Category: Travel

GAY TRAVEL | Amsterdam is more than damn thrilling
Paris may try to lure you in with its reputation for style and sophistication, Berlin with its unconventional ways and underground creativity and San Francisco with its liberal mindset. Amsterdam, however, has all of this but doesn’t feel the need to flaunt it. It is the coolest looking person in the club, and it knows just how cool it is. If Amsterdam didn’t exist, you would think it’s too unbelievable to be real, a fictional utopia, the product of an over-zealous mind.

Pexels / Pixabay

As always the Eurostar journey was effortless, the perfect combination of speed, practicality and comfort, which could almost be the motto on the coat of arms of the city I was heading for. You can travel directly from London to Amsterdam for as little as £35 per person, and Amsterdam to London (with a stop in Brussels) for £65.50 per person. Time your return to London smartly and spend the day in Brussels at no extra cost.

ernestovdp / Pixabay

My destination was The Toren hotel, only 15 minutes walk from Amsterdam Centraal Station, nestled seductively in the iconic canal belts of the city and the perfect location from which to explore the main attractions at the heart of Amsterdam. Chic, theatrical and more than a little bit mysterious, this old building blends warmth and comfort and is rich with vivid patterns and lush interiors.

Photo by: thetoren.nl

The Toren is almost too good to be a mere hotel as I couldn’t decide if I wanted to just stay there all day or explore the sights of Amsterdam, that’s how inviting the place is. It also was the perfect inspiration for how my own home could be. The bed was comfortable, the decor deep, dark and elegant, the curtains draped heavily as if they were hanging blankets, the bedding had the reassuring and luxurious weight and feel of curtains and the lighting was designed so that you could adjust to any mood desired; to rest or digest, for ambience or excitement…or even fight or flight!

Photo by: thetoren.nl

When I entered the bathroom, I realised that I had met my match! A Jacuzzi bathtub, which had industrial style settings… so don’t expect soft bubbles, this is bubble technology as a deep but sensual massage. It featured a dual shower block for 2 people which also doubles as a steam room, complete with comfortable seats, and an intelligent toilet with an activated sensor that raises and closes the seat.

Photo by: thetoren.nl

Typically for The Toren’s habit of never cutting corners when it can offer a bit more indulgence, the toilet seat even heats up. Breakfast felt as if you had been invited to your Auntie’s house for a buffet; charming, warm and wonderfully intimate. With an open fire, The Toren bar is strikingly inviting and almost like a secret hidden from the foot traffic of Amsterdam and the staff are more than just personnel, they are nothing short of point-blank comfort ambassadors.

Photo by: thetoren.nl

But if you can drag yourself away from this glorious and inviting place, then there is plenty to see and experience.

8 Things To Do While Staying At The Toren
1. Anne Frank’s House, a museum that has retained the required authenticity and subdued atmosphere to match its sombre but poignant back story.
2. Walk to the famous Heineken Brewery. A guided tour of their factory is undoubtedly worth checking out, and so is their non-alcoholic beer.
3. The Van Gogh Museum, a must-visit for art fans and culture vultures alike.
4. All roads lead to Dam Square, the real heart of Amsterdam, where you can casually check out The Royal Palace, the Nieuwe Kerk and the War Memorial in a square that is the embodiment of the iconic look of Amsterdam.
5. Jordaan is a neighbourhood somewhat akin to London’s Cockney East End, a blend of the working class past and modern gentrification, the perfect collision of old and new, rich and poor.
6. Men seeking more hedonistic or at least social options should visit Nieuwezijds Gay Sauna which offers a fully licensed bar with lounge, whirlpool, Turkish bath, Finnish sauna, private cabins, light meals, masseurs, smoker’s lounge and ample relaxing and cruising space. Look out for No Towel Tuesday!
7. Prik, a wonderfully inviting LGBT cocktail bar hidden in the city’s heart and while compact and bijou, is intimate, warm and welcoming.
8. People watch in one of the ubiquitous cafes and coffee bars which you can’t avoid finding as you travel around the city.
In short, Amsterdam knows just how damn sexy it is, so much so that it doesn’t even have to try to make you fall in love with it, that just happens naturally.

Written By: Ray Si – Proud Member of IGLTA
22nd January 2019
These are the most Instagram worthy destinations in the world
Route 66 has been named as the most Instagram-worthy road trip in the world, according to Brits.

The world famous Route 66 has been voted as the UK’s favourite destination for Instagram worthy pictures. marioschmidtphoto / Pixabay

The study, which polled 2,000 adults, found the top three routes are all located in the US – specifically through the Grand Canyon National Park and along the Pacific Highway Coast.

The drive through the Grand Canyon parks, typically following the South Rim to the North Rim and famed for its exquisite views of the stunning natural wonder was second.

‘PCH’, also known as Route 101, came third.

The route takes you on a coastal, cliff-hugging drive from San Francisco to San Diego, passing by San Jose, Big Sur and Monterey.

Fifty-six per cent of those took part named the USA as the road trip capital of the world.

Commissioned by Hertz, the research also identified key ingredients for a successful road trip – including wide-open roads, driving past famous attractions and spotting wildlife along the way.

