thegaytraveler

[thegaytraveler]

Bourbon & Belonging: Kentucky's Queer Bourbon Week set for October 2024

Queer Kentucky, a LGBTQ+ non-profit working to bolster and enhance Queer culture, health and wellness, is proud to introduce Bourbon & Belonging: Kentucky’s Queer Bourbon Week, a state-wide LGBTQ+ inclusive event, set to take place October 2-6, 2024.

Bourbon & Belonging is launching with the support of eight Kentucky-based Destination Marketing Organizations, which have joined together to showcase the state’s rich Bourbon and hospitality cultures to LGBTQ+ visitors. The inaugural Bourbon & Belonging will feature events in these official sponsor destinations: Bardstown, Bullitt County, Frankfort, Lexington, Louisville, Northern Kentucky, Paducah, and Winchester.

"As an organization dedicated to LGBTQ+ advocacy, we couldn't be more excited to be launching Bourbon & Belonging, the nation’s inaugural Queer Bourbon Week,” said Missy Spears, Executive Director, Queer Kentucky. “It underscores the necessity of creating spaces of acceptance and celebration in regions where it's most needed."

“Bourbon & Belonging will showcase Louisville’s immense diversity, Bourbon culture, and the southern hospitality that brings it all together,” said Cleo Battle, President & CEO of Louisville Tourism. “As the Commonwealth’s largest city, we want to lead the way in championing Kentucky's dedication to inclusion. Participating in events like Bourbon & Belonging reinforces that we are a welcoming and inclusive destination.”

This event features a growing superstar lineup of Bourbon partners that represent the state of Kentucky: Angel’s Envy, Bardstown Bourbon Company, Barrel House Distilling Co., Bourbon Capital Alliance, Bulleit Bourbon, Evan Williams, James B. Beam Distilling Company, James E. Pepper, Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company, Lux Row Distillers, Maker’s Mark, New Riff Distilling, Old Forester, Ponyboy Slings, Second Sight and Wenzel Whiskey.

“It's more than just bourbon,” said Mary Quinn Ramer, President of VisitLEX. “It's about carving out a space where everyone feels at home. This week will emphasize the genuine hospitality, charm and warmth that Kentucky has to offer to everyone.”

A variety of host hotels have also committed to partnering with the event, including 21c Museum Hotels, Common Bond Hotel Collection and Hotel Covington.

This week-long event was inspired by “Gay Wine Weekend” in Sonoma and “QueerBeer Fest'' in Washington DC. Participants will be offered a range of activities, tastings, and gatherings designed to foster safety, belonging, and togetherness while raising vital funds for Queer Kentucky and other Kentucky-based LGBTQ+ community service organizations.

“Bourbon & Belonging bridges our state's rich traditions with its vibrant future, emphasizing the unity and diversity that make Kentucky special,” said Julie Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of Meet Northern Kentucky.

If you’re interested in attending or learning more about Bourbon & Belonging, visit www.bourbonandbelonging.com and sign up to receive email communications to be the first to know about ticket releases and upcoming events. A schedule of events will be announced this summer.

#travel #lgbtq #kentucky #bourbon #Instagram

[thegaytraveler]

Setting sail on the Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean International's new Icon of the Seas is the world's largest cruise ship -- and I was lucky enough to be among its first passengers.

Check out my article about the ship for GayCities:

#lgbtq #travel #lgbtq travel #cruising #cruise travel

[thegaytraveler]

Pride Journey: Lake Tahoe

By Joey Amato, Guest Contributor

Bordering California and Nevada is the iconic town of Lake Tahoe. The destination seamlessly blends natural splendor with vibrant urban life. Surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada, this charming city is a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those looking for a retreat into nature's embrace.

Lake Tahoe enjoys a prime location on the shores of the largest alpine lake in North America. The city is surrounded by towering mountain peaks creating a stunning backdrop for every activity and adding an extra layer of allure to the area. The lake itself, with its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking panoramas, serves as the centerpiece of the region's natural beauty, making it a great destination to visit year-round.

Boasting a plethora of outdoor activities during the warmer months, the lake becomes a playground for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and sailing. Miles of hiking and biking trails wind through the surrounding mountains, providing stunning views of the lake and the surrounding wilderness.

Come winter, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders to its world-class ski resorts. The city is in close proximity to popular resorts like Heavenly Mountain Resort and Sierra-at-Tahoe, providing access to pristine slopes and top-notch amenities. The crisp mountain air, snow-covered landscapes, and vibrant après-ski scene make Lake Tahoe a premier destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Beyond its natural wonders, Lake Tahoe offers a vibrant entertainment and nightlife scene. The city is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes catering to a variety of tastes. The bustling Heavenly Village is a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, featuring a range of boutiques, art galleries, and live entertainment venues. One of my favorite venues in Heavenly Village is The Loft, a combination of a restaurant and theater featuring upscale tapas and fabulous cocktails.

On my visit to The Loft, I enjoyed the Ahi Tuna ceviche which was complimented with mango and avocado ceviche as well as the Roasted Tomato Bisque with lump crabmeat. I try to eat healthy when I travel, but I couldn’t resist the White Chocolate bread pudding. I hiked earlier in the day, so I wasn’t that worried about the calories. After dinner, I caught the magic show by Chipper Lowell. With an unusual blend of stand-up, improvisation, and magic, Chipper has twice been honored with the Merlin award for “Comedy Magician of the Year” by the International Magicians Society. He was also named as one of the “Top Funniest Magicians” performing today by Magic Magazine.

For those feeling lucky, the famed casinos on the Nevada side of the border add a touch of excitement to the Lake Tahoe experience. Try your hand at the tables or enjoy a show, making for a lively evening in town. If gambling isn’t your thing, head to Flatstick Pub for indoor mini-golf and drinks.

Lake Tahoe also boasts cultural and historical attractions that provide insight into the area's rich past. The Tallac Historic Site offers a glimpse into the region's pioneer days, with well-preserved estates and museums showcasing the history of the destination. The area's Native American heritage is celebrated at the Valhalla Tahoe Heritage and Arts Center.

The region places a strong emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainable tourism. Efforts to protect the lake's clarity and preserve its natural beauty involve community initiatives, responsible development practices, and ongoing partnerships between local businesses and environmental organizations such as the Lake Tahoe Destination Stewardship Council, a lake-wide collaborative effort to protect the lake.

I stayed at two different properties during my visit. The first is Coachman Hotel, which is located within blocks of Heavenly Village. The multi-building property was originally built in 1960 as two separate motels but was combined in the 1980’s. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, complimentary Stumptown coffee and nightly s’mores if your heart desires. The property features a fitness center, pool, hot tub, multiple fire pits and occasionally you may spot a ‘friendly’ black bear. I happened to cross paths with her on the first night of my stay. It was quite dark, and I couldn’t tell if the figure I was seeing was a statue…until it started walking. She walked past me and once my heart started beating again, I slowly made my way to the lobby. Only in Lake Tahoe!

The is a chance of spotting a black bear during your trip to Lake Tahoe. If you do, it is best to keep your distance. Visitors should not approach the bears nor feed them. For more information on what you should do if you encounter a bear, visit Bear League’s website.

After a wonderful night’s sleep, I woke up early the next morning and headed to the lobby for breakfast. The reception desk doubles as a bar where guests can enjoy breakfast in the morning and cocktails later in the day, unless you’d like a mimosa with breakfast. I decided to try the overnight oats with berries. It was so good, I had it on both mornings of my stay at Coachman Hotel. After my healthy breakfast, I had some time to kill, so I took a leisurely walk to Lakeside Beach where I got my first glimpse of the glistening lake.

If you’re looking to keep up with your yoga practice, head to Bliss Experiences and take one of their Sustainable Stability classes. It was exactly what I needed to work out all the stiffness from traveling the day before. During the warmer months, Bliss offers a variety of outdoor yoga experiences, including paddle yoga and beach yoga. I also had the chance to have an oracle reading, which turned out to be fairly accurate and echoed what a psychic told me the following day.

For lunch, head to Sidellis, an LGBTQ-owned restaurant/bar which serves a great selection of pub fare including a delicious French Dip. The owner was slinging drinks on the day I visited and told me about his vision for the establishment. Sidellis offers diners a selection of Barrel Aged beers, seasonal beers as well as ciders.

If you have time, hop on the Sunset Champagne Cruise to Emerald Bay organized by Tahoe Cruises. The two-hour voyage takes guests to picturesque Emerald Bay which is one of the most photographed locations in Lake Tahoe. You’ll come up close to Vikingsholm mansion which was built in 1928 by Lora Knight and is considered one of the grandest homes in the region. Knight built the Scandinavian-inspired home because Emerald Bay reminded her of the fjords of Norway. Be sure to bring a jacket as the temperature drops dramatically as the sun goes down. Luckily, there is a full bar offering a variety of beverages including hot cider and spiked hot chocolate if you decide not to drink the endless champagne.

I spent the last night of my stay at Black Bear Lodge, a beautiful property surrounded by mature trees and a picturesque setting. It is a bit further from the hustle and bustle, but there are still a variety of restaurants within walking distance.

