Gay Travel from Around the World

Gay Travel from Around the World

 
June 4, 2008   Europe, Places outside US

Gay Paris – Not So Friendly




I have heard from straight people that they found Paris to be unfriendly. But we went with an open mind. Afterall, being gay is like being  part of a brotherhood. Usually, the gay community is very welcoming, very friendly, and very eager to meet tourists, wherever we go.

Not really so in Paris. I expected rudeness and unfriendliness in the non-gay areas. But even at the gay clubs and restaurants, people were just not friendly, overall.  No one was rude to us – they just didn’t want to be bothered. – Where in comparison, we had just been in Prague for a week, and the men there were so welcoming and friendly. Even if they spoke no English, they wanted to meet us and tried to communicate.

We had heard about a sauna in Paris  called  SUN CITY. 62 bd Sebastopol. We were told it was one of the best in Paris! And it was a  Gorgeous place!  Huge!  3 floors decorated in a neo-Indian motif. Very clean. Spent 2.5  hours here and would NEVER  go back. The Parisian gays are just NOT friendly. And all they want to do is stand and pose and not be touched!  We had a couple cocktails, relaxed in the hot tub and  beautiful swimming pool, and no one wanted to talk or even make eye contact.    A  lot of people here sleeping by the pool and  20 people watching  DIE  HARD in the video room! Where is the porn?! Plus  they charged us  20 Euro / $30  each to get in.

The place was busy too –  about 100  people  maybe  125. It was 6pm on a  Saturday. But no one was nice. Save your money ! – It’s funny, the same owners own a place around the corner – Le Depot, 10 rue aux Ours .  It’s a bar / nightclub and the biggest crusing bar with private cabins in Paris. 1400 square meters of corridors and labyrinths.  Much cruisier. More friendly there, but still some attitude to deal with.  The boys can be beautiful but walk for hours!  Admission was about 8 euro / $12. And the DJ, a girl by the name of Benji de la house, rocked the place! You go late, like aftr 10 pm  and they stay open till about   8 am.  –  Overall, still more fun and better deal than Sun City. Much more fun at least.

We did not make it to  L’impact, 18, rue Greneta, but was told that was  a great place to go next time.

Parisians maintain a rather blase, even discreet, attitude about personal issues, from sexuality to religion to politics. Paris does have one distinctly gay neighborhood, the eminently walkable and unabashedly romantic Marais, on the right bank of the Seine. If you’re expecting a  robust gay scene complete with storefronts draped in rainbow flags and mammoth queer discos pulsing to state-of-the-art sound systems, you may be a little disappointed. The gay offerings here are decidedly low-keyed although generally quite cozy and inviting.

Marais gay bars tend to be guy-oriented and a tad cliquey, but the cafes, most of which have pleasant seating along the sidewalks, draw gay men, lesbians, and plenty of heteros. With few exceptions, the Marais is not especially known for memorable dining, although the neighborhood’s gayest sector does buzz with lively restaurants – just be prepared to be more impressed, in most cases, with the decor and people-watching than with the food. – And what I would call pricey – from an American perspective. Most places charged $10-$14 for a glass of cheap wine, and $15 – $20 for a sandwich – which was bland.

I am so glad I got see Paris – it is a beautiful city. But I would not run back there.



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June 3, 2008   Europe, Gay News, Places outside US

Gay Paris – Don’t Be Scammed With The Gold Brass Men’s Ring





My partner and I just got back from the very beautiful, very unfriendly Paris! We had been warned prior to leaving about pick pockets. 


Tourists are targeted by scam and rip-off artists everywhere in Europe. If you know the games (spilling the mustard, bus 64 in Rome, and so on), you’re less likely to be a victim. By sharing the latest scams (and learning from each others’ mistakes) we’ll all travel more safely.


Remember, pickpocketing attempts throughout Europe can be expected unless you wear a moneybelt under your clothing. Smart travelers leave wallets at home and store their credit cards, passport, paper money and rail ticket(s) in a secure moneybelt.

We never had a problem with pick pockets. However, no one warned us about the brass ring scam! On our way walking along the Siene, we met a woman, who was  so nice! That should have been our first clue! Because overall, people were not very nice in Paris.  She seemed so genuine – a really good actress! 

Just as you pass the scammer, they bend down to an empty walkway and the ring suddenly appears in her fingers. – Timing is everything. As my eyes went to the pavement, the ring was already there. She wanted me take it. I must have dropped it she said. I said, no. It was hers to keep! Finders keepers!

She gave me a believable story. In her country she could not possess such a ring. She was not allowed to even talk to men. She said I should keep it. And explained she was looking for work as a cleaning woman –  did I know of anywhere she could apply? – I did not need or want a gold band! But the generous heart that I have I gave her $10 Euro and went about my day!




100 feet later, I looked to my partner and said, “You don’t think she has a whole pocketful of those rings do you???”  –  Sure  enough,  a  few  blocks  later, we see her daughter scamming somone!  Yet, a few blocks further, a young man comes up to us, not nearly as smooth  –  he must be in training and tried to  pull the scam on us.  His hand went to the pavement and nothing was there. He clumsily dropped the palmed ring to the pavemtent and picked it up. I show him the ring I had just acquired and told him I already bought one from his mother!


