THEGAYUK

Tag: Spain News

Get the latest LGBT+ Spain news from THEGAYUK. Breaking news, features and interviews from the gay community in Spain.

  • GAY TRAVEL | Costa Del Sol: 24 hours in 20°C

    GAY TRAVEL | Costa Del Sol: 24 hours in 20°C

    If you have never visited the Costa Del Sol might it of been because you are not ready to retire, don’t need a tan, don’t want to socialise with Brits abroad or don’t care for an English breakfast or perhaps that was just me.

    I had to add some gay travel glam to this trip so booked a direct flight from London City Airport to Malaga and with a flight time of 2hrs 40mins and the welcoming temperature of 20°C (Feb ’18) this was a great start.

    A 20-minute drive from Malaga airport is Torremolinos a beach town obsessed by the Brits wanting to escape the grey’s of the UK to catch some of the 300 days a year sunshine in the comfortable climate of this Mediterranean resort town. Sol House Costa Del Sol by Melia occupies the edge on one of the sandy beaches that is La Carihuela.

    Waking up to views of the ocean and the seafront promenade in one of the hotels main attraction (stayed in House Suite). Its cosy modern loft style design can be divided into two private independent spaces by a sliding door.

    The Sol House Costa Del Sol Hotel is in a very desirable location with easy access to Benalmádena which hosts one of the best marinas in the world. Having explored a few of the beachfronts in the nearby areas you will notice that La Carihuela has a more compact feel with a nice bustling energy of locals and visitors exploring this stretch.

    There are numerous activities, trips and excursions that the Sol House offers which easily places this hotel in the family and pet-friendly category. The hotel’s resort approach will have a few surprising beach gifts waiting for you in your room which offers a considerate welcome.

    Breakfast time can be quite stressful at this hotel as if you are lucky enough to get a vacant table right away you will still end up with warm toast and cold tortilla (omelette) or vice versa – I just don’t know how to mathematically work my way around those buffet breakfast’s especially when hot food should be hot…so cereals and fruit it is.

    After the commotion of breakfast, it was wonderful to discover this serene water culture haven in Malaga – Hammam Al Andalus. The Hammam experience at these Arab baths allows you to enjoy the water journey, massages and rituals without any overcrowding since they have a strict capacity for each session which adds to the exclusivity of your visit. This gem has some wonderful touches that will make the feeling of being wrapped in clouds a possibility. Hammam Al Andalus is so peaceful I almost felt as though the elegant staff can sense when you need assistance and then serenely appear.

    I always find it a turn off when restaurants try to lure diners from the promenade with staff or advertising – I don’t want pizza, all day English breakfasts, kebabs or generic tapas. I wanted somewhere where the food speaks for itself and not dependent on advertising or location – I won the food lottery with finding the discreet, humble and enticing Lime and Lemon. Every dish was like a visual theatrical experience. Their tapas menu raised the bar for combined flattering tastes and creativity all without the hefty price tag. It was no surprise that this quaint passion joint was fully booked. The snug atmosphere that the owners create all match the pleasing dishes they produce.

    G

    The Sol House Costa Del Sol Hotel arranges themed nightly performances however; leave yourself plenty of time to order a beverage as like me, you may go unnoticed at the bar (and I’m very tall).

    I would definitely return to the Costa Del Sol – unless Lime and Lemon open up and take a squeeze out of The Big Apple or London.

    Written By: Ray Si – Proud Member of IGLTA

  • HOTEL REVIEW | The Seven Hotel & Wellness, Gran Canaria

    I shelved travelling to Gran Canaria for many years because I had horrors of being surrounded by youngsters on their first holiday along with every other restaurant serving a full English Breakfast.

    I would have probably been close to that dread if it wasn’t for the tranquillity of The Seven Hotel & Wellness – Gay Only. After a comfortable 4 hour flight from London to Las Palmas airport (LPA), it was a smooth 25-minute drive to the area of Maspalomas.

