Category: Travel

TRAVEL GUIDE | The Ultimate Gay Road Trip: Pacific Coast Highway

ROAD TRIP!!! It’s the ultimate call to action that remains one of the best ways to explore a country when travelling. For some reason, the thought of piling into a beat up rental car armed with a sat nav and a bag full of snacks has yet to lose its universal appeal.

CREDIT: Google Maps

One of the most popular road trips is the historic drive up California’s Route 1, aka the Pacific Coast Highway. Google it and you’ll instantly be presented with a barrage of stunning images of America’s most popular coastline. The twisting and cliff-hugging route 655 miles long and could be driven in one or two days, but where’s the fun in that? You could easily stretch it out to five days if you wanted to. With countless places to stop for both beautiful vistas and idyllic little US towns, you may as well make the most of your airfare and take your time.

San Diego

CREDIT: pixabay / Public Domain

Starting from the bottom and working your way up tends to be the preferred way to travel, possibly because starting in San Diego gives you the opportunity to relax after what will inevitably be a long and arduous flight from London.

Weather
San Diego is known to have the best weather in the country, and some say even the whole world. San Diego gets over 300 days of sunshine every year, meaning you don’t need to wait until the more costly summer months to get a perfect weather. The average summer temperature is apparently a comfortable 22℃ according to their local tourist board, but I was always baking. Don’t even bother taking jeans, you won’t wear them. Even in the middle of winter, the temperatures won’t drop far below 16℃, so avoid the peak prices and crowds by booking outside of the summer months. You’ll still tan.

Beaches

Here’s a picture of me at the infamous Black’s Nude Beach contemplating life/trying to make out dong from a distance. CREDIT: Nick Baker

There are 33 beaches in San Diego, all of which offer water sports (in the traditional sense) and allow a chance to top up that tan before starting your trip up the coast. Only a few of these beautiful beaches are located within walking distance of the city centre; for the really idyllic ones, you’ll need to rent a car or fork out for an Uber.

The infamous Black’s Beach is San Diego’s premier ‘clothing-optional’ beach, located about three miles north of the popular La Jolla Shores beach. It is one of the largest nude beaches in the US and is frequented by nudists and naturalists from all over Southern California. The beach is situated at the bottom of a steep climb, so prying eyes from the ocean drive won’t be checking out your dick whilst sitting in traffic.

The city itself is a great place to explore for tourists. Balboa Park is home to the famed San Diego zoo, Old Town features plenty of tacky tourists sights of when San Diego was first settled, and the city has a couple of gay/gay-friendly areas. Ok, the whole city is pretty gay-friendly, but the main concentration of LGBT establishments are in the uptown neighbourhood of Hillcrest. Just a few miles north of the city centre it offers a plethora of bars, restaurants, coffee houses, boutiques and unique thrift stores.

Los Angeles

CREDIT: Pixabay / TPSdave

The so-called City of Angels is massive and can be overwhelming if you don’t have a local guide.

Hollywood

CREDIT: pixabay / Unsplash

The first item on most tourists’ agenda will be a tour of the Hollywood hills and a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous. A word of warning to those who’ve not been to LA before, Hollywood is not as glamourous as you would expect. The hills (both Beverly and Hollywood) are of course gorgeous but don’t expect glam in Hollywood itself. Follow the Walk of Fame long enough and you’ll cross paths with plenty of hookers and homeless drunks. So be prepared. Go on your tour, take the obligatory photos and then get the hell out of there.

West Hollywood (WeHo)
The LA equivalent to our Soho, WeHo is a stretch of the city that reminds you why life’s so much better when you’re gay. The borough of West Hollywood is a cool, quaint and kitschy stretch of neighbourhood that is lined with great cafés, bars, restaurants, shops and clubs.

The Abbey is WeHo’s most (in)famous club which is the perfect place to go day drinking, with hot, topless wannabe actors and models bringing you low-calorie beer. Be warned though, despite their best efforts, the Abbey has become increasingly mainstream. Which means that come nightfall, floods of straight guys in hockey jerseys appear, perving over the crowds of single girls in skimpy dresses. Time to move on to other, more genuinely gay gay clubs.

Hiking

Jpeg

OK, it may seem like a weird topic to include. But going for a Saturday morning hike is something of an LA tradition, and a great way to get exercise and take in some truly amazing views of the city. There are plenty of trails to choose from, I did a relatively easy route in Franklin Canyon Ranch that doesn’t let you see the Hollywood sign, but still gives a pretty good view.

Pacific Coast Highway
The highlight of the road trip is when you finally hit the road and get onto Route 1. That cool ocean breeze is a welcome treat as you bid LA a fond farewell and begin your drive up the Pacific Coast Highway. On your way up to San Francisco, you’ll pass by a few perfect places to stop and either spend the night or simply a few hours taking in the view.