Lots of tourists get punk’d every day! You will find a lot of stories at RICK STEVES. Watch out for “lost tourists”  needing directions. The ring scam. The bracelet scam. Wallet and moneybelt ideas. Be informed before you travel.

I think we are pretty smart, pretty aware travelers, but just when you let you guard down, watch out!



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June 2, 2008   Gay News

Get Busy Get Equal with ACLU




With all the talk this year about legalizing gay marriage, a lot of people are being inspired to take action and help create change in the own state and communities.

Get Busy, Get Equal is an online toolkit designed to help turn dreams of equality into reality, It’s got a dynamic design and new content, including videos. The site now features a blog discussing LGBT rights and breaking news, as well as opportunities to connect to activists through the social networking sites Facebook and MySpace.

There is also in-depth information on how to protect LGBT relationships, pass civil rights laws and non-discrimination policies, and make schools safe for LGBT students.  This collection of how-to guides, helpful hints, step-by-step instructions and other resources can be used right now to protect LGBT people and our rights.

Get Busy, Get Equal provides the tools local activists need to reach out to their neighbors, schools, employers and elected officials and help them understand that fairness for LGBT people is the right thing for America. I hope that you’ll take a little time to look at the resources Get Busy, Get Equal offers and use or share any information that might be helpful to your own work.


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May 30, 2008   California, Gay News

Gay Marriage Could Be Worth Billions For California


         

           $2.5 BILLION

Weddings are big business. Gay Weddings and Travel is even BIGGER BUSINESS!

Thanks to a recent decision by the California Supreme Court, the Golden State may soon be seeing a flood of same-sex couples flocking to the state to get married, beginning June 17.

Prof. Lee Badgett, Research Director at the Williams Institute at the University of California-Los Angeles, has done a series of studies on the economic implications of gay marriage in New Jersey, Vermont, Massachusetts, and California, among others.


While the 2000 Census estimated roughly 500,000 co-habitating gay couples nationwide, more recent studies such as the American Community Survey now estimate close to 800,000 same-sex couples. Of these, about 15%–or about 110,000–live in California. Less than 3% live in Massachusetts.


Badgett believes each California GLBT couple will likely spend close to the average wedding cost–now approaching $35,000 in California–but only about one-quarter of that amount is presumed to be “additional” spending that would not have otherwise gone into the economy. Even by this measure, 50,000 gay weddings could generate about $437.5 million in new economic activity over the next 3 years.


And none of these figures even address the potential boost to GLBT tourism. After all, about half of gays and lesbians say that a destination’s perceived ‘gay-friendliness’ is important in choosing how to spend their travel dollars, estimated at well over $50 billion annually.


When asked about the gay marriage, California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said: “You know, I’m wishing everyone good luck with their marriages and I hope that California’s economy is booming because everyone is going to come here and get married.”


Schwarzenegger’s hopes might just be realized.


By New Media Manager Matthew Calcara for PeterGreenberg.com

read the full article




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May 29, 2008   California, Gay Hotels, Places US

Luxury Camping in California – Perfect Spot For Your Gay Honeymoon ?


 

Camping has never been big on my list!  However, I discovered this place on the outskirts of the Los Padres National Forest near Santa Barbara, California –  El Captain Canyon. – which has changed my mind!

While it is primarily a straight clientèle, they do welcome gay people. And with the recent Supreme Court ruling, gay marriage in California could be a reality in just weeks, and this could be a beautiful  spot for a honeymoon. Luxury tents and cabins, massage/spa services, jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces, even Wi-Fi access in their cabins, this is a pretty fabulous place!

El Capitan Canyon caters to “luxury campers”  with an assortment of the same comfortable accommodations any Santa Barbara hotel can provide. Southern California nature lodging near the beach has never been so enjoyable. All accommodations are furnished with willow beds, down-style duvets, western-inspired blankets and casual furnishings. Roomy tents have wood floors – some even have bathrooms and kitchens!



During the day, enjoy the great outdoors and fresh air!  Hiking, biking, beach cruising, whale watching, swimming (beach or pool), horseback riding, Segway through Santa Barbara and more. All summer there is an outdoor concert series or you may choose to stay in your cabin and sip champagne in your jacuzzi or in front of the fireplace.

From off-road trails to lush valley vineyards, invigorating hikes to romantic sunsets and spectacular, mountain to ocean vistas memorable experiences and unique adventures await!  Why haven’t the gays thought of this?

Rates range from $145 for tents and cabins from $225. 
(866) 352-2729        El Captain Canyon


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May 22, 2008   Celebrity, Gay News, Recommended Reads

The Secret Life? of Siegfried & Roy – How The Tiger Kings Tamed Las Vegas


 

It’s here! The so-called  “scandalous book” that has been talked about for 6 months.


            The Secret Life of Siegfried and Roy: How the Tiger Kings Tamed Las Vegas

I read the book over last weekend. As some of you may know, I worked for S & R  for about 7 years, right up until his accident.  I have  the utmost respect for them. They are inspiring and it was an honor to work with them and for them!