Discovering views and taking in the scenery were highlighted as the main reasons for adults going on a road trip.

Temerity Vinson, senior director of international marketing, Hertz said: “The survey results clearly show how much adventurers love the USA for a road trip.

“The influence of social media has had a huge impact on destinations of choice, bringing increased awareness of less well-known areas, as well as ensuring that gems such as the Route 66 are still as popular as ever.

“Hertz is always dedicated to finding new ways to help our customers plan their dream trip.

While views and scenery were important for older travellers, millennials are more focused on having a ‘new experience’.

More than two-thirds of millennials admitted the places they see on Instagram affect their choice of location, compared to just 13 percent of adults over 38s.

iankelsall1 / Pixabay

In fact, 30 per cent said they are unlikely to visit somewhere if they’ve never seen photos of it on Instagram.

Hashtags and location tags have become a new way to research the next travel destination and four in 10 millennials use the platform to discover new points of interest and places to visit.

The survey, conducted via OnePoll in December 2018, also found an average of 12 photos a day are taken on a holiday or a trip.

Fifty-seven percent of respondents said they were most likely to take a photo of a landscape or cityscape while on a trip.

Double the number of millennials compared to the over 38s are likely to take a photo of their food.

Iceland’s ring road made it on to the list. The road takes in the entire country. Free-Photos / Pixabay

It seems that photographs make memories, with 36 per cent of millennials saying that they would struggle to remember their trip if they didn’t post a photo of it, compared to 19 per cent of over 38s.

Furthermore, one in 10 admitted to visiting somewhere purely because they want to share it on Instagram.

When it comes to planning, Brits take an average of six months to arrange an adventure of a lifetime.

Twenty per cent of respondents would like to combine creating their own route with a structured drive.

The Great Ocean road down under takes in some of the world’s most amazing views, but you’ll have to travel hours to pass them. Jonny_Joka / Pixabay

Following the research, Hertz has launched three new routes to its USA Road Trip Planner: Canyons of Arizona and Nevada, California Surfing and Totally Texas, providing inspiration for routes to experience iconic and off-the-beaten track scenic drives and pit-stops.

Vinson added: ”Our USA Road Trip Planner can help our customers experience a different culture, discover new cuisines or visit famous landmarks.”

A free online resource, the Hertz Road Trip Planner also features the legendary Route 66, along with 30 other bespoke routes across the USA.

For road trip inspiration, travellers are welcome to check out the Hertz Road Trip Planner and the new @HertzRoadTrip Instagram channel. Hertz is also inviting road trippers to share their road trip experiences by tagging @HertzUK (Facebook & Twitter).
1. Route 66 – U.S
2. Grand Canyon – U.S
3. Pacific Coast Highway –U.S
4. West Coast Perth to Broome – Australia
5. South Island Circuit – New Zealand
6. Great Ocean Road – Australia
7. Cowboy Trail – Canada
8. The Argyll Coastal Route – Scotland
9. Ring Road – Iceland
10. Snowdonia – Wales
10th January 2019
BREXIT: This gay holiday company just promised a “no deal” deal

Gay holiday makers don’t have to fret if the UK crashes out of EU in March with no deal as this holiday company promises to not raise the cost of holidays.

CREDIT: © oneinchpunch Depositphotos

The Lotus Tree, the longest-running gay guesthouse in the south of France, which is British run, is promising its UK guests that the price of their summer holidays will be unaffected even if we crash out of the EU without a deal.

A gay guesthouse in the South of France has declared that it has a deal – even if the UK doesn’t. The offer, only open to those with a UK bank account, promises not raise the cost of holidays – and they’ll even cover the cost of a visa if it becomes a requirement.

“It’s the first Brexit promise you can actually believe,” according to owner James Proctor.

“Some people might worry that if Britain crashes out of the EU and the pound plummets then the price of their holiday will skyrocket,” says James. “So we’re saying you can book now at today’s prices and we’ll guarantee no increases at all.

“Here at The Lotus Tree we’ve always thought Brexit was a bad idea. But we get loads of British guests every year and we don’t see why they should suffer no matter what happens.

“Even in the worse case scenario, if UK citizens have to pay for a visa waiver, we’ll cover the cost of that too. We believe in totally stress-free holidays so we’re saying you can come and relax in the sunshine of the south of France and forget all about what’s going on back home.”

Guests can pay for their holidays in pounds with the price guaranteed at the time of booking. The ‘Brexit-Buster Deal’ is available to anybody with a UK bank account.

The Lotus Tree has been hugely popular with gay travellers from the UK since it opened in 2001. With English-speaking staff and a full range of British TV channels available in all the rooms and studios, it claims to be a real ‘home from home’.