Tip:

In my humble opinion, having made the trip a couple of times now, you’re far better spending your time and travel budget on this part of the trip, rather than adding extra days to your stay in the bigger cities. Not only are smaller towns WAY more affordable, but they allow you to explore a much more unique element of the States than just another big city. But that’s just me.

Ventura and Malibu

CREDIT: pixabay / denvit

Just a short jaunt from LA are these two perfect pit stops on the coast. Ventura is an ideal spot to do some surfing, or stroll through historic Downtown Ventura and explore the vintage boutiques and second-hand stores, and Malibu is just several miles of gorgeous sandy beaches, piers, luxuriously extravagant weekend homes and super healthy restaurants that remind you just how close Hollywood and LA is.

Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara is a personal favourite of mine, providing a welcome respite from big cities and long car rides. With the Santa Ynez Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop, this beach town is populated by Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs that reflect the city’s Spanish colonial heritage. For nature lovers, there’s the Santa Barbara Zoo, Botanical Gardens and Lotusland, and for culture lovers, there’s the Lobero Theatre, the Arlington Theatre and Santa Barbara Historical Museum. For booze and bargain lovers, the city’s main street, State Street, is lined with upscale boutiques and restaurants offering local wines and seasonal fare. So why not park the car for the night and partake in some world-renowned Californian wine?

Pismo Beach
Nearby Pismo Beach is another slice of Americana that accidentally turned out to be one of the best nights out of my life (it involved beer served in buckets, George Michael karaoke and an overly-friendly group of bikers… don’t ask). Known to some as the ‘Clam Capital of the World’ I’d only heard of Pismo Beach as Bugs Bunny’s ideal summer destination.

If you want to get the real road trip experience then Pismo Beach is a must. With plenty of restaurants, ATV rentals, wine tasting, fishing, surfing, skydiving, bowling and mineral springs all waiting for you, it’s a great contrast to the sophistication of Santa Barbara.

Big Sur

CREDIT: pixabay / tpsdave

The most beautiful stretch of the highway is also the most challenging. With views like these, it’s hard to keep your eyes on the road (which we thoroughly recommend as there’s a significant drop if you don’t). There are plenty of spots to stop along the way such as Ragged Point, Point Sur State Historic Park, McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach.

If you have the time, I’d really recommend taking a few days to relax and enjoy this route, but even if you don’t, the drive itself is beautiful. At one point we found ourselves actually driving through, and then on top of the clouds. It was bizarrely beautiful and one of the most amazing views I’ve ever seen.

Monterey

CREDIT: pixabay / thuyhugens

Monterey is well known for its Monterey Bay Aquarium, the Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and the Old Fisherman’s Wharf. But while the town itself isn’t overly exciting, it provides a great pit stop for exploring the scenic ‘17 Mile Drive’ that offers you the opportunity to go whale watching, sailing, kayaking, golfing, and just have a leisurely mooch around cutesie seaside villages, shops and cafes.

Santa Cruz

CREDIT: publicdomainpictures / pixabay

About an hour and a half drive away from San Francisco lies the slice of Americana that is Santa Cruz. The old-school 60s vibe is especially strong along the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, with plenty of vintage goodies to be found and a charming/tacky feel that is an essential part of any great American road trip. The Wharf is a great place to start for restaurants and shops and if you have the time you can go on a whale watching boat or fishing expedition.

San Francisco

CREDIT: pixabay / tpsdave

So here we are, at last, the gay capital of America, and some say the world, San Francisco. Despite what I said earlier about not spending too much time in the big cities, San Francisco is one place where I’d break my own rules. The city is an eclectic mix of tourist sights and hipster spots, with a healthy sprinkling of gays throughout.

Castro

CREDIT: pixabay / agentv

So if San Francisco is gay heaven, then the Castro is the gay … Vatican I guess? The centre of LGBT society and culture is here, and the beautiful California weather (mixed with some beautiful California men) make it the perfect place to start you gay excursions in the city. By day you could spend hours perusing antique shops and frequenting trendy cafés, and by night there are so many gay bars and gay clubs that you won’t know where to start. Badlands, 440 Castro and the coyly named Moby Dick are just a few places to whet your whistle and make the most of your English accent to score free drinks (however in my experience the Americans still prefer a Scottish or an Irish accent, so if you can fake either of those that could work out better for you).

Touristy Stuff
I won’t go into too much detail about the infamous city by the bay, as that would take up another 10 pages. The touristy spots could pretty much be seen in a day if you were really efficient and had an active Uber account, but like most cities, it’s far more enjoyable to take your time and really soak up the city. The Golden Gate bridge is a sight that you’ll need to see up close, mainly because most of it will be enshrouded in fog.

The Golden Gate Bridge peaks out of the fog CREDIT: Nick Baker

Fisherman’s Wharf is great for seafood and pointless touristy crap you might want to buy, and Alcatraz Island is an interesting day trip out if you’re wondering how prisoners were incarcerated between 1933 and 1963. Union Square is brilliant for people watching and Lombard street is essential for an “I’ve been to San Francisco” selfie.

