Southwest and AirTran Merger a “Big Win” for Gay Lesbian Travel
The DC Gay Travel Examiner, Troy Petenbrink, reports that the pending merger of AirTran and Southwest airlines (announced this week) appears to be a big win for gay travelers.
While AirTran has generally remained invisible when it comes to marketing to gay travelers and supporting the gay community, Southwest has been flying sky high. Southwest is a member of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association and has been a supporter of many gay events, including Washington, DC’s Capital Pride.
In addition, Southwest operates a corporate-wide gay-specific micro-site: SouthWest GayTravel . On the site the company states, “Southwest Airlines is a Company that works hard every day to provide Positively Outrageous Customer Service, regardless of race, religion, and sexuality. It’s in our DNA and goes to the heart of our Culture of Freedom, inclusiveness, and living and practicing the Golden Rule.”
Assuming that Southwest retains AirTran’s current gates, the merger will result in Southwest serving some new popular gay-friendly destinations and expanding its presence in others.
BUT O M G – Check this news out!
Starting on October 10th, Continental Airlines will no longer provide complimentary meals and snacks to economy class passengers on domestic flights shorter than 6.5 hours and some international flights. Instead, Continental will start charging for food, ending its holdout as one of the last major carriers to serve free meals in economy class. The airline’s new menu will include an Asian-style noodle salad, gourmet fruit plates and other a la carte items. Prices will range from $1.50 for Pringles potato chips to $8.25 for grilled chicken spinach salad. Just bring your own!
On the flip side of the coin, American Airlines announced that beginning Friday, it will offer free wine, beer and spirits to visitors at its domestic Admirals Clubs. American also announced that it was equipping its Admirals Club locations with new Hewlett-Packard computers for visitors, and it now offers free Wi-Fi in the airport lounges. – They must be doing good. Although an insider told me it’s contract time and a strike is brewing….
Gay Travel to Costa Rica
So, how do Costa Ricans view gay people?
Can I kiss in public?
Are there any nude gay beaches?
Gay friendly hotels?
Get your answers HERE!
Costa Rica decriminalized homosexuality between consenting adults in the 1970s. Since then, a series of legal rulings, on a judicial as well as administrative level, have turned things around for Costa Rican lesbians and gay men.
The Costa Rica constitution makes the Catholic Church the official state religion (church and state is not separated in Costa Rica), and about 80% or more of the country is Catholic. So, you can imagine where the gay lifestyle sits in their eyes. Gay Costa Rica citizens are still fighting their straight counterparts so they can have the same benefits that heterosexual couples receive such as inheritance rights, pensions, and tax rights to name a few.
Besides the Catholics in Costa Rica, the gay community here is battling against the Evangelicals in Costa Rica, who came out 20,000 strong from all over Costa Rica to protest the last Civil Union bill that was sent for approval. It looks like the gay community has a huge hurdle to climb before they are seen as equals.
I just have to say for a country that deems prostitution legal this seems like a fight that should have been overturned years ago.
That being said of all the Central American countries Costa Rica is said to be the most gay-tolerant/gay-friendly country, which makes it a highly desirable travel destination for the gay tourist. In the more recent years there has been a boom in the gay hotels being built in Costa Rica, as well as gay bars, gay travel agencies, gay tour operators, and restaurants. Places are popping up all over the country that caters to men only, as well as clothing optional places.
For more helpful travel information on Costa Rica make sure you check out our website and our blog .
Lesbian Travel and Festival at Eressos on Greece’s Lesbos island
It’s September and for a 10th year, the village of Eressos on Greece’s Lesbos island has drawn lesbians from across Europe to a unique international festival for women.
In a country strongly influenced by the Greek Orthodox church and where roughly half the population is against same-sex marriage, the lesbian-run event has been quietly growing in this corner of the Aegean Sea.
Over the past decade, attendance at the two-week International Women’s Festival has jumped from 30 to hundreds of women – mainly German, British, Dutch and Scandinavian, but also Greek and Italian.