2nd January 2019
GAY TRAVEL | Overdose on chocolate and then go and sleep with Hubert in Brussels.

dimitrisvetsikas1969 / Pixabay

There’s no real scientific evidence to suggest that chocolate actually does work as an aphrodisiac. Many foods have been assigned such qualities, but by and large, they tend to have a strong placebo effect instead. In other words, they get you thinking about sex just by association, and this puts sex to the front of your mind. Could this be why ‘Chocolate Row’ in a central part of Brussels positively glows with the frisson of sexiness?

dimitrisvetsikas1969 / Pixabay

Belgium is known for two things, and if you are not here for the beer, then you should head along to the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert and try the chocolate. Found right in the heart of Brussels, this glass-domed series of galleries was one of the first shopping malls to be built in Europe and still retains the grandeur and architectural spectacle that reflects its century and a half age. It is filled with high-end boutiques, cultural organisation and, of course, a generous helping of chocolate shops.

Walkerssk / Pixabay

And if you are looking to explore the heart of Brussels social scene, bars and nightlife then there is no better location to use as your base than the nearby Hotel Hubert. Only a few minutes from the Grand Palace and Brussels Central Station, Hubert is a perfect mix of the luxurious and the easy-going, aims towards self-service but has an attentive staff to help you negotiate its modern concepts.

They strive for a home from home feeling, and that is precisely what you get. Brussels is one of the most progressive and liberal cities in Europe, it is a leading gay city with a rich history, thriving nightlife, a French vibe and delicious cuisine. It also has plenty to explore for the man looking for a men-only scene, a scene which you will find is discrete, varied and welcoming.

As the gay scene in London seems to be slowly fading out, Eurostar promotions are keeping the Londoners afloat with extremely affordable deals. If you want a city destination that is close and reasonably priced.

5 gay establishments to consider in Brussels

Macho Sauna: A very friendly and comfortable suite of rooms accommodating a sauna, a steam room, a gym and a hammam, a terrace, a lounge and a club zone. Choose the time to go carefully, mid-week is perfect if you want to concentrate on the facilities but the weekend is when it gets jam-packed and turns into a party zone.

Oasis Sauna: Pretty much the opposite of the sleek modernity of Macho Sauna, instead it is housed in a rather grand building filled with chandeliers, fireplaces, portraits and comfortable armchairs. All the usual facilities are to be found but with more of the atmosphere of an old-time Gentlemen’s Club.

The Stammbar: Open about the fact that it is a “music cruise bar, “ it is fitted out in an industrial style, has cruising areas, a dark room and is open every night. While it plays to the more obvious end of the scene, it is friendly and attitude free, popular with locals and visitors alike and manages to stay on the right side of the divide that separates sleazy and sexy from sordid and grubby.

La Baroque: Best described as compact and bijou but proves that size isn’t everything by being one of the most popular bars on the city’s the gay scene. It is full of colour and atmosphere, but most visitors drink outside. On the weekend, there’s usually a DJ who plays a mixture of club classics and pop music. Give him a wink, and he’ll play your favourite tune.

Station BXL: Midweek is very busy. It has a retro feel, plenty of room for dancing, some dark corners for more intimate encounters and although it might be at the more expensive end of the drink pricing it is undoubtedly a comfortable and rewarding place to spend time.

Written by Ray Si – proud member of IGLTA

17th December 2018
Here’s the top ten places to eat in Bangkok

With so many choices and places to eat in the wonderful city of Bangkok, you’ll need a guide. Here travel expert Ray Si lists his favourite haunts.

AdenArdenrich / Pixabay

1) Of course, Thai cuisine is one of the most famous in the world, a bright blend that places emphasis on lightly prepared dishes with strong aromatic components and a spicy edge and when you emerge from the train into the heart of the city it is all around you. And like all intricate and creative foods, the joy is more than just in the eating it, it is also in the preparation, and to that end, you should take a cooking class at Blue Elephant Cooking School.

Not only great practical experience and great fun you, will be fully immersed in the art of Thai cuisine. You get to visit the local market to shop for the ingredients, learn the subtle skills of blending them together to make a variety of delicious dishes and then have the experience of eating them in a Michelin star restaurant.

Bangkok Flea Market

2) There is a vibrant food area at Bangkok Flea Market close by the MBK centre, and I have to admit that I have experienced some of my favourite Thai dinners here. Particularly look out for the fish, at only £4.00 per person you can’t go wrong.

The Banyan Tree

3) Visit The Banyan Tree rooftop for a drink but only eat here if you want boring and expensive non-Thai dishes. 5-star hotel prices for the inexperienced tourist, why pay that when there is so much better to be found all around you?

Paragon Shopping Centre

4) The food court at Paragon Shopping Centre which will leave you feeling rich in flavours and rich in the wallet, £1.17 bought me my main course… so I had 3! Well, why not?

Chinatown

5) If you visit Chinatown wander away from the main street and eat wherever you see a crowd of locals, which is always a good rule of thumb anyway and again value for money is the name of the game and £1 – £3.00 will get you a main dish that 2-3 can share.

Rosabieng Restaurant

6) Rosabieng Restaurant on Sukhumvit 11 is renowned for Tom Yum soup and deep-fried fish, and I can guarantee that you will visit more than once at only £10.00 per person.

Mango Tree

7) Mango Tree near Patpong Night Market has the best Thai Green Curry served at little more than a fiver a go.

LeBua Hote

8) The International Breakfast Buffet at LeBua Hotel offers all 3 meals at breakfast time at only £14.00 per person.

