THEGAYUK

Tag: Travel Guide

The official GAY UK travel guide. Bringing you the latest from the travel world and reviews of the most gay-friendly holiday destinations and where they go the extra mile to make you feel welcome.

  • 5 alternative gay-friendly cities to visit in 2021

    5 alternative gay-friendly cities to visit in 2021

    Many of us are eager to travel internationally again and 2021 is just around the corner. Once travel is safe and borders reopen, the question of where to visit next is top of mind. Major destinations like Paris, New York and London all have unrivalled gay scenes and are excellent cities to visit. However, there are endless fantastic places that are often overlooked in favour of their larger counterparts.

    Here are five of the best alternative cities to visit on your next adventure.

    Cologne

    Where in Germany is good for gay tourists?
    Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

    Most visitors to Germany head straight for the capital Berlin but lying some 600km to the west on the banks of the Rhine River is one of the best alternative cities – Cologne. The eclectic range of Veedel or ‘city quarters’ are famed for their independent bookshops, fashionable restaurants and excellent bars – the most popular Veedel is the perennially cool Agnesviertel. You can even find a small collection of LGBT+ shops in Cologne including Best of, with gear like leather, rubber, gay underwear brands and accessories.

    Once the largest city in the Holy Roman Empire, today the city is one of Europe’s most underrated destinations for gay travelers. The Kölner Dom dominates the skyline and is the city’s primary attractions. It’s free to enter but don’t waste your money paying for admission to the tower. If you’re into art, then the Ludwig Museum hosts an impressive collection of modern exhibits and hosts an array of rotating guest shows.

    Manchester

    Where in Manchester is good for gay tourists?
    Photo by Nathan Hilton on Pexels.com

    Billed as the second city in the UK, Manchester is famed for Oasis, Emmeline Pankhurst and the world’s longest-running television drama – Coronation Street. The city is packed with excellent museums, fantastic restaurants and a world-famous gay scene – Canal Street. Manchester’s industrial past is evident in its red brick architecture which still adorns much of the city today, much of which is the canvas for some inspiring street art.

    To explore more of the city’s heritage then visit The People’s History Museum and the Museum of Science and History. The Whitworth Art Gallery and the Imperial War Museum North are another two informative, and free, places you should check out. The Northern Quarter is the city’s bohemian, queer district, filled with eclectic pubs, speakeasy cocktails bars and artisan coffee hangouts making Manchester one of the best alternative cities to visit in the UK.

    Austin

    Where in Austin texas is good for gay tourists?
    Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

    The state capital of Texas is one of America’s underrated gems. The ‘Keep Austin Weird’ slogan can be seen emblazoned on shirts and stickers across the city – a show of determination of Austin’s residents to keep their city a beacon of bohemianism.

    While the city is short on traditional landmarks, there is an abundance of cultural activity taking place in the boutique bars, restaurants and cafes centered in the Downtown region. The University campus is well-worth visiting for its grand architecture – quite unique in Texas and if you enjoy the great outdoors then Barton Creek Greenbelt is just moments from the city center and will satisfy your trekking desires.

    Edinburgh

    city dawn sky sunset
    Photo by Andrej Zeman on Pexels.com

    Edinburgh has enchanted visitors for decades and its rugged scenery, cosy pubs and ancient architecture. While it retains its historic charms, it has also adopted a metropolitan vibe and today is an excellent choice for LGBT+ travellers. Though the city doesn’t have a particularly large gay scene, there are a few gay bars in town worth visiting where you can connect with locals. 

    One of the most popular events in the city is Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Attending for the event is the perfect reason to go on a holiday to Edinburgh to enjoy all the beautiful historical sights, landscapes and culinary delights while also getting knee deep in modern culture. This is Edinburgh’s Christmas, and the Fringe really is the gift that keeps on giving.

    You can also head beyond the capital by car or train and discover the magnificent Scottish Highlands. Inverness is the main city here and can be used as a base to explore the wild outdoors or you can rent a cosy mountain cabin or traditional cottage where you enjoy the beautify landscapes of Scotland. 

    Athens

    brown and white concrete buildings
    Photo by jimmy teoh on Pexels.com

    Despite the fact that Greece is one of the European countries still fighting for full marriage equality it still remains one of the most vibrant gay destinations spots in the world. Mykonos is perhaps the more well-known destination and traditional gay mecca but other Greek cities and islands are not to be missed. Of course, the capital city of Athens is home to the world-famous Acropolis along with a number of other excellent attractions. This ancient city is a collection of structures and fortifications – the most famous of which is The Parthenon. Make sure you also visit the Acropolis Museum, hosting a fantastic collection of Greek art.

    The Panathenaic Stadium & Olympic Stadium is the oldest ancient building in Athens and is a wonder to behold. Constructed in 335 BC it was the home of the Panathenaic Games and rebuilt in 1896 for the modern Olympics. It seats a staggering 60,000 spectators in its 47 tiers and it is the only stadium in the world which is built entirely of marble. Greek food is also fantastic and is actually much cheaper in the city than on the islands, so Athens is great for foodies on a budget.

    Auston runs the blog Two Bad Tourists and is also a freelance writer. His work has been featured in many publications including The Gay UK, Attitude Magazine, Edge Media Network, The Houston Chronicle and ManAboutWorld Magazine. 