Everyone has a personal, private life. Some things they may not want shared with others. VERY FEW people live the life of  an “open book.” Especially gay people. Some fear telling their families and/or friends that they are gay. Everyone has  “secrets” or things they may not be proud of, that they keep private. So what? A lot of gay people in the media’s eye choose to stay in the closet. Look at Liberace! ( a close friend to Siegfried & Roy). He denied he was gay till the end, even on his death bed withering away from AIDS.  Is it right? Is it wrong? Who are we to judge. I believe it is up to each individual to decide when to come out. It’s sad though to watch people live their lives for someone else. I don’t understand it. Eventually, all secrets come out.


The Secret Life of Siegfried and Roy reveals the touching,  little-known story of how two youngsters founded a friendship, a franchise, and a tempestuous on-and-off love affair that would last a lifetime. We all knew they were gay. DAH! Look at those cod pieces and costumes! The book reveals their depth of their romance. Their disagreements and fights. Their sexual desires. Their trust and love.


     

Like most celebrities and very public people, they work very hard to control their image and public perception.  In the weeks and months that followed the accident, more coverage was given to Siegfried & Roy than they had ever seen in whole career. In the spotlight as never before, Roy’s mauling triggered the press’ relentless investigation into the secret world of these Las Vegas icons. For the first time ever, author Louis Mydlach, a longtime friend––at Roy’s side throughout his traumatic recovery––describes in detail the agonies of rehabilitating the partially paralyzed performer.  –  Roy was undergoing strenuous rehabilitation. He wanted to present a stiff upper lip to his adoring fans. People hide things because they are afraid of what others may think. Being a gay man myself, I learned at an early age that is too short to lie! Just be yourself. And if someone will not accept you for who you are, do you really want them in your life?

Siegfried & Roy dazzled audiences’ eyes for decades as they masterfully hid a lifetime of secrets. Key players in the duo’s inner circle––Louis Mydlach, his security chief father Jim Mydlach, and show consultant Jimmy Lavery––finally unravel the untold story: The life of Siegfried & Roy was their ultimate illusion.

Is the book scandalous? Not really. I would not call it scandalous. It gives the reader an inside look into  two very private lives of two great men who happened to be gay and involved for numerous years in an on-again  off-again love relationship. I did find some of the language in the book a little bit of a slap in the face to gay people. But we have to remember, this book was probably written by four straight people and I think sometimes they are titillated talking about gay sexual issues, and don’t handle it in the same manner as a gay person might. There is talk about S&R’s like for younger men, video booths and glory holes. But so what? What gay person over 50 hasn’t been there, done that or thought about it?

The book exposes what happened behind closed  doors. It is personal, intimate and the side of them we never got to see. THEY ARE HUMAN. They fight. They cry. They have emotions. They are just like you and me. It’s the private life we never got to see or read about because they protected their privacy. Unlike Britney!

They are still amazing men who accomplished so many things and changed the face of magic and the face of Las Vegas. Reading the book will not change your feelings about them, but you will probably appreciate them more, by seeing this human side of them. 


Sidenote –  It is rumoured Siegfried & Roy are currently shopping around their own memoirs to publishers.


The Secret Life of Siegfried and Roy: How the Tiger Kings Tamed Las Vegas



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May 21, 2008   Places outside US, Recommended Reads, South America

Made in Brazil – New Gay Brazil Travel Site is Launched in Time for Sao Paulo Pride Events

A new travel site,  THE LOVE LAND , is offering tourist information, cultural programs and packages has been launched with the aim of encouraging travellers to visit Brazil for the São Paulo Gay Pride Parade.

 

With contents in English, the site  has been launched with information about the São Paulo Gay Pride Parade, which happens on May 25 this year. The objective is to promote Brazil as friendly destination for the GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender) public and to motivate foreign tourists visiting the event to see other destinations in the Country.

On the site there is information about the simultaneous cultural programs to the event, links for tourist packages suggested by Brazilian Association of GLS Tourism, ringtones, downloads of pictures of the favorite Brazilian destinations for these tourists and related links.

The site launched for the first time last year and received a great response from the international public. The choice of the Loveland name refers to the respect that Brazil offers visitors from all over the world, regardless of their sexual identity.

“We intend to show a multicultural Brazil, which welcomes and respects diversity. And we take advantage of the São Paulo Gay Pride Parade to invite foreign tourists to know other cities and areas of our Country”, explains Embratur’s president Jeanine Pires.

The São Paulo Gay Pride Parade is considered the largest parade in the world of its kind, and last year attracted more than 3.5 million people – about 37% of those being visitors from other cities and countries.

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May 19, 2008   Places US

CHICAGO, A WELCOMING DESTINATION FOR LGBT TRAVELERS




Chicago is proud to be home to one of the most active and friendly lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) communities in the world. Boasting renowned arts and cultural organizations, a thriving LGBT sports scene, and hundreds of LGBT-owned businesses and social hubs throughout the city – and as the host of Gay Games VII in 2006 – Chicago is known internationally as a welcoming destination for LGBT travelers.
 
Download the free Chicago Navigaytour, a comprehensive visitor guide to the city written and designed specifically for gay and lesbian travelers.
 