    When I arrived, I began to ponder the undeveloped surrounding areas and wondered where the ocean was hiding. All the rubble from the airport journey was left behind and forgotten about as soon as I walked through the resort doors and confronted with the dramatic backdrop of the island’s impressive mountains, endorsed by deep blue clear skies. This gay resort in Gran Canaria has perfectly set itself in a surprising picturesque landscape. You might find it a struggle to leave the grounds especially when you’re spoilt by attentive staff, spacious raindrop showers, 24hr access to the sauna, heated outdoor Jacuzzi, loungers inside the pool and of course temperatures reaching a steep 25 degrees (Nov ‘ 17).

    kasabubu / Pixabay

    With a somewhat struggle, I managed to pull myself away from the resort and took a 5-minute drive to the ever so talked about Yumbo Centre. The Yumbo Centre is not an area, it’s not a village, it’s not an attraction, it’s an exasperated outdoor shopping centre that looks as though it can’t be bothered. Don’t go searching for authentic Spanish food at Yumbo (or anywhere in the area), having spoken to some of the locals the general consensus is that they don’t have to improve Yumbo or renew the area as tourists settle for the wreck and continue to flock in and out each week. I wonder how many gay tourists would return to Yumbo Centre after leaving the island? So when it comes to choosing where to spend a few precious days on a winter break, food is almost as high in my priorities as sunshine. Not in a Michelin restaurant sort of way – but with local restaurants more in mind. Where can I eat well – and affordably?


    After seeing what was on offer at Yumbo, I was extremely content with my dining option at Abora Restaurant a Dégustation experience every night in the good company of the staff, guests and the mountains all without the high prices that such an experience can fetch. The oceanfront lined restaurants in Meloneras was an eye opener for not settling on Yumbo as a gay hotspot Gran Canaria. The word of mouth – Restaurante Borneo was a high point of my trip, home cooked food with care and attention also where else in the world can you get kisses and hugs from the fantastic Chef.

    All the gay bars are in the Yumbo Centre and opened every day with the majority of them starting to peak evidence of life past midnight. Many of the gay guests at The Seven Hotel opted to socialise at the resort bar, exchanging stories and laughs among gay travellers from Sweden, Italy, Germany, UK, Russia, France and USA.

    Seven Dos:

    1. Accept that this is part of Spain even though it doesn’t feel like it should be
    2. Stay in a Suite at The Seven Hotel & Wellness and opt for half board
    3. Spend half a day in Las Palmas and get an overview from the Sightseeing bus tour
    4. Hire a car (if only to do your airport to hotel transfers – very inexpensive )
    5. Avoid Yumbo Centre and take a long walk on the sand dunes or book a massage
    6. Dine at the word of mouth Restaurante Borneo
    7. Have a glass of something and people watch in the Meloneras area

    For a real understanding of what makes Gran Canaria tick start by deciding if you want to retreat or not – whatever you choose it will be worth the trip and a Grand Canary-On!

     

  • These gay-friendly destinations are giving us serious #HoneymoonGoals

    These gay-friendly destinations are giving us serious #HoneymoonGoals

    So you’re getting married?

    Congrats! We bet you’ve got enough on your plate and could spare having to plan the holiday of a lifetime on top of that. Have you come to the point where you’re pondering all the unanswered questions and steps that are separating you from actually jumping on that plane?

    We hear you.

    One question that should never be left ignored is whether you picked a honeymoon destination that is gay-friendly. With over 70 countries still having some form of anti-homosexuality law, it’s easy to see how your perfect holiday could go awry. Although not feeling comfortable showing your affection to your loved one in public is not something you should ever have to deal with, it’s an especially unwelcome feeling on this special occasion. So, we’ve put together a list of the most gay-friendly honeymoon destinations; areas filled with beauty, vibrancy and friendliness.

    1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

    Previously THEGAYUK.com had suggested Brazil as a good location for a Honeymoon, however, due to the legal and criminal situation, we cannot advise going to this part of the world.

    2. Barcelona, Spain

    Barcelona gay friendly
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Barcelona is constantly at the top of the most LGBT-friendly lists — and with good reason. A great mix of delicious tapas, fabulous sandy beaches, stunning historical buildings, balmy year-round climate, and a selection of gay bars, saunas, cruises and hotels to boot make it easy to see why it’s a holiday favourite amongst the gay scene.

    3. Reykjavik, Iceland

    Barcelona gay friendly
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Same-sex marriage became legal in Iceland in 2010, but the country always had a relaxed and accepting attitude towards gay couples. For one thing, their prime minister is openly gay! Despite all this, the beauty of this outlandish country is what will captivate you the most. Don’t miss the Blue Lagoon: a geothermal spa located in a lava field where you can soak in milky blue water at any time of the year.