  • If you’re LGBT+, Black or Female and travelling to the US in the future you might wanna avoid these states

    If you’re LGBT+, Black or Female and travelling to the US in the future you might wanna avoid these states

    The US election has been startling and gripping to watch in equal measure. There’s no doubt that the Trump presidency has been truly divisive and many minorities including, POC and LGBT+ folks have been poorly treated by his administration.

    The 2020 Presidential election turn out has been huge and the fallout from the result will sure to be grim for some places in the US.

    But we’ve done some research on in which States Donald Trump and the Republican party got the most votes and because of that party’s policies towards women’s rights, LGBT+ folk and well and the out and out racism that Trump’s administration has fueled in America in last four years, you might want to stay clear of these States, which voted Trump in large numbers.

    For reference, if a state voted in the majority for the Republicans, but didn’t pass 54% (such as Texas, Florida and Iowa) we excluded them from this list.

    people protesting on a street
    Photo by Josh Hild on Pexels.com

    Wyoming

    Trump 70% (193,454)

    West Virginia

    Trump 69% (539,610)

    North Dakota

    Trump 65% (234,845)

    Oklahoma

    Trump 65% (1,018,870)

    Idaho

    Trump 64% (554,019

    Arkansas

    Trump 63% (754, 987)

    Kentucky

    Trump 63% (1,315,457

    Alabama

    Trump 62% (1,430,589)

    South Dakota

    Trump 62% (261,019)

    Tennessee

    Trump 61% (1,949,209)

    Mississippi

    Trump 59% (655,914)

    Nebraska

    Trump 59% (544,120)

    Utah

    Trump 59% (638,258)

    Indiana

    Trump 58% (1,652,379)

    Louisiana

    Trump 58% (1,255,481)

    Kansas

    Trump 57% (744,904)

    Missouri

    Trump 57% (1,711,848)

    Montana

    Trump 57% (340,635 votes)

    South Carolina

    Trump 55% (1,360,343)

    Now, this is not to say that people who live in these states are themselves racist, homophobic or misogynistic… we’d never make that claim, but WTF Wyoming… 70 per cent?

    Now for balance, is Joe Biden pro-gay?

    Is Biden the knight in shining armour that people are hoping?

    Joe Biden didn’t always support LGBT+ rights. In fact, his stance on same-sex marriage in 2012, was a turn-a-round moment for him. after he voted against it in 2006. In 2004 he voted to cut off federal funds to schools that taught the acceptance of homosexuality.

    However, if words and his recent actions are to be believed, then Biden’s evolution could see him become the most pro-equality President the US has ever seen. He’s seemingly an equal opportunist, having place Kamala Harris has his Vice President running mate.

  • Are The Seychelles Gay-Friendly?

    Are The Seychelles Gay-Friendly?

    When you think of dream beach getaways and idyllic honeymoon destinations there are a few locations that spring to mind. You might consider the Caribbean, plan to bounce over to Bermuda, or maybe even the Maldives. Unfortunately, the sad truth is all those countries still class being gay as a criminal act. So there’s one clear winner when it comes to the best place to go for a gay beach vacation, the Seychelles aka the GAYchelles!

    Gay/LGBT rights in the Seychelles

    In May 2016, the Seychelles Parliament voted to amend Section 151 of their Penal Code that named sodomy a felony that was punishable with up to 14 years in prison. While the news wasn’t especially well-received by religious leaders, it was a landmark decision that gives gay travel enthusiasts added confidence in visiting the stunning 115-island country off the East African coast, making it one of the few African countries to decriminalize the gays.

    With male-male intercourse now legal (lesbian sex was always fine apparently) the Seychelles have even legalised same-sex marriage, and gay residents are able to legally adopt children as a couple. That being said, the predominantly Catholic country is still fairly conservative, operating a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy to all visitors, but with any hostility directed more towards locals than tourists.

    Gay travel in the Seychelles

    Tourism is one of the Seychelles’ most lucrative industries, so it relies on doing it well. The islands are scattered with high-end resorts, catering to the luxury escape fantasy that fills most of our minds when we think of a trip to the Seychelles.

    I was lucky enough to stay at the luscious Eden Bleu resort which has always been welcoming of LGBT travellers, offering discrete private beaches and villas long before it was all decriminalized.

    While the country is now more accepting of LGBT visitors and locals, it’s still a long way from having any kind of gay scene. The capital city of Victoria can be walked in about 30 minutes (40 if you stop to take photos) so don’t expect a bustling social scene of any kind. That’s not really what tourists come to the Seychelles for.

    Two of the islands, Mahe and Praslin, are a little more vibrant and are home to a few nightclubs, bars and discos (oh yeah, discos). While there are no actual gay-only venues local sources say that Barrel is probably the best place to go if you’re looking for an LGBT-accepting crowd and a place to dance the night away before you pass out on a beach.

    The Seychelles are a great beach holiday for any gay traveller, and the locals will go out of their way to make you feel welcome. I visited the Seychelles as part of an LGBT press trip, and even wandering around with a big group of gays I never encountered anything but friendly, genuine welcome attitudes.

    When to visit the Seychelles

    The Seychelles has a tropical climate and has warm temperatures all year round so you’ll never need to pack anything warmer than shorts. The downside being that there are rainy seasons, which is great if you like swimming in the rain or if, like me, your ginger skin is not designed for sunbathing.

