The Hungarian Girl invites you to attend the 16th Stollen Festival in Dresden, Germany.

In occasion of the festival, a giant stollen bread will be baked and paraded through the Old Town towards the Dresden Christmas Market.

Gay Christmas Market

Patroc.com gay travel guide announces that Amsterdam will host a special Pink Christmas Market. Oragnized by the ProGay foundation, the event will take place 18-28 December 2009 right in the center of the Dutch capital.

New London Guide

The Londonist reviews ‘Not for Tourists Guide to London‘ and announces that they will be giving out a few free copies of the guidebook via their Twitter account soon.

Spoleto Guide

On GotSaga.com, read a blog post on Spoleto, Italy, a lovely city located  only 39 miles from Perugia and 78 miles from Rome. The short guide includes Spoleto’s most interesting landmarks and sights, such as the Roman Amphitheater and the Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta cathedral.

Photo of stollen by Birger Hoppe

In terms of the general feeling towards the gay scene in the city there is a relaxed enough feel to the bars and clubs to welcome any gay or lesbian tourist. The area around Alameda de Hércules has a lively and chilled-out vibe, not so buzzing in the summer months though, but always up for a laugh.

Gay Bars in Seville

Before we go any further then it’s worth listing a few of the openly gay bars in Seville.

• El Barón Rampante, C. Arias Montano 3 – this is technically a gay bar but there’s always quite a mixture of people hanging out here as it’s a cool spot.

• El Bosque Animado, C. Arias Montano 5,

• El Hombre y el Oso, C. Amor de Dios 32 – this one is one of the oldest in the city and has a thing for teddy bears.

• El Paseo, Paseo Cristóbal Colón 2.

• Isbiliyya, Paseo Cristóbal Colón 2 – one of the hottest places on the whole gay-scene. It’s always packed and spills out on to the street with drinking and party-goers. When the music starts up you’ll know about it. A great place for a hot and sweaty night.

• Noveccento, C. Julio César 10,

• Men to Men, C. Trajano 38 – a more in your face type of places with a very wide cliental and some rather secret little hideways where you never quite know what’s going on.

Seville Gay Pride

Topping the bill for the gay scene in Seville has to be the annual Gay Pride on the 28th June each year. Like many others gay prides, Seville doesn’t fall short of the mark when it comes to all out exciting celebrations and partying. Organized by the Lesbian Gay Platform of Seville, called Somos, the day consists of a variety of events, from film screenings, to conferences. But a gay pride wouldn’t be complete without a procession of some kind and Seville doesn’t fall short, even though it’s not been running for very long at all. Kicking off at the Plaza Neuva, the procession makes its way through the city via Los Remedios before finally coming to a halt where the annual Seville Fair (Feria de Abril) is hosted.

Top 3 Seville Hotels Booked by Gay Travelers on Venere.com

• Hotel Rey Alfonso X – 4-star hotel in downtown Seville – Double starting from €64
• Casa Romana Hotel – Boutique hotel in Seville city center – Double starting from €107
• Hotel Vincci La Rábida – 4-star hotel in El Arenal, Seville – Double starting from €64

Photo of Flamenco dancer in Seville, Spain, by Ruth L

Rich with culture and steeped with history dating back to ancient and mythological times, the island of Crete offers an abundance of attractions, dining, entertainment, and lodging to satisfy the tastes of any and all visitors. The gay and lesbian community has also found its local and tourist niche here as well, and today there is an abundance of things to see and do when visiting and exploring this legendary Mediterranean destination.

If it’s a quieter and relaxing vacation that you want, then stick to the West side of the island. On the other hand, if you’re craving entertainment and more of a night owl, then by all means, the Eastern side was made for you. In general, no matter where you travel and venture out onto the island, there is always something, so don’t let the East-West differentiation become a hard and fast rule. Here are some of the more popular gay destinations in Crete.

Recommended gay-friendly towns to visit on Crete

• Chania – the diverse landscape and location atop the Samana Gorge are reason enough to see this town. If you’re the active type, there is an abundance of paths and trails that you could spend days exploring.

• Heraklion – the city is most recognized for its numerous museums and the variety of sports venues. However, the cuisine that you will find here is some of the best anywhere on the island.