Banana Roti stalls

9) Hunt down Banana Roti stalls throughout the city and I suggest that you order without the egg as it is sweeter. One is enough to share but again at these low prices, less than a quid, buy two and give one to a passing stranger – it will make someone’s day.

Thip Samai

10) If you check out the tourist websites and travel guides they will try to convince you that Jay Fai’s Street Food with its Michelin star is the place to go but with a four-hour wait to be served and £23 for a crab omelette it is everything that you don’t visit this city for. Better still head a few doors down to down to Thip Samai for their legendary Pad Thai.

4th December 2018
Here are the top ten extreme travel nightmares
Being vomited on, broken luggage and people dying on your flight have all been voted as extreme travel nightmares.

Free-Photos / Pixabay

From cancelled flights and natural disasters to frantic, last-minute searches for accommodations, it can cost the average traveller at least $570 (£444.70)– and upwards of $4,198 (£3276)– when things go wrong on an airline trip, according to new research.

In fact, from being the victim of pickpocketing to cancelled flights, being vomited on by a child or even seeing a fellow passenger die in flight, as many as a third (35 per cent) have experienced what they deem a “travel nightmare,” in which seemingly every part of the trip went wrong.

And when those “nightmare trips” do occur, not only is there a wide range in potential costs, there’s also a high risk of the whole vacation being ruined – half of the respondents who experienced a nightmare said it completely ruined the rest of the trip.

Although many have thankfully never experienced a nightmarish scenario, the study of the travel experiences of 2,000 Americans found that the majority of travellers (59 per cent) report having been on a trip where things really didn’t go as planned.

And it doesn’t have to be a big thing going wrong for traveller comfort and enjoyment while travelling to decline severely. One in six respondents rate themselves “extremely disappointed” even when they don’t get their preferred seat on the plane, with the majority preferring the window seat.

Commissioned by AIG Travel, a global leader in travel insurance and assistance solutions, and conducted by OnePoll, the survey also examined modern travel etiquette on flights and revealed America’s top 10 most commonly experienced traveller faux pas.

The behaviour that passengers find most aggravating is when the person in front of them reclines his or her seat (65 per cent), followed by having their seat kicked by the person behind them (57 per cent).

Also making the top five were travelling with a disruptive baby or child (54 per cent), hogging both armrests (53 per cent) and people who talk loudly on the flight (49 per cent).

While travellers can’t always do something about other passengers’ behaviour, there are ways they can help their own trip go smoothly – or at least be prepared if something doesn’t go according to plan.

To combat potential “travel nightmares,” 60 per cent of travellers make sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time before their flight, 55 per cent print out all confirmation emails and 39 per cent call hotels and airlines to double-check their reservations.

StockSnap / Pixabay

Surprisingly, though, 74 per cent of travellers have taken the risk and flown without travel insurance.

“We don’t like to think about the things that can go wrong when travelling, and while travel insurance can’t stop someone from kicking the back of your seat, it’s designed to help protect from unforeseen, potentially ruinous events,” said Jeff Rutledge, AIG Travel CEO. “When coupled with 24/7 assistance services, it can also improve the overall travel experience.”

A quarter of travellers find the most difficult part of travelling to be navigating the airport and the security screening process, while 23 per cent say the flights – including any transfers and layovers – are the worst part.

Seven in 10 travellers have experienced a delayed flight, while 44 per cent have had their checked bags delayed and 40 per cent have had a cancelled flight.

“Travel insurance is specifically designed to provide financial protection in these situations – lost or stolen luggage, flight delays or even emergency medical issues,” Rutledge said. “However, even if a claim isn’t made, our Travel Guard plans offer comprehensive assistance for anything from event ticketing to restaurant recommendations, finding a local translator abroad or sending souvenirs home.”

Unfortunately, travel insurance doesn’t protect your seat – and 23 per cent of respondents admit to trying to take a seat that isn’t theirs, with those who want middle seats the most likely to do so.

The survey was conducted online from Aug. 10 to Aug. 28, 2018, by OnePoll with a sample of 2,000 American adults (aged 18 and older) who have travelled by plane. The research was commissioned by AIG Travel.

10 OF THE MOST EXTREME “TRAVEL NIGHTMARES”
1. Having a man die one row over on the plane
2. Passengers joked about a bomb threat on the plane, delaying the flight
3. Being choked by another passenger
4. Three emergency landings before arrival at the destination
5. Rerouted when almost there after being struck by lightning
6. Being vomited on by a child
7. Breaking a foot after getting tangled in a suitcase strap
8. Spending five nights in an airport because hotel accommodations fell through
9. Flying in a thunderstorm and being asked to get in crash position for the landing
10. Getting robbed/pickpocketed
AVERAGE COST WHEN EVERYTHING GOES WRONG ON A FLIGHT

(Based on dollar figures given by 2,000 respondents.)

