Gay & Lesbian Travel: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
World's Best Gay Beach Cities
A list of the world's 20 best large gay beach cities - meaning cities with populations of roughly 150,000 or greater, with beachfront locations on the water (can be oceans or large lakes), and with great gay scenes.
A list of the world's 20 best large gay beach cities - meaning cities with populations of roughly 150,000 or greater, with beachfront locations on the water (can be oceans or large lakes), and with great gay scenes.
Underrated Gay Cities
A look at America's most underrated urban gay destinations: Columbus, Albuquerque, Providence, Salt Lake City, Kansas City, Detroit, New Haven, Fort Worth, Pittsburgh, Sacramento. These are relatively less publicized, somewhat overlooked places that have strong gay followings, fairly progressive and welcoming political climates, and - in many cases - much larger Gay Pride events than you might expect.
A look at America's most underrated urban gay destinations: Columbus, Albuquerque, Providence, Salt Lake City, Kansas City, Detroit, New Haven, Fort Worth, Pittsburgh, Sacramento. These are relatively less publicized, somewhat overlooked places that have strong gay followings, fairly progressive and welcoming political climates, and - in many cases - much larger Gay Pride events than you might expect.
Lazing on the beach in the French Riviera, Nice, France
With a small but vibrant gay club scene and a number of gay-friendly accommodations, the French Riviera city of Nice has miles of pebbly but picturesque beaches. Nice is close to Cannes (famous for its film festival) and Monte Carlo, Monaco, and it's home to some first-rate museums, countless sidewalk cafes, a gorgeous farmers market, and block after block of fine shopping. Here's an excellent resource on the growing gay scene.
With a small but vibrant gay club scene and a number of gay-friendly accommodations, the French Riviera city of Nice has miles of pebbly but picturesque beaches. Nice is close to Cannes (famous for its film festival) and Monte Carlo, Monaco, and it's home to some first-rate museums, countless sidewalk cafes, a gorgeous farmers market, and block after block of fine shopping. Here's an excellent resource on the growing gay scene.
June Gay Pride Calendar
A listing of Gay Pride festivals that take place in the month of June.
A listing of Gay Pride festivals that take place in the month of June.
Black's Beach, north of La Jolla, San Diego, California
One of the nation's iconic nude beaches, San Diego's majestically situated Black's Beach is also a favorite hangout of gay men and lesbians - clothed, partially clothed, scantilly clothed, unclothed, and all permutations thereof. This 2-miles stretch of soft sand lies at the base of 300-foot cliffs near University of California-San Diego, just north of La Jolla and about a 15- to 20-minute drive north of downtown San Diego.
One of the nation's iconic nude beaches, San Diego's majestically situated Black's Beach is also a favorite hangout of gay men and lesbians - clothed, partially clothed, scantilly clothed, unclothed, and all permutations thereof. This 2-miles stretch of soft sand lies at the base of 300-foot cliffs near University of California-San Diego, just north of La Jolla and about a 15- to 20-minute drive north of downtown San Diego.
Blue Store, a sex-toy and erotica shop on 8th Avenue
Another of Chelsea's rather garish sex-toy and porn stores, the Blue Store (206 8th Ave.) has garnered its share of bad press since it opened in 2003, first stirring the ire of neighbors who complained about its relentless blue-neon facade and the neighborhood's seeming excess of such establishments. Then in 2005 cops shuttered the place for a bit following a prostitution sting. The store has cleaned up its act some and is still a viable source of gay erotica, lube, and such.
Another of Chelsea's rather garish sex-toy and porn stores, the Blue Store (206 8th Ave.) has garnered its share of bad press since it opened in 2003, first stirring the ire of neighbors who complained about its relentless blue-neon facade and the neighborhood's seeming excess of such establishments. Then in 2005 cops shuttered the place for a bit following a prostitution sting. The store has cleaned up its act some and is still a viable source of gay erotica, lube, and such.
Gay Atlanta Bars and Clubs
A review for gay and lesbian travelers of the best gay or gay-friendly bars, clubs, and nightlife options in Atlanta, including Blake's, Mary's, Bellissima, Burkhart's, Amsterdam, Bulldog's, Heretic Atlanta, Swinging Richards, Atlanta Eagle, Paris Decatur, The Jungle, Club 708, Joe's on Juniper, Outwrite Bookstore, and Felix's on the Square
A review for gay and lesbian travelers of the best gay or gay-friendly bars, clubs, and nightlife options in Atlanta, including Blake's, Mary's, Bellissima, Burkhart's, Amsterdam, Bulldog's, Heretic Atlanta, Swinging Richards, Atlanta Eagle, Paris Decatur, The Jungle, Club 708, Joe's on Juniper, Outwrite Bookstore, and Felix's on the Square
World's Best Gay Beach Towns
A list of the world's 20 best gay beach towns and small cities - meaning towns and cities with populations of under about 150,000, with beachfront locations on the water (can be oceans or large lakes), and with great gay scenes. Also see my list of the world's 20 best gay beach cities (population 150,000 or greater).
A list of the world's 20 best gay beach towns and small cities - meaning towns and cities with populations of under about 150,000, with beachfront locations on the water (can be oceans or large lakes), and with great gay scenes. Also see my list of the world's 20 best gay beach cities (population 150,000 or greater).
Palm Springs Gay Resorts
No city in the world has a greater number of gay-exclusive, clothing-optional gay resorts than the Southern California desert community of Palm Springs, which is quite popular year-round but truly bustles from late autumn through spring. Most gay accommodations in Palm Springs are well-kept and quite nice, but it can still be hard choosing among so many options. Here's a look at some of the best gay resorts as well as gay-friendly mainstream hotels in Palm Springs.
No city in the world has a greater number of gay-exclusive, clothing-optional gay resorts than the Southern California desert community of Palm Springs, which is quite popular year-round but truly bustles from late autumn through spring. Most gay accommodations in Palm Springs are well-kept and quite nice, but it can still be hard choosing among so many options. Here's a look at some of the best gay resorts as well as gay-friendly mainstream hotels in Palm Springs.
Club 82/Bijou Cinema gay adult theater and sex club-ish, East 4th Street
From 1958 until 1978, Club 82 was a beloved drag cabaret and glam-rock venue made famous by the likes of David Bowie, Lou Reed, Harvey Fierstein, Blondie, and the New York Dolls. It then became an indie-film theater, and in the early 1990s, the dark, underground (figuratively and literally - it's in a basement) space became a quite popular gay adult theater and sex club. More recently, it's been closed at different times, but it was spruced up at one point and now continues to be a gay sex club.
From 1958 until 1978, Club 82 was a beloved drag cabaret and glam-rock venue made famous by the likes of David Bowie, Lou Reed, Harvey Fierstein, Blondie, and the New York Dolls. It then became an indie-film theater, and in the early 1990s, the dark, underground (figuratively and literally - it's in a basement) space became a quite popular gay adult theater and sex club. More recently, it's been closed at different times, but it was spruced up at one point and now continues to be a gay sex club.
Gay Las Vegas Nightlife
A nightlife guide to Gay Las Vegas. The lowdown on the gay Las Vegas bar scene, including clubs, lounges, coffeehouses, and bars.
A nightlife guide to Gay Las Vegas. The lowdown on the gay Las Vegas bar scene, including clubs, lounges, coffeehouses, and bars.
Spring Gay Pride Calendar
A listing of Gay Pride festivals that take place in April and May.
A listing of Gay Pride festivals that take place in April and May.
Albuquerque Gay Nightlife
A nightlife guide to Gay Albuquerque. The lowdown on the gay Albuquerque bar scene, including clubs, lounges, coffeehouses, and bars.
A nightlife guide to Gay Albuquerque. The lowdown on the gay Albuquerque bar scene, including clubs, lounges, coffeehouses, and bars.
Hawk's Gym, Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas has both a gay gym-sex club, Hawk's Gym, and - in the same rather bizarre and shopping center - a slightly more lavish bathhouse called Entourage. Hawk's, pictured here, is beside the Vegas LGBT Center along the same strip of buildings that includes the Badlands Saloon gay bar. It's all part of the Commercial Center, a seedy and rather downcast shopping center a couple of miles east of where the Strip bumps into downtown.
Las Vegas has both a gay gym-sex club, Hawk's Gym, and - in the same rather bizarre and shopping center - a slightly more lavish bathhouse called Entourage. Hawk's, pictured here, is beside the Vegas LGBT Center along the same strip of buildings that includes the Badlands Saloon gay bar. It's all part of the Commercial Center, a seedy and rather downcast shopping center a couple of miles east of where the Strip bumps into downtown.
Winter Gay Pride Calendar
A listing of Gay Pride festivals that take place in the winter, from December 2009 through March 2010.
A listing of Gay Pride festivals that take place in the winter, from December 2009 through March 2010.
Costa Rica Gay Travel Advice
A reader asks where to find the gay scene in Costa Rica, and for other advice on planning a gay adventure in this beautiful Central American country. Here are some tips on gay-friendly places to stay and gay bars and saunas in Arenal, San Jose, Quepos, and Limon.
A reader asks where to find the gay scene in Costa Rica, and for other advice on planning a gay adventure in this beautiful Central American country. Here are some tips on gay-friendly places to stay and gay bars and saunas in Arenal, San Jose, Quepos, and Limon.
Gay Shanghai Nightlife
A nightlife guide to Gay Shanghai. The lowdown on the gay Shanghai bar scene, including clubs, lounges, coffeehouses, and bars.
A nightlife guide to Gay Shanghai. The lowdown on the gay Shanghai bar scene, including clubs, lounges, coffeehouses, and bars.
Open-Air cafe, on the beach in Cannes, France
Famous for its Cannes Film Festival, the small city of Cannes is a social fixture of the French Riviera, and a must-see for visitors to the south of France. This scenic village abundant with chic cafes, ritzy restaurants, and luxe hotels also has a small but burgeoning gay scene, with a handful of gay bars. The town is a short train from Nice and its picturesque beaches and lively clubs.
Famous for its Cannes Film Festival, the small city of Cannes is a social fixture of the French Riviera, and a must-see for visitors to the south of France. This scenic village abundant with chic cafes, ritzy restaurants, and luxe hotels also has a small but burgeoning gay scene, with a handful of gay bars. The town is a short train from Nice and its picturesque beaches and lively clubs.
Gay Charleston Nightlife
A nightlife guide to Gay Charleston. The lowdown on the gay Charleston bar scene.
A nightlife guide to Gay Charleston. The lowdown on the gay Charleston bar scene.
The Unicorn gay porn and erotica store
The long-running Unicorn (277 W. 22nd St., 212-924-2921) gay porn palace, located conveniently beside Barracuda gay bar and just around the corner from newer porn shops like Blue Store, Rainbow Station, and Pride NYC. The Unicorn has long been known for its significant selection of blue movies as well as its private video booths. It's a bit sleazier in feel than its 8th Avenue neighbors, which can be good or bad depending on your outlook.
The long-running Unicorn (277 W. 22nd St., 212-924-2921) gay porn palace, located conveniently beside Barracuda gay bar and just around the corner from newer porn shops like Blue Store, Rainbow Station, and Pride NYC. The Unicorn has long been known for its significant selection of blue movies as well as its private video booths. It's a bit sleazier in feel than its 8th Avenue neighbors, which can be good or bad depending on your outlook.