• Lassithi – the easternmost region of Crete. The mild year round climate and the stunning coastline attract many visitors annually. Excellent mass transportation here enables you to go anywhere with ease.

• Rethymno – rich in history with a Minoan emphasis, this city has so much to offer the tourist that a couple of days here surely won’t be enough time to explore the delights and events available.

Gay-friendly night spots on Crete

Depending on whether you want excitement or quiet, you have so many options with the gay nightlife on Crete.

• The Camelot is the spot for nightclubbing according to most critics. It’s lively and you are sure to make new friends spending an evening there.

• On the other hand, if you want to relax in a more subdued atmosphere, Vinnie’s Garden in Koutouloufari is the place. Privacy is key here and the quiet ambiance makes it perfect.

Picture of the Bay of Balos, Crete, Greece, by Wolfgang Staudt

World’s Best Boutique Hostels

An open list of some of the more cute boutique hostels has been set up by Guardian.co.uk. This list includes beautiful interiors and hostel rooms such as those of Miss Sophie’s in Prague, in the Czech Republic, or La Controra Hostel, in Naples, Italy, that also proposes you electronic music concerts.

Perfect Accommodation Selection

Travel Blissful helps you finding the ideal lodging when travelling around whether it is a hostel, a guest house, or a stylish luxury five star hotel. Your choice depends on what interests you the most of the trip: a romantic getaway with your partner, relaxation or city sightseeing.

Trogir, Beach Vacation and World Heritage Site

If you are planning a trip to Croatia with its beautiful Dalmatian Coast, Europe Up Close proposes you Trogir. The historic heart of the city is listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site making of Trogir the perfect destination to blend a cultural vacation with relaxing sunbathing along the crystal-clear Croatian beaches or sailing.

Gay Sitges

New Gay Travel Guide blogs about Sitges, a village near Barcelona, as a  gay vacation destination. This romantic and beautiful city in Eastern Spain boasts fantastic restaurants, a gay beach along with nudist beaches, and splendind gay nightlife.

Oahu, Hawaii

Hawaii has always been in our minds when thinking about paradise clearwater beaches. Amateur Traveler talks to a Top Travel Specialist for Oahu Island, Hawaii for the prestigious travel magazine Condé Nast. This Oahu Island specialist gives us some advice on beaches, snorkeling, and the busy Honolulu, as well as other worth-visiting spots on Oahu Island, setting of a number of films and the well-known TV series, Lost.

Photo of a surfer in Oahu, Hawaii, by celine nadeau

The striking Paris Gay Pride (Marche des Fiertés) takes place yearly at the end of June. This gay parade joins even hundreds of thousands of people walking and getting fun in a lively and colorful procession that breaks out into a dynamic party in the gay-friendly Paris-Marais district.

Gay-friendly Hotels in Paris

If you are planning to attend to the Paris LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender) Gay Pride, you could think about staying at the Hotel École Centrale, a charming hotel listed in the LGBT’s association,  or the Murano Urban Resort, that offers guests a courtesy safe sex tray with various condoms. Both hotels located a stone’s-throw away from the Centre Georges Pompidou and the MK2 Beaubourg Cinéma, offering you a range of gay movies.

Le Marais: culture, shopping and gay nightlife

While getting around Le Marais, Victor Hugo’s House is worth-visiting, as well as Brancusi’s workshop, the European House of Photography, Arts et Métiers Museum, the Picasso Museum, and the Cognac-Jay Museum.

Paris Gai Village is a group of gay and lesbian professionals sharing the passion for the history and culture of the city, that will show you the sprightliest and most unique gay spots of the city.

When it comes to talk about nightlife, Le Marais is definitely the Paris area that firstly comes to your mind. Some tips on a perfect soirée in gay Paris: an intimate dinner or a cup of wine in Le Colimaçon, a drink in the Open Café and some dance in Raiddbar music bar. For party animals, the night goes on at Le Bains Douches.

Le Marais is not only known for its gay clubs but also for its alternative boutiques such as Rex Fetish, with vintage, leather, metal and latex clothes, as well as a range of accessories; Metamorph’ose with sexy dresses, for women, men and transgender; and IEM selling gay cinema, magazines, and exclusive dresses in leather and latex.

