough it” at Burning Man. Water is precious and the sun is NOT your friend. Besides packing the usual suspects; toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, lube….you need sunscreen (LOTS), flashlights, sand-proof goggles, canned air, extra socks, loose clothes for day and warm clothes for night. AND LOT’S OF WATER!
Art is an unavoidable part of this experience , and in fact, is such a part of the experience that Larry Harvey, founder of the Burning Man project, gives a theme to each year, to encourage a common bond to help tie each individual’s contribution together in a meaningful way. Participants are encouraged to find a way to help make the theme come alive, whether it is through a large-scale art installation, a theme camp, gifts brought to be given to other individuals, costumes, or any other medium that one comes up with.
The Burning Man project has grown from a small group of people gathering spontaneously to a community of over 48,000 people.
Size can be a problem. When the crowd was under 10,000, that was one thing. Sometimes bigger is not better. And the organization has issues at times, with losing the original feel and concept of it’s roots. One of the biggest challenges faced by the organization has been trying to balance the freedom of participants – a defining element of the experience – with the requirements of BLM and various law-enforcement groups. Over the years, numerous restrictions have been put in place to help maintain it’s original concept – as well as safety.
Even considering going to Burning Man for the first time can be daunting. And while it’s true that Burning Man is not for the faint of heart, with some research, preparation, and planning, an experience — and opportunity — beyond your wildest dreams awaits you. In Black Rock City, you’re guaranteed not to be the weirdest kid in the classroom. And you’ll become a part of the growing community of Burners who are active year-round, around the world … ensuring that the fire of Burning Man culture never goes out.
Not surprisingly, the nonstop week of art, music, radical self expression, and, yes, mind-altering substances – draws a healthy-sized queer contingency. While welcome anywhere , many choose to stay with or attend events at gay-themed camps. There’s even a gay pride parade which gets flack from burners not for its promotion of gay rights, but because some feel it isn’t “original enough.”
Here’s the short list of gay resources:
Gay camps (locations noted in parentheses where available–if they make no sense, they will once you’re there):
Moonbow Camp (3:00 & Athens)
Pink Heart Camp (9:00 & Esplanade)
Gender Blender, Camp Beaverton (Women/trans only)
Comfort and Joy (7:30 & Detroit)
Camp Rainbow, Astropups
Celestial Bodies (7:30 & Detroit)
Paradise Motel (7:30 & Edinburgh)
Camp Stella (7:30 & Detroit; drug & alcohol free)
Mudskipper Cafe (7:30 & Detroit)
Gay pride parade: Friday, Sept. 3, 2010. Meet at the Man at 2:00pm and march through Black Rock City, ending at a reception at Moonbow Camp.
Tickets are about $300 when bought in advance ($360 at the gate). NEXT YEAR, if you want to go, BUY TICKETS early, usually in January the first 10,000 tickets sell for $200 and the price starts going up as the event gets closer.
New Gay Travel Guide
Gay Chicago – Culture, Shopping, Restaurants, and Beaches?
CHICAGO
is world reknowned for its culture, shopping and fantastic resturants. But did you know Chicago is well known for it’s many beaches?
You’ll almost mistake Lake Michigan for an ocean with its vast expanse and seemingly endless shores. With beautiful crystal clear blue water as far as the eye can see, you may think you’ve gone from Chicago to southern California.
24 Miles of lakefront, 31 Beaches,
15 Beach walks and 9 Harbors
Chicago beaches are free to the general public, and officially open for swimming from the Friday before Memorial Day to Labor Day, 9am – 9:30pm.
However, if weather permits, the beaches in Chicago can have sun bathers in early April and as late as October – but there are no lifegaurds on duty.
The gay beach is Hollywood Beach. (AKA Kathy Osterman Beach) The gays and gay friendly people hang out at the southern end of the beach. Weather permitting, the gay boys will be out sunnning themselves late April thru October! But any given Sunday in the summer there are about 200-300 people out here.