Lesbians began to visit the island in the 70s, and have been coming back ever since. Tensions have been high at times and trouble has brewed in the past. Three Lesbians (natives of the island of Lesbos) submitted a legal challenge in an attempt to stop the Homosexual and Lesbian Community of Greece (OLKE) from using the term “lesbian”. The use of the word to denote a sexual preference derives from the island’s association with Sappho, the ancient poet who wrote about her love for women. But according to Dimitris Lambou, editor of the rightwing publication Davlos (Torch), and two female colleagues, using lesbian in this way “disgraces them around the world”; islanders, they say, are suffering “psychological and moral rape”. SERIOUSLY?! A Greek court dismissed a lawsuit!
Lesbian holiday and gay travelers are attracted by the island’s association with
Sappho, the seventh century Greek poet who wrote about her love for women and was born in Eressos.
Sappho lived from the late 7th to the early 6th century B.C. and is considered one of the greatest poets of antiquity. Many of her poems, written in the first person and intended to be accompanied by music, contain passionate references to love for other women! Just get over it already!
Dimitris Lambrou one of the litigants in the case said Sappho was not gay. “But even if we assume she was, how can 250,000 people of Lesbian descent – including women – be considered homosexual?”
“The word lesbian has been associated with gay women for the past few decades but we have been Lesbians for thousands of years,” he said.
According to an LGBT holiday and travel agency in Greece, lesbians now make up 60 per cent of visitors who come to the village, rising to 90 per cent in September when the lesbian festival takes place!
As the economic crisis continues to pinch Greece hard, Greek holidaymakers spent less this summer and many are grateful for the extended season brought by lesbian tourism.
“People in the village have got used it, especially the young people, but the old people still discuss it among themselves,” one agent says.
Gay Lesbian Travel Guide
Gay Weddings Planned on SAS Scandinavian Airlines in December
Scandinavian airline SAS plans to host the first-ever in-flight gay wedding in December, and is searching for a suitable couple to walk down the airplane aisle.
“It will be a very traditional wedding,” SAS spokesman Anders Lindstroem told AFP. “There will be wedding cake and dancing in the aisles.”
SAS has 100 gay couples in the running, with the winning entry will be chosen by an online vote . The ceremony itself would need to take place in Swedish airspace, where gay marriage is legal.
As part of SAS Airlines’ big new social media contest campaign titled “Love is in the Air” on December 6, the winning gay or lesbian European-based couple get flown via SAS from Stockholm to New York, and on the way they’ll take over an entire business class cabin and have their same-sex nuptials performing in-flight by the plane’s captain.
Once they land, the newlyweds will enjoy a glam U.S. honeymoon, staying two nights at one of NYC’s finer W Hotels and then jetting off to L.A. for three nights at the hip new Andaz West Hollywood hotel.
But Americans can get in on the wedding-tastic prize package , too! On December 7th, a flight will transport a winning U.S. based same-sex couple from New York City to Stockholm (in SAS Business Class), and then on to Kiruna way up in northern Sweden, where the pair will be wed at the stylish and otherworldly IceHotel. They’ll stay there for two swank nights, and then head down to Stockholm for three nights at the brilliant Hotel Skeppsholmen, smack dab in the center of the city. Plus, the newlyweds will receive a VIP package from Stockholm Visitors’ Board, full of perks.
Linstroem said SAS was playing catch-up to US airlines, who have spent years courting gay, lesbian and bisexuals in the United States with targeted marketing and sponsorship campaigns.
The wedding couple and their guests would have the entire business class section closed off, in part to avoid offending any other customers who might not approve of the mile-high matrimony.
“We don’t want to offend anyone. We hope we won’t offend anyone. It is the year 2010 after all,” Lindstroem said.
Gay Lesbian Travel Guide
Buenos Aires Sets Up PINK POINT for the Gay Lesbian Traveler
The city of Buenos Aires
has long been regarded as one of the hottest international destinations for gay tourism. Now, with the passing of the Same Sex Marriage Law in Argentina, the country has already seen a surge in gay travel. Yet some, who have never been, wonder whether Buenos Aires really is as gay-friendly as it seems to be.