    4. Buenos Aires, Argentina

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Gay marriage was legalised in 2010 in Argentina, but Buenos Aires was a mecca for gay travellers way before then. Dubbed the “most European place in South America,” it’s a sprawling city rich in history. Take a stroll hand in hand along the pedestrian Calle Florida in the Microcentro, or in the Recoleta, Palermo and marvel at all the beauty without a care.

    5. Cancun, Mexico

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Cancun has so much more to offer than the hedonistic reputation that precedes it. There’s a bit of everything for everyone. Sure, there’s the crazy night life if you fancy that, but there are also a whole throng of gay beaches and hotels to pick from, and a carefree, ‘live and let live’ vibe that’ll put you right at ease.

    6. Cape Town, South Africa

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    One wouldn’t always think of the African continent when it comes to gay-friendly travel destinations, but South Africa was the fifth country in the world and first in Africa to legalise same-sex marriage. Seen by many as one of the most beautiful cities in South Africa, Cape Town promises spectacular scenery, incredible beaches and exotic wildlife. Drive safely, though, as the baboons run free!

    7. Taiwan

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Taiwan may also come as a surprise for a gay-friendly destination, but it is one of the most accepting countries in Asia. There’s something for all tastes and tonnes to explore for such a tiny island, including nine national parks (don’t miss the Taroko National Park), a bustling metropolis, pleasant sub-tropical weather and beautiful, remote beaches.

    8. Palm Springs, USA

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    The sun always shines in the South Californian desert oasis of Palm Springs. As a city that boasts the most same-sex (and the most clothing optional!) hotels in the world, it’s easy to see how you’ll have a great time. Rather go golfing? Hiking? Clubbing? There’s little that can’t be had in Palm Springs.

    Parveen Nanda is an experienced blogger and travel expert at Luxtripper, supplying luxury four and five-star hotels and end-to-end package holidays.

  • Man who survived Manchester bombing was caught up in Barcelona terrorist attack

    A man who survived the terrorist attack at the Manchester Arena earlier this year, has escaped the devasting attack in Barcelona with his boyfriend.

    Chris Pawley, 30 and his partner, Corey Lorde – survived the terrorist attack in Barcelona which has killed at least 13 and injured dozens more. The couple arrived at the scene just moments after a white van ploughed through the popular tourist area.

    The pair had been visiting Barcelona for the annual Circuit Festival, one of the world’s biggest gay festivals.

    The event manager, who lives in Manchester City centre also uploaded footage of the aftermath of the terrorist attack on his Facebook account.

    Taking to social media the Manchester resident said,

    “Can’t believe we are in the same place as another terrorist attack! Hope everyone is ok in Barcelona!”

    “Just to let everyone know me and Corey are ok, gettin a lot of messages. It’s crazy here, the shops have put all there shutters down and the army is out but hope everyone is ok who’s been injured!”

    Mr Pawley was also caught up in the Manchester Arena terrorist attack which killed 22 people. Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, he said that he had walked past Martyn Hett just moments before the suicide bomber detonated his explosives.

    The Circuit Festival issued a statement via social media, saying that the party would not continue in “respect and solidarity with the victims”.

  • Solo in Sitges: 24 hours in the gay beach town capital of the world

    Sitges: A beautiful Mediterranean coastal town, only 35 minutes bus ride from Barcelona Airport (BCN) makes this town an easy accessible standalone destination.

    24 hours in Sitges

    With the generous offering of 22 beautiful beaches (including 3 gay beaches), the natural pull of the blue waters encouraged me to continue my exploration from the seafront promenade on to the mild sandy beaches. Each beach is separated by stone stretched pathways that resemble shallow piers and graceful huge rocks to sit on perhaps with a cold drink in hand, served from one of the many friendly quirky pop up beach bars.

    The pebbled and quaint Playa Del Muerto is publicised as an exclusive nude gay beach. It’s an hour walk from the town area and having spoken to a few solo gay travellers they all agreed that if you embark on that walk alone then make sure you have plenty of water, running shoes, emergency phone number, a working cell phone and a warning to be at arm’s reach of fatal accidents.