Gay Austin Nightlife
A nightlife guide to Gay Austin. Where to find Austin's gay bars and nightclubs.
A nightlife guide to Gay Austin. Where to find Austin's gay bars and nightclubs.
Amerika disco
The largest gay club in the city, Amerika (Gascon 1040) is on the edge of Palermo in the Almagro neighborhood. This place packs in huge (as in 2,000 revelers) crowds and is open Thursday through Sunday nights. There are multiple levels to dance and observe the scene, and Amerika draws a nice mix of sweaty club kids, stylish lesbians, heteros who love the music and vibe, and...well...pretty much everybody who's anybody in gay Buenos Aires.
The largest gay club in the city, Amerika (Gascon 1040) is on the edge of Palermo in the Almagro neighborhood. This place packs in huge (as in 2,000 revelers) crowds and is open Thursday through Sunday nights. There are multiple levels to dance and observe the scene, and Amerika draws a nice mix of sweaty club kids, stylish lesbians, heteros who love the music and vibe, and...well...pretty much everybody who's anybody in gay Buenos Aires.
Haystack Rock and beachfront, Cannon Beach, Oregon
Where do gay and lesbian Portlanders go when they're craving fun at ocean? The artsy, sophisticated, yet low-keyed towns of Cannon Beach and Manzanita are a couple of the most gay-popular destinations along Oregon's rugged and serene North Coast. You won't find any real "scene" out this way, but the many hotels and B&Bs in Cannon Beach are all pretty much gay-welcoming, as are the hip restaurants and cafes here and in Manzanita, 15 miles south.
Where do gay and lesbian Portlanders go when they're craving fun at ocean? The artsy, sophisticated, yet low-keyed towns of Cannon Beach and Manzanita are a couple of the most gay-popular destinations along Oregon's rugged and serene North Coast. You won't find any real "scene" out this way, but the many hotels and B&Bs in Cannon Beach are all pretty much gay-welcoming, as are the hip restaurants and cafes here and in Manzanita, 15 miles south.
Gay Phoenix Bars and Clubs
A review for gay and lesbian travelers of the best gay or gay-friendly bars, clubs, and nightlife options in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe.
A review for gay and lesbian travelers of the best gay or gay-friendly bars, clubs, and nightlife options in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tempe.
Barcelonetta Beach, Barcelona, Spain
One of a few excellent gay beaches in the bustling and sophisticated Spanish city of Barcelona, the beach at Barceloneta can be easily walked to from the Barceloneta metro stop, or by walking south (heading to the right) from the Olympic Port/Marina Village area. You can also take an aerial tram to the beach from Parc de Montjuic. The beachfront here is typically packed with hot guys and women, and there are several lively cafes and mainstream though gay-friendly bars along the beachfront here.
One of a few excellent gay beaches in the bustling and sophisticated Spanish city of Barcelona, the beach at Barceloneta can be easily walked to from the Barceloneta metro stop, or by walking south (heading to the right) from the Olympic Port/Marina Village area. You can also take an aerial tram to the beach from Parc de Montjuic. The beachfront here is typically packed with hot guys and women, and there are several lively cafes and mainstream though gay-friendly bars along the beachfront here.
Penguin Island, Cachagua and Zapallar, Chile - a great day-trip from Santiago
One of the great day-trips worth making from the increasingly gay-popular city of Santiago, Chile or its nearby and quite smart seaside beach resort of Vina del Mar is up the coast to the charming little town of Zapallar. From this vantage point, along the beach south of Zapallar in the village of Cachagua, you can see Penguin Island, a national penguin preserve - yes, those little specks pictured on the rocks, against the sunset, are Humboldt penguins.
One of the great day-trips worth making from the increasingly gay-popular city of Santiago, Chile or its nearby and quite smart seaside beach resort of Vina del Mar is up the coast to the charming little town of Zapallar. From this vantage point, along the beach south of Zapallar in the village of Cachagua, you can see Penguin Island, a national penguin preserve - yes, those little specks pictured on the rocks, against the sunset, are Humboldt penguins.
Gay Beijing's Destination
A description of Beijing's trendiest and most popular gay nightclub, Destination.
A description of Beijing's trendiest and most popular gay nightclub, Destination.
Club San Diego, gay bathhouse on 4th Avenue in Hillcrest
Of San Diego's two gay bathhouses, Club San Diego has the location that's most central to the gay scene, as it's smack in the middle of Hillcrest, just a block off the main clubbing thoroughfare, University Avenue. The good-size cruise-fest comprises a couple of levels of action, with about 50 rooms and all the usual bathhouse facilities - multi-player hot tub, maze-like hallways, video areas screening the latest inspirational porn, lockers, a gym. Vulcan Steam & Sauna is SD's other bathhouse.
Of San Diego's two gay bathhouses, Club San Diego has the location that's most central to the gay scene, as it's smack in the middle of Hillcrest, just a block off the main clubbing thoroughfare, University Avenue. The good-size cruise-fest comprises a couple of levels of action, with about 50 rooms and all the usual bathhouse facilities - multi-player hot tub, maze-like hallways, video areas screening the latest inspirational porn, lockers, a gym. Vulcan Steam & Sauna is SD's other bathhouse.
12th Street gay beach, off Ocean Drive by Palace Restauarant & Bar
Miami Beach has a pair of gay beaches, one of them a good-ways up north at 108th Street and Collins Avenue, called Haulover Beach, which is a haul from South Beach but popular because you're allowed to tan in the buff here. The other, with a much more central location for South Beach visitors, is the 12th Street Beach, which is just off Ocean Drive, across the street from the Palace Bar and beyond the grassy landscaped area. Nudity is not permitted here, but that doesn't stop the cruising.
Miami Beach has a pair of gay beaches, one of them a good-ways up north at 108th Street and Collins Avenue, called Haulover Beach, which is a haul from South Beach but popular because you're allowed to tan in the buff here. The other, with a much more central location for South Beach visitors, is the 12th Street Beach, which is just off Ocean Drive, across the street from the Palace Bar and beyond the grassy landscaped area. Nudity is not permitted here, but that doesn't stop the cruising.
A Guide to Gay Los Angeles
A profile of Los Angeles for gay travelers, including downtown LA, Venice, Santa Monica, Brentwood, West Hollywood, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the San Fernando Valley.
A profile of Los Angeles for gay travelers, including downtown LA, Venice, Santa Monica, Brentwood, West Hollywood, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and the San Fernando Valley.
Palm Springs Gay Guide
A guide on gay travel in Palm Springs and the surrounding desert region, including Cathedral City and Rancho Mirage.
A guide on gay travel in Palm Springs and the surrounding desert region, including Cathedral City and Rancho Mirage.
Chicago Gay Guide
A guide to planning a gay and lesbian vacation to Chicago, including events, gay-popular neighborhoods, tips on how to get there and when to go, and links to useful resources
A guide to planning a gay and lesbian vacation to Chicago, including events, gay-popular neighborhoods, tips on how to get there and when to go, and links to useful resources
A Guide to Gay Manhattan
A profile of Gay Manhattan, including Midtown, Chelsea, Hells Kitchen, the Upper West Side, Greenwich Village, the East Village, the West Village, the Lower East Side, Murray Hill, the Upper East Side, and Harlem
A profile of Gay Manhattan, including Midtown, Chelsea, Hells Kitchen, the Upper West Side, Greenwich Village, the East Village, the West Village, the Lower East Side, Murray Hill, the Upper East Side, and Harlem
Mega-Plex, Providence, Rhode Island
As Boston is without any sex clubs or bathhouses, New England's top city for cruising and late-night fun is Providence, Rhode Island - it's home to a pair of gay bathouses, Mega-Plex (pictured here) and Club Body Center. Providence is just an hour's drive south of Boston, so it tends to lure plenty of guys from there as well as in nearby cities like Hartford, Worcester, and even Cape Cod. Mega-Plex is the largest and most popular of the two, drawing a lively crowd around the clock.
As Boston is without any sex clubs or bathhouses, New England's top city for cruising and late-night fun is Providence, Rhode Island - it's home to a pair of gay bathouses, Mega-Plex (pictured here) and Club Body Center. Providence is just an hour's drive south of Boston, so it tends to lure plenty of guys from there as well as in nearby cities like Hartford, Worcester, and even Cape Cod. Mega-Plex is the largest and most popular of the two, drawing a lively crowd around the clock.
Club Indianapolis, a gay gym, sauna, and bathhouse
Part of the extensive chain of gay bathhouses throughout the United States, Club Indianapolis lies just on the northern edge of downtown, not terribly far from some of the city's more popular gay bars. Like other "Club" gay bathhouses, this one has all the usual features of a full fitness center, along with lockers and "dressing" rooms. There's a decent-size outdoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, and such.
Part of the extensive chain of gay bathhouses throughout the United States, Club Indianapolis lies just on the northern edge of downtown, not terribly far from some of the city's more popular gay bars. Like other "Club" gay bathhouses, this one has all the usual features of a full fitness center, along with lockers and "dressing" rooms. There's a decent-size outdoor pool, whirlpool, sauna, and such.
Max's Private Club, a gym and gay bathhouse on the edge of Waikiki
If you're looking for a sure-fire gay hookup in Honolulu, your best bet is Max's, a private club set on the upper level (4th floor) of an innocuous plaza of shops and offices in western Waikiki, near Ala Wai Canal and Ala Moana shopping mall. Max's has two distinct parts, a well-equipped gym that caters pretty much exclusively to gay men, and a separate bathhouse/sex club that has the usual array of video channels airing gay porn, private cabins, and steam room and sauna.
If you're looking for a sure-fire gay hookup in Honolulu, your best bet is Max's, a private club set on the upper level (4th floor) of an innocuous plaza of shops and offices in western Waikiki, near Ala Wai Canal and Ala Moana shopping mall. Max's has two distinct parts, a well-equipped gym that caters pretty much exclusively to gay men, and a separate bathhouse/sex club that has the usual array of video channels airing gay porn, private cabins, and steam room and sauna.
Gay Austin - Hippie Hollow
A description of the clothing-optional Austin swimming hole and beach that's popular with gays and lesbians, Hippie Hollow Park. It's also the site of spring and fall Splash weekends, held over Memorial Day and Labor Day each year
A description of the clothing-optional Austin swimming hole and beach that's popular with gays and lesbians, Hippie Hollow Park. It's also the site of spring and fall Splash weekends, held over Memorial Day and Labor Day each year
Gay-Friendly Las Vegas Hotels
How to choose a gay-friendly lodging option in Las Vegas - is it better to stay on or off the Strip in experiencing the Las Vegas gay scene.
How to choose a gay-friendly lodging option in Las Vegas - is it better to stay on or off the Strip in experiencing the Las Vegas gay scene.
Gay Santa Fe Nightlife
A nightlife guide to Gay Santa Fe. The lowdown on the gay Santa Fe bar scene.
A nightlife guide to Gay Santa Fe. The lowdown on the gay Santa Fe bar scene.
Escape Club, Prague, Czech Republic
And you thought all those fresh-faced, lithe, shirtless guys were talking to you simply because you're irresistibly fascinating? Well, this may be true, but if you find yourself showered with attention during your visit to Prague's Escape Club, in Nove Mesto just a short walk from Wenceslas Square, consider that many - if not most - of the man-boy creatures in this saucy basement nightclub are looking to initiate business relations with you.