Unlike many cities known for being gay friendly, there is no “district” in Buenos Aires housing a slew of gay bars and nightclubs. This often makes it difficult for gay tourists to find exactly what it is they are looking for. There is nothing worse than being in strange territory, trying to navigate your way around.
“A lot of gay students and tourists that come to Buenos Aires get lost in this big jungle of a city, and without any specific districts or signs to help them out, it can be overwhelming,” said Erik Hovenga, Managing Director of Ecole del Sur Travel Agency and founder of The Royal Family , a gay-friendly language school. “The truth is, Buenos Aires is very open to gay life, but have you ever seen a rainbow flag hanging outside a bar in Buenos Aires?”
Hovenga, who moved to Buenos Aires from Holland in 2005, decided that what Buenos Aires needed was an information spot where gay travellers could go and get the low-down from the people that know best.
“In Holland during the Gay Olympics of 1998, they started constructing gay tourism information points all over the city which would collect information from hotels, restaurants, bars and nightclubs for gay tourists. That idea sprung into a global phenomenon that came to be known as ‘Pink Points,’ which is exactly what we’ve brought to Buenos Aires.”
Buenos Aires’ first Pink Point is located in the centre of the city, on the intersection of calles Florida and Lavalle. Not only will the information centre give gay tourists a comprehensive description of gay hotspots in Buenos Aires, it will also inform them of which spots to avoid: though gay life in Buenos Aires is viewed as being quite open, not all gay tourists have had positive experiences.
Derek McIver, a Suffolk University graduate student, decided to take a much-needed break from his studies and spend some time in Buenos Aires with his boyfriend.
“We originally had reserved a room in the Microcentro, but the room they gave us had two separate beds – even after we had specially requested a king-size bed. They refused to give us a king-size bed and we knew it was because we were a gay couple.”
Luckily, the couple was able to make a last-minute reservation at Axel Hotel , known internationally as a chic, gay-focused hotel. But their first encounter with the Microcentro hotel exemplifies that though there is a strong gay presence in the city, the underlying machista spirit of Latin American culture can permeate and stunt the progress homosexuals have made in Buenos Aires.
“Unlike many places in the United States and Europe, to come out and declare that you’re gay isn’t always acceptable, sometimes it depends on the circumstances,” said Hovenga. “Even nightlife can be hidden: in fact, you have to ring the doorbell of the bar a lot of the times and wait for someone to open it to you.”
What Hovenga aims to accomplish by opening a Pink Point in Buenos Aires is to put gay life out in the open: “Now, we’ve started Pink Points, which will have a clear sign in the middle of a major shopping area of Buenos Aires, so that everyone can see that there’s a place for gays and lesbians in the city,” he said.
Pink Points will provide gay tourists with a map of gay-friendly hotels, bars and nightclubs. It will also sell tourists pre-packaged tours of city sights and offer concierge service for those tourists that struggle with their Spanish. Most importantly, the Pink Points location will cater to all: homosexuals and heterosexuals alike.
“Gays and lesbians have fought hard for their rights across the globe and in Argentina,” said Hovenga. “We want to celebrate Argentina’s new gay marriage law by making Buenos Aires a completely open gay-travel city. This is something we really believe in and think can be a huge success!”
NOTE – Gay pride is the first Saturday in November! and Gay Tango week is coming in December!
New Gay Travel Guide
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
State Department Worldwide Travel Alert
The Christian minister of a small church in Florida canceled on Thursday his plan to burn copies of the Quran that had been scheduled for Saturday, the ninth anniversary of the 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States. The planned protest had sparked angry demonstrations by Muslims around the world.
The Reverend Terry Jones announced his change of heart at a news conference late Thursday in front of his church in Gainesville, Florida.
Jones said he called off the Quran burning protest because he had secured an agreement with Muslim leaders in New York City to move the location of a controversial planned Islamic center and mosque away from the site of the 2001 terrorist attacks known as Ground Zero in lower Manhattan.