There are loads of things to do in San Francisco, so just take your time, get lost and enjoy yourself after your long drive.

24th January 2017
REVIEWED | WE Festival – New Year’s Eve Madrid

★★★★ | WE Festival

Madrid, Spain – this year for the New Year’s celebration my boyfriend, I and a few friends travelled to Spain to check out the WE New Years Eve Festival.

CREDIT: Aaron Holloway

The WE circuit dance party is one of the biggest brands in the world, hosting parties in Spain, Germany, UK, and America. The party in Madrid is WE on its home turf. Madrid is known for its party lifestyle and the plethora of clubs the city offers makes it the perfect home for a week-long dance festival. We attended two of the parties, the Matinee theme night (Matinee has its home in Ibiza) and the main WE party on New Year’s Eve which was held at La Riviera, a massive club that could well be described as the home base of WE Madrid.

In true Spanish style, the clubs don’t get really going until around 1 am, but after that they are jam packed full of hot guys and occasionally girls looking to dance the night away. One thing can be said for the WE parties: they are excellently managed. The lines to get in are kept moving at a good pace so you’ve got more time to enjoy the party rather than stand outside, the coat check staff were quick and efficient, and the bars, which use a ticket system that I’m not personally a big fan of, were fast and the clubs are arranged to have lots of large bars so that you don’t spend most of your night waiting in line for a drink.

As is to be expected, the music is excellent and provided by some of the world’s best DJs including GSP and Phil Romano. On New Year’s Eve we were even provided with a couple of attractive hosts to help us count down to midnight when we partook in a glass of prosecco and the traditional 12 grapes on the strokes of midnight.

Madrid is host to many excellent gay events, not only the WE New Years Festival but also the WE summer festival which happens during the Madrid Pride week.

In 2017 WE Festival is one of the sponsoring events at World Pride in Madrid at the end of June. Having attended Pride, or Orgullo to the locals, two years ago and having an excellent experience at both the clubs and pride events which take over the city’s gay area Chueca, one can be certain that World Pride hosted by Madrid is going to be one hell of a party. Keep an eye on their website for details and ticket sales.

Aaron attended the WE New Years Festival as a guest of WE Party Group

17th January 2017
TRAVEL REVIEW | Glamping In Yorkshire

A million stars looked down upon my boyfriend and me, as we gazed into the endless night sky. If you’re looking to get out into the wilderness and can’t quite pull off that Bear Grylls’ ruggedness, then perhaps Glamping should be your next holiday idea.

Right in the middle of rural Yorkshire is the stunning Camp Kutur, miles from any city. The days are still and silent and the nights are awe inspiring. As you gaze into the night sky, with the fire’s embers glowing softly as you sit on your private decking, you’ll feel like you’re at one with nature, but not too at one. Set in hundreds of acres of private land of the Camp Hill estate, Camp Kutur has just a handful of different accommodation options including Teepees, Unidomes, Hobit Pods and Geodomes. We were lucky enough to stay in one of the gorgeous Geodomes for two nights at the tail end of September.

The Geodomes are a spacious tented space, set on the forest’s edge, with a clear front overlooking the rest of the site. They are self-contained units, with a comfy double bed and seating area as well as a log burner. It’s all very very cosy. Outside there is a kitchenette and it’s own private toilet and shower. At the front of the Geodome is your own private decking area, complete with bar-b-que and a warming wood burner for those nights with a chill in the air.

On the site, there’s also an eco spa and sauna, although these come at an extra cost.

Glamping has almost become synonymous with hen parties, let’s face it. There probably isn’t a girlfriend of yours that hasn’t been on a glamping weekend and gone on and on about the rugs, the tea lights and the overall cosines of their yurt. Well, boys, I’m here to say it’s everything they said it was and we whole-heartedly approve.

A quick word of warning, despite it being glamping and there are the comfort extras over and beyond an ordinary campsite, it is still back to basics where tech is concerned. There is no electricity and no WiFi. So if you’re a techno junkie, you won’t be able to charge your devices or log onto the web. You may want to check with your phone’s network provider to see if there is 3 or 4G in the area. But if you’re looking to cut off be truly DND (do not disturb) then this is your haven.

Geodomes start at £80 (Oct/Nov) per night and a minimum of two nights booking is required.

10th January 2017
HOTEL REVIEW | Art’Otel Berlin Mitte

★★★★ | Art’Otel Berlin Mitte

Art’Otel Berlin Mitte

Earlier this year I had the pleasure of attending this year’s Hustlaball Gay Porn Awards at the Kitkat Club in Berlin. While staying in Berlin for the weekend, I had the pleasure of staying at the Art’Otel Berlin Mitte. The hotel is one of a chain of hotels around Europe that specialise in featuring a particular artist in the décor of the hotel building. The Berlin Mitte art’otel features German artist Georg Baselitz throughout and has been recently renovated giving the hotel a fresh contemporary feel.