    Otherwise, April – May or October – November are the sunniest times to go … if you’re into all that sunshine, beaches, and sailing stuff. ?️‍?

  • 6 Great Gay Winter Sun Destinations

    Christmas is over and the dreaded January march has begun. The best way to get through the worst month of the year? Go travelling and search out some winter sun in these idyllic gay-friendly destinations.

    1. San Francisco, California

    I’ve got to start with one of the most famous gay cities in the world, and a personal US favourite of mine. Long before it was the setting of the heated sexual tension between Jonathon Groff and Russell Tovey in HBO’s Looking, San Francisco was the biggest gay haven in the United States. Now more than ever the city exudes a sense of welcoming and diversity, with people from all walks of life living and visiting here.

    Since California is almost perpetually sunny, the City by the Bay can offer a warming respite for UK travellers even in the dead of winter, with temperatures staying comfortably above 18C throughout the season.

    2. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

    If you’re looking for a more intense kind of heat, in terms of both temperature (26C) and temperament, then it’s time to head across the equator to the second largest city in Brazil. If you’re looking for carnivals, beaches and boys in TINY trunks, then Rio is the city for you.

    3. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

    While Rio may hold the title of gayest city in all of Latin America, you may be surprised to find out that the number 2 spot goes to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. This romantic Mexican Riviera resort has been a welcoming gay-friendly city for decades, and the gay scene is only growing with the most popular LGBT beach and several welcoming hotels, restaurants, and bars centred upon the charming and historic Zona Romantica district.

    A slightly more subtle vibe than Rio, Puerto Vallarta offers a great combination of daytime activities (think zip-lining, boating, hiking, and other adventure tours), beautiful beaches, oceans and islands, as well as vibrant gay nightlife. Add to that an endless supply of tequila and a Pride celebration that lasts an entire week, and Puerto Vallarta is most definitely a gay winter sun destination you should be considering.

    4. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

    So while Miami might be the obvious choice for a gay trip to some winter sun in Florida, let’s take a moment to talk about Fort Lauderdale. Known primarily as the home of “spring break”, Fort Lauderdale has been making a conscious effort to create more upscale appeal and attract LGBT travellers.

    Since the early 1990s, more than a dozen gay men’s resorts have opened within walking distance of the city’s beautiful beaches. Great food, great shopping, great weather, and plenty of clothing-optional resorts, it’s a gay man’s paradise just a short drive from both Miami and Palm Beach.

    5. Sydney, Australia

    Truth time, I’m much more of a Melbourne fan myself. But if we’re talking about places to indulge in winter sun, then you need to head over to Sydney as soon as your air miles allow. Australia’s biggest city is a thriving metropolis full to the brim of LGBT venues.

    Bondi Beach is an obvious must-see, but is actually fairly small in real life. I’d personally recommend hopping on the ferry and visiting Manly for a few days if you’re after some beach time.

    6. Cape Town, South Africa

    South Africa is be far the most gay friendly country in Africa, making it a great destination for those looking to explore the wildlife and nature that only Africa can provide, without having to be concerned for their safety.

    Cape Town has warm temperatures all year round, and is on the other side of the equator so will be nice and toasty this time of year. Climb up Table Mountain, swim with Great White Sharks, visit the botanical gardens and do the full safari experience while you’re there. And be sure to visit Camp Bay and Clifton, which have a sort of gay scene beach.

  • 6 Gay Things to do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

    Mexico is vast and stunning country, but many travellers never make it past Cancun or Tijuana. Puerto Vallarta is a coastal city that sits on the western coast just south of Mexico City, and it is chock full of fun gay things to do that make it well worth a visit.

    1. Go gay clubbing

    Let’s start with the obvious one, you’ve got to go gay clubbing when you visit Puerto Vallarta. The gay scene exists mostly in the romantic zone (Zona Romántica as they say) along Lázaro Cárdenas. Though not expansive, the gay scene in Puerto Vallarta is warm and welcoming, with a string of stylish bars opening out onto the street. Wandering from one to the next is a great way to meet both visiting and local gays as each will have an opinion of where you should go next.

    We started out with dinner at The Top Sky Bar (LGBTQ, where you can enjoy both the stunning sunset and the go-go boy dancers while you eat. From there we went to Roxy Rock house for a couple of cervezas, and then danced to Madonna in Mr Flamingo. If you want something a little more hardcore, Cici’s Slaughterhouse is your more traditional club setting. Complete with sex swings should you so desire.

    2. Head to the beach clubs

    If clubs aren’t your thing, or they are and you need a place to chill out the next day and nurse your hangover, then you should absolutely spend the day at Mantamar Beach beach club. Whether you want to sprawl out on the beach, splash around in the pool, or chill out in the VIP area and have hot waiters bring you drinks.

    3. Visit the islands

    With year-round sunshine you need to make the most of your time outdoors, and if lounging around the pool isn’t your thing then you should take a trip to Las Caletas with Vallarta Adventures. You’ll receive endless refills on your margarita as you set sail for the islands, with plenty of high-energy entertainment from your hosts during the hour-long trip. As a happy coincidence our tour leader was a screaming homo, but in all honesty the straight ones are so camp you wouldn’t notice the difference.