“The American people do not want the mosque there and, of course, Muslims do not want us to burn the Quran,” said Terry Jones. “The imam has agreed to move the mosque. We have agreed to cancel our event on Saturday. And on Saturday, I will be flying up there to meet with him.”
But the New York imam behind the Islamic center project issued a written statement saying there was no deal to move the Islamic center and mosque slated to be built two blocks away from Ground Zero.
The State Department has issued a worldwide travel alert, in the wake on this controversy.
“U.S. government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert,” the State Department said in a statement.
U.S. government facilities worldwide remain at a heightened state of alert. These facilities may temporarily close or periodically suspend public services to assess their security posture. In those instances, U.S. embassies and consulates will make every effort to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. U.S. citizens abroad are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
As the Department of State continues to develop information on potential security threats to U.S. citizens overseas, it shares credible threat information through its Consular Information Program documents, such as the Worldwide Caution, Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as Country Information, which are available on the Bureau of Consular Affairs website at travel.state.gov/. In addition to information on the Internet, travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the United States and Canada or, outside the United States and Canada, on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. These numbers are available from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday through Friday, Eastern Time (except U.S. federal holidays).
Gay Travel Guide Goes to Chile to See The Worlds Largest Swimming Pool
If you like doing laps in the swimming pool, you might want to stock up on some energy drinks before diving in to this one.
It is more than 1,000 yards long, covers 20 acres, had a 115ft deep end and holds 66 million gallons of water. (which is similar to 6000 8 meter long pools).
The pool can be found in Algarrobo, Chile at San Alfonso del Mar.
The water has the transparency and turquoise look of the clear sea, this is thanks to the technology used which collects water from the ocean and keeps it in perfect condition.
It took five years to build, cost nearly £1billion and the annual maintenance bill will be £2million.
Quite a lovely resort!
When are we going?!
Gay Travel and Gay Pride Around The World 2010
As summer winds down so do the gay pride parties.
Here is a sampling of Gay Pride 2010 from around the world!
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
Gay Friendly Mexicana Airlines Closes it’s Doors
Mexicana Airlines (Nuevo Grupo Aeronautico, S.A. de C.V.) has announced that, effective at noon, Saturday, August 28, 2010, Mexicana Airlines will suspend all flight operations until further notice. The suspension applies to all Mexicana, MexicanaLink, and MexicanaClick flights. All flights scheduled to depart after this time will be cancelled indefinitely.
In a press release on the company’s website, the airline pledged to assist passengers to the best of its abilities. Passengers who have already flown a leg of their journey are advised to consult the company’s website for further information. The company notes that priority assistance will be provided to “minors traveling unaccompanied, passengers traveling with children under age 3, and special needs passengers.” Individuals who have not yet begun their journey on one of the Mexicana airlines are recommended to make alternative travel arrangements.
Their website was not even working this morning! So what does that mean??
The Department of State advises all travelers with reservations on Mexicana, MexicanaLink or MexicanaClick to consult the company’s website for additional guidance and contact information for the airline. Passengers who may become stranded in the middle of their journey and who require assistance beyond that provided by the airline should contact their nearest Embassy or Consulate. While the U.S. Government cannot provide immediate repatriation assistance, it can assist with alternate arrangements as appropriate.
For any emergencies involving U.S. citizens in Mexico, please contact the U.S. Embassy or the closest U.S. Consulate. The numbers provided below for the Embassy and Consulates are available around the clock.
The U.S. Embassy is located in Mexico City at Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, telephone from the
United States: 011-52-55-5080-2000; telephone within Mexico City: 5080-2000; telephone long distance within Mexico 01-55-5080-2000. You may also contact the Embassy by e-mail at: ACSMexicoCity@state.gov The Embassy’s internet address is http://www.usembassy-mexico.gov/.
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 Travel Couple! 2 British Guys, 2 Years, Around the World!
Thom and Sean
started traveling together on 23 June 2010 and they don’t plan on settling in any one country for another two years. Originally from the UK but with no decision yet on whether they’ll return, Thom and Sean are having fun visiting countries that they’ve always wanted to visit.