My room at Black Bear Lodge came complete with a gas fireplace, comfortable sitting area, and essential oil diffuser, perfect for a relaxing evening. Guests can also gather at the quaint wine bar located just off the lobby or grab a glass of wine and mingle with other guests in the hot tub.

Getting to and from Lake Tahoe is quite simple. Most people fly into Reno-Tahoe airport and jump on the South Tahoe shuttle which takes a little over an hour. Once in town, the Lake Link is a free shuttle service which guests can use. All you need to do is download the app. Lake Link is a very convenient service and a great substitute for Uber if you are looking to save money but be sure to schedule your trip about 30-minutes in advance. I found that to be the average wait time.

The late fall season was the perfect time to visit. It was busy but not overly crowded and the weather was absolutely perfect. Cool mornings gave way to comfortable afternoons when you only needed a light sweater. The evenings were a bit chilly, but nothing too extreme.

Whether you seek adventure on the slopes, relaxation by the lake, or a taste of the local culture, Lake Tahoe has something for everyone. This captivating destination invites visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying the warmth and hospitality of a mountain town that truly has it all.

#travel #lgbtq

[thegaytraveler]

Key West's Havana Cabana hotel is hosting a Gay Holiday Getaway, Dec. 14 to 17

Havana Cabana

Key West’s vibrant, Cuban-inspired hotel Havana Cabana is serving up a festive fiesta in partnership with the iconic P-town LGBTQ+ hotel and entertainment complex Crown & Anchor. From Thursday, Dec. 14 through Sunday, Dee. 17, Havana Cabana will host Key West's Gay Holiday Getaway.

Named one of Florida’s Top 10 Resorts by Travel + Leisure and home to Key West's largest pool, Havana Cabana is a lush escape from reality where the best of Key West is experienced with an intoxicating Cuban flair.

For the Key West's Gay Holiday Getaway, Havana Cabana guests will enjoy a fabu lineup of free performances and parties at the hotel and the opportunity to purchase ticket to special off-site events.

Tina Burner

The weekend's premiere event is "The Holiday Follies: Spread Queer Cheer," featuring America’s Got Talent's Yoli Mayor, American Idol's Matthew Darren, RuPaul’s Drag Race's Tina Burner, and adult entertainer turned reality star, activist, and designer Boomer Banks. It is taking place on Saturday, Dec. 16, at AQUAPLEX.

Accommodations at Havana Cabana for Key West's Gay Holiday Getaway start at $169 per night.

#lgbtq #travel #key west

[thegaytraveler]

Freeda Kulo crowned Miss'd America 2024

(L-R) Miss'd America 2024 2nd runner-up Lala Wiggy, 1st runner-up Dallas Dubois, and winner Feeda Kulo with Miss'd America 2023 Miss Elaine.

The Miss'd America Pageant 2023, a dazzling spectacle of beauty, talent, and advocacy, took place on Saturday, Sept. 9, at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. Beginning in 1993, this annual event celebrates the vibrant drag culture and raises funds to support local, regional, and national causes.

Nine of the nation’s top drag queens competed, with New York's Feeda Kulo taking top honors and being named Miss'd America 2024. They were joined by 2nd runner-up Lala Iggy and 1st runner-up Dallas Dubois.

For more information on upcoming events in Atlantic City, head to www.visitatlanticcity.com.

#travel #lgbtq #atlantic city #drag queens

[thegaytraveler]

PHOTOS: Key West hotties unleashed their Ken-ergy at Tropical Heat

Is Key West still gay? The answer to that question was a big “hell yes!” At least among the hundreds of gay men attending the Conch Republic‘s annual Tropical Heat celebration this past week…

Read more at GayCities.com.

#travel #tropical heat #key west #lgbtq #gay travel

[thegaytraveler]

Pride Journey: Columbus, Ohio

By Joey Amato, Guest Contributor

Columbus, Ohio, a city known for its friendly and diverse atmosphere, has emerged as a thriving hub for LGBTQ culture in the Midwest. This vibrant community has grown exponentially in recent years, drawing people from all walks of life to experience its inclusivity, acceptance, and celebration of diversity. In this article, we delve into the rich LGBTQ culture in Columbus, exploring its history, events, organizations, and the city's ongoing efforts to create a welcoming environment for all.

Columbus has a long history of supporting LGBTQ rights and fostering an accepting environment. The city's Pride Parade, established in 1981, is one of the oldest in the Midwest. This annual event brings together thousands of LGBTQ individuals, allies, and supporters to celebrate and advocate for equal rights, visibility, and social acceptance.

Additionally, Columbus has a thriving LGBTQ neighborhood, known as the Short North. This eclectic and artsy area is home to numerous LGBTQ-friendly bars, restaurants, galleries, and shops. The Short North is not only a place to socialize and enjoy nightlife, but also a symbol of the city's commitment to LGBTQ inclusion and representation. From popular bars like Union Cafe and Axis Nightclub to LGBTQ-owned cafes and art galleries, this neighborhood offers a safe environment for community members to express themselves authentically. The Columbus LGBTQ Community Center, known as "The Center on High," is a vital resource for the community. It serves as a gathering place for meetings, support groups, educational workshops, and social events, fostering connections and a sense of belonging.

Although the Short North is definitely the city’s most vibrant area, I urge you to check out the Franklinton neighborhood, just a short drive away. The area is home to new shops, restaurants, the Center of Science and Industry, or COSI for short, as well as The Junto, a new independent lifestyle hotel where I stayed for the weekend.

The Junto serves up a very trendy but comfortable vibe in a part of Columbus that is quickly emerging as one of the most sought-after addresses in the city. Aside from the hotel, new apartments and condos are popping up throughout the neighborhood.

The rooms at the hotel feature luxury linens, a separate living room space as well as a super-sized bathroom with a soaking tub in the shower area. Yes, you read that correctly. It was a massive space large enough to fit about a dozen people.

One of the highlights of the hotel is Maudine’s, a lovely café named after a cow. Maudine wasn’t just any cow. She was named Ohio State Homecoming Queen back in 1926. Maudine’s makes its own syrups for their beverages, and you can clearly taste the difference. I ordered a vanilla latte, and it was probably one of the best I’ve ever had. You can clearly taste the difference between Maudine’s version verse the chain store version.

Another highlight of the pet-friendly property is the Gear Garage where guests can rent anything from bikes or kayaks to vintage Polaroid cameras.

After checking into the hotel, my boyfriend and I decided to explore the Franklinton neighborhood. A short walk away is The Bee Collective. The owner Luke was gracious enough to give us a tour of the property and show us the inner workings of the extensive hives, some of which contain thousands of bees. We even got a chance to taste some local honey, which beats out the store-bought variety any day.

A few blocks away from The Bee Collective is Makers Social, a gathering space where visitors can create a variety of leather products all while indulging in delicious cocktails, or in our case, mocktails. I made a beautiful leather-bound journal while my guest decided to create a wallet. And don’t worry, all of the projects come with detailed instructions and the friendly staff will also be more than happy to assist if you get stuck. The business was founded by Megan Pando in 2020 and serves as one of the key gathering spaces for the Franklinton community.

Next, check out a new fashion district called Common Thread, located in downtown Columbus, home to local designers and boutiques including Gerardo Encinas, Xantha, and Alex Vinash.

For dinner, head to Speck, a modern Italian eatery located downtown. We decided to start with an order of the Blistered Shishitos, which were served with parmesan, malden sea salt, and a lemon aioli as well as the Mussels special prepared in a delicious white wine broth. For our entrée, we shared the Fungi pasta, which consisted of a variety of sauteed mushrooms served over pasta in a delicate cream sauce.

Every time I visit Columbus, I have a good time, but if you happen to visit in June, check out the Stonewall Columbus Pride Festival and Parade. Held every June, in commemoration of the Stonewall Riots of 1969, this festival showcases the vibrancy, resilience, and unity of the LGBTQ community. Participants enjoy live performances, food vendors, workshops, and a powerful parade that brings together people from all backgrounds to march for equality and justice.

Numerous organizations in Columbus are dedicated to providing support, resources, and advocacy for LGBTQ individuals. Among these, Stonewall Columbus is a prominent nonprofit that offers a wide range of services, including support groups, counseling, health services, and youth programs. The Buckeye Region Anti-Violence Organization (BRAVO) is another crucial organization working to combat violence against LGBTQ individuals and provide assistance to survivors.

As Columbus continues to evolve and champion LGBTQ rights, it serves as a reminder to other communities around the world that embracing diversity is not only the right thing to do but also a catalyst for creating a richer, more harmonious society for all.

#travel #lgbtq #columbus #ohio

[thegaytraveler]

Experience one of the hottest parties of the summer: Tropical Heat 2023 in Key West, Florida

August temperatures are high in Key West, but it's sizzling hot during Tropical Heat, one of the city's signature annual events for gay, bisexual, queer, and trans brothers. The 5-day party will take place this year from Wednesday, Aug. 9 to Sunday, Aug. 13, and is the perfect getaway for those looking for a fun-filled, inclusive, and unforgettable experience.