Missed flights                                      $570 (£444)
Lost luggage                                       $582.14 (£454)
Medical situations $568.74 (£443)
New accommodations $591.77 (£461)
Lost or stolen passport/wallet $571.04 (£445)
Natural disaster                                  $638.30 (£498)
CaCancelledlights $676.05 (£528)
Total:                                                   $4,198 (£3276)
3rd December 2018
GAY TRAVEL | A visit to Luxembourg, a country led by a proud gay Prime Minister

Luxembourg might not jump out at you as the most obvious place to head to for a European break. After all, France boasts Parisian style and world-renowned wines, Belgium and Germany are the beer destinations of choice for those with a taste for the hop, and if you are looking for sun, sea, sand and …well, shenanigans, then you probably head for the Mediterranean.

pvdv63 / Pixabay

But if you are a cultural explorer looking to see just how much fun can be had on the pink pound, then this little country has something that no other European state can rival. So the question is, ‘how vibrant is Luxembourg, a country where their Prime Minister is openly gay?’

The Grand Duchy, as it is more formally known is encompassed by Germany, Belgium and France and the capital, Luxembourg City has a population of only 115,000, a city where languages are as trendy as their chic nightlife. I have to admit that Luxembourg was not high on my list of must-see places, but when I started to research how easy and affordable direct flights were from London City Airport with Luxair, I packed my overnight bag and off I went.

Photo by visitluxembourg.com

The real draw of Luxembourg, both the country and the capital city, is that it is small but perfectly formed and offers a charming and manageable slice of northern Europe. It is also one of the wealthiest countries in the world and also features high on the list for global wine consumption.

Arriving at Luxembourg airport is probably going to one of the best immigration experiences you will encounter; 7 minutes or less to disembark from the plane and speed through customs is about par for the course. The city of Luxembourg is easily accessible by local bus, and it says much about a place when you learn that buses are free of charge on the busiest day of the week, Saturday.

Photo by visitluxembourg.com

Luxembourg City has been involved in European politics and war since Roman times due to its location, and as such there are vast swathes of fortification integrated into the fabric of the urban layout. But today that same location means that it is a weave of Gallic and Germanic cultural influences and has twice been named the European City of Culture. As expected it offers a wealth of museums and theatres, galleries and historic buildings and a gentle but friendly nightlife.

Photo by visitluxembourg.com

On the advice of visitluxembourg.com, I opted to stay at Le Place d’Armes, a hotel that would offer the same chicness and style as that of the city around me. I found myself booked into a luxurious two-story suite, which like all the rooms in the hotel are a mixture of ultra-modern and restored 19th-century original features. The carpets felt so plush it was as if they were changed daily just to keep my feet happy, and the bath was so deep that even an inveterate shower lover like me was briefly tempted to change my habits. The hotel has its own Michelin star restaurant and is in the perfect location as a base from which to explore the city, and I can’t recommend it highly enough.

Photo by hotel-leplacedarmes.com

Xavier Bettel is Luxembourg’s first openly gay Prime Minister and, worldwide, only the third openly gay head of government. He has stated that increasingly in Luxembourg, “people do not consider the fact of whether someone is gay or not,” and this is precisely how I would describe this liberal and welcoming country. The visitor who wants to find the ‘gay scene’ in Luxembourg will have quite a challenge as there is only one gay bar in the country. But that could be because Luxembourg does not need to have an identifiable and separate ‘scene’ when the whole country wants to celebrate the diversity of LGBT people, and frowns on the idea of people being excluded.

Embed from Getty Images

The compact and bijou nature of the city means that you can comfortably explore it on foot, and there are plenty of official tours to guide you through its most exciting and endearing features. My tour guide Sascha, kept me captivated that the four hours I spent in his company seemed no more effort than relaxing in the hotel’s sumptuous bath.

The city is full of cultural attractions from museums dedicated to everything from Roman occupation to The Battle of The Bulge, which raged through this area towards the end of World War II. From ancient cloth manufacturing to modern art to literature, industry, aviation, and of course wine.

Photo by visitluxembourg.com

Luxembourg is a well-kept and wonderful snapshot of Northern Europe through the ages. It is hard to find a destination that can hold a candle to this beautiful city and this tolerant and welcoming country.

Written by Ray Si – a proud member of IGLTA

2nd December 2018
Here’s where you should stay if you’re looking for a gay-friendly hotel in Bangkok

Bangkok offers a wealth of experiences and as this was my fourth time in the city, I thought that I should spend eight days away from the tourist trail and seeing the sites and instead soak up the other indulgences that the city has to offer.

Apparently, in such a city as Bangkok, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to where to stay, you can find something that will cater to even the most unusual or exacting tastes, but as a general rule, there are three areas of the city that make for a great base. Whichever you chose it is best to ensure that there is a BST station nearby. A single trip is only 58 pence and trying to navigate the Bangkok traffic via a taxi ride can really ruin your day.

Three great areas to stay in Bangkok

Sukhumvit is popular with visitors; it is a mix of bars and restaurants, and more residential areas and contains both some of the richest and poorest districts giving you a broad glimpse of all aspects of the city.

Silom is the closest Bangkok gets to Wall Street and contains many cultural and historical attractions. It is a quieter district but makes a perfect base from which to visit the hustle and bustle of the city without being surrounded by it when you want to relax.

But for me it is all about Siam as this is the heart of the city’s social scene, shopping, nightlife, food, and fun and with the tourist trail all ticket off via previous visits, this area was perfect for my needs this time around.