As novice travelers they started off with the USA and have spent the last nine weeks traveling from New York on the East Coast to San Francisco on the West Coast with a good old dose of the Deep South in between!
After America Thom and Sean will be kicking back to enjoy a calmer pace of life by hiring a camper van and driving around the North and South Islands of New Zealand for a month before heading down under. Hiring one more camper they’ll be driving down the spectacular Great Ocean Road taking in Cairns, Brisbane and Sydney before taking a breather in Melbourne. This breather’s going to last about 10 months as they get jobs and make friends to really experience Aussie life.
Once they leave Australia, the couple will be taking the slow road back to Europe via Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and China. In Beijing they’ll board the Trans-Siberian Express and spend a week on the train to Moscow, stopping off along the way and couchsurfing in a yurt! After Red Square they will be visiting Norway, Finland, Sweden and Denmark. The final destination of Berlin is being timed to match Sean’s 30th birthday in June 2012 where friends and family will join them for a massive party. And I suppose at that point they’ll have to grow up!
The guys have been together for four years and always talked about travelling the world; this went from a pipe dream to something that they both really wanted and after three years of saving, planning and hard work they’re finally able to embark on their world trip together.
Read about their travels at Thom and Sean.com
Join them on Facebook
Photo top – Pacific HWY, California
Photo bottom – Stars at Grand Canyon
New Gay Travel Guide
Lesbian Travel – Vancouver for Girls!
Recognized by Community Marketing, Inc. for being the top international travel destination among lesbians, Vancouver boasts one of the most welcoming and accepting communities in the Americas. World-class dining, entertainment and quality service unfold upon your arrival to the sassy city by the Pacific.
Vancouver has become the most famous place as one of the gay tourist destination in Canada. In LGBT surveys, the city of Vancouver is placing fourth in the rankings in the category most popular vacation spot outside the United States, after London, Puerto Vallarta and Paris. City of Montreal and Toronto itself is ranked eighth and sixth.
The West End is a cute little jewel in the heart of Vancouver. Marvel at the floral arrangements elegantly presented along the edges of the Edwardian-style homes between Davie and Denman streets as you mosey on over to your favorite brunch spot for mimosas and great company.
Granville Island is home to the Granville Island Public Market – a favorite lesbian hotspot. This indoor and outdoor fresh-as-the-fields marketplace can be equated to Vancouver’s version of Seattle’s Pike Place Market – with a tad bit more flair and room to breathe. Delectable morsels are on display for the tasting and there is no shortage of crisp fruits, vegetables, seafood, meats and alternatives for every discerning palate. Purchase a picnic lunch, sit on the deck and make a day of people-watching and counting colorful water taxis as they glide along the translucent water.
Commercial Drive is one of the most flavorful parts of the city and should not be missed. Portuguese and Italian immigrants once settled in this adorable community and cooked up feasts with recipes that are still being utilized (in one form or another) to locals, visitors and passerby. Whether you feel the need to sit in the sun with a slice of pizza or take a walk along the East side of Vancouver with a fresh cappuccino in hand, Commercial Drive has a little bit of everything to suit your needs. Lesbians and friends – you must check out the Sapphic-infused Womyns’Ware sex toy shop for a truly unforgettable experience.
Wreck Beach is Vancouver’s exclusive clothing-optional gay beach and it is definitely worth visiting – even for a few minutes. There are hundreds of steps to hike as you make your way down to the beach and back up to the main road so be prepared for a sweat. Consisting of mainly gay males, Wreck Beach may either be the perfect spot for you or the most uncomfortable, but, either way, it will be truly unforgettable. Watch out for the geoduck (gooey duck) clams shooting water up at you from below the sand!
Stanley Park is comprised of roughly 1,000 acres centrally located less than one mile away from downtown Vancouver. Cedar, hemlock and fir trees envelope your heart and soul as you walk along the trails and paths all the while getting lost in the nature of things and loving every spare moment. Driving, walking, skating, rollerblading and biking are all methods of transportation in Stanley Park and are encouraged.