Chicago also has the most swimable and most guarded waterfront of any single municipality in the world. While many patrons complain about the cleanliness of the water, Chicago boasts the cleanest urban waterfront in the United States, and second in the world only to Stockholm; water is tested daily by the Chicago Park District for E. coli and other dangers.
The beach is loacted in the Andersonville area. Boystown is still the original gayborhood, about 2 mile south.
Over the last 20 years a lot of the gay population in Chicago have moved from Boystown Chicago apartments , north to establish this second gay neighborhood. While not as large as Boystown there are a handful of gay bars, businesses and resturants.
A large lesbian and gay population has developed here and seems to be growing. Plus, you will find lower rents than the higher priced Boystown.
Downtown Chicago apartments are usually the highest priced in the city. While downtown is bustling with business, shopping, tons of culture and fabulous restuarants, not too many gay people live in downtown proper. Plus, the gay areas are only a couple miles away from all of the downtown excitement.
As long as you can withstand about 12 weeks of blustery winter weather, Chicago is an amazing city, with lots to offer!
New Gay Travel Guide
Gay Hawaii and Maui Sunseeker Resort
Gay Travel to The Hawaiian Islands!
Located in the central Pacific Ocean, are the most remote chain of islands in the world. Three hundred sixty-five days of the year, the islands of Hawaii promise magic and romance. Pleasant tropical weather year round, a laid-back Aloha attitude, and natural beauty will inspire you to keep the romance going beyond your island time.
Maui is the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands with a land area of 729 square miles with a variety of sights and experiences. The views from atop 10,000-foot Mt. Haleakala (especially popular at sunrise and sunset) are well worth the winding drive past fields of protea and other exotic flowers. The long, winding road to the village of Hana is lined with waterfalls and lush tropical foliage. The quaint old towns of Lahaina and Wailuku are fun for exploring, shopping, and dining. During the winter months, the waters surrounding Maui are ideal for whale-watching.
The gay population is second only to that on Oahu. The biggest concentration of our community is in the Kihei area of South Maui, although we’re everywhere on the island!
Most resort destinations really have two gay communities, and Maui is no different. The local community tends to socialize in their own ‘family’ in private homes, informal groups or a weekly excursion to the beach. Although the local community is typically low-key, there are fundraisers and social events happening often, and visitors are always welcome.
The other gay group on Maui is made up of vacationing singles or couples, many of whom return to the island every year. The scene on Maui isn’t focused so much on high energy or heavy cruising but more on enjoying the incredible beauty found here.
Whichever group you identify with, you’ll find lots of opportunities to have fun, participate in activities and mix with the locals. Information on current local gay activities can be found online at Maui Gay Info and Pride Maui .
Maui Sunseeker is our favorite place to stay! It is the place on Maui where you can feel free to be yourself. Welcoming all, but catering primarily to the gay and lesbian traveler. It is the largest and most known gay resort. A beautiful 17-room gay-owned and operated resort hotel located on a secluded beach in Kihei. It is a boutique hotel for adults only. The suites are spacious, many with their own kitchens, there’s a clothing-optional rooftop area complete with hot tub and massage services, you get free Internet access, and the staff is friendly and accommodating.
Kihei is known for its beaches, so you’ll want to make at least one trek to the stupendous Big Beach and its neighbor, the gay- and clothing-optional-friendly Little Beach. Glassy turquoise waves, caramel-colored sand, and the best bodysurfing ever await you.
“Our location is convenient to Maui attractions such as Little Beach, the Iao Valley, Hana, Lahaina and the volcano, Haleakala. The hotel has long been a fixture in South Maui; always offering a welcoming home away from home for travelers. Acquired by the current owner in 2008, the Maui Sunseeker remains Gay owned and operated. Fostering an atmosphere of quiet elegance, acceptance and aloha, guests truly become a part of our Hawaiian ohana or family. The Wailana Inn became a part of Maui Sunseeker in September 2004. An extensive renovation of the building, guest rooms and gardens was quickly accomplished. The unification of the two diverse properties resulted in an exciting and new haven to lose all cares and feel free to be yourself. Maui Sunseeker welcomes the diversity that is our community.”