And you thought all those fresh-faced, lithe, shirtless guys were talking to you simply because you're irresistibly fascinating? Well, this may be true, but if you find yourself showered with attention during your visit to Prague's Escape Club, in Nove Mesto just a short walk from Wenceslas Square, consider that many - if not most - of the man-boy creatures in this saucy basement nightclub are looking to initiate business relations with you.
The Grove outdoor shopping mall, at the L.A. Farmers Market
Adjacent to the famed L.A. Farmers Market, The Grove is an open-air, tree-lined marketplace packed with popular shops and restaurants, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Barnes & Noble, Cheesecake Factory, Crate & Barrel, Kiehl's, L'Occitane, La Piazza, Lucky Brand, Maggiano's Little Italy, Michael Kors, Nordstrom, Victoria's Secret, and Wood Ranch Barbecue and Grill. There's also a multi-screen movie theater.
Adjacent to the famed L.A. Farmers Market, The Grove is an open-air, tree-lined marketplace packed with popular shops and restaurants, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Barnes & Noble, Cheesecake Factory, Crate & Barrel, Kiehl's, L'Occitane, La Piazza, Lucky Brand, Maggiano's Little Italy, Michael Kors, Nordstrom, Victoria's Secret, and Wood Ranch Barbecue and Grill. There's also a multi-screen movie theater.
Queen's Surf gay beach, Waikiki
By far the most popular gay beach in Hawaii, and one of the most scenic and well-known in the world, Queen's Surf Beach is a relatively secluded stretch of sand in the heart of Waikiki, but along a section with no direct hotel frontage - this accounts for the fact there's more privacy and fewer families here than to the north or south. The beach here draws a mostly gay-male crowd, although certainly not exclusively so, as plenty of lesbians and straights seeking seclusion tan their hides here.
By far the most popular gay beach in Hawaii, and one of the most scenic and well-known in the world, Queen's Surf Beach is a relatively secluded stretch of sand in the heart of Waikiki, but along a section with no direct hotel frontage - this accounts for the fact there's more privacy and fewer families here than to the north or south. The beach here draws a mostly gay-male crowd, although certainly not exclusively so, as plenty of lesbians and straights seeking seclusion tan their hides here.
Steamworks Chicago, Lakeview
Part of a franchise of well-regarded, well-kept bathhouses with branches in Berkeley, Seattle, and Toronto, Steamworks Chicago has a handy location along Halsted Street, steps from more than a dozen gay bars in the neighborhood. This helps account for the facility's staggering popularity late on weekend evenings, after most clubs let out, and when plenty of cruisy guys on the make are still out in search of company for the night.
Part of a franchise of well-regarded, well-kept bathhouses with branches in Berkeley, Seattle, and Toronto, Steamworks Chicago has a handy location along Halsted Street, steps from more than a dozen gay bars in the neighborhood. This helps account for the facility's staggering popularity late on weekend evenings, after most clubs let out, and when plenty of cruisy guys on the make are still out in search of company for the night.
Daddy's Backdoor leather and bear bar, on Main Street
Kansas City's No. 1 gay bars for leather dudes, bears, and hard-core cruisers, Daddy's Backdoor Bar occupies a vintage redbrick building in the city's Crossroads Arts District, just a short walk south of downtown. Daddy's is home to the city's Kansas City Cave Bear group, and also has an online fetish and leather gear shop. Daddies, leather guys, bears, cubs, and the like frequent this dark and invitingly butch bar that has beer busts on Fridays and Sundays, hanky nights on certain Saturdays.
Kansas City's No. 1 gay bars for leather dudes, bears, and hard-core cruisers, Daddy's Backdoor Bar occupies a vintage redbrick building in the city's Crossroads Arts District, just a short walk south of downtown. Daddy's is home to the city's Kansas City Cave Bear group, and also has an online fetish and leather gear shop. Daddies, leather guys, bears, cubs, and the like frequent this dark and invitingly butch bar that has beer busts on Fridays and Sundays, hanky nights on certain Saturdays.
San Francisco Weekend Getaways
Half the fun of visiting the gay mecca San Francisco is plotting enchanting jaunts outside this fabled city, which enjoys one of the world's great natural settings. You can venture in just about any direction and find appealing terrain, from the snowcapped peaks of the Sierra Nevada to the vineyards of Sonoma and Monterey to the rustic inns of the redwood-shrouded Russian River region. Here's a look at terrific gay destinations within striking distance of San Francisco.
Half the fun of visiting the gay mecca San Francisco is plotting enchanting jaunts outside this fabled city, which enjoys one of the world's great natural settings. You can venture in just about any direction and find appealing terrain, from the snowcapped peaks of the Sierra Nevada to the vineyards of Sonoma and Monterey to the rustic inns of the redwood-shrouded Russian River region. Here's a look at terrific gay destinations within striking distance of San Francisco.
Crescent Beach, near Old Harbor, Block Island, Rhode Island
Block Island, the genial and wonderfully pristine land mass off the coast of Rhode Island, has been a wonderful spot for a low-keyed yet sophisticated beach vacation for generations. There's virtually no gay following here, even compared with the relatively mainstream Martha's Vineyard, but this is a progressive, liberal-minded community that's very welcoming toward gay and lesbian visitors nonetheless - perfect if you're seeking peace and quiet, stunning maritime vistas, and secluded beaches.
Block Island, the genial and wonderfully pristine land mass off the coast of Rhode Island, has been a wonderful spot for a low-keyed yet sophisticated beach vacation for generations. There's virtually no gay following here, even compared with the relatively mainstream Martha's Vineyard, but this is a progressive, liberal-minded community that's very welcoming toward gay and lesbian visitors nonetheless - perfect if you're seeking peace and quiet, stunning maritime vistas, and secluded beaches.
A Guide to Gay New York City
A profile of Gay New York City travel, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx
A profile of Gay New York City travel, including Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx
New York City Gay Pride
A preview of New York City's Gay Pride Celebration, in June 2010
A preview of New York City's Gay Pride Celebration, in June 2010
Gay Madison Nightlife
A nightlife guide to Gay Madison. The lowdown on the gay Madison bar scene, including clubs, lounges, coffeehouses, and bars.
A nightlife guide to Gay Madison. The lowdown on the gay Madison bar scene, including clubs, lounges, coffeehouses, and bars.
Macho Sauna, Brussels, Belgium
The most popular gay bathhouse in Belgium's capital city of Brussels, the Macho Sauna appeals to a mix of locals, tourists, and visiting business executives - it's just a 10-minute walk from the central Grand Place, right in the heart of the cozy but bustling gay nightlife district centered around Rue du Marche au Charbon. One difference between Macho and many other European gay saunas is that it closes at midnight, making it more of a day-time and early evening venue.
The most popular gay bathhouse in Belgium's capital city of Brussels, the Macho Sauna appeals to a mix of locals, tourists, and visiting business executives - it's just a 10-minute walk from the central Grand Place, right in the heart of the cozy but bustling gay nightlife district centered around Rue du Marche au Charbon. One difference between Macho and many other European gay saunas is that it closes at midnight, making it more of a day-time and early evening venue.
A Guide to Gay Providence
A Gay Providence travel profile.
A Gay Providence travel profile.
Rainbow Station adult bookstore, 8th Avenue
One of a few shops along 8th Avenue selling (mostly gay) erotica, porn DVDs, underwear, lube, dildos, sex toys, novelties, and the like, Rainbow Station (207 8th Ave., 212-924-0591) is open 24/7 and competes with the long-running Unicorn as well as the Blue Store and Pride NYC. This one is well-stocked, and it's a bit less seedy-feeling than some of the smaller, darker spots with less prominent locations.
One of a few shops along 8th Avenue selling (mostly gay) erotica, porn DVDs, underwear, lube, dildos, sex toys, novelties, and the like, Rainbow Station (207 8th Ave., 212-924-0591) is open 24/7 and competes with the long-running Unicorn as well as the Blue Store and Pride NYC. This one is well-stocked, and it's a bit less seedy-feeling than some of the smaller, darker spots with less prominent locations.
Gay San Francisco Bars
A review for gay and lesbian travelers of the best gay or gay-friendly bars, clubs, and nightlife options in San Francisco, including Bar on Church, Lexington Club, Mecca, End Up, Esta Noche, Hole in the Wall Saloon, Pilsner Inn, The Stud, The Cafe, and SF Badlands.
A review for gay and lesbian travelers of the best gay or gay-friendly bars, clubs, and nightlife options in San Francisco, including Bar on Church, Lexington Club, Mecca, End Up, Esta Noche, Hole in the Wall Saloon, Pilsner Inn, The Stud, The Cafe, and SF Badlands.
The Hollywood Hills, viewed from the Beverly Center mall
As viewed from the Beverly Center shopping mall, the Hollywood Hills form the steep northern boundary of West Hollywood.
As viewed from the Beverly Center shopping mall, the Hollywood Hills form the steep northern boundary of West Hollywood.
Los Muertos Beach, Puerto Vallarta's gay sunbathing spot
Adjacent to the popular Zona Romantica neighborhood of old Puerto Vallarta, an area rife with gay-friendly hotels, restaurants, and bars, you'll find gay-popular Los Muertos Beach, just outside the Blue Oceans gay resort. It's pretty easy to find - just look for the shirtless, muscle-bound men and a smaller number of lesbians, sunbathing along the section of blue chairs as well as a neighboring strip of green chairs, which are outside the Ritmos Beach Restuarant.
Adjacent to the popular Zona Romantica neighborhood of old Puerto Vallarta, an area rife with gay-friendly hotels, restaurants, and bars, you'll find gay-popular Los Muertos Beach, just outside the Blue Oceans gay resort. It's pretty easy to find - just look for the shirtless, muscle-bound men and a smaller number of lesbians, sunbathing along the section of blue chairs as well as a neighboring strip of green chairs, which are outside the Ritmos Beach Restuarant.
The Chute, gay men's club and bathhouse with a leather & fetish following
The Chute is a "private men's health club" in the heart of the city's gay-nightlife district - it's ostensibly a gay bathhouse and sex club that's built up a quite loyal following over the years, especially with guys into leather, bears, fans of fetish, and so on. In other words, if you're a preppy and pretty twink, you're perfectly welcome as long as you don't arrive with a sneering attitude toward the predominant clientele, which is bigger and buffer guys in theirs mid-30s through mid-50s.
The Chute is a "private men's health club" in the heart of the city's gay-nightlife district - it's ostensibly a gay bathhouse and sex club that's built up a quite loyal following over the years, especially with guys into leather, bears, fans of fetish, and so on. In other words, if you're a preppy and pretty twink, you're perfectly welcome as long as you don't arrive with a sneering attitude toward the predominant clientele, which is bigger and buffer guys in theirs mid-30s through mid-50s.
Steamworks Bathhouse, Berkeley, California
The popular Steamworks Berkeley is one of two gay bathhouses in the San Francisco Bay Area, the other being the Watergarden in the South Bay city of San Jose. Set in a semi-industrial but very safe and convenient neighborhood just off I-80, this clean and well-kept facility occupies a huge former warehouse and is outfitted with all the usual features you'd expect: gym, large hot tub, gay porn lounges, a maze of hallways, private rooms of different sizes, and lockers.
The popular Steamworks Berkeley is one of two gay bathhouses in the San Francisco Bay Area, the other being the Watergarden in the South Bay city of San Jose. Set in a semi-industrial but very safe and convenient neighborhood just off I-80, this clean and well-kept facility occupies a huge former warehouse and is outfitted with all the usual features you'd expect: gym, large hot tub, gay porn lounges, a maze of hallways, private rooms of different sizes, and lockers.