    The island itself offers all the typical beachfront activities including water-sports (not those kind of water sports though), boat rides, zip lines and all that fun stuff, as well as cooking classes and tequila tastings. For something a little different, visit the island at night for Cirque du Soleil-style evening experience.

    4. Naked boat trips

    Unfortunately there are no nude beaches in Puerto Vallarta, which is criminal given the sensational weather they have all year round. So the next best thing is to head out on a nude excursion. Jets Private Boat Tours offer both public and private tours of a nearby beach that is only accessible by boat, offering the closest alternative to a nude beach experience.

    Trips last 5 hours and include a number of activities including nude snorkeling, nude jungle activities, and of course some good old fashioned nude sunbathing.

    5. People watching

    Again, no necessarily a gay thing but man do we love to watch people and silently (or not so silently) judge them. Head down to the Malecón, the mile-long esplanade downtown that runs along the beach. You’ll find stretches of bars, restaurants, cafes and galleries to wander around in, or simply park yourself outside and watch the world go by.

    To get a more in-depth experience of the city, take a guided walking tour with Vallarta food tours. You’ll never experience tacos the same way again.

    6. Go to Pride

    Puerto Vallarta Pride is a sight to behold, starting from the Hotel Rosita, followed by a party in the park at the Lazaro Cardenas Park Gardens. The whole of the gay district is closed off for a massive street party, with 20+ gay bars and clubs all getting involved.

    It’s an 8-day event and a Pride not to be missed.

    ABOUT PUERTO VALLARTA

    Puerto Vallarta, located in the state of Jalisco, is well-known for the preservation of its authentic Mexican traditions. The Pacific Coast port features 40 miles of coastline and a diverse topography, including tropical jungles, river beds, steep mountain sides and arid flatlands.

    Tourist Board Website: www.visitpuertovallarta.com

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/puertovallarta/

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/puertovallarta

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitpuertovallarta/

  • Puerto Vallarta: The Gayest City in Mexico

    Puerto Vallarta: The Gayest City in Mexico

    Welcome to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico’s gayest city, and second only to Rio as the gayest city in all of Latin America. This is a city that, amidst its staunch Catholic roots, has a history of LGBT rights that spans back decades. Add to that, year-round sunshine, gorgeous beaches, and friendly locals, Puerto Vallarta should definitely be on your list of gay cities to visit.

    LGBT rights in Mexico

    Same-sex activity has actually been decriminalised in Mexico since 1871 thanks to the French influence of the 19th century, and the Federal Law to Prevent and Eliminate Discrimination was passed in 2003 to protect the rights and safety of LGBT citizens and visitors. In 2015 and 2016, same-sex marriage and same-sex adoption followed. But just how big of an impact do laws and declarations have on countries and cities with such a strong history of religion and masochism? Quite a lot actually.

    Gay-friendly since 1980

    Puerto Vallarta’s gay neighbourhood is in the city’s “Old Town”, also known as “The Romantic Zone”, which is where the gay community began buying land and properties back in the 80s alongside the retired Americans and Canadians. And where the gays go, gentrification quickly follows, and the Romantic Zone is now filled with bars, restaurants, stores, nightclubs, and both budget and boutique hotels.

    How gay-friendly is Puerto Vallarta?

    Far from being just accepting of the LGBT community, Puerto Vallarta revels in it, with one of its most popular and beautiful beaches belonging almost exclusively to the gays. Known as Playa de los Muertos – the beach of the dead – don’t let the name fool you as the scene on this beach is always very much alive.

    The stretch of beach is also known as Blue Chairs, named after the many blue chairs set out on the beach by a gay resort of the same name. The concentration of gay-friendly beachfront hotels and beach clubs guarantees a high concentration of LGBT tourists, opening up the whole area to the advantages of being welcoming and accepting of gay travellers.

    Macho men vs the gays

    Mexican men have a reputation as being especially macho, and that could cause problems with gay travellers, tourists and locals. The conversations I had with local gay men very much left the impression that locals think gay tourists are great, but gay locals not so much. There is a macho man attitude that keeps many of the locals from accepting the LGBT lifestyle, however hostility and violence is still rare.

    Like many parts of the world, tourism is so important in Puerto Vallarta that the same rules and attitudes don’t really apply to tourists. The gays made the city a thriving and inclusive community that draws in tourists from around the world, particularly the US and Canada.

    As a gay tourist you will be welcomed with open arms, just bear in mind that if you’re trying to meet gay locals — especially those in smaller communities — they may be a little more hesitant and reserved.

    Puerto Vallarta Gay Pride

    A simple way to assess if a city is LGBT-friendly is whether or not they celebrate Pride. Puerto Vallarta doesn’t just acknowledge and celebrate Pride, they transform the entire city in a week-long gayfest that is the envy of all of Latin America (after Rio, maybe).

    Puerto Vallarta Pride 2020 is set to be an 8-day event packed with arts and cultural events, concerts, films, plenty of beach parties and a parade that closes down the entire city.

    Pride season events kick off, unsurprisingly, at the beach, with opening parties held at all the clubs and hotels along the beachfront, and the official opening party hosted at the Mantamar Beach Club. Endless crowds of gorgeous men in tiny tight white trunks will flock to the scene to celebrate LGBT-inclusivity with pride!