Photo of “Baguette Magique” French bread in Le Marais bakery shop window, Paris, by cameronparkins

I stayed in a hostel by Gorlitzer Bahnhof in spring of 2004, had 200 euros stolen from me and was advised not to walk the streets alone after dark. Upon my arrival back to the area this year I was astounded by the incredible changes all around me. I unknowingly happened upon my old hostel and found the neighborhood unrecognizable. The streets that only a few years before had boasted just a few couple punk shops and bars were now lined with independent music and clothing stores, chic eateries and perhaps most notably a huge variety of pubs and lounges. This area is great if you happen to be out with a mixed group of people. Gay or straight, rich or poor, the bars lining Oranienstraße and the surrounding area have a queer-friendly vibe and independent edge, but are surprisingly open to all. Pick any night of the week and check out my walking (or stumbling) tour of the best bars in East Kreuzberg.

Möbel Olfe

This popular pub is essentially a traditional German tavern that a bunch of art kids and party animals have rampantly converted into a lavishly decorated space for hanging out with good friends. The music is generally a simple and enjoyable mix of old favorites and new indie pop. The mantra posted above the bar “no tip, no drink” should be followed as this pub is often so packed it can be tough to get service and the cheap drink prices generally allow for generous gratuities. Thursday is a popular gay night so expect the women’s bathroom line to be short or non-existent. This night is generally pretty booze soaked, so look forward to at least one conversation with a complete stranger and perhaps an unwarranted groping or two: the free-for-all nature of this homey pub means anything goes.
Reichenberger Straße 177

Roses

This true gem sits right in the heart of Oranienstraße and is a classic gay hangout. There is no denying the distinctiveness of Roses as it’s apparent the second you step into the bar. The fuzzy neon pink fun-fur walls, disco balls, fake flowers, lights and mirrors galore make this tiny bar a must-see. You’ll likely be surrounded by a few middle aged regulars cruising but this bar draws everyone from New York artists and art dealer’s children, to drunken English lesbians dying to get laid. The true gem of Roses, however, is Rose herself. The loving owner and proprietor, often the place’s only bartender, plays the role of den mother. Beware: this woman is horribly sarcastic and will mess with you. She will also melt your cold heart with her kindness before serving you the biggest tumblers of whiskey you have ever set eyes on.
Oranienstraße 187

Paloma Bar

This hard to find lounge sits right above the Kaiser’s at Kottbusser Tor. Take the stairs and step through a nondescript velvet curtain to this tiny drinking palace overlooking the U1. The atmosphere boasts the typical “Berlin living room” aesthetic with cute wallpapering, chandeliers and kitschy nautical framed artwork. A number of well-known Berlin DJs are residents here (you could call this their “day job”) and you must pay one Euro to the DJ at the bar with your first round. This is money well spent, the DJ is usually spinning vintage Vinyl and the music is top notch. They serve a variety of standard cocktails and beers, but nobody comes here for the drinks: the pleasure of Paloma bar comes from sitting next to the wall of windows overlooking one of Berlin’s major hubs pulsating with energy and magic.
Skalitzer Straße 135

Monarch

If Paloma Bar is too crowded and you can’t find a seat, go next door to Monarch, a bar that is a funny mix of half tavern, half disco. The one Euro cover charge applies here as well, but Monarch is a touch less refined than Paloma Bar. Think drinking buddies verses a quiet evening out with your significant other. That said, if you’re looking for a good place to get smashed for cheap and not be bored, Monarch is it. There is foosball and a dance floor, but the true entertainment might be watching a bunch of intoxicated straight guys hit on anything that moves. Don’t get me wrong, in a city where more often than not you inevitably wind up at a gay bar, it’s nice to attend a different kind of sausage party once and a while. Ladies will enjoy not paying for their drinks and their gay friends can enjoy a couple hours of being left alone to mingle with their friends.
Skalitzer Strasse 134

Barbie Deinhoff’s

End your night at Barbie’s. A little down the street close to Schlesische Tor, this bar run by celebrity drag queen Lena Braun appeals to the ultra-fabulous and normale folk alike. This bar has nightly events of all varieties, ranging from 80s New Wave and No Wave parties to 70s glam trash and 90s pop. On Mondays, get a cheap haircut from Persona Non Grata, aka Daido, a sweet man from Belgium making a big name for himself in Berlin. This place loves glamour and when attending its wild drag parties it is up to you to participate or watch; both options will bring copious entertainment and liberation.
Schlesische Strasse 16

Good Luck Surviving!