Arts and Culture

Chicago is widely recognized as a cultural mecca, with hundreds of performing arts organizations located throughout the city, including a variety of renowned LGBT organizations. The Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus entertains audiences with innovative musical programming exploring themes ranging from love to politics to the sometimes fabulous, sometimes challenging world of being gay-often all at the same time. The award-winning About Face Theater presents works that strive to challenge audience’s intellects, imaginations, self-conceptions, moral expectations, and ideas about gender and sexuality. Each year, Chicago is home to the Reeling Film Festival, the second oldest LGBT film festival in the United States. Reeling demonstrates the diversity of work being created today by screening films from a range of genres-from award-winning international feature films to social documentaries to experimental shorts. Plus, Broadway in Chicago!



Neighborhoods

In addition to hundreds of LGBT-owned and friendly businesses and social hubs throughout the city, Chicago has an official City of Chicago-designated LGBT neighborhood, Lakeview (Boystown,) marked by 22 rainbow-ringed and illuminated 20-foot pylons on Halsted Street, from Belmont to Waveland Avenues. Known by the locals as “Boystown,” this highly eclectic gay quarter features fine restaurants, outdoor cafes, vintage clothing, high fashion, and several blocks of LGBT bars ranging from classic Chicago pubs, to sultry lounges, from hard-core leather scenes to booming, high-energy dance clubs. Wandering Halsted and Broadway streets, the neighborhood’s main thoroughfares, a visitor might think he or she had stumbled onto a gay pride celebration.

 


Andersonville, an old Swedish enclave, has steadily developed into a very popular, yet low-key lesbian and gay neighborhood. Andersonville, a sort of “Girl’s Town,” features one of few remaining independent women’s bookstores in the nation, a sleek LGBT gym, coffee houses, art galleries, and a wide variety of ethnic culinary experiences. LGBT-owned restaurants, gourmet delis and ethnic food stores add elegance to the somewhat bohemian scene. Andersonville has also become an exciting nighttime destination, and is home to many LGBT bars, including a swank wine bar, taverns, dance clubs, leather bars, and some of the friendliest neighborhood pubs you will find in the city.
 
Hollywood Beach, long recognized as the city’s LGBT beach, is a pleasant 15-minute walk away through the beautifully landscaped and garden-laden streets of Andersonville.


 
Accommodations

From luxe 5-stars to trendy boutique properties to student-friendly hostels, Chicago is home to dozens of hotels that can suit any travel style and budget. While LGBT travelers are welcome at any hotel in the city, properties near the Boystown neighborhood are known for being particularly LGBT-friendly. The Neighborhood Inns of Chicago are three stylish hotels located in Lakeview – the City Suites Hotel, Majestic Hotel and Willows Hotel. Those looking for a smaller venue can check out three elegant B&Bs located minutes from Boystown and Andersonville – the Ardmore House, the Villa Toscana and House 5863. The Hawthorne Terrace Best Western is a charming boutique hotel nestled in the heart of Lakeview. 
 
Pride Celebrations

Each June, Chicago celebrates Pride Month, with dozens of social, cultural, political and athletic events. The culmination of Pride Month is the annual Gay Pride Parade, which takes place on the last Sunday of the month (in 2008, the Parade will be held on Sunday, June 29). The Parade, which attracts more than 400,000 viewers, steps off from the corner of Belmont and Halsted and proceeds through the Boystown neighborhood. 



 Halsted Street Market Days is a mid-summer street festival in Boystown that takes place each year in August (2008 date:  August 9-10). During the festival, Halsted Street is closed to vehicular traffic for two days of music, dancing and food. Festival organizers believe that Market Days is the largest street festival in Illinois, with more than 300,000 attendees each year.
 
Andersonville’s MidSommarfest in early June (2008 date: June 14-15) and Lakeview’s Pride Fest on the Saturday before the Pride Parade (2008 date: June 28) are also popular festivals with an LGBT flavor.


For even more detailed information about visiting Chicago, visit  The Best of Gay Chicago!



Visitors and Chicagoans planning to entertain out-of-town guests can receive Chicago brochures, reserve hotel accommodations and receive trip-planning assistance by calling toll-free 1.877.CHICAGO (1.877.244.2246), or visiting www.cityofchicago.org/tourism.





 

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May 14, 2008   Places outside US

THE GAY CZECH REPUBLIC – GAY PORN AND LEGAL MALE PROSTITUTES

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PRAGUE is a beautiful, romantic, Gothic, baroque metropolis. But Prague is a double capital city these
days. It is also an epicenter of the billion-dollar worldwide gay porn industry. Some sources
estimate that a new gay porn film is made in the Czech Republic every three days!
Beautiful buildings and beautiful boys, what more could you want?!

WE ARE IN PRAGUE & PARIS THIS WEEK!!

And will hopefully come back with lots of pictures of beautiful boys! So we are re-running 2 popular stories we did on Prague, the gay porn business and male prostitution.


The porn industry really blossomed in the 1990s. Thanks to mastermind George Duroy of Bel Ami,
and the countries low wages and willing young men, an empire was launched. Duroy presented
the world with gorgeous, young, smooth, uncut Eastern European hotties and consumers ate it
up! Clean cut boys who barely spoke English, dropped their drawers and made sex seem so
innocent and sweet. GOLDMINE!.