    To reach Playa Del Muerto will mean that part of your walk will be very near cliff edges and open railway tracks (train speeds at over 140km per hour). The thrill-seeking solo traveller will almost be in his element especially when he finds that the name of the beach translates to ‘Dead Man’s Beach’. I was extremely put off when I heard all this so, of course, I was even more intrigued to embark on the walk with the fear of many others that are ‘missing out’ on something that could just be an illusion that we create and fantasise about.

    The views from the high cliffs were breathtaking. The beach itself seemed very private and on that particular day, it resembled a pretentious open air nightclub – without the socialising, dancing and music. There is a small hut that sells refreshments – cash only and take lots of it! (May 17)

    Accommodation in Sitges is saturated with shared apartment options and travelling solo did not echo anything to do with sharing (other than conversations) so I retreated at Hotel Alenti a brand new 4*, 10 room boutique hotel located in the centre of downtown Sitges. My jacuzzi suite was tastefully designed and quietly encased with floor to ceiling large non-intrusive windows. Hotel Alenti offered slick luxurious comforts, while its location offered the opportunity to step in and out of the hustle bustle at the heartbeat of gay Sitges.

    Many gay men wouldn’t think about travelling solo because of fear of being alone. If this sounds like you then allow Sitges and hotelalenti.com to host that fear, you will notice how that illusion can fade. The numerous group activities you can join, the amazing weather, dining places, fresh food, cold drinks and most of all – people watching. Soon you realise you are watching others in groups – on their phones, struggling to make conversations, staring into the abyss, then you start to think – they may as well be travelling solo!

  • REVIEWED | WE Festival – New Year’s Eve Madrid

    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.

    WE Festival - New Years Eve Madrid
    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

  • 8 Best Gay-Friendly Honeymoon Destinations

    8 Best Gay-Friendly Honeymoon Destinations

    So you’re getting married? Congrats! We bet you’ve got enough on your plate and could spare having to plan the holiday of a lifetime on top of that. Have you come to the point where you’re pondering all the unanswered questions and steps that are separating you from actually jumping on that plane?

    We hear you.

    One question that should never be left ignored is whether you picked a honeymoon destination that is gay-friendly. With a whopping 75 countries still having some form of anti-homosexuality law, it’s easy to see how your perfect holiday could go awry. Although not feeling comfortable showing your affection to your loved one in public is not something you should ever have to deal with, it’s an especially unwelcome feeling on this special occasion. So, we’ve put together a list of the most gay-friendly honeymoon destinations; areas filled with beauty, vibrancy and friendliness.

    1. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Bring out the glitz and the feathers! Rio has been a favourite of same-sex partners for decades. With its vibrant carnival and world-famous gay-friendly neighbourhoods, Copacabana and Ipanema, Rio ticks many boxes. The beaches are gorgeous, the views phenomenal, the nightlife exciting and the food amazing. We may also have a soft spot as the Rio Olympics saw the record for the most out athletes participating in history.

    2. Barcelona, Spain

    Barcelona gay friendly
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Barcelona is constantly at the top of the most LGBT-friendly lists — and with good reason. A great mix of delicious tapas, fabulous sandy beaches, stunning historical buildings, balmy year-round climate, and a selection of gay bars, saunas, cruises and hotels to boot make it easy to see why it’s a holiday favourite amongst the gay scene.

    3. Reykjavik, Iceland

    Barcelona gay friendly
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Same-sex marriage became legal in Iceland in 2010, but the country always had a relaxed and accepting attitude towards gay couples. For one thing, their prime minister is openly gay! Despite all this, the beauty of this outlandish country is what will captivate you the most. Don’t miss the Blue Lagoon: a geothermal spa located in a lava field where you can soak in milky blue water at any time of the year.

    4. Buenos Aires, Argentina

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Gay marriage was legalised in 2010 in Argentina, but Buenos Aires was a mecca for gay travellers way before then. Dubbed the “most European place in South America,” it’s a sprawling city rich in history. Take a stroll hand in hand along the pedestrian Calle Florida in the Microcentro, or in the Recoleta, Palermo and marvel at all the beauty without a care.

    5. Cancun, Mexico

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Cancun has so much more to offer than the hedonistic reputation that precedes it. There’s a bit of everything for everyone. Sure, there’s the crazy night life if you fancy that, but there are also a whole throng of gay beaches and hotels to pick from, and a carefree, ‘live and let live’ vibe that’ll put you right at ease.