Photo of beer and camera in Kreuzber, Berlin, Germany by LeRamz

As you will quickly discover with most other areas in Norway, Scandinavia in general has a very friendly acceptance of the gay and lesbian lifestyle. This toleration of the culture is also very evident in Oslo, the country’s capital city. The Kalmar Union established between Denmark and Sweden in 1397 created the birth of the city as well as the nation, but in 1814, it came under exclusive Swedish control. Additionally, Norway elected its own king and declared its independence in 1905.

Oslo gay areas are fairly centrally located in between the Royal Palace and the railway station, and there are numerous bars and restaurants catering to the gay and lesbian audience. The museum of the artist Edvard Munch, the open air folk museum, the Vigelands Sculpture Park, and the Viking ship museum are all excellent reasons to visit and explore the city of Oslo, but there are so many other attractions and events that you can explore in order to truly the sample the flavor of the city.

The larger gay and lesbian communities are well entrenched in this Scandinavian city compared to others, making it one of the most tolerant European cities for that lifestyle. Although the city is divided into several different segments, you will quickly discover that the area surrounding Karl Johan Street witnesses the larger tourist crowds. However, if a quieter, less crowded atmosphere is what you are craving then the more intimate, smaller bars of the Grönland district and Grünerlokka are what you need to explore.

Whether it is the culture, the gourmet cuisine, or the many shopping venues that the city holds, there is something here for every member of the gay and/or lesbian community to enjoy. Here are some categories for your agenda when you visit Oslo as well as a few attractions or events in each that are the most commonly recommended for visiting gays and lesbians.

Guided Tours

The Full Day Grand Tour of Oslo – nicknamed “the Grandfather of all Guided Tours” in Oslo, this the most interesting 7-8 hours you can spend seeing this spectacular city. The Holmenkollen Ski Jump, Norwegian Folk Museum, Polarship Farm, Vigeland Park, and the Viking ships are all featured on this tour so remember to pack your camera.

The 3 Natural Phenomena of Scandinavia – truly an amazing aspect of nature within the Arctic Circle, you will no doubt be held in awe of the Midnight Sun in Scandinavia, the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis), and the Polar Nights in Scandinavia in general.

Gay and Lesbian Nightlife

Gay and lesbian couples alike will find numerous bars and restaurants to explore and even capture a few intimate moments together away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Make sure you visit both Bobs Pub and Ett Glass for the best nightlife experiences possible in the city.

Photo of Vigeland Sculpture Park, Oslo, Norway by PIXistenz

• Intelligent Travel won the Lonely Planet award for Best Consumer Travel Blog

• Travel Editor cites an inspiring travel quote from Austrian philosopher Marin Buber

• VisitBritain gives some family trip ideas for Easter holidays 2009

• Tripcrazed shows pictures of an underwater restaurants in Maldives

The Gay and Lesbian culture in Germany is almost legendary and should be discovered first hand in order to gain a true appreciation of its intensity. Thriving gay and lesbian culture can be found in all of Germany’s larger cities with the most prevalent being found in Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, Frankfurt, and Munich. The Gay and Lesbian culture dates back to the days of King Ludwig the II of Bavaria, evidenced by what an extraordinarily snappy dresser he was.Hamburg’s architecturally unique harbor, bridges, and waterways hold exceptional allure for many travelers as well as for gays and lesbians, but the city has become very trendy and is oftentimes referred to as “the place to shop and drop.” However, it isn’t just the beautifully displayed and presented products that are on sale here – indeed, the lifestyle is as well. The following attractions and events will give you an idea of the best places to frequent if you are looking to mingle with other gays and lesbians.