    The main parade takes place on Saturday 23rd May from 6pm, leaving from the Hotel Rosita, followed by a party in the park at the Lazaro Cardenas Park Gardens. The whole of the gay district is closed off for a massive street party, with 20+ gay bars and clubs all getting involved. Each year the locals say that Puerto Vallarta Pride gets bigger and better, so it’s one that’s definitely not to be missed.

    Vallarta Pride 2020 will run from May 18 until May 25.

    ABOUT PUERTO VALLARTA

    Puerto Vallarta, located in the state of Jalisco, is well-known for the preservation of its authentic Mexican traditions. The Pacific Coast port features 40 miles of coastline and a diverse topography, including tropical jungles, river beds, steep mountain sides and arid flatlands.

    Tourist Board Website: www.visitpuertovallarta.com
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/puertovallarta/
    Twitter: https://twitter.com/puertovallarta
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/visitpuertovallarta/

  • GAY TRAVEL | Malta: Gay Pride in Europe’s most LGBT-friendly country

    GAY TRAVEL | Malta: Gay Pride in Europe’s most LGBT-friendly country

    Gay pride gatherings, festivals, and parades are a fantastic opportunity for the LGBT+ community to come together and fly the flag with pride, hence the name.

    Still, they are also a chance to highlight issues affecting the community in particular and the world as a whole. S

    uch celebrations are slowly, and sometimes with difficulty, spreading across the globe, but there is one place that always feels like the heart of Gay Pride, and that is Malta. For Malta to be honored with the title European Capital of Culture in 2018 says a lot about its open-mindedness when it comes to arts and culture. Still, it may surprise some people to find that the island has some of the best rights and attitudes towards the LGBT+ community, anywhere! Add to this the fact that the island is a beautiful blend of Mediterranean landscapes, gorgeous beaches, picturesque towns, and historic architecture, and you have to ask the question, why would you celebrate it anywhere else?

    And so it was inevitable that I was going to find myself in Valletta in early September for the Allied Rainbow Communities’ Malta Pride Parade and Celebration Week. Following a record number of participants and visitors last year and ARC’s vow to push the numbers even higher this year, I had to join the celebrations again.

    It is safe to say that the event takes over Valletta. Still, as invasions go it has to be one of the most colorful, fun and friendly in history and thousands of revelers, bystanders, onlookers and allies of the LBGT+ community squeezed into those sun-kissed and historic streets to both celebrate their lives and make a stand in solidarity of each other; the frivolous and the fantastic, the poignant and the political (with a small p,) side by side, hand in hand.

    And while the parades with all their glitz and glamour are what make the headlines, the week offered all manner of related events and attractions too, from pool parties to films, from talks and discussions to bars, beaches, and nightclubs. From the social to the serious, there was something for everyone. And all this comes together under a neat umbrella, undoubtedly a multi-colored one with some added glitter, to celebrate the right to be different. And whereas some such events are being side-tracked by consumerism and marketing opportunities, Malta’s heart is very much in the right place. To this end, it was great to see an increased number of youths accompanied by their LGBT+ guardians experiencing the celebrating this great event, many getting right into the spirit of the occasion, and sporting the unwritten uniform of bright colors and fun accessories.

    Malta in early September is a sun-worshippers paradise and the week sees the whole island on heat…take that whichever way you wish…and with this in mind the parade was pushed back to 5 pm to allow for the slight cooling of temperature, but a Pride Parade always manages to turn up the heat both physically and metaphorically! Flights with Air Malta are direct from London.

    This year’s event even coincided with the grand opening of Valletta’s elegant Rosselli Hotel, which threw wide its doors and welcomed esteemed guests such as Malta’s Prime Minister, and of course yours truly. The hotel made for the perfect base of operations, easy walking distance to all the main activities, and a luxurious 5-star stay.

    The hotel offers a touch of sophistication with high-vaulted ceilings and spacious rooms which mix old-school class with modern comfort. And with an outdoor pool, roof garden, and relaxed lounges, it made for the perfect retreat to balance the energetic fun of the day.Pride gatherings are becoming part and parcel of many significant cities calendars across the globe, but nowhere does it quite like Malta.

    Not only does ARC throw a great party, they are reminding people precisely what Pride events are all about. Roll on 2020!

  • Gay Travel | Vienna – Culture, Clubs & Nude Beaches

    Gay Travel | Vienna – Culture, Clubs & Nude Beaches

    Vienna has a reputation for music and culture, trust me, you’ll hear a lot about Mozart and Beethoven while you’re there, and it’s that cultural appeal that draws in a lot of gay travellers like yourself. But there’s more to Austria’s capital than just museums and art.

    How gay-friendly is Vienna?

    Official Vienna tourism website: www.vienna.info

    It’s usually a good sign that a city is gay-friendly when the tourism board has a dedicated gay travellers page on their website.

    Vienna is incredibly gay-friendly, with gay couples walking comfortably hand-in-hand and LGBT rights assured across the board. Gay marriage, gay adoption, all these rights are protected by the Austrian government despite the influence of Catholicism that once dominated the country. They host their own Pride parade, as well as being home of the Euro Pride celebrations 2019.

    This isn’t a city that will leave you feeling like the only gay in the village as there’s a thriving LGBT population that are out, open, and welcoming.