All 109 rooms and suites, as well as the entrance, lobby and reception, have received an inspiring new look, featuring new bathrooms, modern beds and bold furnishings, with the design encompassing Georg Baselitz’s use of wood with metallic, Gold and Copper themes. In addition, the grey walls in the public areas, combined with the famous Baselitz paintings provide a striking new feature, whilst the elegant furniture, such as the comfortable armchairs, alongside the seven-metre sculptural concrete seat, gives the hotel its very own unique touch.

Since its original opening in 1997, art’otel berlin mitte has displayed a permanent exhibition with 328 works by Georg Baselitz. From large pictures to smaller charcoal drawings, each room includes a painting, an etching or a graphic of his work. Baselitz focused early on deformations, the power of the subject, and the liveliness of the colours, which has been brought to life within the hotel’s renovation.

The hotel features a number of rooms of different sizes, from the spacious twin rooms through to XL Suites which have a king size beds, a two-seater sofa that pulls out into a double bed, and a few have access to the balcony that looks out towards the Berlin Cathedral and the Museum Island.

Check in is a breeze with the numerous and friendly staff, and they are on hand to help you with whatever you need at any hour of day or night. Even if you come back from the club and realise you’ve left your key in the room at 3 am.

Before getting your night started, you can enjoy a drink or dinner at the Upside Down Bar in the foyer, where every Friday night there is a live DJ playing from 6 – 10 pm. The Upside Down Bar is so named in reference to Baselitz’s painting style which was largely upside-down images, while the menu is inspired by various Mediterranean sources. Other than the Friday night events, on the 2nd Thursday of each month the DJ plays from 5-8 for after work drinks, and on the last Wednesday of each month you can come along and take in a cocktail making masterclass for 25€, or if you’re not like me, and are actually getting out of bed on Sunday morning instead of in it, you can go along for Sunday Funky Jazz Brunch from 11 am to 2 pm on the 2nd Sunday of each month for just 20€.

Art’Otel Berlin Mitte is located next to the Märkisches Museum Ubahn station at Wallstrasse 70. It’s easy to find either by taxi or public transport as it is centrally located, and sits next to the Australian Embassy building. The Berlin Mitte art’otel features rooms starting at 134€ per night though readers of TheGayUK.com can save up to 20% by booking 30 days in advance through the following link: www.artotels.com/offers/5692590

Aaron stayed in Berlin as a guest of Art’otel Berlin Mitte.

3rd January 2017
4 cities you totally need to visit in the Midwest

Travelling to America as a gay man you probably think New York, South Beach or San Francisco, well we recently had a little vagaytion to America’s Midwest and we uncovered some wonderful gems.

CREDIT: Jake Hook

View from the John Hancock centre. 96 floors up.

Springfield
CREDIT: Jake Hook
Springfield’s capitol building.

Springfield is the state capitol of Illinois and the political heartland of the state. Every street corner is bustling with political back channelling, clandestine meets and poll rigging… We may have just made that up, but we’re absolutely certain people were talking about The Good Wife. Politically speaking, Illinois is one of the epicentres of US politics, which boasts two Presidents who lived in the state, Abraham Lincoln and Barrack Obama.

CREDIT: Jake Hook

Rub the nose of Lincoln, it brings good luck

Whilst you’re there make sure you visit the Illinois State Capitol building (pictured above) and breath in that political air, Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, the Oakridge Cemetery, where Abraham Lincoln’s tomb is located, (don’t forget to rub the nose of his statue, it’s supposed to be good luck) and be sure to grab yourself a hot dog on a stick at the Cosy Dog Drive in.

CREDIT: Jake Hook

You might be surprised to know that Springfield has its very own gay bar, Club Station House – a very friendly affair. On the night we stayed we sang Rick Astley karaoke – the locals had no idea who he was, but they clapped all the same.

CREDIT: Jake Hook

Stay at the gorgeous State House Inn, but here’s a tip – ask for an odd numbered room. They’re at the back of the hotel – and you shouldn’t be disturbed by the Juggernaut trains that slice through the city at 3 AM in the morning – horns blaring.

Chicago

CREDIT: Jake Hook

Obviously, no trip to America’s Midwest would be complete without a stay in Chicago. From an LGBT perspective, it’s got two incredibly friendly neighbourhoods – the more youth orientated Boystown and the slightly maturer Andersonville. Of course, there are many gay bars to visit and street festivals to try out, but one particularly sensational event to try, is the Andersonville Annual Midsoomarfest. If you go a stranger, I promise you won’t leave without making friends.

CREDIT: TheGayUK

When you’re in Chicago top attractions include: The Tilt – a glass enclosure which tilts you out over Chicago, 94 floors up the John Hancock centre, Navy Pier – where you can book an evening cruising on the sleek Odyssey cruise boat and watch as the sun sets on Chicago’s famous skyline, take in a few paintings at the Art Institute of Chicago and if you’re feeling brave – splash out on a helicopter ride overlooking the entire beachfront of the magnificent city.