Gay-friendly hotel in Bangkok

I chose The Aspira Skyy as my home for the duration and no matter what the nature of your stay or the budget you are working with, this hotel chain, which are found all across the city and beyond, have something that will match your needs. And even the cheapest end of the options will result in the height of luxury.

My own room I found to be clean, spacious and perfect for an eight-night stay. The room includes all mod-cons, a large television, Wi-fi and mini-bar, hair-dryer, air conditioning, complimentary bottled water, bathrobes, and safety deposit box. But the highlight had to be the walk-in shower! The room does come with a balcony, but I found that it didn’t get used, after all why sit out in the humid air when you can relax in a temperature controlled room?

Overall it was a deluxe three-star hotel with a service more in keeping with a four-star location. More than adequate for my purposes.

Breakfast at the hotels was also adequate but uneventful though that doesn’t matter as it gives you the perfect excuse to check out the myriad street food stalls and restaurants that are within easy distance of the hotel. And of course, you are only ten minutes gentle stroll from the BST for when you want to really explore the city.

25th November 2018
GAY TRAVEL | A visit to Europe’s most LGBT-friendly country, Malta
A return to Malta

Mariamichelle / Pixabay

I first visited Malta 14 years ago and remember myself and my friends trying desperately to find a gay scene and left extremely disappointed as you could imagine as an early twenty-something would in a fruitless search of gay nightlife in the winter sun. The visit in 2004 was in the same year that Malta had its first Pride March an event to which no more than 50 people attended and so my interest was piqued when Allied Rainbow Communities announced the 2018 Malta Pride Parade & Celebration taking place in Valletta, the European Capital of Culture.

Time to give Malta a second chance.

Photo by @marieouaw

5 LGBT facts you might not know about Malta
1. It is a little-known fact that Malta ranks as the leading country, before even The UK and Belgium, regarding how the laws and policies of the country positively impact on the lives of LGBT+ people.
2. Discrimination regarding sexual orientation, gender identity and expression in Malta has been banned nationwide since 2004.
3. Malta is one of the few countries in the world to have made LGBT+ rights equal at a constitutional level.
4. In 2016, Malta became the first country in the European Union to ban conversion therapy.
5. Despite being a liberal country, Malta is extremely limited when it comes to exclusive gay venues.
There are a few places that are indeed worth checking out for a stay on the island, the best two I have included here.

Photo by: Ray Si

The Phoenicia

The Phoenicia in Valletta has to be one of the finest places to stay and is probably only designated as a 5 Star hotel because they don’t allow you to go up to 6 stars and it is the best of both worlds in many respects. It is traditional in its decor and style yet offers ultra modern facilities and excellent service. It is to be found just outside the City Gate, the main entrance through the cities awe-inspiring 16th-century bastion walls and surrounded by acres of manicured gardens and vibrant greenery.

Photo by: www.campbellgrayhotels.com

But despite the feeling of being slightly separated from the hustle and bustle of the city most of the best restaurants and exciting sites in the capital are within easy walking distance. Inside the building retains the members club style that betrays its British, early 20th century origins and the rooms are suitably spacious to match with plush beds and an overall fresh, summery feel. After a recent, overdue revamp, the food in the Phoenix Restaurant is back up to its 5-star standard. Seasonal menus offer a mix of local and traditional, and obviously, well-represented seafood. If like me you are on the island for the Pride event then this is the perfect place to use as a base as the march’s starting point is at the Grand Triton Fountain, literally a stone’s throw from the hotel. Or at least a glitter bomb.

Photo by: www.campbellgrayhotels.com

La Falconeria

Although rated as a 4-star hotel, you could make a straightforward argument for it becoming a 5-star without any extra effort. It is situated at the heart of Valletta making it pretty much 5 minutes walk from, well, everything – St John’s Cathedral, Grand Master’s Palace, museums, bars and restaurants and for exploring further Ferry and Bus Station are all close at hand. The building has a fascinating history, and if you know where to look, you can read its past in the walls.

Photo by: www.lafalconeria.com

Although most of the original 1580’s building didn’t survive the bombing of the Second World War, what did remain has been incorporated into the modern architecture. One fascinating fact is the name of the building, deriving from the fact that The Knights of the Order of St John who ruled the island were obliged to send the King of Spain, Charles V, a trained falcon as part of an annual fee. It was in the neighbourhood that this hotel now stands that the famous Maltese falcons were breed and trained. Today’s building is spacious to the point of palatial, the balconied rooms reminding you of its rich history with its mix of ancient and modern, reverential yet run with a welcoming and friendly attitude. The in-house restaurant offers some beautiful Mediterranean flavours which change with the availability of seasonal produce.

Photo by: www.lafalconeria.com

It’s all about having Pride.

Now, of course, we come to the reason I had decided to return to the island. In keeping with Malta’s Gay Pride March being less overtly raucous and flamboyant, I took a more holistic approach before the event and visited local TV celebrity Adrian Gusman – one of the only LGBT trained and qualified therapists on the island – who in a spirited manner, converted his home into a spa sanctuary for men. Adrian’s treatment ranges from creative bodywork underwater to jet massages and all while sipping on Rose sparkling wine. Truly an indulging experience at a surprisingly inexpensive cost (treatments with Adrian start from 50 euros).