BoyzTown, gay strip bar on South Broadway
It's dive-y, cruise-y, slightly raunchy, and plenty of fun: BoyzTown is a highly popular part of the gruff but lovable South Broadway gay scene, a neighbor of such standbys as The Compound/Basix and BJ's Carousel. Part of the excitement (or, at the very least, amusement) is that BoyzTown employs a sizable stable of gregarious strippers and go-go boys, who perform each evening to the delight of sauced and saucy patrons. As gay strip bars go, the crowd is remarkably age-diverse and friendly.
It's dive-y, cruise-y, slightly raunchy, and plenty of fun: BoyzTown is a highly popular part of the gruff but lovable South Broadway gay scene, a neighbor of such standbys as The Compound/Basix and BJ's Carousel. Part of the excitement (or, at the very least, amusement) is that BoyzTown employs a sizable stable of gregarious strippers and go-go boys, who perform each evening to the delight of sauced and saucy patrons. As gay strip bars go, the crowd is remarkably age-diverse and friendly.
Original Starbacks location, across from Pike's Place Market
The original branch of Starbucks Coffee opened in Seattle at Pike Place Market in 1971 and has been in this space at 1912 Pike Place since 1976. The facade of the store retains its endearingly crude lettering and appearance, per the historic codes of the neighborhood. The coffeehouse is along a strip of retail shops across from the many food stalls, fish markets, restaurants, and shops inside Pike Place Market.
The original branch of Starbucks Coffee opened in Seattle at Pike Place Market in 1971 and has been in this space at 1912 Pike Place since 1976. The facade of the store retains its endearingly crude lettering and appearance, per the historic codes of the neighborhood. The coffeehouse is along a strip of retail shops across from the many food stalls, fish markets, restaurants, and shops inside Pike Place Market.
Steamworks Seattle gay bathhouse, formerly Club Seattle, Capitol Hill
For many years known as Club Seattle, the Steamworks Seattle bathhouse in the city's gay-popular Capitol Hill neighborhood is one of two such venues in the city (there's also a gay sex club). This is part of the well-reputed chain of Steamworks bathhouses, which has additional locales in Chicago, Berkeley, and Toronto. Of the two gay bathhouses in town, Steamworks has a more diverse following - pretty much all types of cruisy guys frequent this one, from younger club kids to older guys.
For many years known as Club Seattle, the Steamworks Seattle bathhouse in the city's gay-popular Capitol Hill neighborhood is one of two such venues in the city (there's also a gay sex club). This is part of the well-reputed chain of Steamworks bathhouses, which has additional locales in Chicago, Berkeley, and Toronto. Of the two gay bathhouses in town, Steamworks has a more diverse following - pretty much all types of cruisy guys frequent this one, from younger club kids to older guys.
A Guide to Gay Columbus
A Gay Columbus travel profile.
A Gay Columbus travel profile.
Mexico City Gay Pride
A preview of the Mexico City Gay Pride Celebration, held in late June 2009
A preview of the Mexico City Gay Pride Celebration, held in late June 2009
White Party Palm Springs
A preview of Palm Springs White Party, the famed circuit party presented by the Jeffrey Sanker over held April 2010
A preview of Palm Springs White Party, the famed circuit party presented by the Jeffrey Sanker over held April 2010
Station 4 (aka S4) nightclub, in Oak Lawn
The largest and most impressive gay club in Dallas, Station 4 (aka S4) is part of the huge entertainment complex along Oak Lawn's famed "gay nightlife strip" that includes JR's video bar and Sue Ellen's lesbian bar. The club encompasses a cavernous downstairs space with a dance floor, and a roomy and inviting outdoor patio on two levels. Upstairs, the Rose Room Theatre and Lounge presents some of the funniest and wildest drag shows in the country.
The largest and most impressive gay club in Dallas, Station 4 (aka S4) is part of the huge entertainment complex along Oak Lawn's famed "gay nightlife strip" that includes JR's video bar and Sue Ellen's lesbian bar. The club encompasses a cavernous downstairs space with a dance floor, and a roomy and inviting outdoor patio on two levels. Upstairs, the Rose Room Theatre and Lounge presents some of the funniest and wildest drag shows in the country.
Phoenix Bathhouse, Cologne, Germany
Part of a collection of gay bathhouses in Germany with popular branches in Essen and Dusseldorf, Phoenix Cologne opened in this gay-friendly city in 2004, right in the heart of the gay nightlife district that's centered around the leafy Rudolfplatz district. A beautifully decorated, rather upscale-looking gay men's club, Phoenix is a spacious compound with well-kept facilities that include a sun terrace, Finnish sauna, cafe, bar/lounge, and full massage and bodywork services on request.
Part of a collection of gay bathhouses in Germany with popular branches in Essen and Dusseldorf, Phoenix Cologne opened in this gay-friendly city in 2004, right in the heart of the gay nightlife district that's centered around the leafy Rudolfplatz district. A beautifully decorated, rather upscale-looking gay men's club, Phoenix is a spacious compound with well-kept facilities that include a sun terrace, Finnish sauna, cafe, bar/lounge, and full massage and bodywork services on request.
Club Valentino (bar), Prague, Czech Republic
The quieter and more relaxed front section of the wildly popular Club Valentino, the Valentino bar is a relaxed lounge with a long bar and cafe tables overlooking bustling Vinohradska. There's a nice selection of Czech beers at the bar, and this festive little gay hangout is open nightly. A set of stairs in back leads to a small dance bar that's also open nightly, whereas the larger and spiffier sections of Club Valentino are open only on weekends.
The quieter and more relaxed front section of the wildly popular Club Valentino, the Valentino bar is a relaxed lounge with a long bar and cafe tables overlooking bustling Vinohradska. There's a nice selection of Czech beers at the bar, and this festive little gay hangout is open nightly. A set of stairs in back leads to a small dance bar that's also open nightly, whereas the larger and spiffier sections of Club Valentino are open only on weekends.
Overseas Highway (U.S. 1), through the Florida Keys
Some people love it, some people hate it, but most agree that the drive along the Overseas Highway (i.e., U.S. 1) from the South Florida mainland to Key West is like no other road they've ever traveled. Key West has a great airport with regular flights on gay-friendly Cape Air and other airlines to Miami and elsewhere, and you definitely don't need a car once you're in Key West. But driving this 105-mile route (from Key Largo to Key West) reveals plenty of breathtaking views of the water.
Some people love it, some people hate it, but most agree that the drive along the Overseas Highway (i.e., U.S. 1) from the South Florida mainland to Key West is like no other road they've ever traveled. Key West has a great airport with regular flights on gay-friendly Cape Air and other airlines to Miami and elsewhere, and you definitely don't need a car once you're in Key West. But driving this 105-mile route (from Key Largo to Key West) reveals plenty of breathtaking views of the water.
Downtown Portland skyline, viewed from East Burnside Street
Downtown Portland, which is set along the west side of the river and backed by leafy Washington Park and Forest Park, has a relatively compact skyline. It's home to most of the city's hipper hotels, and it's also where you'll find much of Portland's gay nightlife (particularly in Old Town and along Stark Street). This photo was taken from the rooftop garden of the fab East Burnside restaurant, Rocket.
Downtown Portland, which is set along the west side of the river and backed by leafy Washington Park and Forest Park, has a relatively compact skyline. It's home to most of the city's hipper hotels, and it's also where you'll find much of Portland's gay nightlife (particularly in Old Town and along Stark Street). This photo was taken from the rooftop garden of the fab East Burnside restaurant, Rocket.
July Gay Pride Calendar
A listing of Gay Pride festivals that take place in the month of July.
A listing of Gay Pride festivals that take place in the month of July.
Dick's Bar, a venerable gay hangout on 2nd Avenue that closed in 2007
Sadly, the venerable neighborhood hangout Dick's Bar closed toward the end of 2007, after many years serving the East Village gay community. Few gay bars in this part of the city enjoyed a longer run than this cozy, offbeat establishment known for its kick-ass juke box. It stood at the corner of E. 12th Street and 2nd Avenue.
Sadly, the venerable neighborhood hangout Dick's Bar closed toward the end of 2007, after many years serving the East Village gay community. Few gay bars in this part of the city enjoyed a longer run than this cozy, offbeat establishment known for its kick-ass juke box. It stood at the corner of E. 12th Street and 2nd Avenue.
Tulip boutique, Lakeview
With the romantically old-fashioned name of Tulip, this woman-owned boutique on Halsted Street (there's also a branch in Andersonville) sells all kinds of gifts and toys that make lovin' fun - vibrators, dildos, lingerie, lube, books on tantric sex, harnesses, videos, and more. The helpful staff is happy to make suggestions and chat frankly and cheerfully about which cock ring might suit which occasion, or what to look for in pair of latex hot pants.
With the romantically old-fashioned name of Tulip, this woman-owned boutique on Halsted Street (there's also a branch in Andersonville) sells all kinds of gifts and toys that make lovin' fun - vibrators, dildos, lingerie, lube, books on tantric sex, harnesses, videos, and more. The helpful staff is happy to make suggestions and chat frankly and cheerfully about which cock ring might suit which occasion, or what to look for in pair of latex hot pants.
Los Angeles Gay Pride
A preview of Los Angeles Gay Pride/West Hollywood Gay Pride/Christopher Street West, in June 2009
A preview of Los Angeles Gay Pride/West Hollywood Gay Pride/Christopher Street West, in June 2009
A Guide to Gay Savannah
A profile on gay travel in the historic and romantic city of Savannah, Georgia.
A profile on gay travel in the historic and romantic city of Savannah, Georgia.
Club Jacksonville bathhouse, in historic San Marco
A reliable gay bathhouse with a loyal following of regulars, Club Jacksonville is in the city's historic San Marco neighborhood, across the St. John River from Riverside and downtown, where most of the city's gay nightspots are located - it's a short drive, though. This is your standard bathhouse, having served the community since 1974. It's not especially fancy, but the management did give the place a thorough refurbishment in recent years, and they work hard to keep it clean and pleasant.
A reliable gay bathhouse with a loyal following of regulars, Club Jacksonville is in the city's historic San Marco neighborhood, across the St. John River from Riverside and downtown, where most of the city's gay nightspots are located - it's a short drive, though. This is your standard bathhouse, having served the community since 1974. It's not especially fancy, but the management did give the place a thorough refurbishment in recent years, and they work hard to keep it clean and pleasant.
Pride NYC Inc. gay porn shop, 8th Avenue (closed)
Pride NYC Inc. (165 8th Ave.) has closed, but there are quite a few other porn and sex-toy shops in Chelsea, including Rainbow Station, Blue Store, and the Unicorn.
Pride NYC Inc. (165 8th Ave.) has closed, but there are quite a few other porn and sex-toy shops in Chelsea, including Rainbow Station, Blue Store, and the Unicorn.
A Guide to Gay West Hollywood
A profile of West Hollywood for gay travelers, including Santa Monica Boulevard, Melrose, and the Sunset Strip.
A profile of West Hollywood for gay travelers, including Santa Monica Boulevard, Melrose, and the Sunset Strip.