Regardless of what you choose to accomplish while in Vancouver, there is something for every taste and lifestyle.
Read more about this great city at SHE WIRED , from writer Sarah Toce.
New Gay Travel Guide
American Offers Award Flights For Fewer AAdvantage® Miles
Great news for those short trips and weekend getaways!
Travel is just a short hop away as we offer AAdvantage® members the opportunity to book award travel within the United States and Canada for fewer miles, with our popular Short-Hop awards. For a limited time customers can book Economy Class MileSAAver® award tickets on non-stop routes under 700 miles each way for only 8,750 AAdvantage miles (17,500 round trip) — which is 30 percent fewer miles than normally required.
AAdvantage members can view availability and book Short-Hop awards by using the AAdvantage award booking tool on AA.com. For more information on Short-Hop awards visit AA SHORT HOPS or visit AA RAINBOW to book your award today.
Dubai is Getting SO GAY!
ANYTHING YOU CAN DO,
I CAN DO BETTER……..
That seem’s to be the song
that is sung in Dubai!
In 20 years, this area has EXPLODED. Dubai has emerged as a global city and a business hub. Although Dubai’s economy was built on the oil industry, currently the emirate’s model of business, similar to westernized countries, drives it main revenues from tourism, real estate, and financial services. Dubai has recently attracted world attention through many innovative large construction projects and sports events.
Tourism is an important part of the Dubai government’s strategy to maintain the flow of foreign cash into the emirate. Dubai’s lure for tourists is based mainly on shopping, but also on its possession of other ancient and modern attractions. As of 2007, Dubai was the 8th most visited city of the world. Dubai is expected to accommodate over 15 million tourists by 2015. But will they take the GAY DOLLAR? Time will tell.
The Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas are really something to see. It is a vast, choreographed water feature with performances set to light and music. The performances take place in front of the Bellagio hotel and are visible from numerous vantage points on the Strip, both from the street and neighboring structures. The fountains are set in a 9-acre manmade lake. They incorporate a network of pipes with more than 1,200 nozzles that make it possible to stage fountain displays coordinated with more than 4,500 lights. It is estimated that the fountains cost $75 million to build. The fountains were created by WET, a design firm specializing in inventive fountains and architectural water features – who also did a lot of work for Disney World.
Everything has to be BIGGER, BETTER and record-setting in Dubai! Have you seen their new fountains? The Dubai Fountain is a record-setting choreographed fountain system set on the 30- acre man-made Lake, at the center of the Downtown Dubai development.
It was designed by WET Design, Illuminated by 6,600 lights and 25 colored projectors, it is 275 m (902 ft) long and shoots water 150 m (490 ft) into the air, accompanied by a range of classical to contemporary Arabic and world music. It was built at a cost of $218 US million.
WATCH THE WATER SHOW on YouTube – if you can’t make it to Dubai!
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 Travel to Mexico City is About to Get a Big Boost
Mexico’s Supreme Court ruled last week, that a law allowing same-sex marriages in Mexico City is constitutional, rejecting an appeal by federal prosecutors who argued it violated the charter’s guarantees to protect the family.
The justices’ 8-2 ruling handed a legal victory to hundreds of same-sex couples who have been married in Mexico’s capital since the landmark law took effect March 4. When approved last December , it was the first law in Latin America explicitly giving gay marriages the same status as heterosexual ones, including adoption.
NOW EVEN MORE NEWS! Mexico’s Supreme Court ruled yesterday THAT ALL 31 states MUST recognize same-sex marriages performed in the capital, though its decision does not force those states to begin marrying gay couples in their territory.
In a 9-2 decision, the tribunal cited an article of the constitution requiring states to recognize legal contracts drawn up elsewhere.
New Gay Travel Guide
Gay Travel in China…From Guangzhou to Xiamen
A Simple Change of Mind
By Guest Author Johnny Rico
I realize that I left you at a stage of curiosity with my last blog . I wish I could satisfy your lust by saying that I had a hot steamy night with the muscle men but it would be a lie. They ended up being great guys but nothing erotic passed.