Photo by: Adrian Gusman

Malta’s Gay Pride March is an example of how to include people from all across the gender, sexual and political spectrum. The event is still about driving a message of acceptance and equality and the fact that both the island’s Prime Minister and the opposition leader attended and members of the Catholic clergy used the event to help build bridges with the LGBTQ community shows how things are moving in the right direction.

Photo by: loveinmalta.com

And maybe it is the tastefulness of it all, the fact that it wasn’t about overt sexual displays, flamboyant fetish wear or extreme outfits to shock passers-by. Nor was this about consumerism something which has taken root in too many similar events. This was about Pride and progress, as shown by the fact that everyone from toddlers to ageing visitors was happy to take part in this respectful, modest, lively and thoroughly wonderful street party.

Written by Ray Si – proud member of IGLTA
1st November 2018
Top ten rules for in-flight etiquette
Staying sober, keeping your kids busy – and not breaking wind are considered essential rules of in-flight etiquette, it has emerged.

CREDIT: © Austrian Airlines Group

A study of 2,000 frequent flyers also revealed keeping the volume level at a reasonable level on headphones and helping other passengers hoist heavy bags into overhead lockers will leave a good impression.

Not eating smelly food and keeping your seat upright also made the list as did not hogging the armrest.

Keeping your mouth closed while you munch on airline food was also considered important.

Despite these simple courtesies, nine in 10 Brits have been enraged by the unpleasant behaviour or habits of other passengers on a flight.

Emma Grimster, a spokesperson at TravelSupermarket, which commissioned the study, said: “Flying can be an exciting and even luxurious experience, and in these situations, with the anticipation of a holiday ahead, it seems some people can easily forget their manners.

“Some of us are more frequent flyers than others. Perhaps it is the heightened sense of excitement, or even anxiety of flying at altitude that makes people forget their common courtesy.”

The study also found getting drunk is the most effective method to cheese off other passengers.

No Booze, No Farts and No Kids!

©-wingedwolf-Depositphotos

Thirty-eight percent said they can’t bear being sat nearby a boozy traveller, and one in four have found themselves subjected to a flatulent flyer making the experience more unpleasant.

With the October half-term just around the corner, more than one third admitted they have been irked by parents who are unable to keep control of their kids during the journey.

Forty percent have been subjected to the cries of a screaming baby while cruising thousands of feet in the air, and one in four have been disrupted by an over-excited toddler.

Personal space is of particular importance on a flight, according to the study.

Fifty-four percent hate having their comfort disrupted by the person behind them digging into or kicking the back of their seat.

And 47 percent have words for the person in front of them putting their seat back all the way.

Stop Talking To Me!

One in five have found themselves sat next to a chatterbox who has talked their ear off for the whole flight.

Thirty-seven percent of those surveyed can’t stand a stranger trying to talk to them during a flight, and three in 10 said they could only tolerate chatter before take-off.

When the irritation gets too much, only one in six have ever gone as far as to complain to a flight attendant about the issue.

Despite these bugbears, 62 percent of those surveyed said they enjoy flying and 62 percent find it a ‘generally relaxing’ experience.

Emma Grimster added: “Many of these points surrounding flight etiquette involve encroaches on noise and space, which is understandable in the limited confines of an aircraft.

“If you are planning to travel with your kids over the half term break, get organised with things to keep them occupied, making the experience as pleasant as possible for both the family and those around you.”

TOP TIPS FOR FLYING WITH CHILDREN FROM EMMA GRIMSTER, SPOKESPERSON AT TRAVELSUPERMARKET

MichaelGaida / Pixabay
1. Understand your airline’s luggage allowance for baggage weight and size, as well as for additional items such as buggies and car seats
2. Pre-book seats together in advance of arriving at the airport
3. Give yourself enough time to get through the airport and be towards the front of the queue at boarding
4. Bring activities – perhaps a new book or magazine. Sticker books and drawing materials are a great idea too
5. Download some favourite programmes to your phone or iPad
6. Let the children choose a new toy at the airport to keep them occupied on the flight
7. Bring your own snacks so you’re not waiting around for the in-flight service. It can also be a good idea to have a snack and drink to hand during take-off to help with any ear pressure
8. Take a change of clothes, as well as wipes and nappies (if needed) close to hand. Check you also have a sick bag in the seat in front, just in case required
9. Be prepared for a few sideways looks from other passengers and remember we were all children once!
10. Enjoy the experience through your child’s eyes. You might have flown many times, but if this is your child’s first flight, the wonder will be all new
TOP TEN FLIGHT ETIQUETTE RULES
1. Don’t drink too much
2. Keep your seat upright or reclined to a reasonable degree
3. Ensure your children are well behaved and not making too much noise
4. Hold in your wind where possible
5. Sort out your overhead storage before you sit down so you don’t disturb people by getting up and down
6. Be respectful of others when it comes to the armrests
7. Don’t try and join the ‘Mile High Club’
8. Avoid eating smelly food
9. Eat your meals and snacks quietly with your mouth closed
10. Avoid moaning too much to others if there is a crying baby on the plane
16th October 2018
Which are the most gay-friendly countries in Asia?