Fox Bar, Overland Park, Kansas (a nearby KC suburb)
Of the few metro Kansas City gay bars that require a short excursion outside the city center, the Fox Bar near Overland Park, Kansas is the one to make the effort for. It's technically in the town of Mission, an easy 10-minute drive from the Westport section of Kansas City, and it draws a genuinely eclectic mix of gay men and lesbians of all ages, from suburbanites for whom this is the closest gay hangout to others who simply enjoy the friendly vibe, attractive interior, and stiff drinks.
Of the few metro Kansas City gay bars that require a short excursion outside the city center, the Fox Bar near Overland Park, Kansas is the one to make the effort for. It's technically in the town of Mission, an easy 10-minute drive from the Westport section of Kansas City, and it draws a genuinely eclectic mix of gay men and lesbians of all ages, from suburbanites for whom this is the closest gay hangout to others who simply enjoy the friendly vibe, attractive interior, and stiff drinks.
Silverado, Portland, Oregon
The lovably racy and slightly scandalous Silverado has been a stalwart of Portland gay nightlife for many years, and it's become even more popular since it moved to a much larger and more impressive downtown space a 10-minute walk from its former Stark Street location. The bar has two sections: you enter into the main club, where a few hunky (and generally quite hung) strippers dance (they're permitted to strip down completely naked in Portland) on stage and in a small cage to one side.
The lovably racy and slightly scandalous Silverado has been a stalwart of Portland gay nightlife for many years, and it's become even more popular since it moved to a much larger and more impressive downtown space a 10-minute walk from its former Stark Street location. The bar has two sections: you enter into the main club, where a few hunky (and generally quite hung) strippers dance (they're permitted to strip down completely naked in Portland) on stage and in a small cage to one side.
La Avispa, San Jose, Costa Rica
Since the late 1970s, La Avispa - which means "The Wasp" in English - has been thriving as San Jose, Costa Rica's favorite gay and lesbian bar. It's in a central but scruffy section of downtown San Jose, and it doesn't look like all that much from the exterior, but inside you'll find a quite grand and beautifully decorated bi-level space with a pulsing dance floor, a great sound system, and a friendly, youthful (though all-ages-welcome), and stylish crowd.
Since the late 1970s, La Avispa - which means "The Wasp" in English - has been thriving as San Jose, Costa Rica's favorite gay and lesbian bar. It's in a central but scruffy section of downtown San Jose, and it doesn't look like all that much from the exterior, but inside you'll find a quite grand and beautifully decorated bi-level space with a pulsing dance floor, a great sound system, and a friendly, youthful (though all-ages-welcome), and stylish crowd.
Utah Gay & Lesbian Ski Week
A preview of Utah Gay & Lesbian Ski Week, held in early January 2010
A preview of Utah Gay & Lesbian Ski Week, held in early January 2010
Shops and restaurants along the Sunset Strip
West Hollywood's Sunset Strip is lined with posh, gay-friendly shops, restaurants, and hotels (such as the swank Chateau Marmont), and backed by the scenic Hollywood Hills. There's less of a gay scene along Sunset Boulevard than there is to the south on Santa Monica Boulevard, but this is a great area for celebrity-spotting.
West Hollywood's Sunset Strip is lined with posh, gay-friendly shops, restaurants, and hotels (such as the swank Chateau Marmont), and backed by the scenic Hollywood Hills. There's less of a gay scene along Sunset Boulevard than there is to the south on Santa Monica Boulevard, but this is a great area for celebrity-spotting.
San Francisco Gay Pride
A preview of San Francisco's Gay Pride Celebration, in June 2009
A preview of San Francisco's Gay Pride Celebration, in June 2009
Velvet Video adult bookstore and arcade, next to In Between gay bar
Just above the cozy and cruisy In Between Waikiki gay bar, the Velvet Video (2155 Lau'ula St., 2nd floor, 808-924-0868) is one of Honolulu's most popular adult video arcades - a reliable spot to pick up gay porn (in the form of magazines and DVD/movies), plus various toys and trinkets.
Just above the cozy and cruisy In Between Waikiki gay bar, the Velvet Video (2155 Lau'ula St., 2nd floor, 808-924-0868) is one of Honolulu's most popular adult video arcades - a reliable spot to pick up gay porn (in the form of magazines and DVD/movies), plus various toys and trinkets.
Site of the former Atlantic Shores Hotel
As of August 2007, this is all that remained of the beloved Atlantic Shores Hotel, one of Key West's longest-running accommodations - it has been especially famous for its pool and deck overlooking the sea. Although the Atlantic Shores is no more, the property has been purchased by the gay-friendly Southernmost Hotel & Resorts group, which has five great properties in town (many of the Atlantic Shores former employees were hired by Southernmost as well).
As of August 2007, this is all that remained of the beloved Atlantic Shores Hotel, one of Key West's longest-running accommodations - it has been especially famous for its pool and deck overlooking the sea. Although the Atlantic Shores is no more, the property has been purchased by the gay-friendly Southernmost Hotel & Resorts group, which has five great properties in town (many of the Atlantic Shores former employees were hired by Southernmost as well).
Aspen Gay Ski Week
A preview of Aspen's Gay Ski Week Celebration, in mid-January 2010
A preview of Aspen's Gay Ski Week Celebration, in mid-January 2010
Stowe Winter Rendezvous
A preview of Stowe, Vermont's Gay Ski Week - Winter Rendezvous Celebration, in January 2010
A preview of Stowe, Vermont's Gay Ski Week - Winter Rendezvous Celebration, in January 2010
Gay Ski Weeks Calendar
A calendar of Gay Ski Weeks, Gay Ski Weekends, and other organized Gay Ski and Winter Sports Events held around the world
A calendar of Gay Ski Weeks, Gay Ski Weekends, and other organized Gay Ski and Winter Sports Events held around the world
F Street Adult Video & Gifts, on University Avenue in North Park
Rather impressively, F Street Adult Video & Gifts has been a fixture among fans of porn, sex toys, lube, and racy adult treasures since the mid-'70s. The regional chain has eight locales, and the one pictured here, on University Avenue in the western edge of North Park (very close to Hillcrest) tends to draw the highest percentage of GLBT customers. The selection of gay videos and mags is actually marginal - it's more hetero. But this is still a reliable place to stock up on lube, toys, condoms
Rather impressively, F Street Adult Video & Gifts has been a fixture among fans of porn, sex toys, lube, and racy adult treasures since the mid-'70s. The regional chain has eight locales, and the one pictured here, on University Avenue in the western edge of North Park (very close to Hillcrest) tends to draw the highest percentage of GLBT customers. The selection of gay videos and mags is actually marginal - it's more hetero. But this is still a reliable place to stock up on lube, toys, condoms
Chelsea Hotel, W. 23rd Street
Steeped in a rich Bohemian history, the vaunted Chelsea Hotel (222 W. 23rd St., 212-243-3700) has been a fixture in this neighborhood since it opened (it was actually built as an apartment building in the 1880s and was NYC's tallest building until the end of the 19th century). Many famous guests have lived here, including queer beat poet Allen Ginsberg, and such diverse figures as Sid Vicious (of the Sex Pistols), who stabbed his girlfriend here to death, and Dylan Thomas.
Steeped in a rich Bohemian history, the vaunted Chelsea Hotel (222 W. 23rd St., 212-243-3700) has been a fixture in this neighborhood since it opened (it was actually built as an apartment building in the 1880s and was NYC's tallest building until the end of the 19th century). Many famous guests have lived here, including queer beat poet Allen Ginsberg, and such diverse figures as Sid Vicious (of the Sex Pistols), who stabbed his girlfriend here to death, and Dylan Thomas.
Telluride Gay Ski Week, Telluride, Colorado
Home to Telluride Gay Ski Week during the last week of February and first week of March, breathtaking Telluride Ski Resort rises sharply above the historic village for which it is named. This challenging mountain with 115 runs and a 4,500-foot vertical drop (highest point is 13,150 feet) is one of western Colorado's world-class facilities. And it's in a laid-back, upscale, gay-friendly town with a number of stellar restaurants, inns, and shops.
Home to Telluride Gay Ski Week during the last week of February and first week of March, breathtaking Telluride Ski Resort rises sharply above the historic village for which it is named. This challenging mountain with 115 runs and a 4,500-foot vertical drop (highest point is 13,150 feet) is one of western Colorado's world-class facilities. And it's in a laid-back, upscale, gay-friendly town with a number of stellar restaurants, inns, and shops.
A Guide to Gay Boston
A Gay Boston profile
A Gay Boston profile
Vail Gay & Lesbian Ski Week
A preview of Vail's Gay Ski Week Celebration, which typically takes place in January 2010
A preview of Vail's Gay Ski Week Celebration, which typically takes place in January 2010
Barracuda gay bar, 8th Avenue
Since it opened well over a decade ago, the groovy and gracious Barracuda (275 W. 22nd St., 212-645-8613) has always felt a bit like an East Village bar that slipped across town when nobody was looking. It's dark, narrow, and with a stylish, slightly arty vibe, and the crowd is more eclectic and generally with less attitude than at most of Chelsea's more uppity gay hangouts.
Since it opened well over a decade ago, the groovy and gracious Barracuda (275 W. 22nd St., 212-645-8613) has always felt a bit like an East Village bar that slipped across town when nobody was looking. It's dark, narrow, and with a stylish, slightly arty vibe, and the crowd is more eclectic and generally with less attitude than at most of Chelsea's more uppity gay hangouts.
Destination gay bar (exterior), Beijing, China
A simple sign marks the entrance to Beijing's best gay bar, Destination, which contains several festive rooms and dance areas.
A simple sign marks the entrance to Beijing's best gay bar, Destination, which contains several festive rooms and dance areas.
Atlanta Gay Pride
A preview of Atlanta's Gay Pride Celebration, which is held in late October and early November in 2009 (this is a change from previous years, when Atlanta Pride took place in June or July).
A preview of Atlanta's Gay Pride Celebration, which is held in late October and early November in 2009 (this is a change from previous years, when Atlanta Pride took place in June or July).
Bodyline gay bathhhouse, Sydney, Australia
Opened in 1991 as the first legal gay bathhouse in Sydney, Bodyline remains the top gay sex venue in the city, if not in Australia - a definitive cruising and hooking-up spot on a quiet side street just off the main gay nightlife, Oxford Street. Beyond the unassuming exterior, you'll find a nicely laid-out, clean, and pleasantly staffed four-story facility that includes a top-floor sundeck, a well-traveled maze of private rooms showing the latest gay porn flicks, a full gym with pool
Opened in 1991 as the first legal gay bathhouse in Sydney, Bodyline remains the top gay sex venue in the city, if not in Australia - a definitive cruising and hooking-up spot on a quiet side street just off the main gay nightlife, Oxford Street. Beyond the unassuming exterior, you'll find a nicely laid-out, clean, and pleasantly staffed four-story facility that includes a top-floor sundeck, a well-traveled maze of private rooms showing the latest gay porn flicks, a full gym with pool
Flex Spa, Cleveland, Ohio
Set inside a beautifully restored art deco building from the late '30s that used to be a Greyhound bus office building and garage, Flex Cleveland is a virtual monument to gay bathhouse culture. The owners claim it's the world's largest such facility, and at more than 50,000 square feet, it's easy to believe this. Moreover, it's a clean, well-run, all-male 24-hour spa and cruise ground with a helpful and well-trained staff - you'd be hard-pressed (so to speak) to find a better bathhouse.