As with all major cities make sure you make time for a river cruise and perhaps catch something at the theatre – perhaps the Blueman group and avail yourself of some Chicago pie. It’s like nothing you’ve ever tried before.

Indianapolis

CREDIT: Jake Hook

Outside Illinois state, in the state of Indiana, you’ll want to try and visit the state’s capital city, Indianapolis, famous for amongst other things the Indy Car Race Track. If you’re around March through September make sure you catch one of the 16 races – and join over 300,000 spectators who revel in the high-octane Indy car racing. If you fancy something a little slower then try a Sedway riverside tour. Honestly, as you take a Sedway tour along the river, you’ll think you’re in a different time altogether – as it looks incredibly futuristic. It’s no secret that Indianapolis’s culinary scene is booming, ask any city-dweller the best place for eats, and they’ll gladly reel off a list of great places. For one of the most incredible meals, you need to dine out at St Elmo’s Steak House and try the Shrimp Cocktail.

Indianapolis is home to a number of gay bars and spaces and has one of the highest attended LGBT Prides in the US. If you’re looking for a spot of entertainment then a visit to the Talbott Street Nightclub is a must. They regularly host special events which often feature the gals from RuPaul’s Drag Race.

For more venues visit our guide page.

Galena

CREDIT: Jake Hook

If you’re a fan of the fly/drive holiday then you’ll want to check out the Great Lakes Facebook page, where you’ll get lots of ideas for glorious cities, friendly towns and exciting hot-spots to visit whilst you’re in the area. One such find is the ridiculously beautiful town of Galena. Around 3 hours west of Chicago, you’ll drive through miles and miles of farming land – the Midwest is known as the breadbasket of America – because of its wheat production and you’ll certainly see a lot of it.

The roads are easy, wide and once outside the city limits mainly free from traffic. You can forget the M6 or M25. Galena is a different world altogether and as you enter through the town’s giant floodgates (it sits on the Galena River which feeds into the almighty Mississippi River) you’ll be left wondering if you’ve actually stepped back in time.

Home to just under 3500 people, the town has an incredible friendly laid-back appeal. You must stay in one of the gorgeous, unique suites at the Jail Hill Inn – owned, operated and lovingly restored by the Inn Keeper, Matthew Carroll. Fill your boots at the wonderfully authentic Vinny Vanucchi‘s Italian restaurant. To really get your orientation in this quaint historic town buy a ticket for the Galena Trolleys – which depart from 10 AM until 9 PM. Your guide will take you on a whirlwind stop of this picture perfect town.

If you’ve a head for heights book yourself on to the Balloon flight experience – and see how beautiful the Midwest countryside is from the sky. As you float several thousand feet up let yourself drift with the wind – who knows where you’ll end up next.

1st January 2017
Things you should NEVER EVER touch in a hotel room

We love a hotel room. No we do. Fresh sheets, little bottles of product and a minibar on company expenses. What’s not to like but there are five things you should totally, utterly not touch in a hotel room.

Like ever. Especially if you don’t want to get ill.

The TV remote.

Want to turn off that welcome screen with that “relaxation” musak when you enter your room for the first time? You might want to get an anti-bac hand wipe before you touch that remote. Think about it. Hundreds of people have probably touched that remote – after they’ve been to the toilet, post sex – eek. Just disgusting. Given the fact that most housekeepers are given a ridiculously small amount of time per room to clean, the remote is often over-looked. Time and time again bacterial tests on hotel TV remotes have shown that there are often faecal residues left over. Yuck.

The bedside phone.

What’s better than a post-bonk midnight feast – apart from falling asleep. Chances are if you’re feeling peckish after a midnight booty call – yes, you’ve guessed it, people call Room Service, using that bedside phone. And they’re using fingers that have just been inserted somewhere very clammy and damp. Phones are teeming with bacteria, often blasting the acceptable limits of bacteria.

The blanket at the end of the bed.

Just imagine the number of people who have sat naked, had sex on it or put their luggage on that decorative blanket at the end of the bed. Apparently, it’s one of the least washed items in your room. So don’t touch. Just don’t. A report from CNN suggested that bedspreads don’t get ‘thrown in with the sheets for a daily wash.”

The thermostat.

Feeling hot? That thermostat on the wall is most probably overlooked during the daily clean of a hotel room. Big-name hotel chains usually give their rooms a deep clean every quarter. So in between those deep cleans think about the number of fingers that have touched that dial. There are up to 66 days in a quarter. If the hotel is operating at near full occupancy and there are two people staying in a room there could be well over 100 people touching that dial.

The sofa.

If you’ve sat on the sofa naked or even had sex on it then you can bet your life that scores of other people have to – and a sofa just isn’t that easy to clean, regularly anyway. Tests have shown that stains that aren’t visible to the naked eye are all over those hotel sofas and chairs. Those stains include: blood, semen and even faeces. Just. Why. Would. You.