Maui Sunseeker has an amazing staff that will help you plan your stay. Their in-house concierge service will help you plan and book your activities on Maui. There is an endless list of possible activities they will coordinate for you! Everything from wine tours and cooking classes to spa tratements, and water and air activities. They will even help plan your special day,
if you’re looking to exchange vows and have a romantic honeymoon.
“As our resort is LGBT clientele and owned/operated, we wanted to find the best activity providers on the island that are either gay owned/operated or are supporters of the gay community. We have worked hard to be sure our guests feel as welcome and comfortable at any activity we refer them to, as they do at home at the Sunseeker. We promise the loving Aloha spirit of these providers will welcome all and promises a fabulous time. “
Once you stay at Maui Sunseeker, you’ll come back again and again! Everyone agrees!
“My partner and I have stayed at the Sunseeker about 6-8 times. We love the atmosphere and the hotel staff. Maui is great; but staying at the Sunseeker is the vacation.”
“I have stayed here for 15 years (half the property used to be the Wailana Inn), and it is perfect for my needs: gay friendly staff #1, comfortable rooms (I always stay in one with access to the garden lanai), hot tub on the roof, wi fi and MORE!”
“Friends recommended I stay at the Maui Sunseeker for my first trip there. Looking at prices on the internet, it was great value compared to more expensive hotel rooms and vacation rentals that have gone up a lot recently. Also, it was very easy to book online. When I arrived, the staff was very friendly and I felt very comfortable… “
Hawaii truly exudes romance and peacefullness. Beaches, sunsets, stargazing, come to Maui Sunseeker and see what you have been missing!
New Gay Travel Guide
Gay Ski Week in Colorado 2011 for Matthew Shepard Foundation
StraightOut Media & Marketing,
the Matthew Shepard Foundation
and Crested Butte Mountain Resort
announced today the launch of “Butte 11: Matthew Shepard Foundation Gay Ski Week.” The event will take place at Crested Butte Mountain Resort (“CBMR”) from March 19 – 26, 2011 with additional activities in the towns of Mt. Crested Butte and Crested Butte, Colo.
“This new event provides the perfect vehicle for communicating the education, advocacy and awareness work of the Foundation,” said Jason Marsden, executive director of the Mathew Shepard Foundation. “This was a large scale opportunity to bring attention to our mission.”
Production of the event will be led by StraightOut Media (“SOMM”), well known for producing the top-ranked Telluride Gay Ski Week, and is being co-developed with CBMR and the Matthew Shepard Foundation (“MSF”), one of the leading GLBT education, advocacy and awareness organizations in the United States.
“We are honored to be the home of the new Matthew Shepard Gay Ski Week,” said Ken Stone, chief operating officer of CBMR. “Crested Butte has so much to offer in terms of recreation, celebration and discovery – we know participants will be dazzled. And for us, Butte 11 will most certainly be a highlight of this year’s ski season.”
“We look forward to creating a signature event for the Matthew Shepard Foundation that raises not only awareness but also contributions to the organization,” said Scott Barretto, co-founder of SOMM. “Crested Butte is known for its superb spring skiing so the sun and the snow will make for a unique gay ski week experience like no other”.
Butte 11: Matthew Shepard Foundation Gay Ski Week will boast a full schedule of events in addition to renowned skiing. Planning activities are now underway and additional information will soon be available along with the launch of the official website.
Event pricing, lodging and travel information to be announced.
New Gay Travel Guide
Florida Giving Updates on Effects of BP Oil Spill
VISIT FLORIDA, the official tourism marketing organization for the state of Florida, announces the release of its latest television ad aimed at helping visitors make well-informed summer travel planning decisions in light of the BP Gulf oil spill situation.
The new ad, titled “More Than Enough,” recognizes that travelers have legitimate questions about current beach conditions in the Sunshine State and explains that, with more than 825 miles of beaches and 1,260 miles of Florida coastline, the Florida Live feature on VISITFLORIDA.com will allow them to see for themselves exactly what’s happening at destinations all across the state.
