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Gay Vacations For Singles And The USA
May 4th, 2010 by Howie Holben, under Travel and Leisure. 1 Comment
While most individuals are welcome in most areas of the United States, there are definitely areas which are more accepting of the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered community than others. So, when such individuals travel, there is often more planning and research involved in choosing such a destination. To this end, there have been a number of travel guides published in relation to gay travel in the USA and beyond.
One such place is that of the cape off the coast of Massachusetts, as is reflected in a number of gay related tour guides and other information. In addition, areas such as Key West, FL are also more accepting and tend to host a predominately gay crowd when it comes to an area in which to celebrate marriage or visit while on Spring Break or for a Summer vacation. Therefore, it is possible for such individuals to feel quite at home in these two locations as well as many others which can also be found both online and in a variety of travel guides relating to same.
For, although the gay community has come along way in relation to gaining worldwide acceptance, there are still many roads to travel before such an accomplishment can be reached, if ever. This is because there are still several countries which do not welcome and some, who even have laws, related to homosexual lifestyles and behaviour. One such place being Morocco where one can be jailed simply for looking at someone of the same sex in a sexual way.
Regardless as to whether one buys travel guides or looks for such information online, there are a number of destinations which are more gay friendly than others. Although, one may want to call or e-mail businesses listed in such guides to be sure one is still in business. For, while most are successful, there are others which have had to close, especially during the recent economic downturn.
So, if one plans accordingly, based on knowledge about such a business, one can avoid any surprises which may be waiting at a preferred destination of choice. By doing so, one can also plan ahead with regards activities and lodging in the area along with finding a number of restaurants which not only cater to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered community but which also offer foods which one may require in relation to any dietary restrictions.
While the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered community has come along way, not only in the United States, but around the world, there is still a great deal more to be done before individuals can find true equality. Therefore, as one might envision, the States within the United States which honor and recognize gay marriage have some of the highest rates with regards to tourism. Something States such as California and others, currently striving to offset deficits may also want to consider before allowing such discrimination to continue.
However, if the States were smart, the States would pass laws applying the same equal rights with relation to gay marriage as others have done. For, in doing so, the States can increase their levels of tourism by promoting equality and acceptance for all. Something, States which have passed gay marriage laws have seen through an increase in associated tourism. To this end, many individuals seeking to go on vacation, often focus on the States which now have the option of gay marriage available on a legal basis, regardless as to whether one desires to get married on such a vacation or not.
Therefore, it is essential for safety during travel for individuals desiring to go on gay tours in the USA to do their research with regards to such travel. This is because if one knows the best and most welcoming areas which to visit, one can save oneself a great deal of frustration and possibly grief in the process. However, if one does such research and visits places which are openly welcoming of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered community, then one can have an outstanding vacation which can possibly offer more fun than one believes one can have in a lifetime.
Howie Holben, the author, is the owner of Spirit Journeys, a gay travel organization that focuses on spiritual travel. Howie has travelled the world learning from indigenous peoples. You can learn more about Howie, his work and gay trips with a spiritual concentration at Spirit Journeys website.
England As A Gay Holidays Destination
February 7th, 2010 by Howie Holben, under Travel and Leisure. No Comments
England offers a vast array of gay tours for singles and couples, which is one of the reasons that it continually remains among the most popular gay travel destinations in the world. With a highly visible lesbian and gay community, numerous gay events throughout the year and a much greater equality than that given to the LGBT community in the U.S., England is the perfect setting for gay vacations. Between the enticing London club scene, the restful shores of Brighton, the beautiful English countryside and the diverse urban landscapes, gay travel tourists of all kinds will delight in the gay vacation options that England provides.
Gay men and lesbians visiting London will certainly want to head to Old Compton Street and the Soho neighborhood where they will find a lively gay vacation and numerous gay clubs, bars, businesses and restaurants. Soho is the center of gay life in London and is in close proximity to some of Londons famous tourist attractions, such as Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Chelsea, Piccadilly Circus and Kensington. Also, London has a wonderful public transportation system, making all that London has to offer within reach. Further north, Manchester also offers a thriving gay culture with an exciting gay scene including many gay pubs, clubs and bars. Visitors will want to be sure to check out Canal Street in Manchesters gay village.
For seaside gay holidays, Brighton, aka Soho by the Sea, is home to the countrys second largest gay and lesbian community. Stroll along the pier, spend an afternoon on the famous pebble beach and explore the many unique boutiques and shops before heading to Kempton for dinner and a night on the town in this popular gay neighborhood in Brighton. Newcastle Gateshead is yet another gay-friendly option for a gay vacation in England and offers a bit of style and sophistication with a thriving gay scene complete with a gay village full of bars, clubs, cafs and pubs.
Gay men and lesbians will find gay-friendly lodgings in every region of England, including some options that are exclusively for the gay travel community or only gay men. If you are working with a travel agency that is accustomed to organizing gay vacations in England, your travel agent will be able to guide you to the gay-friendly hotel, bed and breakfast or other lodging option that best suits your needs. If you are interesting in roughing it during your gay vacation to England, there are also gay-owned and gay-friendly campsites available, such as the gay-owned Out in the Open campground in Cornwall and Brighthouse Farm in Suffolk, which has six acres of farmland for camping, as well as self-catering accommodations and a bed and breakfast.
Gay vacations planned with the assistance of a professional travel agency dedicated to arranging gay holidays is sure to be one of the greatest vacations of your life.
Article about England generated by Howie Holben. Spirit Journeys offers information on gay destinations and gay tantra.