Hosted by the Key West Business Guild, this year's Tropical Heat promises to be bigger and better than ever before.

One of the highlights of Tropical Heat is the all-male-themed parties that take place throughout the week. From pool parties to fetish parties, there is no shortage of excitement. The parties attract a diverse crowd, with people from across the county and around the world coming together to celebrate their shared passions and interests.

In addition to the parties, Tropical Heat also features several other activities. Popular options include drag shows at 801 Bourbon Bar and Aqua Bar & Nightclub and clothing-optional sailings on the Blu Q.

Attendees also have the opportunity to experience Key West's famed attractions, such as The Hemingway Home & Museum, Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, and Mel Fisher Maritime Museum.

For those who are concerned about safety and inclusivity, Tropical Heat is committed to creating a welcoming and safe environment for all attendees. The Key West Business Guild also works closely with local law enforcement to ensure that the event is safe and secure for everyone. There is a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination or harassment of any kind, and attendees can rest assured that they will be able to enjoy themselves without fear of judgment or harm.

Additional information about Tropical Heat, including host hotels and VIP passes, is available at gaykeywestfl.com/tropical-heat.

#travel #Key West #Tropical Heat #lgbtq

[thegaytraveler]

Pride Journey: South Africa

By Joey Amato, Guest Contributor

I first visited South Africa six years ago with a group of friends. It was one of the most incredible journeys I had ever been on, and I knew I wanted to return. I fell in love with Cape Town and of course, all the animals we saw while on safari, so when the opportunity came to visit the country again, I knew I couldn’t pass it up.

Cape Town is one of my favorite cities in the world. Words can’t describe how beautiful the city is especially when you venture outside the city center and explore the beautiful scenic overlooks surrounding the Cape of Good Hope offering stunning views of the Atlantic and Indian oceans.

I stayed at the Capital 15 on Orange, a modern boutique hotel located just outside of the city center which boasts a grand lobby, a fully equipped fitness center, and a wonderful restaurant. Most hotels in South Africa include breakfast so be sure to research those options before you book. The breakfast buffet at the Capital 15 was one of the best I’ve ever had. It will help you save a bit of money even though at the moment, the exchange rate is quite favorable for American tourists.

My favorite aspect of Capital 15 was the room. I’ve stayed in many hotel rooms over the years, and this one comes close to the top of my list. The room features a king-size bed with luxury linens, an enormous bathroom with a walk-in shower and a separate soaking tub as well as unobstructed views of Table Mountain, one of Cape Town’s most famous landmarks.

Speaking of attractions, the Victoria & Alfred waterfront is a must-see destination. Somehow, I skipped this on my last visit to Cape Town, but I quickly realized why it should be on top of everyone’s list. The area contains dozens of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options and is the perfect place to grab lunch or dinner while gazing out into the harbor.

This is also the launching point of our Cape Town helicopter tour. I had never flown in a helicopter before, so I was a bit nervous, but the team at NAC Helicopters made the process simple and kept us safe while we viewed the city from the sky. For being a travel journalist, I have a strange fear of flying, so being thousands of feet in the air is a bit unnerving, but the views were incredible.

South Africa is known for its incredible wines. If you are looking to visit some vineyards while in Cape Town, Jeep Tours Cape Town offers tours of the Stellenbosch region, just a quick 45 minutes from the city. We had the opportunity to stop by three beautiful vineyards and sample some of their world-class wines including Chenin Blanc and Pinotage, the signature grape of the region. Jeep Tours Cape Town have personal relationships with each vineyard they visit and therefore have access to private spots not available to the public. The woman-owned business can customize trips from a small party to a large group and if you would like to just visit LGBTQ vineyards or those which employ LGBTQ winemakers, they can make that happen as well.

Gay culture is plentiful in Cape Town. Almost everywhere you visit will be welcoming to LGBTQ tourists, but if you are looking to grab a cocktail at LGBTQ-specific spots, try Café Manhattan and Beefcakes, where the servers are shirtless and offer guests the opportunity to take shots off their scantily clad bodies…or so I’ve heard!

The next day we flew out to Port Elizabeth, just a quick one-hour hop from Cape Town, where we were met by our drivers to bring us to Shamwari Game Reserve, a private game reserve that offers multiple 5-star accommodations, an animal rehabilitation center, and a Born Free campus which rescues animals who were used in a circus or purchased for pets. Born Free operates in multiple countries throughout the world including Kenya, Ethiopia, and Australia.

Driving up to our resort on Shamwari was like a scene out of a movie. We passed zebra, and herds of impala and springbok as we cruised along the dirt road. The staff at Long Lee Manor was waiting for us with warm hand towels and refreshing beverages before showing us to our rooms, which came complete with a heated bed for those chilly safari nights as well as an outdoor shower so guests could feel at one with nature.

Monkeys love parading around the property with the intention of stealing food, so we were advised to never leave our doors open otherwise we may come back to stolen merchandise.

Long Lee Manor is comprised of 18 private rooms, a pool and pool house, a spa, and a full-service restaurant. Guests can relax with friends and family while they play board games and stare out into the vast savannah hoping to spot wildlife that frequents the watering hole.

After a quick change into my safari outfit, we headed out for our first game drive in hopes to spot some of the Big 5 – which include elephants, lions, leopards, cape buffalo, and rhinoceros.

Animal sightings are never guaranteed on safari. The reserve we were on was almost 40,000 hectares (100,000 acres), so the chances of spotting wildlife can vary depending on the time of year, weather, migration patterns, and behavior. Our guide Jacques has been a ranger for many years and is able to spot wildlife from what seemed like a mile away. Our first sighting was a few warthogs, then as we turned the corner, we ran into a family of elephants. Seeing these majestic animals in the wild is just awe-inspiring.

Although we kept our distance, we were still about 50 feet away, in striking distance if the animal wanted to charge us. Fortunately, we just sat in our vehicle and watched as the family ate their meal and interacted with each other. Elephants are one of nature’s most intelligent animals and develop feelings and bonds just like humans. Jacques told us a story of how he witnessed a calf being born and the others in the herd started trumpeting and dancing in celebration of the birth.

A few miles further up the road was a mother rhinoceros with her calf. The horn on the mother rhino was probably two feet in length and we were told spotting her with her young was very tricky as they hadn’t been seen in months.

As the sun began to set over Shamwari, we headed back to the resort for a Boma dinner, where we dined on traditional African foods outdoors around a communal fire. The meal consisted of a delicious soup and numerous types of meat. As we broke bread and recanted tales of the day’s activities it was hard not to pinch myself in disbelief. I was on safari for the second time, and it was just as magical as the first. It was a moment I didn’t want to take for granted.

The next morning, we woke up with the birds and began the second game drive of our stay. The mornings tend to be very chilly, and we were advised to dress in layers as the temperature fluctuates throughout the day. The good thing about morning drives is this is when animals are the most active.

About 20 minutes into the drive, we spotted two male lions, a young nomad being chased out of the territory of the elder lion. The young lion ran through the grass knowing he was not welcome. After he no longer viewed the nomad as a threat, the elder lion took a rest as we watched the encounter from about a football field away.

More sightings quickly followed; cape buffalo, springboks, impala, hippopotamus, rhino, and three female lionesses taking a much-needed afternoon rest. They are the hunters of the family so saving their energy is always well-deserved.

As the day drew to a close, the staff at Shamwari had one last surprise for us, a sundowner, which is basically a cocktail reception in the bush. The staff set up a full bar, appetizers, and some chairs around a campfire. We spent the next hour sipping cocktails and watching the sunset over the mountains. Something so small meant so much to all of us and made for an experience we won’t soon forget.

Guests at Shamwari can also opt to visit the Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, which helps to rehabilitate and care for sick, injured, abandoned, or orphaned animals. Once these animals have been nursed back to health, they are released back into their natural habitat.

It’s not an interactive visit, but an informative and educational experience, to give animals the best chance at a successful release. The Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre at Shamwari is a registered facility and as such, animals in need come from all over the Eastern Cape. The primary goal is to ultimately return all the animals back to the wild once they are healed.

As tired as we all were after our two-week adventure through South Africa, we didn’t want to leave Shamwari. It is a truly majestic place that is well worth the visit. I vowed to return and share these memories with other friends and family.

#travel #lgbtq #south africa

[thegaytraveler]

Pride is a year-round observance in Vegas

National Pride Month is celebrated every June, honoring the LGBTQ+ community and its contributions and culture. Las Vegas observes Pride year-round -- including its own official Pride celebration each October -- as the destination is an ideal place for members of the LGBTQ+ community to celebrate their true selves regardless of the occasion. Here are some Las Vegas Pride Month highlights, annual events and LGBTQ+ nightspots that keep the party going all year long.

PRIDE MONTH EVENTS IN LAS VEGAS

Caesars Entertainment will celebrate Pride Month by lighting up the High Roller observation wheel at The LINQ Promenade and the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas in rainbow colors on Thursday, June 1 and Wednesday, June 28.