    Vienna gay scene

    I was lucky enough to visit Vienna during EuroPride 2019, meaning the entire city was transformed into an open-air gay bar; swarming with international lovelies alongside enough gorgeous locals to make your Grindr overload.

    However, for the rest of the year there are still plenty of gay venues to chose from, despite the fact that Vienna doesn’t have a dedicated gay neighbourhood.

    Located on one of the oldest streets in Vienna – the Tiefen Graben – WHY NOT is a relatively small gay club that’s something of an institution in Vienna, having been around since 1980. Open every Friday and Saturday, WHY NOT plays popular house and dance music with 3 bars on 2 floors, and even a pole-area… just in case.

    Pitbull, Vienna’s first bear & butch club, opened in 2009 and – in their words – provides sweat-producing beats for that pure testosterone rush. While some of that may have been lost in translation, it still sounds filthy and fabulous.

    Museums and operas, oh my

    Image by Gerhard Bögner from Pixabay

    If you’re not into the scene, there’s still a load of gay-friendly activities to keep you occupied during your visit. The cultured gays of the world will feel right at home in Vienna with plenty of museums and galleries to visit, as well as the State Opera and the Volks Opera for those looking to experience some of the world’s best opera performances.

    Even if you’re not super into art or history, the MuseumsQuarter is definitely worth a visit, and the Kunst Haus Wien museum is known to show LGBT exhibits and artists such as Mapplethorpe and Pierre & Gilles.

    The best time to visit Vienna

    We visited Vienna at the beginning of June and we were sweating our balls off! The best time of year to visit Vienna is typically April to May or September to October, either side of the intense heat of the summer months. Plus higher temperatures tend to bring with them higher prices along with even more tourists.

    So if you can avoid the busier summer months I would recommend it. That being said, the summer sunshine is great if you want to swim in the Danube and strip off at the beach.

    Nude beaches in Vienna

    Yes gentlemen, there is a nude beach right smack in the middle of the city, on the shores of the Danube River itself.

    Donauinsel (Danube Island) is a long narrow island in central Vienna, between the Danube river and the parallel channel Neue Donau. Nude sunbathing is permitted on both sides of the Neue Dona, starting from Steinspornbrücke and ending at the southeast end of Donauinsel.

    It is not a secluded beach, so this is not the nude beach to visit if you’re shy. Expect to get glances from the 190,000 visitors that come to Danube Island, not to mention the swathes of tourists that sail along the river itself (some might even take a few pics… not that we would ever have done such a thing).

    FKK (pronounced ‘eff-ka-ka’) is written on the roads to guide you to the right spot, it’s printed on a sign or stenciled on a wall or sidewalk indicates freikörperkultur or nudist area. The area directly across from the marker on the Donauinsel is also designated as a gay beach on many maps.

    There are even some restaurants on the dam where you can eat and drink without having to put your trunks back on.

    For more information about Vienna and it’s gay scene visit www.vienna.info

     

  • Gay-friendly road trips in the USA: The Great River Road To Minneapolis

    The USA is the place to visit if you love yourself a road trip, and with a country of that size there are plenty of routes to choose from.

    You may have already driven up the west coast of California, or road tripped along some of the iconic Route 66, so now it’s time to follow the mighty Mississippi River and drive along the Great River Road.

    Starting in Minneapolis / Saint Paul

    The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul are the biggest and capital city of the state of Minnesota respectively. These often overlooked cities are an ideal place to start and/or end your great gay road trip along the Great River Road.

    The twin cities were historically some of the first to adopt bans on anti-gay discrimination, making its fierce determination to be welcoming and inclusive a great reason to make it your starting point.

    Minneapolis & St Paul is also a hub for US airline Delta, making it easy to fly directly in and out from Heathrow.

    No specific gay neighbourhoods

    Unlike a lot of other major cities, Minneapolis & Saint Paul doesn’t have a defined gay neighbourhood. Instead you’ll find gay bars and venues dotted throughout the city, the most prominent being Gay 90s, the supposedly straight-friendly gay venue that is home to the city’s beautiful people. The downside being that, like many mainstream gay venues, it is starting to become overrun with straight people, watering down some – but not all – of its appeal as a gay bar.

    The Saloon on 9th and Hennepin is another popular gay spot for a drink and a dance, while the Eagle/Bolt is more like a leather/bear bar if you’re looking for something a little different. If you’d rather do a big gay brunch instead of – or as well as – a big night out, LUSH have a Saturday and Sunday brunch menu, as well as hosting drag nights and all sorts sorts of big gay fun!

    https://www.instagram.com/p/BygCAQ4nwVe/

    Non-gay things to do in Minneapolis /St Paul

    In addition to plenty of gay things to do, there are a few non-gay things that are still quite enjoyable. Grab lunch in the Seventh Street Truck Park, an indoor, super hipster dining experience with a variety of food trucks and beer on offer. Take a selfie or two in the Sculpture Garden or see a show or just grab a drink in the Guthrie Theater, and there’s some great guy-watching to be done in Riverfront Regional Park with plenty of hotties in short shorts, well in the summer anyway. All-in-all a genuinely lovely city that I’m looking forward to visiting again.