Gay and Lesbian district of St. Georg

You can attend the annual Ballissima, which is the autumn ball held in mid-November. There is also the conventional St.Pauli Discovery as well as Magnus Hirschfeld Center’s dance courses exclusively conducted for gays and lesbians. Additionally, you can enjoy the Café cum Bistro’s legendary Sunday brunch after enjoying a performance by the Schola Cantorosa – an entirely gay choir.

Christopher Street Day

Currently a huge part of Hamburg’s social make-up and has a wide array of bars, clubs, discos, and party-venues to experience while adventuring out into the city. Especially enjoyable to venture into are those venues that are situated on the banks of the Elbe, one of the most spectacular rivers in all of Germany.

In addition to the above, the club scene and nightlife have a lot to offer gay and lesbian culture in Hamburg. The following is a listing of the #1 and #2 top-rated gay and lesbian clubs and discos (according to Qype.com) that you won’t want to miss while visiting the city:

Tom’s Dancehall

This is the #1 personal favorite of local homosexual men, friends, and girlfriends in Hamburg. It features a gigantic dance floor with excellent JBL sound and a separate smoking lounge where you can relax in more intimate surroundings.

DARE

The 80s Gay Club – rated #2 right behind Tom’s Dancehall as a gay and lesbian favorite nightlife venue. A throwback to the music and pop culture of the 1980’s, the club features excellent dining in an affordable fancy atmosphere.

Photo of sunset over Hamburg, Germany by eriwst

Along with this admission came the exposure to some very forward thinking which includes the EU’s pro-gay policies. In late December of 2001, the BBC announced that gay and lesbian gatherings were no longer considered criminal and that gay assemblies were now permissible. Not only is homosexuality considered legal and not a criminal offense, but gays and lesbians are now protected by anti-discrimination laws.

As a result, the gay and lesbian community has seen noticeable growth, especially in Bucharest, which is now the hub of the gay and lesbian lifestyle in Romania. This has been evidenced in two different ways. The first ever Gay Fest was held in the city in 2005 plus, during the period from 2002 to the present, more and more gay/lesbian venues have opened in the city. The following is a list of the most popular gay venues in Bucharest.

1. The Impact Club

Without a doubt, this is Bucharest’s most popular (and crowded) gay dance club. The DJ’s here are outstanding and different genres of music are played throughout the week. If you like the action hard and sweaty, then this club needs to be on your itinerary. The club has different hours of operation throughout the week. With the exception of Saturday nights, when the club opens at 11 pm, it opens at 10pm the rest of the week. Mondays through Wednesdays it is open until 3 am, Thursdays and Sundays until 4 am, Friday night until 5 am, and Saturday night until 6 am.

2. Purple

Another one of the top gay venues in Bucharest. As the name implies, you’re going to see a lot of purple in this club. There purple barstools, booths, and leather sofas. Even the walls are purple and so are a few drinks on the menu. The dance floor is huge, the DJ’s and music are excellent, and there is live music scattered throughout the week.

3. Queen’s Club

This is the third of the most popular venues in Bucharest and it has seen the growth of some of the heterosexual crowd frequenting the bar as well due to the fact that some have grown tired of the “meat market” scene so characteristic of those other clubs. An excellent atmosphere combined with an excellent dance floor and music make this club a must-see.

Photo of disco ball by cosmonautirussi

If you’re planning a weekend break in Funchal, Portugal, read this guide to the Flower Festival and Carnival of Madeira, one of the best street parties in Europe including flower displays, carnival parades and samba concerts.

2.  How to Party at the Cologne Carnival

A series of tips for partying at one of the wildest carnivals in Europe. Read this blog post on the best street parades, craziest costume parties and hottest masquerade balls of the Carnival of Cologne, Germany.

3. Top 5 Romantic Hotels in Paris

Planning a romantic holiday in France? Here are 5 of the most romantic hotels in Paris: the Apostrophe Hotel in Montparnasse, the Chat Noir Hotel in Montmarte, the Hotel Belleville in Paris 17th,  the Hotel Acte V in the Latin Quarter and the Saint-Paul Hotel in Saint-Germain.

4.  Gay Spots in Nice, France

Looking for gay spots on the French Riviera? Check out 6 of the best gay bars, restaurants and night clubs in Nice including Blue Boy, Kf-Bis, Cherry’s Café, Le Millénium Restaurant, Castro Street and O’ Neill’ Irish Pub.