Today the Czech Republic has became home to many porn producers. William Higgins, who was
known for the 1980’s California boys set up shop in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. And here’s
a twist, to protect the models privacy and enable them to continue their lives over there,
models get a nice lump of cash and the guarantee the movies and images will not be
distributed anywhere in Eastern Europe! So next time you go to Prague, you just may very
well see Lukas Ridgeston or Johan Paulik sitting next to you at the local pub –

don’t ask for an autograph, please.

/images/39531-36457/250px_Timhamiltonvid.jpeg”>  gay bars and dance clubs for a specific audience (like leather bars, rent boy bars, older audience, younger crowd). But, unfortunately, there has never been a Gay Pride in Prague until now. All gay accommodations are in the centre of Prague and some gay bars, clubs, saunas, restaurants are close to each place. For lots of useful information visit GAYGUIDE. Castles, museums, men, river cruises, parks, gardens, and men!

To Book a trip use the PRAGUE SAINTS BOOKING SERVICE!

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I found this interesting article online about prostitution in Prague. – In the quiet and luxurious Vinohrady district, just outside the center of Prague, anyone can walk into certain  gay clubs and have their pick of male escorts. Prostitution is not illegal in the Czech Republic as long as the prostitute is at least 18.
 

(Actually I am told, “There are two bars in Prague where escorts are openly available and these are Escape and Temple.  Temple is on the fringes of the gay quarter but is actually in Zizkov, the district that neighbours Vinohrady.  Escape is down town. 
 
However these same escorts often go out to the other gay bars, particularly Valentino and Termix, sometimes with the clients that have picked them up in Escape or Temple or sometimes with their mates.  But I have heard stories of them then attempting to charge anyone who tries to pick them up in Valentino for example.” – So if you are NOT looking to pay, keep that in mind.)


In March of 2007, local authorities were constitutionally given the right to regulate this profession– consign it to specific areas.


Two different categories have arisen — there is the circle of elite escorts like Rocky who only serve a wealthy clientele. And then there are the others at the Main Train Station, a major hub of the Prague male sex tourism industry.



Rocky was interviewed by writer Soma Ghoshal and said, “I met the head prostitute a couple of years back at a club. He told me I had great potential, and I had no problem with it, so I started to make contacts and network with the wealthy throughout Europe. CEO’s, politicians, doctors — they’re husbands, have families, but just want to have some fun on the side,” he explained.

I couldn’t believe it. Rocky had started this as a business venture. After seeing his apartment, I realized that he was better off than most residents of Prague, but I wasn’t prepared for what I learned next.
The average monthly salary in Prague is 25,282 Kc ($1,383.87), according to a 2007 report from the Czech Statistical Office.

Rocky, and the boys that are enlisted on the top two websites for male escorts, make around 50,000 Kc a week ($120,000 annually). Statistically, this puts them at the wealthiest five percent of society. Some of the escorts do 3-5 tricks per day – and after a few years retire or are just plain worn out!


Matthew, a Czech head prostitute, is in charge of 20 or so male escorts. He hangs out in Club Valentino on Vinohradska most nights looking for anyone who may be interested in becoming a prostitute.

At first, Matthew made no mention of his profession. He seemed very reserved, very shy, but after awhile, he started talking about how he’s guided more than 100 young men get jobs. I asked him what he liked about his job.

“I’m helping so many people,” he said.

  


If you are thinking of visiting the Czech Republic, please see our friends at PRAGUE SAINTS. They are the leading  gay-run travel company providing accommodations and tour services for gay visitors to the Czech Republic.  They offer great rates on Prague hotels, beautiful apartments, private tours of Prague and the Czech Republic !

 

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May 6, 2008   Gay News, Places outside US

Gay Israel – The Israel Project





At only 60 years old, Israel has become one of the most progressive countries in the world and the most tolerant country in the Middle East in legislating equality for sexual minorities and ensuring their civil and personal rights.  Most recently, on April 25, Israel recognized the first overseas adoption by a gay couple. The 8-year-old Cambodian-born boy was granted Israeli citizenship.

First and foremost, gay rights are protected by law. Gay marriages – performed outside Israel – are recognized by the state, and same-sex couples are permitted to adopt. Gays can serve openly in the military. Gender reassignment surgery is legal and openly performed. The gay community has gained wide acceptance throughout Israeli society, including in the political, legal, military and cultural realms. In fact, the city of Tel Aviv has one of the most flourishing gay communities in the world.

Since the 1990s, Tel Aviv has hosted Israel’s largest gay pride parade; about 20,000 people attended in 2007. The gay nightlife in Tel Aviv rivals that of New York and London, with gay and lesbian bars and clubs open until the morning.




The Israel Project (TIP) is an international non-profit organization devoted to educating the press and the public about Israel while promoting security, freedom and peace. The Israel Project provides journalists, leaders and opinion-makers accurate information about Israel. The Israel Project is not related to any government or government agency.