We focused our ‘Need to Know’ ad on the oil-impacted counties of Northwest Florida,” said Chris Thompson, VISIT FLORIDA President and CEO. “This new ads focuses on the rest of the state, which, although physically not impacted by oil, faces significant financial loss due to consumer skepticism coupled with misinformation.”
If you’re thinking about a Florida, stop by Visit Florida . Beside the cool cam shots, they issue updates – today it says, “ Dime to five inch-sized tar balls continue to be found in widely scattered areas of Northwest Florida. There have been no reports of Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill-related oil products reaching the shore beyond the Northwest Florida region. There is no indication that the rest of the state will have impacts from weathered oil products within the next 72 hours. At this time, there continue to be no beach closures and the majority of Florida’s state waters remain open to recreational fishing.”
Gay Palm Springs in The Summertime – Less Crowded and More Bargains
Gay Palm Springs.
This tropical desert oasis is home to famously long, sun-drenched days, breathtaking mountain views and one of the largest gay communities in the country. It has been voted numerous times and won, the Best Gay Destination in the World! How can you not love 330 days a year of sunshine?
The downtown area with its quaint lampposts, benches and Mexican tile-paved enclaves invites strolling among the shops, galleries, eateries and coffeehouses. Rich in history and blessed with glorious weather, it is a prime destination of travelers from all over the world.
Palm Springs offers over 20 top attractions , including Joshua Tree national park, the Living Desert, art galleries, casinos, and of course, endless golf! It’s a huge outdoor playground with consistently brilliant sunshine, great for swimming and sunning and all types of outdoor activities with the sweet, clean air.
Whether it’s a romantic couple’s getaway, a group outing or a frisky single’s adventure at one of the clothing-optional resorts, you’re sure to find an exciting vacation. The city boasts a very large and diverse Gay resident population and has become a prime travel destination from the West coast (Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle), Midwest, Northeast, Southwest, as well as internationally. Expect to meet guys from Europe, Australia, Canada, and from all over the US! Over the last decade, Palm Springs has experienced an explosion of new gay residents and new gay businesses. The resident LGBT population is now estimated at 40 percent.
There are over 30 openly-gay resort hotels in the city to choose from. Our favorite is INNdulge Palm Springs, A Resort Hotel for Gay Men. @ 601 Grenfall Road, Palm Springs CA 92264
PH 800.833.5675 / (760) 327.1408. Rest; Relaxation; and Pampering!
INNdulge is one of the most established guesthouses here in Palm Springs. Classically Mid-Century in design, INNdulge is listed in the Historic Inns of Palm Springs guidebook. Centrally located in the Warm Sands neighborhood (an area flush with clothing-optional gay accommodations), this elegant award-winning 24-room facility offers several sizes of rooms, most of which look out on the spacious pool, open 24 hours. And by the way, the pool is actually “chilled” in the hot summer months! No other gay resort in Palm Springs uses this “chiller system”, which keeps the water at about 86 degrees.
DID YOU KNOW? Howard Hughes broke ground in the Warm Sands neighborhood over 60 years ago with the first resort here in this part of town. Now this boutique neighborhood, wedged between Ramon and Sunny Dunes Road is home to 10+ resorts – a little oasis of style and pampering.
There is nothing quite like evenings in the desert. Taking a dip in the pool at Midnight. Sitting out with friends under the clear starry skies sipping cocktails, feeling the warm desert breeze against your skin. In fact, many people will take a siesta in the summer months afternoons, just so they can enjoy the magic of the Palm Springs late evenings.
INNdulge Palm Springs is a wonderful example of Palm Springs 50’s architecture. You can appreciate the architecture and the mountain views during the hotel’s free social hour that extends for two hours. It is a great way to meet the hotel’s wonderful owners, John and Jean-Guy, as well as your fellow guests.
Plus you get all of the comforts of home and MORE. Today’s savvy travelers except a level of quality in their resort destinations, and that’s what you will find here.