    6. Cape Town, South Africa

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    One wouldn’t always think of the African continent when it comes to gay-friendly travel destinations, but South Africa was the fifth country in the world and first in Africa to legalise same-sex marriage. Seen by many as one of the most beautiful cities in South Africa, Cape Town promises spectacular scenery, incredible beaches and exotic wildlife. Drive safely, though, as the baboons run free!

    7. Taiwan

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    Taiwan may also come as a surprise for a gay-friendly destination, but it is one of the most accepting countries in Asia. There’s something for all tastes and tonnes to explore for such a tiny island, including nine national parks (don’t miss the Taroko National Park), a bustling metropolis, pleasant sub-tropical weather and beautiful, remote beaches.

    8. Palm Springs, USA

    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain
    CREDIT: Pixabay / CC0 Public Domain

    The sun always shines in the South Californian desert oasis of Palm Springs. As a city that boasts the most same-sex (and the most clothing optional!) hotels in the world, it’s easy to see how you’ll have a great time. Rather go golfing? Hiking? Clubbing? There’s little that can’t be had in Palm Springs.

    Parveen Nanda is an experienced blogger and travel expert at Luxtripper, supplying luxury four and five-star hotels and end-to-end package holidays.

  • Madrid Pride Roundup

    Madrid Pride. It’s one of, if not the, largest Pride events in Europe. Visited by around 2 million people every year, this week long festival is jam packed full of amazing parties, events, street festivals and a parade that will knock the socks of anyone game enough to visit. Known as Orgullo (Spanish for Pride), the whole event is open to, and greatly visited by, people from all walks of life, so finding your LGBT+ brothers and sisters may be a little trickier earlier in the festival.

    Madrid Pride
    CREDIT: Aaron Holloway

    Not only is the Main Parade on Saturday afternoon at 6pm, the WE Party festival begins a few days earlier and provides a mega-gay party event every day until the end of the festival. For those who aren’t into the massive man-flesh crush that is a circuit festival – and I know you’re out there – the City of Madrid offered a complete week of events and live music concerts and DJ’s to keep you dancing until the early hours of morning.

    Madrid Pride
    Aaron Holloway

    Our week began with a short trip from the airport to Madrid centre which is easily accessible by a combination of the Metro (40+ mins) or the Metro and the TVL train (20+ mins). The tickets are available in cards of ten, and you’ll need to buy an airport pass for a few euro extra per person when you leave the airport on the metro. Exact fares and combinations available alter depending on if you’re arriving to T 1-3, or T4, but the trip takes about 30 minutes, and costs less than 5€ each way.

    Once in town, we had a cosy little apartment looking over Placa del Sol, which is a main meeting point, tourist hub and metro/highspeed rail station. From Sol it’s a short walk up the affectionately named ‘Hooker Street’, which is lined with women asking you to dine in her restaurant, or men and women, offering more intimate nights out, towards Chueca which is the main gay area of the city. Not that during Pride it’s easy to tell the gay areas from the non-gay areas: pride flags fly from almost every balcony, shop window, store front, stores have ‘pride sales’, and seeming pop-up-stores appear out of nowhere to sell ‘minis’, which are basically 700ml cups of mojito or sangria. No one seems to know why they’re called minis – it’s just a Madrid thing.

    Madrid Pride
    Aaron Holloway
    Madrid Pride
    Aaron Holloway
    Madrid Pride
    Aaron Holloway

    All around Chueca you can find singing, dancing, music, and people relaxing and drinking, and generally having a good time. It’s here that you can find tiny little bars that will sell you a beer for 6€ and also give you a plate of tapas for free – each new beer brings a new plate – it can be a very cheap way to eat out on some local(ish) specialties. Speaking of specialties, *the* thing to eat in Madrid is calamari on a baguette, and the best place to have it, is a cute little diner called The Little Bell. It seems to be almost all they serve, and is literally deep-fried calamari on a short baguette bread. It’s wonderfully delicious if not a little strange. As my friend Matt commented: ‘How is seafood a specialty in a city in the middle of Spain?’ While we’re on food, traditional Madrid food is a wonderful mix of seafood and meat. Dishes are covered more in oil than not, and if you want a salad with your plate of meat, make sure you order a side salad, or you might literally get a quarter of a tomato as your salad. It seemed to me that the lovely Spaniards aren’t big on ‘healthy’ eating.