The Venetian Resort Las Vegas kicks off Pride Month on Thursday, June 1 by displaying the colors of the Pride flag on the resort’s exterior tower signs.

In recognition and celebration of LGBTQ+ voices and culture, The Neon Museum has created a self-guided tour using the stanchion toppers which will be dotted around the Neon Boneyard to tell some of the LGBTQ+ stories of Las Vegas. Throughout the month, tour guides will place a greater emphasis on these stories, including facts from Las Vegas historian and queer advocate Dennis McBride. Highlights include stories about Liberace, Kenny Kerr and Christine Jorgensen.

Held every Saturday throughout June (and the summer season), the Las Vegas PRIDE Elevate Pool Party promises splash-tastic action at Retro Pool Lounge at SAHARA Las Vegas.

Cheapshot, a showroom and discotheque in downtown Las Vegas, presents an Elton John-themed piano bar experience every Saturday in June.

Celebrating 13 seasons, the long-running Temptation Sundays pool party at Luxor Hotel & Casino offers fun under the sun every Sunday in June—and the rest of the summer. The hotel’s resident production show, Fantasy, celebrates Pride Month with an additional number added to the production’s shows from Friday, June 16 to Sunday, June 18. The revue’s headliner will mesmerize the audience with a rendition “Born This Way” by Lady Gaga to recognize and show support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Visitors can lace up a pair of roller skates to show some pride, as Las Vegas PRIDE Family Skate Night presented by CRUSH is taking place on Monday, June 5 at Crystal Palace Rancho.

Visitors can participate in friendly competition at Las Vegas PRIDE Family Bingo at The Portal at AREA15 on Wednesday, June 7.

For adventure seekers, Las Vegas PRIDE OUTside Hike offers a trek along Mount Charleston’s Mary Jane Falls trail, taking place Sunday, June 11. The organization also plans monthly hikes throughout the year.

The Mexican hideaway of La Mona Rosa will present a Pride Brunch on Sunday, June 11 and Sunday, June 25. The event will feature a drag show at noon, as well as an exclusive pride cocktail and signature brunch items.

Las Vegas female impersonator Frank Marino will bring a crew of pop-culture favorites to Frankie’s Uptown at Downtown Summerlin for Frank Marino’s Divas Drag Brunch. Taking place on Sunday, June 11, the event features performers giving their very best impersonations of stars such as Taylor Swift, P!nk, Beyonce, Rihanna, Tina Turner and more.

Visitors looking for some laughs with a side of plasticware can enjoy the Tupperware Party with Dixie Longate at 24 Oxford at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas on Sunday, June 11, with proceeds benefitting Aid for AIDS Nevada (AFAN). The resort also presents a Pride Month House Party on Wednesday, June 14 at Kassi Beach House, which features LGBTQ+-friendly DJs, a face and body painter and more. Additionally, RuPaul’s Drag Race favorite Monét X Change performs at the hotel’s 24 Oxford lounge on Friday, June 16. The property’s monthlong celebration also includes a production from another RuPaul’s Drag Race alum, as Gia Gunn brings the gossip and drama on Sunday, June 18 to The Shag Room. The special installment of the venue’s Upside Down Tea Party, Spilling the Tea with Gia Gunn, will also feature live performances by Elise Victoria and benefit Aid for AIDS Nevada (AFAN).

GLAM returns to Ghostbar at Palms Casino Resort on Sunday, June 11, hosted by American Idol alumni Mikalah Gordon and featuring DJ Lisa Pittman.

Sports fans can take in a game featuring the World Champion Las Vegas Aces on Thursday, June 15, as Las Vegas Aces PRIDE Night takes place at Michelob ULTRA Arena at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino.

The 6th Annual PRIDE Bar Crawl takes place Saturday, June 17, when LGBTQ+ bars and mainstream venues invite revelers to hop around the destination. Registration begins at Therapy in the Fremont Street Entertainment District, with the event ending in a drag show and after-party at FreeZone Nightclub & Bar in Las Vegas’ beloved Fruit Loop.

Longtime Las Vegas female impersonator Frank Marino puts on Love Out Loud, a drag brunch at Level Up inside MGM Grand Hotel & Casino on Sunday, June 18. The event will feature performances by Marino and his Divas and include a buffet style brunch and two hours of bottomless champagne or sparkling wine.

Frank Marino continues his Love Out Loud experience with Guyote Sunday at Coyote Ugly at New York-New York Hotel & Casino on Sunday, June 18. The event includes a special performance by Thunder From Down Under and a one-hour meet-and-greet session with the cast. The event also offers a special opportunity for male guests to be allowed to dance on the bars with the Coyote Ugly dancers.

The Liberace: Real and Beyond exhibit opens at the Nevada State Museum, Las Vegas opens on Saturday, June 24. The display chronicles the LGBTQ+ icon’s life and features many personal items, including costumes, pianos, automobiles and more.

Gold Spike in downtown Las Vegas has announced the return of its Drag Queen Bingo night. Being held in the venue’s Backyard space, the Pride Month installment takes place on Thursday, June 29, featuring bingo games, live performances, giveaways and drink specials. An additional installment will take place on Thursday, Aug. 31.

UPCOMING LGBTQ+ EVENTS IN VEGAS

Wynn Las Vegas will host two well-known LGBTQ+ comedians in July, as Tom Dillon plays the Encore Theater on Saturday, July 22, with Mateo Lane following in the same space on Saturday, July 29.

Singer, choreographer and internet sensation Todrick Hall will take the Vegas stage on Tuesday, Sept. 19, as he presents Todrick Hall: Velvet Rage at House of Blues Las Vegas at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino.

LAS VEGAS PRIDE EVENTS

Las Vegas PRIDE celebrates 40 years with the Ruby Anniversary, aptly named Red and Wild. The annual Las Vegas PRIDE Parade—one of the only nighttime gay pride parades in the United States—kicks off the celebration on Friday, Oct. 6 in downtown Las Vegas. The procession, taking place down Fourth Street, features fabulous floats, glamorous drag queens, community organizations and more.

The parade is only the beginning of a weekend-long celebration of LGBTQ+ unity, as the Las Vegas PRIDE Festival takes place on Saturday, Oct. 7. Held at the Craig Ranch Regional Park, the event features entertainment, food and beverage, family-friendly activities and more.

Las Vegas PRIDE also sponsors additional parties throughout PRIDE weekend and several non-sanctioned parties at the LGBTQ+ venues in the destination also host celebratory events.

ANNUAL LGBTQ+ EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR IN LAS VEGAS

The Aid for AIDS of Nevada’s AIDS Walk Las Vegas occurs annually in May, most recently taking place at Sunset Park. Now in its 33rd year, the event features entertainment from community and Strip performers, including Chippendales, Vegas! The Show, the Las Vegas Men’s Chorus and more. The Nevada Gay Rodeo Association’s most anticipated event of the year, the BigHorn Rodeo, takes place from Friday, Sept. 15 to Sunday, Sept. 17 at Horseman’s Park. The annual event features rough stock, roping, speed, and camp events. The organization also puts on several gatherings throughout the year, including Cowboy Bingo Night at Quadz Video Bar. Attendees can participate in the classic game with the chance to win fabulous raffle prizes from sponsors and supporters.

Also held in May, the Henderson Pride Festival features a series of events focused on celebrating diversity, self-awareness and promoting health and wellness. The event traditionally features live entertainment, food trucks, a family fun zone, vendors and more.

The Imperial Royal Sovereign Court of the Desert Empire, Inc. hosts its Las Vegas Coronation event each December, which attracts International Imperial Royal Court System dignitaries from across the United States to the destination.

Held each January, the Sin City Classic is a multi-day LGBTQ+ sports festival. Started in 2008, the event has grown to become the largest annual LGBTQ+ sporting event in the world. Nearly 8,000 LGBTQ+ athletes and another 2,000 fans and allies will attend the event, which provides an open atmosphere for LGBTQ+ athletes to connect and compete over the course of four days of competition and social activities.

LGBTQ+ WEDDINGS

Caesars Entertainment offers several nuptial options for same-sex and gender non-binary couples at its resorts throughout the destination, with options to say “I do” on The LINQ Hotel + Experience’s High Roller observation wheel, on the Eiffel Tower deck at Paris Las Vegas, and at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, where celebrity-style wedding packages come complete with paparazzi and a red-carpet host.

Famed for theatrical themed weddings, the Viva Las Vegas Wedding Chapel offers two new wedding packages: “ShElvis” and “Queens of Vegas.” The two packages performed by icons of drag launches during National Pride Month but will be offered year-round. The ShElvis package includes a drag queen Elvis serving as the officiant, who also will perform two songs; while the Queens of Vegas package features a choice of a drag queen Madonna or Cher impersonator. Both packages include florals, photos, limousine transportation and more.