The Israel Project’s (TIP) Jerusalem Office is a trusted non-governmental resource working with foreign journalists based in Israel. It provides reporters with needed facts and information before they file their stories. TIP’s Jerusalem team features several Middle East experts and former journalists.They host media events and briefings and provide background and sources to the more than 400 reporters permanently assigned to Israel as well as the hundreds of others who report from Israel at key moments in history. 


 

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April 30, 2008   Events and Premieres

HX Gay & Lesbian Travel Expo




The Gay Life Travel Expo is a one night, after work event that attracts 500-1000 GLBT travelers and travel professionals. The Gay Life Travel Expo will take place in  major cities around the country!


FREE to attend.  Download a FREE TICKET online.


May 20, 2008 – Dallas, Texas
Hilton Anatole
2201 Stemmons Freeway
4:00 – 8:00 PM


May 22, 2008 – Chicago, Illinois
The Center on Halsted
3656 North Halsted
4:00 – 8:00 PM


 – Summer Break –


September 16, 2008 – Washington DC
Location TBD
4:00 – 8:00 PM


September 18, 2008 – Atlanta, Georgia
Wyndham Midtown
125 10th St. NE
4:00 – 8:00 PM


October 7, 2008 – Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Sheraton Wall Centre
1088 Burrard St.
5:00 – 9:00 PM


October 28, 2008 – San Francisco, California
Hotel Nikko
222 Mason St.
4:00 – 8:00 PM


October 30, 2008 – San Diego, California
Location TBD
4:00 – 8:00 PM


December 9, 2008 – Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Embassy Suites Ft. Lauderdale
661 NW 53rd St.
4:00 – 8:00 PM


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April 28, 2008   Gay News

Jim Carrey, Rodrigo Santoro and Ewan McGregor in a Three Way in Miami?



  

Jim Carrey, Ewan McGregor and “Lost” Rodrigo Santoro were spotted at Edison Farrow’s Martini Tuesdays party, at Halo, a South Beach gay bar in Florida, The Miami Herald reports. They reportedly drank champagne (Carrey had water), while doing research for their upcoming film, “I Love You Philip Morris,” a true story about a married father who ends up in prison and falls in love with his cellmate. “Jim’s character is a con artist and an escape artist, who escapes from prison to be with me. It’s an incredible story,” Ewan told the paper. It’s likely no “Brokeback,” but then again, hopefully, it’s no “Boat Trip”!


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April 21, 2008   Europe, Events and Premieres, Places outside US

Gay Brussels Belgium




Summer and Gay Pride!

While June is the biggest month for Pride, some cities and countries will observe pride earlier or later. In Brussels, they will celebrate the week of May 16th.  We have never been – but are thinking of going this year…any advice from any readers???

Belgium is a small country (11,730 square Miles, the size of Maryland) with a population of  10 million.There are three languages (Dutch, French and German). However, English is widely spoken I am told. The three regions (Flanders, Wallonia and Brussels) have self-government in many spheres. Like most of Europe, Belgium has retained its old-world charm in the preservation of its ancient buildings and historical traditions. Brussels is the capital of Belgium and the administrative centre of the European Union. This has earned the city the title of the Capital of Europe.

I found quite a long list of gay bars, discos and sauna’s online @ Trabel.  It says the most of the gay action is all centered around the area of the Grand Place.

Belgium is a country well known for the best beer in the world! I don’t drink beer – but I am sure they have Vodka or wine somewhere, right? If you are into beer, there was an extensive list of pubs and brewerys online.



The world famous peeing boy can be seen every day and night at the corner of Eikstraat/Stoofstraat near the Grand Place.  I was told to  try to find out if the Manneken receives a new costume during my stay. During that occasion he pees beer instead of water!

I also read about OCEADE’ – the indoor waterpark. While most of these places are usually very straight, there are always some young euro hotties in wet speedo’s  running around!

Getting back to gay…In the late 70s and early 80s the Belgian gay community organised a number of street demonstrations to raise visibility and demand equal rights. The first one was held on 5 May 1979 in Antwerp. Over the years, their pride celebration has gotten bigger and bigger!
Much more than just a bunch of drag queens and floats (though those are fun, don’t get me wrong) the gay people of Brussels and Belgium take pride very seriously and it is much more of a political statement. They host a demonstration/march as opposed to a flamboyant parade. 




The Pride marches are held annually in Belgium’s capital Brussels since 1996, with similar events having been held intermittently in preceding years in both Brussels and other cities.

While the marches have a festive character, they are also used to present the gay movement’s political agenda in the form of a list of demands. The list was updated a number of times (in 1996, 1999, 2000, 2004 and 2005) and has included demands for anti-discimination laws, inclusion of gay relationships in high-school sex education and the right to adoption by same-sex parents.


Belgium is considered to be a very liberal country with gay rights and became the 2nd country in the world to legalize gay marriage, in 2003.

Anyone have any thoughts to share about gay Brussels, let us know!




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April 19, 2008   Entertainment News, Gay News, News and Happenings

Madonna’s Vanity Fair Globe Brings $24,000 in a Charity Auction on EBAY




Last night, a fan paid $24,200 on EBAY for the globe Madonna signed for a Vanity Fair photo shoot!

100% of the final sale price will support Raising Malawi c/o United Way of Miami-Dade, Inc.