    Before you hit the road

    Once you’ve seen enough of the city and decide it’s time to hit the road and travel down the mighty Mississippi, take the opportunity to take a leisurely river cruise along the river (we dare you to try and not sing Tina Turner constantly), and if you have time, Minnehaha Park is a delight with lots of wide open park space next to a cascading waterfall.

    And don’t forget that just outside the city is the imaginatively-titled ‘Mall of America’. This is a quintessentially American experience that you do not want to miss. Loads of shopping (with no tax on clothing or shoes), an indoor theme park, and all the fried food you could eat.

    While there we stayed at the Renaissance Minneapolis Bloomington Hotel, a fabulously millennial hotel a short drive from the world-famous shopping centre. Featuring great design, gorgeously comfortable rooms with big beds and big-screen TVs, I thoroughly enjoyed my stay and would highly recommend it if you’re wanting to visit MOA as they have regular shuttles to take you there and back.

    The Great River Road

    OK, so once you’re on the open road you could actually follow it all the way down to New Orleans if you have the time and petrol money, but that article would go on forever so I’ll just cover a few of my favourite stops along the Great River Road.

    National Eagle Center

    One of the highlights of the trip for me was the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, where you can learn about the country’s national bird and see rescued birds sitting casually just a few feet away.

    Minnesota Marine Art Museum

    This tiny little town somehow manages to house some of the world’s most famous paintings, including works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir.

    Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site

    Another spot I wish I had had more time to explore, the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is the location of the most civilized prehistoric civilization in the country, with archaeological remains dating back thousands of years.

    When to drive the Great River Road

    This kind of road trip is ideally suited to the summer months, as winters in Minnesota and Wisconsin can be brutal. However, with all the beautiful wide-open plains you may enjoy seeing the leaves change in autumn for something a little different.

    For more information visit exploreminnesota.com

  • How gay-friendly is Exeter in Devon?

    How gay-friendly is Exeter in Devon?

    Exeter is one of the most accepting cities in Devon. There’s something for everyone.

    So what is in Exeter for gay travellers and LGBT guests? Well, for a start, Exeter boasts some of the lowest crime rates in the country. In 2018 the county’s major football team, Exeter City took a stance against homophobia and Exeter’s MP, Ben Bradshaw is an openly gay man.

    Gay Bars

    Are there any gay bars in Exeter? Well in 2019 there is one gay venue and it’s called The Vaults, which is located at 8 Gandy Street, Exeter, EX4 3LS. Overall it gets great ratings from users on TripAdvisor. It opens daily at 7 PM or 9 PM except on Sunday when it opens at 10 PM.

    Exeter has a yearly Pride event.

    This year’s pride takes place on the 11th May. Exeter Pride takes place in Northernhay Gardens, but there is also a parade to watch. It will run from the St Sidwell Centre which will move down Exeter High Street to Northernhay Gardens, best of all it’s free to take part and enjoy the event.

    Are there any gay saunas in Exeter?

    The nearest gay saunas/bathhouses to Exeter are in Plymouth (45 miles), Manticore Spa or Torquay, the Steamer Quay Spa (23 miles).

    Any LGBT Hotels in Exeter?

    There’s the “gay-friendly” Woodleigh Coach House, which is set on the edge of Dartmoor, about 11 miles west of Exeter. They have a choice of five rooms, all ensuite.

    There are a few “gay owned” hotels in and near to Exeter. Overcombe House which is about 45 miles away from Exeter is, “just a short distance from the historic market town of Tavistock & there is easy access to the ancient maritime city of Plymouth; whilst having all the benefits and amenities of Dartmoor National Park & the adjacent Tamar Valley area of outstanding natural beauty” right on the doorstep.

    There’s the gay-owned Strete Barton House in Dartmouth which is located 42 miles away.

    There is also a gay-owned self-catering holiday cottage in Sidmouth, which is about 16 miles away.

    Check out all accommodation options and the latest prices with our partners TripAdvisor and hotels.com.

    Meeting gay guys in Exeter?

    If you’re looking for a connect to gay and bisexual guys in Exeter why not join our free social network.

  • GAY TRAVEL | Arizona: Celebration Sun, Fun and Pride in Phoenix Arizona

    GAY TRAVEL | Arizona: Celebration Sun, Fun and Pride in Phoenix Arizona

    The last time I was in the Phoenix area was 2005, so when I was offered a chance to visit the city again, I jumped at the opportunity, especially since this trip would coincide with Phoenix Pride.

    The temperature in the spring and fall is quite tolerable and enjoyable so I would plan your vacation during those seasons, unless you are an avid heat seeker.

    I really didn’t recognize any part of the city, so jumping on a pedal cab for a quick tour of downtown was the best way to orient myself. I met up with my friend Josh Rimer aka Mr. Gay Canada, and we were on our way!

    Our wonderful tour guide Billy was a hoot. He knew everything about every nook and cranny of the city from the history of buildings to the meaning of some of city’s most iconic murals. He knew we were in town for gay pride, so he included some information about the city’s LGBT history and culture.

    Before checking in to our hotel, we stopped for lunch at The Churchill, a locally owned community-driven gathering spot in the heart of the Roosevelt Row neighborhood. Ten small businesses surround an open-air courtyard intended for dining, drinking and socializing. The space hosts a variety of speakers, art events, and fitness classes throughout the year.