LGBTQ+ ENTERTAINMENT AND NIGHTLIFE   Part of a chain of western-themed gay bars, Charlie’s Las Vegas is a short ride from the Strip on the west side of Las Vegas. The space features a full dance floor and a vibrant entertainment calendar including drag shows, karaoke, and bingo.    FreeZone Nightclub and Bar pairs a casual atmosphere with upbeat music and nightly events like karaoke and drag shows. Guests can also grab a bite from their bar menu or play a round of pool.    Just off the Strip, Fun Hog Ranch is a casual hangout offering several beers on tap, cocktails and more. The welcoming space routinely partners with community organizations for fun, themed events.    The Garage, located a few miles off the Strip, is a hot spot for locals and visitors alike. Modeled after an auto-body shop, the bar features pool tables, shuffleboard and darts, in addition to drink specials and mouth-watering bar bites.    The Garden Las Vegas is an intimate and chic lounge bar located in the Downtown Las Vegas Arts District, featuring craft cocktails, light bites, and extravagant ambiance. Visitors can join some of the most talented drag queens every Saturday and Sunday at the Bottomless Drag Brunch for endless cocktails, delicious food and fun that slays.  Serving up unforgettable parties seven nights a week, Piranha Nightclub is the ultimate late-night location for LGBTQ+ revelers. From international DJs to world famous drag queens, the entertainment is top-notch and draws a lively, diverse crowd. Depending on the occasion, guests can enjoy a cocktail or dance the night away on Piranha’s state-of-the-art dance floors among go-go dancers.    Just a short walk from Piranha and FreeZone is Quadz. In addition to pool tables and darts, the bar also features regular special events, including bingo and themed parties.

From the creative team behind the Emmy Award-winning series RuPaul’s Drag Race, RuPaul’s Drag Race Live! at Flamingo Las Vegas is an extravaganza featuring cast favorites including Derrick Barry, Jaida Essence Hall, Jorgeous and more.

Drag Brunch at Señor Frog’s at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino offers an unlimited supply of mimosas, a bottomless Southwestern-inspired buffet, and entertainment from queens—or royalty—from RuPaul’s Drag Race, including Shannel and Kahanna Montrese.

#las vegas #vegas #lgbtq #lgbtq travel #pride

[thegaytraveler]

Mexico’s State of Nayarit welcomes LGBTQ+ travelers

By Gustavo Rivas-Solis, Guest Contributor

The recipe for a world-class LGBTQ+ destination is simple: All you need are fabulous hotels, beautiful beaches, exquisite dining, electric nightlife, gorgeous scenery and, of course, an inclusive energy. Enter Mexico’s State of Nayarit, a destination that exceeds in these areas and beyond. It’s a place practically tailor-made for LGBTQ+ travel.

In fact, Nayarit has been catching the eyes of LGBTQ+ travelers for a while now. It is one of the many states in Mexico that recognize same-sex marriage and has always been a champion for inclusivity, including a unique Huichol (indigenous) ceremony, with a Marakame (a person who is an intermediate between the living the spirit world) who “unites the souls”.

 In 2022, the state’s beaches –also known as the Riviera Nayarit –took home the award for top Beach Destination at the LGBT+ Travel Awards Mexico. The organization recognized Riviera Nayarit for its diversity, inclusion and respect for all.

 Nayarit is home to many wonderful cities, beach towns and small villages, all of which are ready to welcome and host LGBTQ+ travelers. From the gorgeous oceanfront resorts and restaurants of Nuevo Nayarit to boutique-heavy bohemian beach towns like Sayulita, the luxury hotspots of Punta Mita, like Thierry Blouet’s Tuna Blanca, and the rugged nature and beautiful wildlife of San Blas, Nayarit has a vibe to fit every style of traveler.

 Of course, the LGBTQ+ community is welcome beyond just the beaches in the state of Nayarit. The state capital, Tepic, forexample, has a small but active gay scene, with several gay bars, as well as anannual Pride march held every June.

 Among the top draws to Nayarit for LGBTQ+travelers is a lengthy list of luxury hotels, resorts and villas.Punta Mita is one of the top luxury enclaves within the state of Nayarit.

It is home to five-star resorts like St. Regis Punta Mita Resort, the newly opened Naviva by Four Seasons Resort PuntaMita, the new adults-only, 15 glamping suites; and the Susurros del Corazon, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection.

Travelers will also find other resorts along northern Punta de Mita, as well as one of the most robust villa rental portfolios in the country.

More boutique hotel options can be found in between, from the village of Bucerias up through Sayulita, San Pancho, Chacala known for its wellness offering, and San Blas for bird watching.

Nayarit is perfect for the active LGBTQ+ travelers who want to experience more than just sun and sand — though the beaches along the Riviera Nayarit are among the most pristine in Mexico, particularly for surfers. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot thousands of migratory birds in the seaside village of San Blas and Islas Marias, San Pancho, Islas Marietas National Park, a protected park known for its marine life, as well as its birds. Hiking, mountain biking and yoga are also all part of the Nayarit experience.

 Visitors can also take their time learning about history and culture. Nayarit has four of Mexico’s famous Pueblos Magicos, or “Magic Towns,” that are recognized for their preserved history, culture and traditions.

Sayulita is arguably the most famous Pueblo Magico in not only Nayarit but all of Mexico, and the state is also home to Compostela, Jala andMexcaltitan. Compostela boasts splendid churches and gorgeous colonial architecture, as well as one of Mexico’s largest bird sanctuaries. The town of Jala sits in the shadow of the Ceboruco volcano, which is a beautiful spot for hiking or watching the sunset. Mexcaltitan is known as the Venice of Mexico, thanks to the canals that form within the streets during the rainy season. The car-free island is splashed with brightly colored houses and features some of the best seafood in Mexico.

The beauty of the state of Nayarit is that it offers a little bit of something for everyone. Every type of traveler, regardless of sexual orientation, has their own style and vibe – and the state of Nayarit has a resort, community and experience to match.

[thegaytraveler]

Pride 2023 hotel packages and events

A newly renovated guestroom at New York New York Hotel & Casino.

The Curtis Hotel - Denver

Denver's The Curtis Hotel is offering its Love Out LOUD package throughout the month of June. This iconic, #StayHappy hotel's Pride package features: 

Charitable $10 donation to The Center on Colfax with each booking. The Center on Colfax is the largest LGBTQ community center in the Rocky Mountain region, giving voice to Colorado's lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) community.

Pride flag pillowcase to take with you  

Specialty Pride cocktail from The Corner Office, The Curtis Hotel’s onsite restaurant  

A Sweet Treat from Under the Umbrella Café and Bakery, a local LGBTQ+ - owned shop 

Exclusive Pride-inspired playlist curated by The Curtis’ #StayHappy team 

Pride Pack: colorful headbands, wristbands, festive temporary tattoos, glitter sunscreen, etc.   

In addition to the Love Out LOUD package, The Curtis is hosting a property-wide Pride celebration with weekly lobby activations like drag brunch and drag bingo at The Corner Office, their onsite restaurant.  

Central Station - Memphis

In the heart of Memphis’ recently revitalized South Main District, just steps away from the iconic Beale Street, Hilton's Central Station hotel is celebrating Pride all year long with a brand-new package. The GayTravel.com approved is offering guests 10% off the best available rate rooms, a complimentary Pride-inspired welcome cocktail, complimentary parking, and 1 p.m. late check-out when booking the package. 

In addition, throughout the month of June, the hotel lobby bar, Eight & Sand, and signature Brasserie, Bishop, will be serving the limited-time 6.26 Cocktail. Named in honor of the date that gay marriage became legal in the U.S., the cocktail is light, refreshing, and just a little sweet, and made with blanco tequila, rum, blue Curacao, lime and simple syrup with a grenadine float. 

Hyatt Regency - San Francisco 

The Embarcadero’s premier waterfront hotel, Hyatt Regency San Francisco, is located right at the start of Market Street where the iconic SF Pride Parade begins and it’s the ideal location for the best balcony view of the festivities. The hotel’s recent $50 Million renovation brings modernist touches to its affordably luxurious rooms and suites, located within walking distance to some of San Francisco’s most popular attractions. Along with unparalleled waterfront and cityscape views, guests can expect multiple recreational amenities, including two dining venues to choose from and the iconic San Francisco cable car stop just outside the hotel doors.  

Available to book now through June 25, in celebration of SF Pride, the hotel is offering the following package: 

Upgraded room balcony roomy/suite 

(2) Signature Pride cocktails upon check-in 

Invitation to the SF Pride Parade viewing event in the hotel’s corner suite overlooking Market St. (*if your stay overlaps with the parade)  

Andaz Mexico City Condesa

Pride celebrations are growing everywhere, but not as fast as the festivities in Mexico City. North America’s largest city totally embraces gay culture, and with its burgeoning art scene and abundance of incredible new restaurants to discover, Mexico City has quickly become a top “it” destination for the queer community. Within Mexico City, the best area to stay for easy access to Pride parties and celebrations is the stylish and ultra-of-the-moment neighborhood of Condesa. An enclave of artists, designers, chefs and globally minded tastemakers, Condesa is brimming with art galleries, bookstores, cozy cafes, lively flower stands, and chic boutiques, and Andaz Mexico City Condesa is in the epicenter of all the action. The hotel is offering 20% off stays during Pride as well as offering specialty Pride-themed cocktails at its trendy new rooftop restaurant Cabuya Rooftop and colorful pastries at Derba Matcha Cafe.