Here are some of the best places in Asia to visit where it’s legal to be LGBT+

sasint / Pixabay

It is illegal to display any form of same-sex relations in several destinations and in extreme cases you could be arrested or sentenced to death. If you are part of the LGBT community, it is critical for you to be wary of such destinations when making travel plans. Ending up in a foreign jail doesn’t sound so pleasant. If your next holiday wish is around Asia, then you are in luck. There are several LGBT-friendly zones where you can enjoy the best vacay with your partner. Find the list below:

Japan

MasashiWakui / Pixabay

When Japan comes to mind, a traditional religious country flashes through my brain. Despite being a robust spiritual state under Shintoism, they don’t oppose any form of gay sexual activity. If asked, I would even say they commend it. A recent poll indicated that 54% of the citizens believe that people should be free to associate with whoever they want to sexually. Maybe the people are so open-minded because their forefathers practised it. In fact, in the 11th-century men would take other male lovers and sign brotherhood contracts for exclusivity. With the belief rooted in so deep, it is safe to conclude that Japan has been safe for the LGBT community for a while. It’s only a matter of time before political parties rise to create supportive laws.

Cambodia

sasint / Pixabay

Being gay, lesbian, transgender or bisexual is fully allowed in Cambodia. Everyone is permitted to have whichever sexual orientation and any sexual activity is permitted as long as both parties are consenting adults. They even have a traditional Khmer culture, which, tends to support gay people within the community. The culture recognises the male and female as equals under the term, (kteuy), and, also has a provision for a third gender in between (the Thai katoey).

In the year 2004, King Sihanouk publicly announced that he was impressed with same-sex marriages in San Francisco and would be willing to replicate the same laws in his country. Since then, several gay pride walks have been peacefully held. You can visit Cambodia almost any time of the year as the weather is nearly always perfect. However, we have to warn you that you may not want to leave this little heaven.

China

skeeze / Pixabay

Before the year 2001, homosexuality was listed under types of mental illnesses in China. The LGBT community has similar legal rights as of other people with different sexual orientations. They are only allowed to practice any sexual activities in private as are the other people.

Similar to Japan, China has traces of homosexuality dating centuries back. In 1840, many emperors were believed to have had sexual relationships with the same-sex partners. This was way before the Western influence. The gay scene in China today is growing tremendously, with clubs, bars and saunas opening every other day. This is one excellent vacation stop to put on your bucket list.

Bali in Indonesia

keulefm / Pixabay

As much as Indonesia is predominantly a strict Muslim region, Bali does not comply with the rules of the state. Bali feels like an entirely different state. The people there are free-spirited as they embrace all types of people regardless of their religion, sexual orientation, class, age or race.

Perhaps, being a top destination spot with tourists from every part of the world has forced the people there to embrace this new culture.

There are a bunch of gay clubs, the landscapes are breath-taking, the ocean is beautiful, and it is one of the best most affordable destinations in the world. A Bali vacation is always a good idea.

Phuket in Thailand

Mariamichelle / Pixabay

If you are gay and you are planning a vacation with your partner, you probably want a destination where no one will bat an eyelid if you hold hands. Phuket is the place for you. The rest of Thailand, however, is not so gay-friendly, there have been instances where gay tourists have been victims of assault from residents. In Asia most states are like this; part LGBT-friendly, part LGBT-hostile.

In Phuket, you will be completely safe. There is also an infamous Bangla Road, where gay pride walks, gay parties, and sex shows are popular. Make this your next holiday stop and you will not regret it.

Manila in the Philippines

TheDigitalWay / Pixabay

Manila is completely LGBT-friendly. The most surprising thing is that the Philippines state is entirely religious. It is a traditional Catholic state, but we are lucky this doesn’t translate into oppression. The people there are very open-minded, I would say.

They accept people for who they are without being judgmental. The place is also very affordable, the flights, hotels, restaurants, and activities. In addition to all this, the scenery is spectacular, food exquisitely mouth-watering and it has an abundance of things to do.

Taiwan

tingyaoh / Pixabay

We can’t leave out the most recent country in Asia to ban sexual discrimination against sexual orientation. Taiwan despite its political controversies with China claiming it as its own, is the safest place for the LGBT community. They have a Taiwan gay pride, which is held annually in October and tourists from all over the world attend. Last year alone, it had over 120,000 event attendants. This is one of the most liberal countries in Asia with an overflow of activities for the LGBT community. Now you can start packing!

The other Asian countries that are taking great steps towards accepting the LGBT community are Vietnam, South Korea, Nepal and Israel among others. We hope soon more and more states adopt the same attitude towards LGBT+ people.

You should steer clear off Bangladesh where same-sex sexual activities are punishable by life imprisonment. Bhutan and Pakistan also criminalise same-sex sexual relationships. The worst is the Maldives where a guilty individual could be punished by death. Now you know where to go when planning your next vacay. May you and your partner have the best vacation!

12th October 2018