7th December 2016
Fun town of the world revealed as Chicago, London comes 10th!
Chicago is the fun capital of the world — streets ahead of London in TENTH place, according to a major new study.

CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain / tpsdave
- Chicago named most fun city in the world
- Chicago is a great getaway for the gay community with two gay neigbourhoods, Boystown and Andersonville
- Has one of America’s largest prides.
The ‘windy city’ topped a global poll of 20,000 people, scoring highest for the best restaurants, bars and neighbourhoods.

Melbourne was runner-up, followed by Lisbon, New York, Madrid, Mexico City, Sao Paolo, Los Angeles, Barcelona and – in 10th place – London.

Chicago was praised for its affordability and friendliness, and residents reported the best work-life balance.

London-dwellers admitted they work longer hours than they’d like, allowing for less ‘fun-time’ in their personal life.

But Londoners certainly make the most of their 9-5 – a third say some of their closest friends are colleagues and one in five have had sex at work.

QUIZ: We know if you’re going to have sex at your office Christmas party

And London pipped Sydney to the title of the world hangover capital.

Time Out London’s Editor-in-Chief, Caroline McGinn said,

“We surveyed 20,000 urbanites in 18 cities across the world to find out two things. First: where are the most dynamic, gastronomic, culturally unbeatable urban hotspots right now?

“And second: what are we up to and how is that changing? We found out some fun stuff along the way.

“Looking for sex? Better heard to Plumstead or Paris. Food and culture? Chicago and NYC are buzzing.

“Lisbon is the place to fall in love. As for London, we’ve got plenty going on in this amazing and culturally vibrant city, but many are feeling a bit lonely and hungover right now.”

The Time Out City Index shows Melbourne is the second most fun city in the world, as it has a great quality of life, and ranks highly for its bars and restaurants.

Six in 10 people find Melbourne an easy place to live and three-quarters of residents love living there.

Lisbon takes third place and is ranked as the world’s most sociable and least lonely city.

New York was fourth, praised for its arts, nightlife and music – although it has the toughest dating scene of them all.

Fifth place went to clubbing capital Madrid, where people go out 19 times a year compared to just six times in Melbourne.

Madrid also has the lowest working hours of all 18 countries, as people only work 39 hours a week.

Tokyo and Paris are the most cultured cities, with the highest number of residents regularly going to theatres or museums.

People in Mexico City have the most affairs and are the least stressed, Miami emerged as the capital of threesomes and Barcelona is the home of the boozy lunch.

Despite other cities being more affordable, easier for making friends and offering a better work-life balance, 66 percent claim there are always new things to do.

Londoners go to theatres and museums up to 25 times a year, they enjoy 4.7 nights out a month and two-thirds say the capital has a great restaurant scene.

The ‘Big Smoke’ is also vying with Sydney for the title of hangover capital and one-night stand hotspot – 64 per cent versus 65 per cent.

Londoners have sex 1.2 times a week – compared to Parisians who have sex an average of 1.6 times a week, more than in any other city.

Caroline McGinn for Time Out London added.

“If there’s one thing that Time Out really knows and loves, its cities.

“We’ve been dedicated to discovering their best bits for many years. Now we thought it was about time to document urban life. Because cities are important. They’re fun. But they’re also crucibles for new opportunities, new ideas, and new ways of living.”

Other highlights discovered in the Time Out City Index include New York residents go out the most (6.4 times a month), Toyko city dwellers love sharing their food pictures on Instagram and Dubai are stuck in the office the longest.

People are most likely to have a friendly chat with strangers in Chicago, and in contrast, those in Singapore are least sociable, choosing to keep themselves to themselves.

1. Chicago
2. Melbourne
3. Lisbon
4. New York
5. Madrid
6. Mexico City
7. Sao Paolo
8. Los Angeles
9. Barcelona
10. London
11. Hong Kong
12. Miami
13. Tokyo
14. Singapore (homosexuality not legal)
15. Paris
16. Sydney
17. Dubai (homosexuality not legal)
18. Kuala Lumpur (homosexuality not legal)
4th December 2016
TRAVEL GUIDE | Gay Guide To Blackpool

If you’ve never had a weekend away in Blackpool then I demand you book a train right away and head for the North West coast where you’ll find this unique entertainment town.

CREDIT: Pixabay

The seafront, known as the Golden Mile, is home to the world famous Blackpool Tower, three piers, the Pleasure Beach and the largest display of illuminations you’ll find in the UK.

Often referred to as the British Las Vegas, Blackpool has an entertainment scene like no other with a number of gay bars and clubs, live cabaret shows, theatres and amusements. Highlights include the Blackpool Tower with its famous Ballroom, the ‘Big One’ roller coaster that gives you fantastic views on the way up, and the new comedy carpet outside the Tower that has over 1,000 famous names and comedy quotes set out over 2,200 square metres.