24 Poolside Rooms and Suites
DVD Players in Every Room
Complimentary DVD Library
King Size Beds
Refrigerators, Coffee Pots, Ironing Boards, Safes
Large Heated Pool (open 24 hours)
12 Man Jacuzzi (open 24 hours)
Cool Misters for Hot Days
Complimentary Continental Breakfast
On-Site Gym and Wi-Fi throughout the property
And you don’t take our word for it, just read the reviews left by members of the press worldwide.
This September this classic resort will celebrate its 15th Anniversary as one of the leading gay hotels in Palm Springs! Don’t miss all the summer fun! INNdulge your fantasies, INNdulge your fancy, INNdulge your spirit!
SUMMER SPECIAL! Second Night FREE !
Every Second Weeknight is FREE! Stay 2, pay for 1. Stay 4, pay for 2. Call for Details!
June 1 – September 30, 2010, Sunday thru Thursday Only, Holidays Excepted
PLUS, this summer get a free SPLASH PASS – a wallet-sized discount card that gets you special savings at area restaurants, retailers and other businesses, and discounted admission to many area attractions and special events. It’s the perfect addition to Summer Splash! The best part? The SPLASH PASS is absolutely FREE to everyone – valley visitors and residents alike!
There are SPECIAL EVENTS happening all summer long ! With year-round sun, the largest gay events in the country, and world-class shopping and dining, Palm Springs is consistently rated travel adventure.
I’m From Driftwood Launches 50-State LGBT Story Tour
Nathan Manske,
creator of ImFromDriftwood.com
and one of The Advocate’s Forty Under 40,
recently announced a 50-state “Story Tour” to collect, publish and broadcast true LGBT stories from across the country. The IFD team will set out in September on a 4-month tour of the U.S. with the goal of bringing IFD off the computer screen and into America. Along the way, they will meet the many faces of LGBT America, bringing their stories to the world through videos, audio stories and written word.
IFD is an award-winning website that collects true LGBT stories from all over the world–from the smallest towns to the biggest cities–to help gay youth feel not so alone. Throughout the 50-state tour, IFD will have readings at cafes, bookstores, bars, community centers, college campuses and other venues where they will share stories from IFD and talk about the site and its purpose. Along the way, they will be filming and recording video and audio stories from LGBT people they meet across the country.
Throughout the journey, IFD will have a regular blog page chronicling their adventures. Marquise Lee, IFD’s Video Editor and founder of Crush Deviant Productions will film the journey and make short YouTube videos about their progress. As the Story Tour progresses, they will publish regular video webisodes as well as written updates about their journey.
But first…they need your help.
In order to fund the story tour, IFD has launched a fundraising campaign, where they hope to raise $15,000 through small donations and fun incentives (check out their KickStarter page for more details). That won’t be enough money for the entire 4-month Tour but it will be enough to get started. They’re also hoping to make the entire experience as interactive as possible. The IFD team is taking requests of where to visit and even asking people to open up their guestroom or couches.
IFD knows LGBT people are everywhere.
You know LGBT are everywhere.
After this Road Trip, LGBT youth will know it, too!
New Gay Travel Guide
Gay Polo Tournaments in Florida and California this Month!
Three years ago Chip McKenney
launched the Gay Polo League because other gay groups bored him — gay lawyers associations and gay business associations, to name a few.
Since then, the Gay Polo League has blossomed into an international organization — the only known gay polo league in the world — with four chapters: Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York and one it established in Wellington, Florida, two months ago.
“We are an athletic, adventurous, dedicated and fun loving group. GPL™ members represent a cross section of ages, abilities, professions and physical types. Some of us have been riding for years and some of us never sat on horse before joining the league. Our common ground lies in our shared desire to meet and engage with other gay men and women while enjoying the challenging and beautiful sport of Polo. We are the Gay Polo League.”
On Saturday April 3rd, the first International Gay Polo Tournament will take over fields at Grand Champions Polo Club Palm Beach. Four teams will play, culminating in a championship game at 3 p.m.
“It’s the first event of its kind — that’s huge,” said Mason Phelps, who runs an equestrian media company based in Wellington. “It’s even more important that we’re doing it in Wellington. It’s another venue, another audience.”
More events in April in Los Angeles!