Hotel Belmar, Costa Rica  

Located along the cloud forest mountain ranges of Costa Rica, Hotel Belmar is an award winning, upscale, planet positive hotel that is globally recognized as a leader in responsible tourism who celebrates diversity year-round. The hotel supports the LGBTQ+ community with monthly Live & Proud events that are safe gatherings of hearts and minds, and which feature LGBTIQ+ musicians and guest speakers in partnership with Casa Rara, a non-profit network that supports and aids Costa Rica’s disenfranchised LGBTIQ+ populations.

As part of June Pride Month, Hotel Belmar has released a set of Pride Month offers, including a FREE Pride Live & Proud event taking place on Saturday, June 17 at the hotel’s Cervecería Belmar Tap Room & Beer Garden starting at 2:00 p.m. and which features a Feminism Talk led by Casa Rara, a History of Pride and poster making workshop and a pop dance hits DJ set by artist SONORÆ en Plutón. Throughout Pride Month, the hotel will also donate $1 from the purchase of any beer to Casa Rara. The hotel welcomes members of the LGBTQ community with a 15% discount on any guestroom or suite for stays during Pride Month with promo code PRIDE15. Rates start at $219.  

W New York Times Square

The W New York - Times Square places you at the center of one of the world’s largest hubs for Pride Month celebrations with its own events and over-the-top special offer to match. An official NYC Pride partner for 2023, the hotels Ultimate Pride Weekend VIP package requires a minimum three-night stay between June 23-26 and includes two (2) tickets to Planet Pride’s Avant Garner Event at Brooklyn Mirage on June 24; two (2) tickets to the sold out Dreamland Pride Event in Central Park on June 25; two (2) sip tickets per day to use at Living Room Bar; early check-in based on availability; late checkout at 2pm based on availability; and a W Pride Insider Guide. Book at this link. Additional Pride Month hotel events shared below.

FANG x W New York - Times Square Pop-Up Shop: The gender-expansive fashion line FANG will be featured as a shoppable experience in the hotel’s W Style Lab, allowing guests and the public to shop statement designs that go beyond forward-thinking fashion and celebrate diversity, inclusion and support. The shop will kick off with a special event in the hotel’s Living Room Bar on Thursday, June 8 at 6:30pm and feature LGBTQ+ DJ Luis Fernando, craft cocktails and more – with no RSVP required.  Throughout the month, the FANG pop-up at Style Lab will be open from June 8-June 18 & June 21-June 24. 

Camp Queer Pride Music Event: To celebrate Pride Month, on Saturday, June 17 from 9pm-2am, W New York - Times Square will host Camp Queer in its Living Room Bar with live music by LGBTQ+ DJs Dragonette (Club Set) + Crush Club. Sip on curated cocktails and reconnect with friends while dancing the night away to some of the best in pop electronic music. Tickets are required for entry before 11pm, cost $55.52 and can be purchased here. VIP cabana packages are available for groups up to six (6). 

Crowne Plaza HY36 - New York

Midtown Manhattan hotel Crowne Plaza HY36 launches its Pride package — Stay with Pride — to last through June. The package includes two Pride-themed cocktails at the hotel’s restaurant Burgerology and a curated welcome bag filled with all Pride necessities and goodies, such as sunblock, glitter and of course a Pride flag. Additionally, Crowne Plaza HY36 will donate $10 for every package booked to The Ali Forney Center, a NYC-based nonprofit that protects LGBTQ+ youth from homelessness and empowers them with the tools needed to live independently.

Virgin Hotels NYC

if you’re looking for a way to celebrate Pride month in the heart of NYC, look no further than the brand new Virgin Hotels NYC.

With a curated lineup of events and activations, including a number of Pride-themed parties taking place at Everdene and The Pool Club as well as a community yoga class, you won’t want to miss out on all of the action at Virgin.

Cocktail for a Cause at Virgin Hotels NYC

Raise a glass to equality while enjoying a specialty Chambord cocktail at Everdene - “The Perfect Union.'' This exclusive Everdene cocktail is a transformative experience that will leave you amazed and delighted, and with proceeds going to LGBTQ+ organization PFLAG. A beautiful and delicious blend of Chambord, Tequila & Mezcal, Rockey’s Liqueur, Fever-Tree Ginger Beer, and Lime, as you top the cocktail with Chambord, you'll see the vibrant purple color slowly mix in, creating a stunning visual effect.

Pride-Themed Community Yoga Class with Alo Yoga at Virgin Hotels NYC

In honor of International Yoga Day, on Wednesday, June 21 at 9:30am the hotel is hosting a Yoga class in partnership with Alo, inviting both guests and locals of all yoga levels to come together and celebrate Pride while also focusing on wellness. In lieu of payment for the class, attendees will have the opportunity to make a donation to an LGBTQ+ charity. Hotel spa partner Exhale will be joining in on the fun to offer participants a sneak peek into Virgin’s brand new spa menu! 

Hotel Pride Packages at Virgin Hotels NYC

The Pride & Joy package includes 2 nights in a Chamber (June 23-25) with $100 credit towards House of Yes Queen Supreme brunch, complimentary welcome cocktails, Pride swag, and late checkout.

The City of Pride package includes a Chamber King Empire View stay (Available for any dates June 1st - 30th), 2 Chambord welcome cocktails at Everdene or The Pool Club and a complimentary pride swag bag. 

Pride events at Virgin Hotels NYC:

Thursday, June 22nd

HOT CHERRY Who: Stiletto, Ryan Farr, Special Guest Icono Pop When:9PM - 1AM Where: Everdene

Friday, June 23rd

EXTRA VIRGIN (Pride Edition) Who: Steve Travolta, Hex Hector, Joi Cardwell, Hosted by Christina Visca When: 6PM - 12AM+ Where: Everdene

Saturday, June 24th

SPLASH! Who: Love Prism Swim, Boyyyish, Erik Izquierdo When: 4PM - 10PM  Where: Pool Club

QUIANA PARKS + BRIAN HENRY Who: Quiana Parks, Brian Henry When: 5PM - 10PM Where: Everdene Lounge

IT’S ALL LOVE Who: Nas Leber + Friends When: 10PM - 2AM Where: Everdene Lounge

Sunday, June 25th

QUEEN SUPREME BRUNCH: DJ + LIVE Who: House of Yes, Amber Valentine When: 12PM - 4PM Where: Everdene Lounge

SPLASH Who: Curated by No Promises When: 3PM - 10PM Where: Pool Club

NIGHTBIRDZ Who: Mr JPatt, Dragon Sisters, Kevin Aviance. Hosted by Patrick Duffy + Jerome Lamar When: 8PM - 2AM Where: Everdene

MGM Resorts - Las Vegas

MGM Grand Hotel & Casino

Guests are invited to show off their pride all month long with a picture perfect Insta-moment as Leo the Lion inside the main MGM Grand lobby is surrounded with rainbow florals to commemorate Pride.

Level Up: Friday, June 16; 8p.m. – 3 a.m. (Complimentary admission)

The Love Out Loud Dance Party will feature specialty menus and décor. Local Top 40 band, Status and DJ Woodrow will play the hottest music to get guests moving and grooving. Chambord Drag Queens will make an appearance from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. to light up the night.

Level Up: Saturday, June 17; 10 p.m. – 3 a.m. (Complimentary admission)

Love Out Loud Latin Night is hosting a Pride celebration including specialty menus and decorations. Live music performed by local band, Volume 1 and DJ Absent Mynded will have guests dancing the night away.

Level Up: Sunday, June 18; 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. (Admission is $99 per person)

Love Out Loud Drag Brunch invites guests to enjoy a high-energy Pride fete featuring a buffet-style feast and two-hour bottomless bubbly from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Guests can party proudly with the iconic Frank Marino’s Divas impersonating pop superstars followed by DJ Jewel queuing up the latest and greatest hits.

Level Up: Sunday, June 18; 9 p.m. – 1 a.m. (Complimentary admission)

Love Out Loud Karaoke hosts an exciting and inviting Pride event with a specialty beverage menu and appearances by Chambord Queens from 11 p.m. to 1 a.m. while Busker King Live Band Karaoke rocks the mic from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.

New York-New York Hotel & Casino

Following the completion of its $63 million room remodel project, New York-New York is ready to celebrate Pride.

Coyote Ugly: Friday, June 16; 9 p.m. – 3 a.m. (Admission is $10)

Located inside New York-New York, Coyote Ugly is hosting a “Lipstick & Swag Girl Power Party” where everyone is invited to dance to DJ Jump playing the latest and greatest hits while enjoying Bottomless Bubble Hour from 11 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Coyote Ugly: Saturday, June 17; 9 p.m. – 3 a.m. (Admission is $10)

The fun continues at Coyote Ugly with a “Strut Your Stuff Saloon” featuring a Bottomless Bubble Hour from 11 p.m. to 12 a.m. with DJ Jump spinning chart-breaking hits.