Actually, after that night, my gay curiosity dwindled. I went to the same bar twice and nothing exciting ever passed. It was the same queens showing off their new muscle shirts and snobby faces. They walked around the bar as if they owned the world from their corporate headquarters in Guangzhou.Which is exactly why I decided to put my gay side on the back burner and hang out with some foreigners from my internship.
We did the tourist thing and saw as many temples as possible. The Buddhist religion is very interesting but I can’t imagine being a monk. They devote their whole lives to a religion and live their lives alone and without SEX. Maybe I am just being naive.
We even climbed Baiyun Mountain and bungee jumped off the side . I leaped off the mountain while over looking a gorgeous view of Guangzhou and it was only 170 RMB, which is less than 20 dollars.
We also went to Chimelong Paradise Amusement Park . This park has a Safari where you can see all types of animals. I got to feed a baby tiger. The little thing smelt like body odor, seamen and burnt tofu. Luckily, the elephant ride after blew it’s musk off my clothes. I felt like Prince Ali Ababwa on top of that elephant.
In a nutshell, Guangzhou was eventful. The gay scene is nothing special, the city is smoldering hot and the mosquitoes suck your blood like greedy vampires.
Luckily for me, my job decided to move me to another city. I am now living in Xiamen. This is a very clean island city. I love living beside the ocean, except for the fact that you can’t swim in the ocean unless you are okay with growing a third nipple or rabbit ear. The ocean is polluted and you could be swimming next to a used condom or dirty tampon. But I still considered it to be the cleanest city in China.
The gay scene is
very small. They have one gay Karaoke bar which is filled with Lesbians. It is more acceptable to be a lesbian in China than a gay man. I see a lot of little cute butch Chinese girls with super hot feminine girlfriends in high heels and short skirts. If your a lesbian and have Asian fever than I suggest coming to China.
The Chinese women are far more intriguing than the men. Their slender bodies and smooth skin make for a delicious dessert. The men look more like women anyways. Chinese guys are naturally feminine. I much rather tame a bear than a turtle. I have come to the conclusion that Bears do not reside in these parts so I have decided to just be A-sexual. I know that if I do find someone that is remotely “WOOF” then the intercourse will be more like jump robbing than bungee jumping.
Sure, jump robbing is beneficial when working out or double dutching with Brandy and Monica but it still lacks thrill and excitement. I realize that the thrill is not going to happen here so I found some special DVDs and handle my own needs in private while dreaming of a sexy hairy muscular Daddy busting through the door and taking me to Pleasure Island.
I’ve been in China for 2 months now and I have thought a lot about my life. It made me realize that the crazy sexcapades are not what I want anymore. Cruising the beach or hitting the sauna for a quick fling no longer has the excitement or thrill that it used to have.
Plus, I know that 8 out of 10 times I am left unsatisfied and even thirstier for more of nothing. Sure, the hunt is thrilling but I can get my kicks in other ways. I guess I am maturing and proud of it.
Which means that I must resign Johnny Rico from his player lifestyle and affiliation with me, myself and I. Johnny was the crazy kid in the daddy store waiting for someone to pick him up and play with him. But I feel past that point now. I am ready to be the clerk at the daddy store that scopes out each one and picks them based on personality,ambition and Woofness.
So you can call me Rocko from now on. A more clever, intelligent, and confident guy that lives beneath the whore. It is time to grow up and live this life in love and amusement and not in risk and promiscuity.
A time for for learning how to love and live in a more safe, happy and healthy way.
A person is always learning and mistakes and epiphanies are always welcome.They help you to grow and figure out who you want to be.
Writing to you from Buddha himself in Xiamen, China.
I go back to the States in 4 days.
I hope you enjoyed my adventure and decide to have one of your own.