    Aaron Holloway
    Aaron Holloway
    Aaron Holloway
    Aaron Holloway

    Despite the seemingly unhealthy food, the Spaniards are generally a very attractive people. And the Pride parade gives them ample opportunity to show it all off. The parade starts at 6pm, so that it’s not too hot, although when we arrived to watch at about 8pm, the local firefighters were hosing down the crowd with the truck hoses. Unfortunately they were all fully dressed. The crowd on the other hand, not so much. While some people just went shirtless, others came in costumes of all kinds, rainbows were flying from every visible hand, surface, tree, and body. They even had a massive rainbow flag draped over the Madrid Town Hall from top to bottom in the first time in the parade’s history. The parade made its way slowly down the street past a water fountain lit in rainbow colours, towards the Town Hall, where a massive stage had been set up to provide a live band and an all-night party to entertain the crowd for hours. One of the interesting things about the Madrid pride is that it is not only frequented by Madrid’s gay population, but also by other members of the general community, bringing families and friends together to enjoy the celebration of individual expression and acceptance that embodies the modern pride parade era.

    Madrid Pride
    CREDIT: Aaron Holloway
    Madrid Pride
    CREDIT: Aaron Holloway

    Madrid Pride

    ADVERT

    [adinserter block=”1″]

    The Madrid pride festival runs for a week at the beginning of July each year. Dates vary from year to year, the parade is always on the Saturday at the end of the festival beginning at 6pm. Nightly free street festivals and concerts are presented by the City of Madrid free of charge at various sites around the city.

    Madrid Pride
    Aaron Holloway
    Madrid Pride
    Aaron Holloway
    Madrid Pride
    Aaron Holloway
    Madrid Pride
    Aaron Holloway
    Madrid Pride
    Aaron Holloway
    Madrid Pride
    Aaron Holloway

    Madrid is serviced by all major airlines from cities across the UK and Europe.

  • Top 10 Most Beautiful Christmas Markets In Europe

    Christmas is coming and with it comes the cold, snow, stressful last-minute-present-buying, and Christmas markets.

    You’ve probably seen some around your town or city, and if you’re in for travelling a little further afield this year, here are 10 of the best Christmas markets from around Europe.

    MADRID

    SPAIN

    The largest square in Madrid is home to a stunningly beautiful market in November and December.

    This usually summer vacation spot comes alive to celebrate Christmas during the winter months.

    VIENNA

    AUSTRIA

    Between mid-November and the end of December, Vienna’s centuries-old Christmas markets have something for everyone. One of the oldest in Europe, running since 1298 as a simple ‘December Market’, there are now over 20 Christmas market areas across the city.

    PRAGUE

    CZECH REPUBLIC

    A smaller market in Prague is coupled with the Annual International Festival of Advent and Christmas Music. The city space is home to traditional Advent markets, and open-air performances by various ensembles.

    BRUSSELS

    BELGIUM

    Running from late-November to early January, the Brussels market covers the city centre and is one of the few that includes a public ice-skating rink.

    LILLE

    FRANCE

    This cute French city springs into vibrant Christmas celebrations at the market place ‘On Place Rihour’ where visitors can find local and international treats, arts & crafts, and food. Ooh la la!

    DRESDEN

    GERMANY

    One of Germany’s largest markets, Dresden’s city area, is covered in hundreds of market stalls, and seemingly no space in the city’s vastness is left without a market. With rides, food, crafts, and gifts, as well as traditional Gluhwein, Dresden’s market is one to see to believe.

    MUNICH

    GERMANY

    A massive market in Southern Germany, the Munich market (or Kriskindlemarkt) is one of the oldest, and combines traditional southern-German food, crafts, and gifts, with modern touches. These vast markets will certainly have something to entertain everyone, no matter what your interests.

    BUDAPEST

    HUNGARY

    This market centres on the Vörösmarty Square, which houses the majority of the festivities, including an ice-rink between late-November and January.

    STOCKHOLM

    SWEDEN

     

    The Old Town in Sweden is home to this wonderful market where visitors can sample local delicacies such as elk meat and reindeer between late-November and the end of December
    STRASBOURG

    FRANCE

    One of the best markets by size, reputation and popularity, this market is the oldest official Christmas Market, beginning in 1570. Running from mid-November to late December, this market is packed with tradition and modern excitement.