Coyote Ugly: Sunday, June 18; 9 p.m. – 2 a.m. (Admission is $10)

Coyote Ugly invites the guys to “Guyote Ugly” where DJ Jump and DJ Jayden Thunder will play top tracks with flowing drink specials and an appearance by Thunder From Down Under dancers.

Luxor Hotel & Casino

The Luxor Pyramid will illuminate the sky with rainbow-colored tracer lights in celebration of Pride all month long. In addition, Luxor's Temptation Sundays will hold a special Pride celebration from noon until 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 18. The Strip’s hottest all-inclusive pool party will have beats from DJ Lexto and DJ Tantan along with a special guest from “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” rainbow décor, and activations by Ketel One Botanicals.

For the ultimate experience, Temptation Sundays’ Pride guests can book reserved seating options, including lounge chairs with umbrellas, daybeds, or a luxurious cabana. Temptation Sundays’ cabanas include entry for up to eight guests, four plush lounge chairs and a mini-fridge for the ultimate indulgent day by the pool.

You can find additional information about MGM Resorts' Pride promotions, including stay packages here.

The St. Regis Punta Mita Resort - Nayarit, Mexico

Just an hour north of Puerto Vallarta, a destination frequented by gay travelers due to its ultra LGBTQ+ friendly vibe and annual Pride Parade, the newly renovated St. Regis Punta Mita Resort in Nayarit is adding to the regional celebrations with a Pride Month Love is the Language package. Available for stays in June, this offer includes a Souls Union Traditional Huichol ceremony, reconnection therapy at Remede Spa, including sound healing and meditation, a private yacht tour to Hidden Beach at Las Marietas Island, and a blind dinner experience for two to stimulate the sense. 

24 North & The Gates - Key West

24 North & The Gates, both part of The Keys Collection, offer exceptional accommodations with a boutique feel and are located only a 10-minute walk from Key West's famed Duval Street. The hotels are offering specials for Key West Pride, including a discount on all drinks for participants in the Big Gay 5K on Saturday, June 10. The celebration continues at the hotels' Pride-themed ‘Splash Bash’ pool party, featuring live music, specialty cocktails, and light bites on Saturday, June 24.

#travel #lgbtq #pride

[thegaytraveler]

AspenOUT and W Aspen partner for inaugural launch of Aspen Pride

W Aspen

Longtime Aspen nonprofit LGBTQ+ advocacy and support organization, AspenOUT and W Aspen have partnered to launch Aspen Pride this June for the first year in the city’s history.

“For 27 years, AspenOUT has been a part of the Aspen Community and is synonymous for hosting Aspen Gay Ski Week,” said Chris Jaycock, General Manager, W Aspen. “Based on demand, W Aspen and AspenOUT partnered to create Aspen’s inaugural Pride event. We have a longstanding commitment to the LGBTQ+ community. Ensuring that we are creating a safe and welcoming environment where all feel valued and accepted is at the heart of everything we do at the W, and we couldn’t be more excited to be the host hotel for Aspen Pride.” 

W Aspen will kick off Aspen Pride with a month-long series of activities, including Pride Opening Weekend:

Beginning on Friday, June 2, guests and locals are invited to start Aspen Pride with a splash on W Aspen’s WETdeck, surrounded by beats from an incredible lineup of LGBTQ+ DJs. The Pale Rosé by Sacha Lichine will also be activating a limited-edition Pale Pong table for guests to try their hand at the elevated party game for the month of June, available exclusively on WETdeck.

Festivities continue with a foray into Aspen’s spectacular mountain landscape to enjoy a serene yoga class on Saturday, June 3, led by a special guest and yoga guru, all capped off with a champagne toast. A prominent tastemaker and spirits writer will also be on-property hosting Mixology 101 and sharing his masterful cocktails with guests. The day’s events will culminate with Pride Ball Extravaganza, featuring stellar DJs and special performances throughout the hotel.

Guests are also invited to enjoy a jam-packed Comedy Brunch Sunday, June 4, featuring unforgettable comics, glam stations, and costume closets. All ticket proceeds from Pride Opening Weekend will be donated directly to AspenOut.  

In addition, throughout the month of June, W Aspen will offer new programming and incentives to support the LGBTQ+ and greater Aspen community. Every Thursday in June, proceeds from cocktail purchases will be donated to AspenOut. There will also be mixology classes by legendary bartenders and pop-ups by renowned cocktail bars as well as wellness events such as morning yoga sessions, stretching and meditation classes, sound baths, and other mindfulness programs.  

“It is important to us at W Aspen, to work with partners and vendors who share in our values of acceptance and community support,” said Ryan Crist, Director of Marketing and Sales, W Aspen. “The brands W Aspen has partnered with all have made social and financial commitments to organizations supporting the LGBTQ+ community and are integral to our Aspen community, making them valuable partners for this hotel and patrons of our property.” 

Guests and locals are invited to start Aspen Pride with a splash, the evening of Friday, June 2 on W Aspen’s WETdeck, surrounded by beats from an incredible lineup of LGBTQ+ DJs. The Pale Rosé by Sacha Lichine will also be activating a limited-edition Pale Pong table for guests to try their hand at the elevated party game for the month of June, available exclusively on WETdeck. Festivities continue with a foray into Aspen’s spectacular mountain landscape to enjoy a serene yoga class, June 3, led by a special guest and yoga guru, all capped off with a champagne toast. A prominent tastemaker and spirits writer will also be on-property hosting Mixology 101 and sharing his masterful cocktails with guests. The day’s events will culminate with Pride Ball Extravaganza, featuring stellar DJs and special performances throughout the hotel. Guests are invited to enjoy a jam-packed Comedy Brunch Sunday, June 4, featuring unforgettable comics, glam stations, and costume closets. All ticket proceeds from Pride Opening Weekend will be donated directly to AspenOut.  

Special Room reservations, which include all-access passes can be made online, using code LPR when booking. For each room booked using the code, W Aspen will make a donation to AspenOUT. 

#aspen #lgbtq #travel

[thegaytraveler]

Get ready to sizzle in Vegas: Temptation Sundays returns for its 13th season

Las Vegas' hottest pool party is back as Temptation Sundays presented by bubly returns to Luxor Hotel and Casino for its 13th sizzling season.

Beginning May 14 and through September 3, Vegas’ longest-running LGBTQ+ pool party will “dive into” Luxor’s North Pool from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. every Sunday. Host Eduardo Cordova, the nightlife impresario behind the award-winning LGBTQ+ ultra lounge The Garden, invites tourists and Vegas locals alike to celebrate the summer at The Strip’s hottest all-inclusive pool party, where everyone parties loud and proud.

“Temptation Sundays is The Strip’s most popular LGBTQ+ pool party, where every weekend we create unique experiences you can’t find anywhere else,” said Cordova. “This year will be the hottest season yet -- more drag queens, more sexy go-go dancers, the hottest DJs and some exciting surprises.”

Grand opening special guests at the May 14 event will include LGBTQ+ icons Travis Wall, two-time Emmy Award-winning choreographer and dancer; Jade Jolie and Tamisha Iman from “RuPaul’s Drag Race”; and Miss Nevada Kataluna Enriquez, the first transgender woman to compete in Miss USA. There will also be appearances by Drag Queens Salem Night and Desiree St. James and DJ Jae Fuze will be spinning the most popular dance hits.

For the ultimate experience, Temptation Sundays’ guests can book reserved seating options including lounge chairs with umbrellas, daybeds or a luxurious cabana. Temptation Sundays’ cabanas include entry for up to eight guests, four plush lounge chairs and a mini fridge for the ultimate indulgent day by the pool.

Temptation Sundays is open to both hotel and non-hotel guests. Space is limited so guests are encouraged to make plans early and book reservations in advance at temptationsundays.com. All partygoers must be 21+. Admission prices are subject to change for special events and holidays.

Luxor is operated by MGM Resorts Internationa, which has been a pioneering supporter of the LGBTQ+ community. In 2022, the Human Rights Campaign named MGM Resorts one of the nation’s "Best Places to Work for LGBTQ+ Equality," with the company receiving a perfect score of 100 for the 11th consecutive year on Corporate Equality Index - the nation’s foremost benchmarking survey and report measuring corporate policies and practices related to LGBTQ+ workplace equality.

#Las Vegas #Vegas #Temptation Sundays #LGBTQ

[thegaytraveler]

The best little drag shows in Vegas

Drag queens have become the latest target of social conservative activists and lawmakers. However, as many destinations rush to pass restrictions on drag performances, Vegas embraces the art form and community.

Visitors to Vegas will find plenty of spectacular drag shows on and off the Strip

RuPaul’s Drag Rave Live! brings the Emmy Award-winning reality competition program to the Strip at Flamingo Las Vegas. Running Thursday to Monday, the production features some of the television show’s most memorable drag queens, including Derrick Barry, Jaida Essence Hall and Jorgeous. It was recently announced that Season 14 queens Deja Sky and Daya Betty have joined the cast.