Set inside a beautifully restored art deco building from the late '30s that used to be a Greyhound bus office building and garage, Flex Cleveland is a virtual monument to gay bathhouse culture. The owners claim it's the world's largest such facility, and at more than 50,000 square feet, it's easy to believe this. Moreover, it's a clean, well-run, all-male 24-hour spa and cruise ground with a helpful and well-trained staff - you'd be hard-pressed (so to speak) to find a better bathhouse.
Long Beach Gay Pride
A preview of Long Beach's Gay Pride Celebration, in May 2010
A preview of Long Beach's Gay Pride Celebration, in May 2010
Pensacola Memorial Day Weekend
A preview of Pensacola's Gay Celebration and Gay Pride party, over Memorial Day Weekend, late May 2010
A preview of Pensacola's Gay Celebration and Gay Pride party, over Memorial Day Weekend, late May 2010
Seattle Skyline, viewed from just north of Pike Place Market
Just north of Pike's Place Market, across the the very first branch of Starbucks Coffee, you'll find a grassy knoll affording superb views of the downtown Seattle skyline.
Just north of Pike's Place Market, across the the very first branch of Starbucks Coffee, you'll find a grassy knoll affording superb views of the downtown Seattle skyline.
A Guide to Gay Albuquerque
A Gay Albuquerque travel profile.
A Gay Albuquerque travel profile.
616 Park Street Bar, in Riverside on the edge of downtown
The first bar you'll hit as you cross the St. John River via the I-95 bridge (heading north), 616 Park Street Bar is also a welcoming, fun-loving gay cruise bar that's perfect for beginning your evening...or perhaps finishing it. From here you're a short drive from some of the city's largest gay hangouts, such as In Cahoots and Metro, and the Historic Five Points district is just a few blocks away. This long-running gay bar has a large patio in back (pictured here).
The first bar you'll hit as you cross the St. John River via the I-95 bridge (heading north), 616 Park Street Bar is also a welcoming, fun-loving gay cruise bar that's perfect for beginning your evening...or perhaps finishing it. From here you're a short drive from some of the city's largest gay hangouts, such as In Cahoots and Metro, and the Historic Five Points district is just a few blocks away. This long-running gay bar has a large patio in back (pictured here).
Brooklyn Industries shop, 8th Avenue
The fun and funky NYC clothier Brooklyn Industries has a particularly gay-popular branch in Chelsea at 161 8th Ave. (212-206-0477), open daily till 10 pm (till 9 on Sundays), and carrying a nice range of hoodies, handbags, wallets and accessories, dresses and tops for women, jackets and pants for men, and graphic T-shirts, sweaters, and the like for both women and men. Prices and styles are comparable to Urban Outfitters, but the look is distinctly New York.
The fun and funky NYC clothier Brooklyn Industries has a particularly gay-popular branch in Chelsea at 161 8th Ave. (212-206-0477), open daily till 10 pm (till 9 on Sundays), and carrying a nice range of hoodies, handbags, wallets and accessories, dresses and tops for women, jackets and pants for men, and graphic T-shirts, sweaters, and the like for both women and men. Prices and styles are comparable to Urban Outfitters, but the look is distinctly New York.
La Reserva, Mendoza, Argentina
Mendoza's cozy and friendly La Reserva bar isn't much, but then you didn't come all the way to this hub city of Argentina's esteemed Wine Country expressly to partake of gay nightlife, did you? Inside the laid-back spot just a few blocks from the city's central plaza are a handful of tables and chairs and a small bar to one side, selling inexpensive beer, wine, cocktails, and snacks. There's often live entertainment and drag shows, and on weekends the place actually fills up a bit.
Mendoza's cozy and friendly La Reserva bar isn't much, but then you didn't come all the way to this hub city of Argentina's esteemed Wine Country expressly to partake of gay nightlife, did you? Inside the laid-back spot just a few blocks from the city's central plaza are a handful of tables and chairs and a small bar to one side, selling inexpensive beer, wine, cocktails, and snacks. There's often live entertainment and drag shows, and on weekends the place actually fills up a bit.
The pool at Big Ruby's Key West gay resort
The lagoon-inspired pool at the esteemed Big Ruby's Key West - there are few more attractive and lushly landscaped clothing-optional pools in town.
The lagoon-inspired pool at the esteemed Big Ruby's Key West - there are few more attractive and lushly landscaped clothing-optional pools in town.
Here Lounge, West Hollywood, California
Run by the same folks who operate the similarly fabulous G Lounge in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood, the swank Here Lounge has become a gay clubbing fixture in West Hollywood over the years. It's right beside the white-hot Abbey gay lounge and coffeehouses, and around the corner from the old-school Mother Lode. Here has a successful flavor-of-the-week style, with different themes for different evenings.
Run by the same folks who operate the similarly fabulous G Lounge in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood, the swank Here Lounge has become a gay clubbing fixture in West Hollywood over the years. It's right beside the white-hot Abbey gay lounge and coffeehouses, and around the corner from the old-school Mother Lode. Here has a successful flavor-of-the-week style, with different themes for different evenings.
Zippers, on Fitzhugh Avenue
A raffish, low-attitude neighborhood bar that's known for its sizable stable of strippers and unquestionably strong drinks, Zippers is part of a small cluster of no-nonsense gay bars around Fitzhugh Avenue, just west of the North Central Expressway. Zippers tends to draw a somewhat older, and almost exclusively male crowd.
A raffish, low-attitude neighborhood bar that's known for its sizable stable of strippers and unquestionably strong drinks, Zippers is part of a small cluster of no-nonsense gay bars around Fitzhugh Avenue, just west of the North Central Expressway. Zippers tends to draw a somewhat older, and almost exclusively male crowd.
A Book on Gay Muslim Travels
A look at the book Gay Travels in the Muslim World, a compilation edited by Michael T. Luongo
A look at the book Gay Travels in the Muslim World, a compilation edited by Michael T. Luongo
Ace Hotel - a hip, affordable property on Stark Street
Right in the heart of Portland's lovably raffish Stark Street gay entertainment strip, the uber-funky, marginally low-frillish Ace Hotel (1022 S.W. Stark St., 503-228-2277) has major queer-hipster cachet, partly because of where it's located, and partly because of its arty vibe. The on-site Clyde Commons restaurant, Stumptown coffeehouse, and Kenny & Zuke's Jewish Deli add to the appeal.
Right in the heart of Portland's lovably raffish Stark Street gay entertainment strip, the uber-funky, marginally low-frillish Ace Hotel (1022 S.W. Stark St., 503-228-2277) has major queer-hipster cachet, partly because of where it's located, and partly because of its arty vibe. The on-site Clyde Commons restaurant, Stumptown coffeehouse, and Kenny & Zuke's Jewish Deli add to the appeal.
Cobblestone Street in Centro, at night
A cobblestone street in Centro Puerto Vallarta at night.
A cobblestone street in Centro Puerto Vallarta at night.
Paradise gay club, Mass Avenue, Cambridge
Cambridge may be the erudite neighbor of Boston, but it's also home to the cruisiest gay bar in the metro area, Paradise (180 Massachusetts Ave., 617-868-3000), a two-level space with toned and tiger-y male go-go dancers every night of the week. The downstairs area tends to be more about cruising, but there's gay porn showing late into the evening on both levels. The crowd is predictably social, and draws from a surprising range of ages, styles, and sensibilities.
Cambridge may be the erudite neighbor of Boston, but it's also home to the cruisiest gay bar in the metro area, Paradise (180 Massachusetts Ave., 617-868-3000), a two-level space with toned and tiger-y male go-go dancers every night of the week. The downstairs area tends to be more about cruising, but there's gay porn showing late into the evening on both levels. The crowd is predictably social, and draws from a surprising range of ages, styles, and sensibilities.
August Gay Pride Calendar
A calendar of Gay Pride festivals that take place in the month of August.
A calendar of Gay Pride festivals that take place in the month of August.
Skivvies underwear boutique, Oak Lawn
There may not be a more extensive, impressive, and popular gay underwear shop in America than this massive emporium of g-strings, jockstraps, briefs, boxer-briefs, and skimpy club-gear and wear. Skivvies is owned by the same team behind the smart-casual clothier Out Lines, which is just around the corner, and it carries just about every trendy and popular underwear brand, from Unico to AssieBum to Ginch Gonch. It's a must for gay Dallas shopping mavens and anyone with an underwear fetish.
There may not be a more extensive, impressive, and popular gay underwear shop in America than this massive emporium of g-strings, jockstraps, briefs, boxer-briefs, and skimpy club-gear and wear. Skivvies is owned by the same team behind the smart-casual clothier Out Lines, which is just around the corner, and it carries just about every trendy and popular underwear brand, from Unico to AssieBum to Ginch Gonch. It's a must for gay Dallas shopping mavens and anyone with an underwear fetish.
Urge gay bar, 2nd Avenue
A couple of doors down from the ultra-pervy Cock gay bar, and right next door to Dtox, Urge carries out this raffish block along 2nd Avenue's reputation for no-nonsense gay cruising but has a more slightly more elegant decorative scheme than Cock - you'll find some nooks with low-slung lounge seating, and the lighting is considerably better. This makes it easier to ogle Urge's chief attraction, a stable of generally well-endowed go-go dancers.
A couple of doors down from the ultra-pervy Cock gay bar, and right next door to Dtox, Urge carries out this raffish block along 2nd Avenue's reputation for no-nonsense gay cruising but has a more slightly more elegant decorative scheme than Cock - you'll find some nooks with low-slung lounge seating, and the lighting is considerably better. This makes it easier to ogle Urge's chief attraction, a stable of generally well-endowed go-go dancers.
Universal Gear boutique, 8th Avenue.
No fashion boutique in New York City speaks more prominently to the gay market than Universal Gear, which opened in flagship Chelsea branch in 2001 and has been going strong ever since (there are also store locations in Washington, Atlanta, and Chicago). This purveyor of stylish, upscale couture carries such labels as Hugo Boss, Ben Sherman, John Varvatos, Ted Baker, Scotch & Soda, Paul Frank, C-IN2 underwear, Malin+Goetz, Blueman, Ajaxx63, True Religion, and - sure enough - plain old Levi's.
No fashion boutique in New York City speaks more prominently to the gay market than Universal Gear, which opened in flagship Chelsea branch in 2001 and has been going strong ever since (there are also store locations in Washington, Atlanta, and Chicago). This purveyor of stylish, upscale couture carries such labels as Hugo Boss, Ben Sherman, John Varvatos, Ted Baker, Scotch & Soda, Paul Frank, C-IN2 underwear, Malin+Goetz, Blueman, Ajaxx63, True Religion, and - sure enough - plain old Levi's.
UnderU4Men (Interior shot), on Broadway in downtown Porltand
Part of the reason downtown Portland's gay-owned underwear and swimwear shop UnderU4Men has developed such a loyal following is its lively and fun fashion-model shows (Friday nights at 7 pm and Saturdays at 2 pm). Look just over the Papi-clad half-mannequin in this photo and you'll see a couple of the store's hunky cat-walkers in the background, below the C-IN2 sign. UnderU4Men opened a second shop in the suburbs, at Bridgeport Village, in summer 2007.