5. Great Examples of Modern Architecture in Paris

If you’re visiting the City of Lights and are a fan of art and architecture read this blog post on the best examples of modern architecture in Paris including the Centre Pompidou, the Institut du Monde Arabe, the Maison du Cinéma and the Louvre Pyramid.

As Europe’s long-time travel destination underdog it has had to reinvent itself from disasters of the past. Whether it is the tsunami of 1755 that devastated the entire city or the fire of 1988 that destroyed the trendy Chiado neighborhood, this city comprised by a series of seven hills is the Portuguese boot that is kicking Barcelona to the curb.

For years now, the Iberian Peninsula gay and lesbian audience has constantly been stolen by Barcelona. This isn’t the case anymore and Lisbon is efficiently paving its way as the hotspot of Europe for gay and lesbian travelers. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll after dinner, along a cobblestone street that is lined by buildings accented with the decorative tiles of years past, Lisbon has a tantalizing assortment of venues to excite and satisfy any tourist.

You will have no doubts when you’re approaching the bustling Bairro Alto district because the cacophony of bantering imbibers grows louder with every step. Most of the bars and pubs in the city are only a tad larger than a freight elevator’s interior, so both locals and tourists move out into the streets armed with their beers and cocktails just as they party in New Orleans’ Mardi Gras and socialize until 2 am or even later. Here then, is a list of the gay and lesbian destinations in Lisbon. Enjoy!

• Alfama

Known as an area filled with narrow, windy streets and the popular fado bars, Alfama is a small neighborhood and one of Lisbon’s seven hills that affords the visitor spectacular panoramas when visiting the historic Castelo de Sao Jorge.

• Sintra

When you catch the smell of eucalyptus, and catch a glimpse of this quaint yet romantic neighborhood and its lush landscapes, you’ll quickly discover why this is a must-see destination while visiting Lisbon.

• NH Liberdade Hotel

Granted, the bulk of the more visited hotels are on the main drag of Avenida da Liberdade, the NH Hotel is the best price for the money anywhere off the main drag.

• Pap’ acorda (rua da Atalaia)

This hot spot caters to the fashionistas and hipsters when it comes to good eats and people-watching. Traditional Portuguese cuisine takes on a more modern flair in this restaurant.

• Clube de Fado

The Fado experience of traditional Portuguese singers who lament about heartbreak and longing is featured here along with the traditional cuisine that will make your palate leap for joy.

Panoramic view of Lisbon, Portugal by Fr Antunes

In 2009 the celebration begins in mid-February and for the next ten days or so the city takes on an air of magical music and color. A popular gay destination, even the straight press recognizes the carnival as the wildest party in Spain. While any tourist here is bound to have a great time some little pointers could help you, as Tennyson put it, ‘enjoy life to the last lees,’ life here at the carnival at least.

1. Skip breakfast and even, maybe, dinner the previous night before Jueves Lardero or Fat Tuesday.

An unbelievable spread of local delicacies crowd decorated tables and the only smart way to go about it is to eat till you drop because nowhere else will you find a grander celebration of culinary delights. There are smaller neighborhood feasts, La Rambla’s humongous sausage barbecue and even food fights. So huge is the feast that the masked spirit of the carnival whose appearance signals the beginning of the carnival is also potbellied!

2. If you don’t like crowds…

If you don’t like crowds you should not make a trip to Sitges in February. But if you are there you should definitely avoid the Sundays and Tuesdays because on these days more than three hundred thousand party goers leave all their inhibitions behind and dive headlong into the carnival spirit. Try the other carnival days for a slightly more subdued atmosphere, that is, only when compared to the busier days here.

3. Sunday and Tuesday are, however, the best days to see the carnival at its brightest and loudest.

Definitely a not-to-be missed event for anyone who wants to see the true colors of the carnival, costumes that will dazzle the sleepiest of eyes, floats, dancers and acrobats appearing to glide more the walk and so much more. Sunday night sees the Debauchery themed parade while on the Tuesday it is the Extermination Parade. The location is Rua del Extermini. The best way to enjoy it is to get a good vantage point or, if you want to feel like you are in the thick of the action, line up early at the site.