Also at the Flamingo Las Vegas, the RuPaul’s Werk Room allows fans to immerse themselves in RuPaul’s Drag Race. The pop-up boutique is set up just like the workroom where the reality show’s competitors craft their creative looks. Visitors can shop for merchandise, get a makeover and even meet the queens of RuPaul’s Drag Race Live!

Señor Frog’s Restaurant & Bar at Treasure Island Hotel & Casino continues to present its longtime Drag Brunch every Thursday to Sunday. Visitors can enjoy a Southwestern-inspired buffet and bottomless mimosas while taking in performances from RuPaul’s Drag Race queens like Shannel and Kahanna Montrese.

Gold Spike in downtown Las Vegas has announced the return of its Drag Queen Bingo night. The event features bingo games, live performances, giveaways and drink specials. Held in the nightlife destination’s Backyard area, upcoming shows will take place on Thursday, June 29 and Thursday, August 31.

The Garden Las Vegas continues to present its Drag Bottomless Brunch every Saturday and Sunday. The event is complete with bottomless cocktails, a menu of brunch favorites, and live performances. The restaurant’s resident drag queens include many RuPaul’s Drag Race alumni, such as Elliott with Two T’s, Tamisha Iman, and Jade Jolie. The drag-centric venue also presents drag shows on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

Charlie’s Las Vegas puts on its Drag Bingo every Thursday and Saturday. The off-Strip, country-themed gay bar presents drag shows throughout the week, as well as a Karaoke Night on Mondays and a “Gayme Night” on Tuesdays that are hosted by well-known local queens.

Located in the “Fruit Loop” gay neighborhood just off the Strip, FreeZone Nightclub and Bar regularly presents drag events. From weekly drag shows to its monthly Drag Queen Brunch (held every last Sunday), queens can often be seen at the longtime venue.

Also in the “Fruit Loop," Piranha Nightclub presents drag shows throughout the week. The venue’s talent roster includes RuPaul’s Drag Race competitor Yara Sofia and Tina Turner impersonator Larry “Hot Chocolate” Edwards of Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous. The nightclub also puts on a RuPaul’s Drag Race Viewing Party on Fridays that is hosted by show alumnus Alexis Mateo.

In addition, Vegas is home to a number of shows featuring celebrity female impersonators, such as Frank Marino's Divas Las Vegas, Faaabulous The Show, and Diva Royale.

Learn more about all of Vegas' LGBTQ+ friendly offerings at visitlasvegas.com.

#travel #las vegas #drag queens

[thegaytraveler]

Vegas is back, bigger and better

While much of the world was on pause during the pandemic, but Vegas was busy building, remodeling, and planning. I recently visited and shared insights and updates on FOX 5 DC WTTG-TV.

Learn more about visiting Vegas at visitlasvegas.com.

#travel #las vegas #Youtube

[thegaytraveler]

Pride Journey: Coastal Mississippi

By Joey Amato, Guest Contributor

Every now and then I visit a destination I know absolutely nothing about. That happened a few years ago when I visited Oklahoma City and I fell in love with OKC. This time around, that destination was Coastal Mississippi, more specifically Biloxi, Gulfport, and Ocean Springs. In fact, the only thing I knew about the Biloxi was the hotel I stayed at, Beau Rivage. I knew it was owned by MGM Resorts, but that was about it. The rest of the trip was going to be a surprise.

For this particular trip, I wanted to focus on health and wellness and luckily, Beau Rivage’s most recent renovation included two floors full of Stay Well rooms as well as an updated spa. My gulf view room came complete with an aromatherapy machine, ultra high-end linens, a memory foam mattress, and pillows as well as a vitamin C dispenser hooked up to my shower. I had never seen one of those before, so I had to ask what it was.

After an early check in, I departed for Ocean Springs, a quaint town just east of Beau Rivage. My first stop was a place called Shearwater Pottery. Apparently, it is very well known to everyone but me. After posting pictures on social media, I received numerous comments from friends wanting to visit. Shearwater Pottery was founded in 1928 by Peter Anderson and from the 1920s through the present day, Shearwater Pottery has produced art pottery, utilitarian ware, figurines, decorative tiles, and other pottery pieces.

I had the opportunity to meet with Margie Ashley, the daughter of Peter Anderson who told me about her family’s legacy in Ocean Springs. At that time, Coastal Mississippi was known for fishing and not so much for the arts, so her family was viewed as outcasts but the community. Margie told me people used to called them the “crazy Andersons.” But they eventually had the last laugh as the family name has become as much of Coastal Mississippi culture as seafood gumbo.

A few minutes up the road from Shearwater Pottery is the Walter Anderson Museum of Art. Walter was the brother of Peter Anderson and equally as talented, creating thousands of works throughout his lifetime. Many of Walter Anderson’s paintings, drawings, murals, block prints, sculpture, carvings, and writings are on display at the museum.

The pièce de résistance is the Community Center, which is the site of Walter Anderson’s monumental 3,000 square foot mural, which depicts the historic discovery of the Mississippi Coast and its diverse climates. The city commissioned Walter Anderson in 1950 for a fee of $1.00 and the project took 16 months to complete.

For dinner, head to Vestige, a farm-to-table restaurant in Ocean Springs helmed by head chefs Alex Perry and his wife, Kumi Omori who were recently nominated for a James Beard Award. Vestige offers a pre-fixed menu which changes on a regular basis and contains only the freshest local ingredients. And if it’s not local, they fly it in from its land of origin to insure its freshness. We began our meal with sashimi of Hamachi complete with a foie gras emulsion, rose, purple sweet potato and magnolia flower kombucha veil. Yes, that was one dish and just an appetizer, but probably my favorite item on the menu.

After 3 more courses which consisted of a piece of perfectly cooked fish to charcoal grilled wagyu beef, the meal comes to an end with a delectable strawberry Bavarian, with cacao mint genoise, whipped match, grapefruit lemon curd and pecan ginger shortbread. This wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience worthy of a James Beard nomination and definitely the award for Best Chef: South.

You’ll need the rest of the night to recover from a food coma, so head back to Beau Rivage for some much-needed rest or hit the casino if your heart desires.

Head out the next morning to the recently opened Mississippi Aquarium in Gulfport, about 15 minutes west of Biloxi. The state-of-the-art facility is home to a variety of sea life and is one of the crown jewels of the area.

I can never see enough animals, so next on the agenda was the Institute of Marine Mammal Studies located at Ocean Adventures Marine Park. Guests can come up close and personal with stingrays, sea lions and dolphins. I had the opportunity to interact with a beautiful male dolphin, getting to rub his belly, give him commands and feed him some delicious fish. For my, I mean his hard work, I got a kiss from one of my favorite animals.

On the way back to your hotel, stop by Coastal Roast Coffee for an afternoon pick me up before dinner. I wasn’t sure what to expect at White Pillars. The bar was set really high at Vestige the night before, but I was in for another treat. We began our meal with a bowl of Oyster & Artichoke soup. I was a bit hesitant to order this at first as I didn’t want to begin my meal with something heavy, but when it arrived, it turned out to be one of the best soups I’ve had in a long time. It was light and fragrant, consisting of Gulf oysters, fennel, and oyster mushrooms in a coconut milk broth. When dining near the coast, why not try the Gulf Seafood Tower, two tiers of fresh oysters, mahi crudo, smoked fish dip and amberjack ceviche.

And those were just the starters. For my main course, I ordered the Duck Ramen prepared with a confit duck leg, collards, togarashi, duck cracklins, and the traditional soft-boiled egg. In fact, the egg was the only thing traditional about the dish, which was rich and delicious. The duck was cooked to perfection and the broth was fantastic.

The area is home to two LGBTQ bars, Sipp’s in Gulfport, and Just Us Lounge, located within walking distance of Beau Rivage. The crowd at Just Us was a melting pot of the area’s LGBTQ community, extremely diverse and welcoming. One thing to note is that smoking is still legal inside bars, so if that bothers you, there is a large outdoor space available.

I know I said I wanted to focus on health and wellness during this trip, but I seemed to have detoured from my mission somewhere in Ocean Springs. One can’t resist the food in Coastal Mississippi, so screw the diet for one more day and head to The Roasted Bean located in the lobby of Beau Rivage and ask for an order of beignets. These are not listed anywhere in plain site and are the best kept secret of the hotel. I received a tip from the captain of the Biloxi Shrimping Trip, which I went on the morning prior. The powdered sugar pastries where the best I’ve ever had. Light, airy, and simply delicious. They couldn’t have been that many calories, right?

End your stay in Coastal Mississippi with a relaxing CBD massage at the The Spa at Beau Rivage. The 80-minute massage uses CBD body oils as well as a Moor Mud treatment to soothe tired muscles and back pain. Playing with dolphins, eating oysters, and savoring beignets all weekend was quite stressful. If you are looking for a relaxed seaside vacation, put Coastal Mississippi on your radar. There are many unique experiences that will make your stay truly memorable. Visit coastalmississippi.com for more information about the destination.

#travel #lgbtq #lgbtq travel #costal mississippi