The winner gets:

• the autographed globe from Madonna’s May 2008 Vanity Fair cover shoot;

• two tickets to a very special Madonna performance in New York City at the end of April;

• accommodation for two nights at N.Y.C.’s Bowery Hotel;

• dinner at Gemma—one of Manhattan’s hottest restaurants;

• round-trip airfare for you and a guest (from select cities) to N.Y.C., provided by Virgin America.


Since 2006, Raising Malawi has been dedicated to bringing an end to the extreme poverty and hardship endured by Malawi’s one million orphans. Co-founded by Madonna and Michael Berg, Raising Malawi uses a community-based approach to provide immediate direct physical assistance, support long-term sustainability, create education and psycho-social programs, and build global awareness through multi-media and worldwide volunteer efforts.




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April 17, 2008   Gay News

SPIRIT AIRLINES AND THEIR $1 MILF SALE



 



Is the marketing department at SPIRIT AIRLINES asleep?

They just launched this huge  MILF  SALE –
 Many Islands Low Fares. 

HOTTER  AND  CHEAPER THAN  EVER!


Didn’t  someone point out that MILF is widely used pornographic term???
You would think SOMEONE would have pointed that out to them!


I read a headline today that said, Spirit Airlines keeps it classy with their M.I.L.F. sale!

Um,  not really!

Wake up boys!


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April 17, 2008   News and Happenings, Places outside US, Special Events

Rainbow Rampage – The Ultimate Gay Road Rally Party in Europe and United States




The world’s first gay centric motorsports event is set to launch two events this summer that will highlight the daily destinations rather than the speed of individual participants. The Rainbow Rampage is a fabulous expression of spirit. Welcoming participants of every color and stripe to represent the full spectrum of gay identities, personalities and style for the “Ultimate Gay Party.”


The first rally begins in Brighton, England with parties and a grand official send off before crossing the channel and heading to the first stage destination: Paris. Following a course designed to highlight spectacular non-highway roads, participating in fun challenges that urge participants to take in their surroundings while enjoying a non-stop gay festival of Europe’s greatest cities; Paris, Amsterdam,Hamburg, Berlin, Prague and Vienna.

The Rainbow Rampage is essentially a large group road trip that precedes the gay pride parade in Budapest, where the tour ends. Participants are given free entry to participate in the parade as a grand finale that also includes luxury accommodations at one of Budapest’s famous spa hotels.


EU RAINBOW  RAMPAGE              US RAINBOW  RAMPAGE

June 28th – July 4th, 2008          Sept. 27th – Oct. 3rd, 2008
7 days – 2300  miles                     7 days – 2200  miles


The US Rainbow Rampage will follow a route through Seattle, Crater Lake, South Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Joshua Tree National Park, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Lead Organizer, Guy Zucker, hopes that there will be a growing
“awareness that this event is taking place,” and that organizers are
looking for “local support … especially reaching [out] to the gay
community at each stage along the way.” It may be the first event of
its kind but with GLBT travelers accounting for ever increasing
participation in major cities and luxury vacations known to be gay
friendly destinations, it was only a matter of putting it together.

For ENTRY DEATAILS visit RAINBOW RAMPAGE

New Gay Travel Guide


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April 15, 2008   Hotels, News and Happenings, Places outside US

YOTEL is Invading Airports for Pod People – The Future Has Arrived!





How  about a posh little pod pad for $50 -$100   as opposed to the airport chain hotel for $200 a night?
During at dreaded overnight  layover at many airports, you are forced to stay at an over-priced chain hotel on or near the airport property. Or worse yet, have you ever tried to catch a few zzzz’s on an airport hard-as-rock bench? You just want to freshen up and rest your eye’s for a few hours, for Gods sake!

What if you could sleep in comfort in a luxurious pod for a fraction of the price the hotels charge?

The future has arrived! Pay by the hour – not by the night –  and get well rested. Everything you would expect from a luxury hotel in a small space. Located uniquely inside the airport terminal buildings at London Heathrow’s Terminal 4 and London Gatwick’s South Terminal.  Amsterdam Schipol is coming this summer. YOTEL  plans to be in every major airport eventually!




Of course, much smaller than a standard room in a hotel, these little 23-33 square foot pods have a bed, (complete with plush mattresses) television complete with about 60 international channels, 80 radio stations and 5000  music tracks, desk and chair, free Wi-Fi, and a private shower with monsoon showerheads. AND 24-hour room service with snacks and small meals.

Prices start  at  $35 and go up from there. FABULOUS! Yotel was the idea of Simon Woodroffe, founder of the U.K. chain YO! Sushi restaurants. – “I was lucky enough to get an upgrade to the sleeper bed in British Airways first class. I went to sleep with the conundrum of how to make a Japanese capsule hotel acceptable in the west and woke up realising the solution was around me: all I needed to do was find the designer of the BA first class cabin and ask them to help me design a hotel.” – The rest as they say, is history! In 2003 he partnered with a designer, in 2005 built a prototype, 2007 opened their doors!


BOOK ONLINE or find out more! Coming soon, to an airport near you!