    If you’re craving a bit of luxury, check in to the magnificent Fairmont Scottsdale Princess. It’s one of the most LGBT-friendly resorts in the region and is set against the picturesque McDowell Mountains range. The sprawling Southwestern-style complex features 750 guest rooms, six heated pools, and a 44,000 square-foot Well & Being Spa.

    Spa culture is big in Scottsdale, with many properties offering unique treatments highlighting their natural surroundings. The Phoenician offers a wonderful Body & Soul treatment that is not to be missed.

    Speaking of spas, we ventured off the beaten path to explore another renowned spa called CIVANA. Traveling can be fun but also stressful, so I chose a relaxing treatment combining 10 different aromatherapy blends. While at CIVANA, take part in a sound bath class, where an instructor creates vibrations using singing bowls made from various healing crystals. All you need to do is relax while the sounds melt your worries away.

    For the adventurous type, try aerial yoga. This is not your run of the mill yoga. In fact, it wasn’t relaxing at all. It was more like a Cirque du Soleil training camp. I tried my hardest to keep myself balanced while suspended in mid air by nothing but cloth. Of course, my fearless instructor made me go upside down and swing side to side while a flimsy sheet was supposed to support me. After I got over my fear, I enjoyed the class. The entire experience was fun but more of an upper body workout than a yoga class.

    While in Phoenix, visit the Desert Botanical Garden, a collection of more than 50,000 arid plants gathered from deserts from around the globe. We recommend visiting when the garden first opens to avoid the scorching heat. The Garden also offers evening tours, which although we didn’t get to experience, we heard were a great way to view the property.

    Not too far away is the Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) which displays a collection of 6,800 instruments from 200 countries and territories. Most of the displays are enhanced by audio and video technologies that allow guests to see the instruments, hear their sounds, and observe them being played. During our visit, the MIM featured a special exhibit on Arizona native and rock legend Alice Cooper.

    All this touring got us thirsty, so it was time for some cocktails. Since we landed in Phoenix, all we kept hearing about was a place called The UnderTow. But after I said I needed to research it, people told me not to, and just go. Guests enter The UnderTow through Sip Coffee & Beer Garage, which happens to be a converted Jiffy Lube. The downstairs area – where mechanics worked on vehicles – has been transformed into a subterranean tiki bar complete with sound and visual effects that made guests feel as if they were stranded in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Not to be outdone by the décor, the bartenders know how to make one hell of a cocktail.

    After drinks, it was time to celebrate gay pride. Phoenix Pride is one of the first festivals to kick off pride season and attracts over 40,000 revelers during the two-day festival and parade. This year’s festival contained headlining performances from Ada Vox, Kim Petras and JoJo.

    The bars came alive after Pride, as in most cities. We didn’t get to experience many that night due to immense crowds, but we did visit Stacy’s @ Melrose, and got to meet Stacy himself. Next time around, I would love to swing by Charlie’s and Kobalt.

    The next day it was time to explore Tempe and the first item on the agenda was a pop-up art experience called The Scene. The Instagramable paradise featured 11 uniquely designed rooms ranging from a disco room, to a bathtub surround by rubber ducks and a glow-in-the-dark slinky room. The owners of the exhibition are from Tempe and plan to bring the exhibition on tour. If it comes to your city, make sure to check it out. It’s a fun place for both kids and adults to explore and work on your selfie taking skills.

    While downtown Phoenix has a corporate feel, downtown Tempe definitely has a collegiate vibe, due mostly to Arizona State University. College students are seen parading around the city on bikes and scooters past rows of rainbow flags and a giant rainbow chair in the heart of downtown which the city installed to celebrate gay pride. The city doesn’t have any gay bars or clubs, but locals are quick to let you know that every bar in Tempe is welcoming to the LGBT community.

    In the center of the city is A Mountain…as in the letter A, which is prominently displayed on the side of the mountain. To get the best view of the city, hike to the top in the early morning. For the perfect sunset view, try an evening hike. Bring lots of water as the hike looks deceivingly easy from the street level, but as you begin to ascend, grows extremely challenging especially as you begin to navigate the sharp rock formations towards the top of the mountain.

    For dinner, head to Culinary Dropout, a trendy gastro-pub in downtown popular among the college crowd, which specializes in craft cocktails and delicious, reasonable priced cuisine. Start off the meal with an order of Soft Pretzels with Provolone Fondue and Prosciutto Deviled Eggs. I would also recommend trying the Ma…the Meatloaf and Rainbow Trout, which is served with green beans, toasted almonds and caramelized shallots. The staff at Culinary Dropout is also very easy on the eyes so I think you’ll enjoy this place.

    After dinner, check in to the Moxy, a Marriott branded hotel designed with the millennial traveler in mind. Instead of a stuffy reception desk, guests at the Moxy are greeted by a reception area that also doubles as a bar. The hotel lobby contains an oversized Jenga game, pool table, foos ball table and 2 arcade pinball machines in addition to many cool seating areas where guests can gather. Tempe was the first city in the United States to open a Moxy and it has become a favorite among visitors.

    There is so much to do in both Phoenix and Tempe, I recommend a minimum of a week to explore the cities and maybe even take a day trip to Mesa or Sedona. Whichever season you decide to travel in, you will have a blast.

    Enjoy the Journey!