With over thirty gay-owned and run B&Bs you’ll be sure of a personal and entertaining stay. So pack your trunks, your chuckle muscles, your head for heights and your sense of adventure as you explore the brightest jewel in the North West.

The Gay Bars

Flamingos
With seven nights of clubbing at the world famous Flamingo Club, attracting some of the biggest named DJs and club nights, you’ll be sure of a memorable night out.The club has an open to all, closed to prejudice policy, so you’re guaranteed of a great party atmosphere. The club illuminates from the brightly coloured dance floor, which calls for you to show it your best moves.

Address: 44 Queen Street, FY1 2AY Telephone: 0125 364 9151 Website: FlamingoOnline.co.uk

The Flying Handbag
One of Blackpool’s longest running venues, You’ll be in for a great time day or night. The long bar offers plenty of seating for a daytime catch up with friends and dance floor space. There’s a cabaret stage, for a whole host of entertainment, plus a snack bar, should you be feeling peckish during the party.

With all you need in one place, you’ll need a good excuse to leave.

Address: 44 Queen Street, FY1 2AY
Telephone: 0125 364 9155 Website: flyinghandbagonline.co.uk Twitter: @FlyingHandbag

Roxy’s
Address: 23 Queen Street, FY1 1NL Telephone: 0125 362 2573 Website: RoxysOnline.co.uk Twitter: @RoxysOnline

Tabii Bar / Kitty’s
Address: 23 Dickson Road, FY1 2AX Websites: Taboobar.co.uk WorldFamousKittyLitter.co.uk

Kaos
Address: 38 – 42 Queen Street, FY1 2AY Telephone: 0125 331 8798
Website: kaosbar.co.uk
Twitter: @KaosBlackpool

Hotels and B&Bs

If you’re travelling to Blackpool for a party, the Pride weekend or a holiday then you’re in for a treat. Blackpool has the largest selection of gay-run B&Bs in the world and all offer the home comforts and personal touches that you just can’t find in a chain brand hotel. Furthermore, the proprietors have pulled together to bring you the BAGS card – Blackpool Accommodation For Gays. Founded in 1997, the BAGS card will not only ensure your stay in Blackpool will be a friendly and welcoming experience but it’ll also give you fantastic discounts in over 60 establishments around Blackpool, including Bars, Cafes, Restaurants, Shops, Shows and Theatres. You can pick up your free discount card from one of the following accommodations.

If there’s availability left then try a stay at the popular Granby Lodge B&B set in the heart of Blackpool’s gay scene. Brian and Geoff have an unfailing love to ensure your stay in Blackpool is welcoming and comfortable. Plus they cook up one of the best breakfasts in the North- West. Rooms from £30.

Top Attractions

CREDIT: Pixababy

Blackpool Illuminations
Blackpool Promenade, Blackpool, FY1 5BE
Since 1879, Blackpool has been illuminating the promenade road which runs the length of the sea front. Attracting over 3.5 million visitors last year, the Blackpool Illuminations are the highlight of the calendar. Launching at the end of August, a well known face will switch on the 400,000 bulbs.

Pleasure Beach
Ocean Boulevard, Blackpool, FY4 1EZ
Tel: +44 (0)871 222 1234
The most fun you can have in one day out is all located within the Pleasure Beach walls. Carnival-style games, illusion and cabaret shows and not forgetting a collection of thrill seekers rides including the Big One!
The Big One climbs you to a height of 235ft. before dropping you at up to 87mph along the one-mile track.
Other unique rides include the Steeplechase where you choose a horse and race alongside other on separate tracks and the Avalanche where you free fall down a track at 50mph in the UK’s only bobsled ride.

Blackpool Zoo
East Park Drive, Blackpool, FY3 8PP Tel: +44 (0)1253 830 830
A wide selection of animals both large and small await your visit at Blackpool zoo in natural enclosures giving you a close up view of these magnificent creatures.

The Blackpool Tower
THE BLACKPOOL TOWER
Bank Hay Street, Blackpool, FY1 4BJ
Tel: +44 (0)871 222 9929
Celebrating 120 years the Blackpool Tower has been home to all the greats of British comedy. Visit the beautiful Ballroom with its famous Wurlitzer organ, rising from the floor. The tour starts with a 4D show on Blackpool including sights, smells, and special effects. From here you’ll enter the SkyWalk room at the top of the tower for uninterrupted views, including underfoot!

Blackpool Pride
Winter Gardens 97 Church Street Blackpool
FY1 1HU
Yearly event in June.
Blackpool Pride this year will be bigger and better than ever before with headlining act 5th Story performing alongside other special guests. The Winter Gardens are also hosting the European Same-Sex Dance Championship. So grab a partner or some friends and make sure you’re part of the North West’s biggest party.

30th November 2016
Are you guilty of doing any of these disgusting things on a plane?

Passenger shaming Instagram feed reveals some of the most disgusting things that some air passengers do on an aircraft.