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April 11, 2008   Mexico, News and Happenings, Places outside US

¿Viva La Revolucion? ¡Relajar América! ABSOLUT VODKA AD SCANDAL




ABSOLUT found themseleves in some hot mess drama this week! Bowing to pressure, Absolut has pulled the ad and is “refocusing” efforts in the Latin American marketplace, specifically in Mexico. The creative, early 19th century map showing chunks of the United States as a part of Mexico, has angered many American and Mexican consumers. CNN even covered it!


(*a note from the Historical Accuracy Department & Wikipedia: the map used is historically accurate up until 1848 when the United States, under President James K. Polk, invaded Mexico and seized Mexico City after the Mexican government refused to acknowledge the United States’ annexation of Texas.)



According to my blogging buddy Ryan Arnold The Ad Guy,  – Let’s put this into perspective, people. Absolut Vodka is a Global brand. Hence, they undertake marketing initiatives that are geared toward specific consumers located in various parts of the Globe. In the case of this ad, it was part of an outdoor and print campaign in Mexico City, Cancun, and other larger Mexican cities. This ad was not geared for the US General Market – it was placed in Mexico and targeted Mexican consumers. When media outlets throughout the Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, and California caught wind, many tried to spin the ad as Absolut weighing in on immigration and citizenship reform. Absolut released this statement on their website:

“In no way was this meant to offend or disparage, nor does it advocate an altering of borders, nor does it lend support to any anti-American sentiment, nor does it reflect immigration issues.”

Recognize this advertisement for what it is: another in the long list of clever advertising we’ve come to know and love from Absolut Vodka. You can view a fine collection of Absolut Vodka ads (some less controversial than others) here. France’s Pernod-Ricard is taking over Absolut Vodka, one of the world’s top-selling spirits, after buying government owned Vin & Spirir earlier this year.



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April 10, 2008   New York, News and Happenings, Theatre

Harry Potter Gets Naked in New York on Broadway




Gosh, it’s been a week of hot news from New York City!


Daniel Radcliffe, the star of the ”Harry Potter” movies, will make his Broadway debut on Sept. 5, playing the disturbed stable boy in a revival of Peter Shaffer’s play, ”Equus,” it was announced today.


Radcliffe, 18, earned rave reviews for his performance in the London production of the Tony Award-winning play. He also received loads of media attention for appearing naked onstage — a departure from his wholesome image as the bespectacled boy wizard in the big-screen adaptations of J.K. Rowling’s best-selling fantasy novels.









”Equus” begins previews Sept. 5 for a limited 22-week run at the Broadhurst Theatre. The play opens Sept. 25-Feb. 8, 2009. Thea Sharrock directs.


Richard Griffiths, who portrays Harry’s mean Uncle Vernon in the ”Potter” movies, reprises his London role as the psychiatrist who treats the stable boy, who has blinded six horses.



Radcliffe told Reuters in an interview in September that the prospect of acting in New York was “terrifying”.


“I would be very nervous because I think (the audiences are) even more discerning than in London.”


England’s liberal perspective on nudity differs greatly than that of New York’s, so it will be interesting to see how Americans respond to their young hero being in his birthday suit!

If you love New York, visit our New York Site!



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April 7, 2008   Entertainment News, Gay News, New York

Andy Warhol’s 2 New York Townhouses Go Up For Sale



 





   FOR SALE! 

The high price for being a  fabulous hot tranny mess! 

Andy Warhol’s  Upper East Side (New York City)
townhouse went up  for sale  for  $38 MILLION!

Nestled within the center of New York City’s fashionable Carnegie Hill, this home has everything you would come to expect in a fully renovated and lovingly restored townhouse. Gorgeous woodwork and classic original details convey elegance and charm, while the upgraded mechanicals, plumbing, heating, A/C, and new appliances offer every modern convenience.

According to NYMAG, former Viacom head Tom Freston  is selling his 4 bedroom Upper East Side townhouse, which also happens to be the house that Andy Warhol lived in from 1974 to 1987. Of course, you’re not likely to find any stray Basquiat doodles (or, you know, ‘ludes) from back in the day lying around. Freston renovated the hell out of the place, adding a luxurious rooftop terrace, four bedrooms, a library, chef’s kitchen, staff suite, gym, and seven wood-burning fireplaces, and the only real sign that Andy ever lived there is the little red plaque on the front of the house, “Andy Warhol: 1928-1987”  – 

57 E 66th street –  The cool vibes and the amenities will set you back a mere $38.5 million, which if you think about it is only half of what someone paid for Warhol’s Car Crash just last year. (Taxes  are $6000 a month!)

Warhol paid  $300,000 for the house in 1974.

ALSO FOR SALE, his townhouse at http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/30/realestate/30deal1.html?_r=1&ex=1207454400&en=99576d428f9aaecf&ei=5070&emc=eta1&oref=slogin. This one is only  $6  million.
Warhol lived here from 1959 – 1974. The asking price is $5.99 million. The house has ornate wood moldings and paneling, and original mantels. But it is not as large as many Upper East Side town houses, and fronts on Lexington Avenue rather than a quieter side street. ( It is 48 feet deep on a 62-foot lot — while most town house lots on side streets are about 100 feet deep — and has just over 3,000 square feet, according to city tax records.)






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