Learn to live,
Rocko
Looking for a Friendly Gay Hotel During Amsterdam’s Gay Parade? Here are the Top 5:
By Guest Author Yuli Linssen-Kaminitz
Amsterdam’s Gay Parade has always been one of the most spectacular events in Europe. What makes this parade so special and popular among gay and straight people from all over the world, is the fact that the entire event takes place in Amsterdam’s stunning canals. The parade starts on the 5th of August and last until the 8th. Not only the canals will be packed with more than 100 extravagant decorated boats which will play pumping dance and house music, the whole city will transfer itself into a gigantic street party!
Amsterdam is known to be an extremely open minded city which accepts and embraces gay people and that is why the city offers plenty of gay friendly hotels. Here are the top 5:
1. Hotel the Golden Bear- Address: Kerkstraat 37, 1017 GB Amsterdam
This super cozy hotel is located just few steps away from the beautiful flower market and next to Amsterdam’s lively gay area which includes quite a few bars and some trendy clubs. Because the Golden Bear Hotel is situated in a historic building from 1737, the general feeling is very unique and warm. An additional benefit to this lovely hotel is the fact that breakfast is being served between 8:30- 12:00 which allow you to sleep late- for sure you will need a lot rest during the parade weekend!
Some guest reviews:
- “Good location to various activities. The atmosphere felt more like home than a hotel. Was pleased with having my own shower and toilet. Breakfast service was very tasty and filling!”
- “The staff was very professional and friendly. The room was private, quiet, and clean. You could not ask for a better location.”
2. ITC hotel- Address: Prinsengracht 1051, 1017JE Amsterdam
This hotel will surly make you feel quickly like you are at home. The building is basically an old monumental canal house- extremely authentic and with a lot of personality. For those of you who arrive mainly for the gay parade this location is more than perfect: exactly on one of the most central canal: the famous Prinsengracht. The room prices are relatively low and you can be certain you will get great value for money.
Some guest reviews:
- “ITC is well-situated, quiet + a perfect base. Most of the staff is very helpful (5 gold stars to Michel). Our room was small + simple but we loved it as our pod. Luxury shops around the corner + many good restaurants + corner coffee houses.”
- “Nice location, friendly staff, beautiful view on the channel”
3. Freeland hotel- Address: Marnixstraat 386, 1017 PL Amsterdam
This lovely little hotel is owned and managed by Pascale and Rick- open minded and welcoming couple. Located in the centre of the old city makes it very easy to get to the:”Jordaan” area- maybe the nicest area in Amsterdam. The “Jordaan” district has plenty of small cozy cafes, unique restaurants with extraordinary dishes, designer’s shops and vintage boutiques.
Some guest reviews:
- “Wonderful and helpful staff and nice breakfast. I chose this place based on my desire to have a non commercial, family type place and this was just that.”
- “The owners welcomed my partner and I on our 16h anniversary with open arms. We couldn’t have been more comfortable with our stay.”
4. Mauro Mansion- Address: Geldersekade 16, 1012 BH Amsterdam
One of the nicest looking hotels in the city- a boutique style accommodation with extra attention to the little details. The property is located in a traditional 16th century canal house and it is owned by Berry and Marcel, an unbelievable pleasant duo. Each one of the hotel rooms has its own modern decoration and striking interior.
Some guest reviews:
- “Excellent location, hosts are extremely hospitable and helpful. Breakfast each morning was excellent with fresh breads, cold cuts, cheese, yogurts, cereal and special treats.”
5. Hotel Orfeo- Address: Leidsekruisstraat 12-14, 1017 RH Amsterdam
This is another brilliant located hotel; short walking distant from the: Leidseplein, Vondelpark and Amsterdam museums square. Whenever you get too tired from all the partying you can easily find a chilled out restaurant where you will be able to enjoy a good meal in a relaxed, quiet atmosphere.
Some guest reviews:
- ” Cheap and cheerful *sports bar round the corner which was quality”
- “Staff is helpful”
The above list indicates all the top hotels in Amsterdam for gay people. We have gathered this information from review exports we collected in the year May 2009 until May 2010. The famous gay parade is approaching quickly; make sure to book your hotel in advance.