©-kodda-Depositphotos

Check out some of the worst sins at the official Passenger Shaming Instagram. So are you guilty of a naked feet walk to the bathroom or a mid-flight fiddle with your tackle? Here’s some of the worst offenders.

Guy opens door on the taxiway

View this post on Instagram

Get some Scholl for Christ sake…

View this post on Instagram

Get a shizing scrunchie

View this post on Instagram

Who pisses in a bathroom sink?

View this post on Instagram

Using the juice

View this post on Instagram

Feetie boo!

View this post on Instagram

Legs in the air Larry

View this post on Instagram

Feeding time at the Zoo

View this post on Instagram

What’s a bin?

View this post on Instagram

Stretch out babe…

View this post on Instagram

Nuts anyone?

View this post on Instagram

Stick together

View this post on Instagram

29th November 2016
Top 5 gay things to do in 2017 around the UK

Top 5 gay things to do in 2017 around the UK

Sponsored by

BLACKPOOL – Book A Weekend Break For Single Gay Men

With all the bad press around dating apps at the moment, one hotel in Blackpool is offering something a little different for 2017. Fun packed weekends for single gay men. Enjoy a two-night break in one of the UK’s largest gay party towns whilst meeting up with other single gay men. You can get involved as much or as little as you want and whether you’re looking for love or just new friends, you’re guaranteed a memorable weekend. Two night stays from just £65 including welcome and farewell drinks.

When: Various dates, see website for details.

Visit: De-LovelyHotel.co.uk for more information
Bookings: 01253 717943

HULL – Attend the 1st ever national UK Pride event

50 years on since the decriminalisation of homosexuality in the UK, Hull will be hosting the first national LGBT+ UK Pride event, having been awarded the honour earlier this year. This new annual event will be awarded to different towns and cities across the UK each year and is hailed as the UK’s newest and largest Pride Party that’ll attract thousands of LGBT+ people from across the UK. Book early!

When: 22nd July 2017

Visit: PrideInHull.co.uk for act announcements and tickets

SNOWDONIA – Climb the UK’s third tallest mountain… in a frock!
© AMzPhoto Depositphotos
Join the Queens Of Snowdonia and drag up for charity this coming July 2017. Organised by Miss Roxy Ritz and other Queens, the walkers hope to raise £10,000 for four different charities. So if you wish to take part and relive that famous Priscilla scene then get yourself signed up. Heels not recommended!

When: 7th July 2017

Visit: Queens Of Snowdonia Facebook page for sign-up and updates.

CARDIFF – Visit the Iris Prize LGBTI Film Festival

CREDIT: ©-franky242-Depositphotos

With thirty short films by or about LGBTI people, you’ll be sure to find your own winner as they compete to win the £30,000 prize in this 10th annual festival. Set over four days, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the city of Cardiff.

When: 10th – 15th October 2017

Visit: IrisPrize.org for more details

EDINBURGH – Get all cuddly at BearScotFest

CREDIT: © kantver Depositphotos_52523889_s-2015

Four days of parties, brunches and sightseeing await the bears, cubs, otters, chasers and admirers at the UK’s largest coming together of all things furry at BearScotFest 2017 in a city filled with heritage sites and numerous gay bars to explore.

When: 5th – 8th October 2017

Visit: BearScots.org.uk for more details

26th November 2016
Nearly seventy percent of GayUK readers fear travelling to US following Donald Trump victory

Shocking statistics from a flash poll undertaken by THEGAYUK has shown that they have concerns about travelling to the US after the results of the presidential election.

A Trump presidency could cause troubles for the LGBT tourism industry in the US after a flash poll undertaken by THEGAYUK on Twitter showed that 69 per cent of potential LGBT holiday-makers have concerns travelling to the US after the election of Donald Trump as the country’s President-elect.

A further 15 percent who responded said that they were unsure whether the election’s result would make them less safe, while 16 percent said that it made no difference to their opinion on travelling to the States.

Donald Trump was made President-elect after a historic vote on the 9th November 2016.

When we asked our Facebook followers, “Do you think travel to America as someone LGBT will change under President Trump and VP Pence?” we received a mixed response.

Scott said,

“For at least the next 3 months or so racial and other tensions are far too high. Unless you’re heading to California or possibly New York I’d stay away for a while.”

While Johnathan said,

“That’s a tough one… I can’t see Trump making laws that says all LGBT people must be round up and imprisoned, so the odds of his government affecting my holiday is quite slim.
On the other hand though, if you’re visiting small towns in America then I would question how safe I felt against the gun wielding public. However, I don’t think an election can turn someone homophobic. You’re either already pro gay so would be happy to see me pre or post Trump, or you’ve just always been a c**t.”

While Anthony pointed out,

No. Why would it? I very much doubt he is going to roll back LBGT rights. He’s not that stupid.

You can read more about what our readers thought in the new issue of THEGAYUK which is out now. Subscribe for FREE and download immediately.

21st November 2016