Part of the reason downtown Portland's gay-owned underwear and swimwear shop UnderU4Men has developed such a loyal following is its lively and fun fashion-model shows (Friday nights at 7 pm and Saturdays at 2 pm). Look just over the Papi-clad half-mannequin in this photo and you'll see a couple of the store's hunky cat-walkers in the background, below the C-IN2 sign. UnderU4Men opened a second shop in the suburbs, at Bridgeport Village, in summer 2007.
Gay Puerto Vallarta - Manana
A description of the hottest club in gay Puerto Vallarta, Club Manana.
A description of the hottest club in gay Puerto Vallarta, Club Manana.
San Francisco Gay Guide
A guide to planning a gay and lesbian vacation to San Francisco, including events, gay-popular neighborhoods, tips on how to get there and when to go, and links to useful resources
A guide to planning a gay and lesbian vacation to San Francisco, including events, gay-popular neighborhoods, tips on how to get there and when to go, and links to useful resources
The Strip, Cedar Springs Road in Oak Lawn
Often referred to as "The Strip" or "The Crossroads", Oaklawn's main gay commercial district lies right at the intersection of Cedar Springs Road and Throckmorton Street, which is dominated by such popular businesses as JR's, Sue Ellen's, S4, TapeLenders, Hunky's, and Skivvies. Several gay-popular businesses (Cafe Brazil, Bronx Cafe) are set along Cedar Springs Road, as you head south (as shown in this photo) toward Oak Lawn Avenue and the Melrose Hotel.
Often referred to as "The Strip" or "The Crossroads", Oaklawn's main gay commercial district lies right at the intersection of Cedar Springs Road and Throckmorton Street, which is dominated by such popular businesses as JR's, Sue Ellen's, S4, TapeLenders, Hunky's, and Skivvies. Several gay-popular businesses (Cafe Brazil, Bronx Cafe) are set along Cedar Springs Road, as you head south (as shown in this photo) toward Oak Lawn Avenue and the Melrose Hotel.
Gay New Hope
A Gay New Hope travel profile.
A Gay New Hope travel profile.
Connecticut Avenue NW, in Dupont Circle
Connecticut Avenue Northwest runs through the heart of Dupont Circle (it's pictured here looking northwest, a block above the traffic circle) and is lined with trendy shops and restaurants.
Connecticut Avenue Northwest runs through the heart of Dupont Circle (it's pictured here looking northwest, a block above the traffic circle) and is lined with trendy shops and restaurants.
Downtown Dallas skyscrapers
A look at the downtown Dallas and its soaring skyscrapers, looking south. This is the downtown of the 9th-largest city in America.
A look at the downtown Dallas and its soaring skyscrapers, looking south. This is the downtown of the 9th-largest city in America.
Sweet Occasions and More Ice Cream, Andersonville
Easily one of Chicagoland's best bets for homemade ice cream, the Sweet Occasions and More (5306 N. Clark St., 773-275-5190) sits along Andersonville's main drag and is a favorite stop following dinner at one of the neighborhoods many excellent restaurants. The stellar ice cream served here is actually produced by the renowned Madison, Wisconsin-based Chocolate Shoppe company, which has been around since 1962 and has a huge following throughout the Midwest.
Easily one of Chicagoland's best bets for homemade ice cream, the Sweet Occasions and More (5306 N. Clark St., 773-275-5190) sits along Andersonville's main drag and is a favorite stop following dinner at one of the neighborhoods many excellent restaurants. The stellar ice cream served here is actually produced by the renowned Madison, Wisconsin-based Chocolate Shoppe company, which has been around since 1962 and has a huge following throughout the Midwest.
Man's Country bathhouse, Andersonville
Gay nightlife in Andersonville tends toward the leather and Levi's set, and a somewhat older, more bearish, and less attitude-y crowd than is typical in Lakeview bars, and this same general characterization applies to the neighborhood's gay bathhouse, Man's Country (5015 N. Clark St., 773-878-2069), which opened in the early 1970s and differs from some in this genre because of its famed gay strip shows on Friday and Saturday nights (often featuring guests from the gay porn industry).
Gay nightlife in Andersonville tends toward the leather and Levi's set, and a somewhat older, more bearish, and less attitude-y crowd than is typical in Lakeview bars, and this same general characterization applies to the neighborhood's gay bathhouse, Man's Country (5015 N. Clark St., 773-878-2069), which opened in the early 1970s and differs from some in this genre because of its famed gay strip shows on Friday and Saturday nights (often featuring guests from the gay porn industry).
Lincoln Road Mall promenade, with its boutiques, cafes, and nightlife
A palm-shaded pedestrian mall that extends west from Washington Avenue for eight blocks (the beginning is two blocks west of the beach), Lincoln Road Mall is one of the most glamorous people-watching promenades in Florida, if not the country - it's a constant parade of buffed and tan beach-goers, well-coiffed fashionistas, and plenty of hunky gays and stylish lesbians. Walk the entire length, to Alton Road, and you'll pass swish outdoor cafes, posh clothiers, fine art galleries, and a gay club
A palm-shaded pedestrian mall that extends west from Washington Avenue for eight blocks (the beginning is two blocks west of the beach), Lincoln Road Mall is one of the most glamorous people-watching promenades in Florida, if not the country - it's a constant parade of buffed and tan beach-goers, well-coiffed fashionistas, and plenty of hunky gays and stylish lesbians. Walk the entire length, to Alton Road, and you'll pass swish outdoor cafes, posh clothiers, fine art galleries, and a gay club
Houston Gay Pride
A preview of Houston's Gay Pride Celebration, in late June 2009
A preview of Houston's Gay Pride Celebration, in late June 2009
UnderU4Men boutique, on Southwest Broadway in downtown Portland
How many underwear shops do you know of that hold gay fashion parties with briefs-clad models? A festive and slightly cheeky shop on Southwest Broadway, a short walk from the Stark Street gay-bar strip, gay-owned UnderU4Men has become legendary for its Friday night fashion shows (at 7 pm), featuring hunky boys modeling nothing but Ginch Gonch and AussieBum delicates. The store carries more than 30 brands of underwear and is a must if you have a boxer-briefs or g-strings fetish.
How many underwear shops do you know of that hold gay fashion parties with briefs-clad models? A festive and slightly cheeky shop on Southwest Broadway, a short walk from the Stark Street gay-bar strip, gay-owned UnderU4Men has become legendary for its Friday night fashion shows (at 7 pm), featuring hunky boys modeling nothing but Ginch Gonch and AussieBum delicates. The store carries more than 30 brands of underwear and is a must if you have a boxer-briefs or g-strings fetish.
Spartacus Leathers, one of Portland's premier sex shops and adult bookstores
Going strong since 1987, Portland's premier shop for sex toys, dildos, lingerie, costumes, leather gear, vibrators, Clone A Willy kits (also a Portland company, by the way), and sorts of other items for fun in the bedroom...or the living room...or on the dining room table. Spartacus welcomes everybody and has a big following in the gay community, although the majority of the clientele is hetero. The staff is typically fun and helpful, a departure from many surly Portland sex shops.
Going strong since 1987, Portland's premier shop for sex toys, dildos, lingerie, costumes, leather gear, vibrators, Clone A Willy kits (also a Portland company, by the way), and sorts of other items for fun in the bedroom...or the living room...or on the dining room table. Spartacus welcomes everybody and has a big following in the gay community, although the majority of the clientele is hetero. The staff is typically fun and helpful, a departure from many surly Portland sex shops.
Alto Palermo shopping center
One of the city's swankiest shopping malls, the chic Alto Palermo center sits in the heart of the Palermo neighborhood, a short walk from Recoleta, along bustling Avenida Santa Fe. It contains a number of snazzy boutiques, among them Calvin Klein, Christian Lacroix, Zara, Christian Dior, Estee Lauder, Garbanino, Lacoste, Mac, Maria Vazquez, Paddle Watch, Rapsodia, and more. You can also get your caffeine fix at a spacious Starbucks - one of several mostly chain restaurants at Alto Palermo.
One of the city's swankiest shopping malls, the chic Alto Palermo center sits in the heart of the Palermo neighborhood, a short walk from Recoleta, along bustling Avenida Santa Fe. It contains a number of snazzy boutiques, among them Calvin Klein, Christian Lacroix, Zara, Christian Dior, Estee Lauder, Garbanino, Lacoste, Mac, Maria Vazquez, Paddle Watch, Rapsodia, and more. You can also get your caffeine fix at a spacious Starbucks - one of several mostly chain restaurants at Alto Palermo.
Nowhere gay bar, on East 14th Street
Although prominently located along busy East 14th Street, the northern border of the East Village, Nowhere has sort of steadily mozied along beneath the downtown gay-bar radar since it opened in 2006 or so. Some (tall) boys lament the low ceilings and find it cramped, and the crowd - by most reports - here varies a lot from night to night, from cute and sexy in that East Village ironic-hipster way to dour and stand-offish.
Although prominently located along busy East 14th Street, the northern border of the East Village, Nowhere has sort of steadily mozied along beneath the downtown gay-bar radar since it opened in 2006 or so. Some (tall) boys lament the low ceilings and find it cramped, and the crowd - by most reports - here varies a lot from night to night, from cute and sexy in that East Village ironic-hipster way to dour and stand-offish.
Downtown Kansas City skyline at night
A view of the downtown Kansas City skyline, facing north from around the intersection of Main Street and the Interstate 670 underpass. The city's downtown has seen plenty of positive changes in recent years, with the development of the bustling Kansas City Power Light District, which is a couple of blocks north of where this photo was taken. Walk south, are you're close to a number of fun bars and restaurants in the Crossroads Arts District, such as Daddy's and Tootsie's.
A view of the downtown Kansas City skyline, facing north from around the intersection of Main Street and the Interstate 670 underpass. The city's downtown has seen plenty of positive changes in recent years, with the development of the bustling Kansas City Power Light District, which is a couple of blocks north of where this photo was taken. Walk south, are you're close to a number of fun bars and restaurants in the Crossroads Arts District, such as Daddy's and Tootsie's.
Hippie Hollow Park, at Lake Travis
Hippie Hollow is Austin's definitive gay beach, set along the rocky and scenic shores of Lake Travis. This is a fine place for (clothing-optional) sunbathing, mingling with friends or making new ones, or boating around the lake. You can take a break from the action at the nearby Oasis Restaurant, which sits high on a bluff overlooking all the action.
Hippie Hollow is Austin's definitive gay beach, set along the rocky and scenic shores of Lake Travis. This is a fine place for (clothing-optional) sunbathing, mingling with friends or making new ones, or boating around the lake. You can take a break from the action at the nearby Oasis Restaurant, which sits high on a bluff overlooking all the action.
Frangipani, Shanghai, China
Not far from People's Park and the Bund, Frangipani is a narrow, dark space with a post-industrial look - metal bar tables with red candles, bare walls, and the dimmest possible lighting. Farther back you'll find a cozier split-level space with a mix of sofas and bar tables on each floor. Inexpensive appetizers are available from the kitchen, and the drinks won't set you back much either - there's a long menu of elixirs.
Not far from People's Park and the Bund, Frangipani is a narrow, dark space with a post-industrial look - metal bar tables with red candles, bare walls, and the dimmest possible lighting. Farther back you'll find a cozier split-level space with a mix of sofas and bar tables on each floor. Inexpensive appetizers are available from the kitchen, and the drinks won't set you back much either - there's a long menu of elixirs.
Casa Cupula, Puerto Vallarta
A review of Casa Cupula, a gay resort in the historic Zona Romantica neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
A review of Casa Cupula, a gay resort in the historic Zona Romantica neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.