  • REVIEW: Xlsior Mykonos

    The recovery time has been and gone, and now is a good time to reflect on the party festival that was Xlsior Mykonos.

    (more…)

  • 5 Best Gay Scenes in Europe

    It’s totally fabulous to explore different gay scenes when travelling. You can dance the night away to some truly camp-tastic tunes, or cruise the darkrooms for Mr Right Now. Perhaps you want to enjoy feathers and frills at a drag queen cabaret show? We’ve looked at some of the best gay hotspots in Europe to suit everyone’s needs.

    Benidorm, Spain

    benidorm
    CREDIT: piquetsebtotal
    CC0 Public Domain / pixabay

    The Benidorm gay village can be found in the Old Town area of this popular Spanish holiday resort. The gay part of Benidorm’s Levante beach sits in front of the Don Cesar café, and is a great place to tan before a night out with your best pals. 7th Heaven has been a popular gay bar for years and has an excellent reputation for making tourists and locals feel welcome. This is a fab bar for an early drink, and the relaxed atmosphere is ideal for meeting new people. Cabaret lovers will enjoy a night at Mardi Gras, with top performances from Miss Stella Artois, plus an excellent Cher tribute act. Younger LGBT crowds can be found at the Mercury nightclub, which is famous for its pumping dance music and buzzing atmosphere. This club is for real party animals only, as the doors don’t even open until after midnight.

    Playa del Inglés, Gran Canaria

    CREDIT: MonicaVolpin CC0 Public Domain / Pixabay
    CREDIT: MonicaVolpin
    CC0 Public Domain / Pixabay

    Make your way to the Yumbo Centre for all the gay action you’ll need; this place is like a shopping centre bursting with gay bars and nightclubs. Those of you who love drag queen acts will feel at home in Sparkles Show Bar. Enjoy hilarious cabaret shows and maybe some audience participation too if you’re lucky! Meanwhile, Coco Loco is great for the younger gays who want to dance and enjoy a cheeky flirt (in the hope of starting a holiday romance). There’s also a terrace to cool down on, if it all gets a little hot and sweaty inside. Babylon XL club is for those who really want to party ’til the sun rises. Enjoy laser shows, sexy male dancers and of course the obligatory darkrooms.

    The Algarve, Portugal

    CREDIT: Peter Etchells
    CREDIT: Peter Etchells

    LGBT-friendly bars and nightclubs are scattered everywhere in this southern region. Boémio Disco is the oldest gay club in the Algarve and can be found next to the Ponte Velha Bridge in Portimão. Boémio Disco also offers free Wi-Fi, which is ideal if you want to log into Grindr as you dance and sip a cool drink. When you’re not dancing the night away, relax on one of the most beautiful beaches in southern Portugal, the Praua da Rocha, and check out all the guys in their tight speedos. Another club in Portimão is Loft by Pride; which is considered by many to be the best gay club in the Algarve. Then there’s Fame Bar which can be found on the busiest street in Albufeira, a popular holiday resort within the Algarve region. Finally, if you fancy one last boogie before the flight home, check out Heaven Club near Faro airport.

    Amsterdam, Holland

    The most famous gay area is Reguliersdwarsstraat Street. So how about starting your evening in style here at the Amstel Fifty Four Club, one of the oldest gay bars in Amsterdam? You can join in with raucous groups singing along to the jukebox and belt out your favourite tunes. Afterwards, move onto Club NyX, which is one of the biggest gay discos in the city and promises you a wild evening. Named after the Greek goddess of the night, the club is spread over three floors, each playing a different style of music. If you’re camper than Alan Carr and David Walliams put together then mince your way to the Exit Café next door. This small nightspot is decked out like a mountain ski bar and is full of young, cute Dutchman. So what are you waiting for? Squeeze into that tight t-shirt, spray on the glitter and say hi to the locals!

    Paris, France

    (c) TheGayUK
    (c) TheGayUK

    No list would be complete without a mention of the world’s most romantic city, Paris – a quick hop away from the UK, Paris is reachable by air, train and sea. A bustling gay scene and more romantic walks than you can shake a stick at. Plenty of gay bars await you in the Marais district in the 4th arrondissement of Paris. You’ll find lots of gay friendly bars and restaurants – and no one will bat a eye if you hold your lover’s hand in public – ah gay Paris!

    by Matthew Payne / Jake Hook