Budget West Hollywood Hotels
A reader asks for advice on the best gay-friendly budget hotels in West Hollywood
A reader asks for advice on the best gay-friendly budget hotels in West Hollywood
Kayaking in Scappoose Bay, near Portland, Oregon
Scappoose Bay, a gentle and meandering body of water about 25 miles northwest of Portland near the Columbia River, is one of several spots in the region where Out Kayaking - the community's GLBT kayaking club - organizes group kayaking adventures. You can rent kayaks here at Scappoose Bay Kayaking.
Scappoose Bay, a gentle and meandering body of water about 25 miles northwest of Portland near the Columbia River, is one of several spots in the region where Out Kayaking - the community's GLBT kayaking club - organizes group kayaking adventures. You can rent kayaks here at Scappoose Bay Kayaking.
Micky's Gay Bar, on Santa Monica Boulevard, reopened June 2009
One of the gay nightlife mainstays along Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, Micky's continues to pack 'em in with such festive parties as Sister Bingo nights. Micky's Grill serves basic American fare, and the boys come here in droves on weekend mornings for "Blood Shot Brunch." Although the club suffered a major fire in August 2007, it reopened to much fanfare just in time for LA Gay Pride in June 2009.
One of the gay nightlife mainstays along Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, Micky's continues to pack 'em in with such festive parties as Sister Bingo nights. Micky's Grill serves basic American fare, and the boys come here in droves on weekend mornings for "Blood Shot Brunch." Although the club suffered a major fire in August 2007, it reopened to much fanfare just in time for LA Gay Pride in June 2009.
Aqua Nightclub, on Duval Street
The premier gay nightspot in Key West, Aqua occupies an attractive space along Duval Street and impresses all with its rousing sound system, engaging drag shows, friendly staff, and great mix of patrons - gays, lesbians, young, old, you name it. The club is also home to the deliciously dishy Aquanettes, a troupe of drag performers that has developed quite a fan base in Key West. Aqua is the sister club to one of the country's best lesbian clubs, Wall Street, in Columbus, Ohio.
The premier gay nightspot in Key West, Aqua occupies an attractive space along Duval Street and impresses all with its rousing sound system, engaging drag shows, friendly staff, and great mix of patrons - gays, lesbians, young, old, you name it. The club is also home to the deliciously dishy Aquanettes, a troupe of drag performers that has developed quite a fan base in Key West. Aqua is the sister club to one of the country's best lesbian clubs, Wall Street, in Columbus, Ohio.
New Orleans Hotels
Tips on finding the best gay-friendly hotels in New Orleans, including larger mainstream hotels and smaller gay-oriented inns. Included are recommendations on where to stay in the French Quarter, Faubourg Marigny, the CBD, the Garden District and Uptown, and Mid-City. Although hotels book many months ahead for Mardi Gras, keep in mind that many cancellations occur, and it's often possible to find last-minute bookings. Southern Decadence is a less busy time and easier for finding rooms.
Tips on finding the best gay-friendly hotels in New Orleans, including larger mainstream hotels and smaller gay-oriented inns. Included are recommendations on where to stay in the French Quarter, Faubourg Marigny, the CBD, the Garden District and Uptown, and Mid-City. Although hotels book many months ahead for Mardi Gras, keep in mind that many cancellations occur, and it's often possible to find last-minute bookings. Southern Decadence is a less busy time and easier for finding rooms.
Conrad Indianapolis Hotel, on West Washington Street
One of only three of the Hilton's luxury Conrad brand in the United States, the downtown Conrad Indianapolis is the city's classiest accommodation. The sleek, contemporary 23-story tower has 241 rooms (including 23 swanky corner suites), all with plush Anichini linens, marble bathrooms with flat-screen TVs, CD-DVD players, the city's top spa (Spa Chaka) and an extensive fitness center, and two restaurants, the clubby Capital Grille and the more casual Tastings, a wine bar.
One of only three of the Hilton's luxury Conrad brand in the United States, the downtown Conrad Indianapolis is the city's classiest accommodation. The sleek, contemporary 23-story tower has 241 rooms (including 23 swanky corner suites), all with plush Anichini linens, marble bathrooms with flat-screen TVs, CD-DVD players, the city's top spa (Spa Chaka) and an extensive fitness center, and two restaurants, the clubby Capital Grille and the more casual Tastings, a wine bar.
USS Arizona Memorial, a wall of remembrance honoring the dead
At northwest end of the USS Arizona Memorial interior platform, a wall lists the names of all 1,177 crew who died when the hulking battleship was felled during the infamous Japanese air raid that paralyzed the U.S. Navy base at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. More than 2,400 lives were lost in the attack, which saw the destruction of 188 aircraft, four battleships (plus damage to four more), and several other ships.
At northwest end of the USS Arizona Memorial interior platform, a wall lists the names of all 1,177 crew who died when the hulking battleship was felled during the infamous Japanese air raid that paralyzed the U.S. Navy base at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. More than 2,400 lives were lost in the attack, which saw the destruction of 188 aircraft, four battleships (plus damage to four more), and several other ships.
Phoenix gay bar, East 13th Street (just off Avenue A)
If the East Village has an all-around, much-loved, go-to gay bar, it's the Phoenix, which opened a few years back and takes its name from the long-ago Phoenix gay bar that used to be a few blocks away and was never anywhere near as popular. Part of the bar's lure is that it's relatively large as EV gay bars go, with a main bar area (pictured here), a pool table in back, decent-size bathrooms down a flight of stairs, and a small conversation nook around the corner from the main bar.
If the East Village has an all-around, much-loved, go-to gay bar, it's the Phoenix, which opened a few years back and takes its name from the long-ago Phoenix gay bar that used to be a few blocks away and was never anywhere near as popular. Part of the bar's lure is that it's relatively large as EV gay bars go, with a main bar area (pictured here), a pool table in back, decent-size bathrooms down a flight of stairs, and a small conversation nook around the corner from the main bar.
St. Petersburg Gay Pride
A preview of the St. Petersburg's Gay Pride Celebration, held in late June 2009
A preview of the St. Petersburg's Gay Pride Celebration, held in late June 2009
Lake Tahoe WinterFest
A preview of Lake Tahoe's Gay and Lesbian Ski Week and WinterFest Celebration, in March 2010
A preview of Lake Tahoe's Gay and Lesbian Ski Week and WinterFest Celebration, in March 2010
The Crypt Adult Entertainment Center, sex and leather shop
A popular sex, leather, and erotica shop on Broadway, the Crypt caters to straights and gays with a huge selection of fetish wear, bondage toys, cards and gifts, condoms and lube, x-rated DVDs and magazines, and the like. It's close to the Compound/Basix and BoyzTown gay bars.
A popular sex, leather, and erotica shop on Broadway, the Crypt caters to straights and gays with a huge selection of fetish wear, bondage toys, cards and gifts, condoms and lube, x-rated DVDs and magazines, and the like. It's close to the Compound/Basix and BoyzTown gay bars.
Oxford Hotel, Sydney, Australia
The quintessential leather-and-bear cruise bar on busy Oxford Street in the Darlinghurst section of Sydney, the Oxford Hotel has undergone a natty makeover since I snapped this photo and visited in 2005. Still, it's basically a laid-back, friendly spot drawing a somewhat rough-and-tumble bunch of regular guys, mostly in theirs 30s to 50s. The Oxford Hotel (134 Oxford St., 9331-3467) is right in the heart of Sydney's main gay nightlife hub, close to Stonewall, the Colombian, Midnight Shift, etc.
The quintessential leather-and-bear cruise bar on busy Oxford Street in the Darlinghurst section of Sydney, the Oxford Hotel has undergone a natty makeover since I snapped this photo and visited in 2005. Still, it's basically a laid-back, friendly spot drawing a somewhat rough-and-tumble bunch of regular guys, mostly in theirs 30s to 50s. The Oxford Hotel (134 Oxford St., 9331-3467) is right in the heart of Sydney's main gay nightlife hub, close to Stonewall, the Colombian, Midnight Shift, etc.
Steamworks Bathhouse, Seattle, Washington
For many years known as Club Seattle, the Steamworks Seattle bathhouse in the city's gay-popular Capitol Hill neighborhood is one of two such venues in the city (there's also a gay sex club). This is part of the well-reputed chain of Steamworks bathhouses, which has additional locales in Chicago, Berkeley, and Toronto. Of the two gay bathhouses in town, Steamworks has a more diverse following - pretty much all types of cruisy guys frequent this one, from younger club kids to older guys.
For many years known as Club Seattle, the Steamworks Seattle bathhouse in the city's gay-popular Capitol Hill neighborhood is one of two such venues in the city (there's also a gay sex club). This is part of the well-reputed chain of Steamworks bathhouses, which has additional locales in Chicago, Berkeley, and Toronto. Of the two gay bathhouses in town, Steamworks has a more diverse following - pretty much all types of cruisy guys frequent this one, from younger club kids to older guys.
Westlake Center Mall and Macy's, in downtown Seattle
Seattle enjoys a robust retail scene, particularly downtown along East Pine Street, where you'll find Macy's, Nordstrom, Pacific Place shopping center, and the immense Westlake Center Mall, which is also the downtown terminus for the Seattle Monorail (which you can take to the Seattle Center, and the famous Space Needle). Pictured here is Talbots, part of Westlake Center, which is also home to dozens of other shops and restaurants, including a very popular P.F. Chang's.
Seattle enjoys a robust retail scene, particularly downtown along East Pine Street, where you'll find Macy's, Nordstrom, Pacific Place shopping center, and the immense Westlake Center Mall, which is also the downtown terminus for the Seattle Monorail (which you can take to the Seattle Center, and the famous Space Needle). Pictured here is Talbots, part of Westlake Center, which is also home to dozens of other shops and restaurants, including a very popular P.F. Chang's.
Here Lounge West Hollywood, on North Robertson Boulevard
Run by the same folks who operate the similarly fabulous G Lounge in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood, the swank Here Lounge has become a gay clubbing fixture in West Hollywood over the years. It's right beside the white-hot Abbey gay lounge and coffeehouses, and around the corner from the old-school Mother Lode. Here has a successful flavor-of-the-week style, with different themes for different evenings.
Run by the same folks who operate the similarly fabulous G Lounge in New York City's Chelsea neighborhood, the swank Here Lounge has become a gay clubbing fixture in West Hollywood over the years. It's right beside the white-hot Abbey gay lounge and coffeehouses, and around the corner from the old-school Mother Lode. Here has a successful flavor-of-the-week style, with different themes for different evenings.
Bryce Canyon National Park, Bryce Canyon, Utah
One of four major national parks in stunning southern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is arguably the most beautiful, and it's a must-see on any road trip through the Four Corners region of southern Utah, northern Arizona, northwestern New Mexico, and southwestern Colorado. The park, just off of Hwy. 12 and east of U.S. 89, offers magnificent views of pointed hoodoos (spires), carved amphitheaters, and other mesmerizing geographical features.
One of four major national parks in stunning southern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is arguably the most beautiful, and it's a must-see on any road trip through the Four Corners region of southern Utah, northern Arizona, northwestern New Mexico, and southwestern Colorado. The park, just off of Hwy. 12 and east of U.S. 89, offers magnificent views of pointed hoodoos (spires), carved amphitheaters, and other mesmerizing geographical features.