4. If you think the last day of the carnival is all about winding down you are mistaken.

Top drag performers from all over Europe stream into the city to put up an amazing show. Such is the energy of the event that you’ll be forced to join in the screaming and the revelry. Everything from outlandish costumes to the caricatures of famous women struts its way out to the stage.

During these few days the whole city seems to leave all qualms about normalcy behind. ‘Limit’ seems a non-existent word. Over eating, over drinking and a total abandonment of all reserve is the name of the game and to really enjoy the carnival be prepared to shed your own sense of decorum too. Hurrah!

Photo of drag queen at the Carnival of Sitges, Spain, by A.www.viajar24h.com

Most of the gay and lesbian-friendly establishments are located east of downtown Nice near the ports, but a little bit of exploring will avail you of some fabulous gay bars and clubs. The energy of the area is nothing short of scintillating despite the fact that there aren’t as many nightspots here as in some of the larger European cities. The following is a list of recommended establishments that cater to the gay community in Nice.

1. Blue Boy

Blue Boy – a small yet thriving location with an industrial look that despite the name, also has quite a lesbian following. Despite the east side location of most of the gay establishments in the city, Blue Boy is located west of the downtown area. It is viewed as one of the more stylish gay discos and offers its patrons bottles of Dom Perignon for $350 (€260).

2. Kf-bis

Kf-bis is a restaurant with a large gay following that is a more hip crowd steeped in France’s southern faire. However, the major attraction is the boutique and gallery that are situated adjacent to the restaurant. It is loaded with alluring home furnishings and paintings alike.

3. Cherry’s Café

Cherry’s Café is a popular bar and restaurant combination that features a terrace where you can have a few drinks and eat while observing all types of locals and visitors as they enjoy a walk along the Promenade des Anglais.

4. Le Millennium Restaurant

Le Millennium Restaurant is a family favorite during the day, but belongs to the gay dinner and evening crowd. It features some of the best fondue that you will find not only here but anywhere in the country as well.

5. Castro Street

Castro Street is one of the most popular destinations for gays that features darker areas inside for “private mingling” of gay couples. Short of venturing into a sauna or sex club, this is your best bet if you are looking for “action” while spending time in Nice.

6. O’Neill’s Irish Pub

Despite drawing a mostly “straight crowd”, O’Neill’s is revered as a drinking establishment that never lacks for a friendlier atmosphere that the gay crowd finds very comfortable. This is also a particular favorite of both the English-speaking and expatriate visitors.

Photo of gay night club in Nice, French Riviera, by richard.vondiesel

Times changed and now there are a lot of things and places to enjoy. Bother to turn on your gaydar and visit the following gay spots in Warsaw and you will not regret!

1. Szpilka Café Bar

This is the place where we recommend you to start your evening or go to the after party. Szpilka is a gay friendly café located close to the cruising area. Two thumbs up for its trendy interiors and nice breakfasts: Polish pierogi are great there!

Trzech Krzyzy Square, 18 – at the corner of Bracka Str

Opening hours: daily 7 am till early morning

2. Fantom Club

Then you should definitely go to Fantom Club. This place is one of the most popular and high rated gay spots in Warsaw where you can go cruising in. The sign says: MEN ONLY! Fantom Club incorporates a cozy gay bar, back rooms with lockable doors, video rooms, sex shop and a sauna. It is very hard to find, though. It is one of the places that are famous for what they offer inside and not for their outdoor signs. So, do not look for one and go look for a door bell: third backyard, left gate. The staff in Fantom is friendly to tourists and foreigners, though almost 90% of the men there are locals. The place also hosts theme parties on Sundays such as SM parties, under 26 parties and some other.

Bracka Str, 20a – located in the very downtown, in the basement of the Brzozowski Palace

Opening hours: daily from 2 pm till 2 am, Fridays 2 pm till 3 am, Saturdays 2 pm till 2 am, Sundays 6 pm till 2 am

3. Tomba Tomba

This place has suffered and number of government attacks attempting to shut it down. However, Tomba Tomba survived and now keep on cheering the gays up. It is straight-friendly gay club with non-stop parties on weekends. The best time to visit Tomba Tomba is in the morning starting from 4 am. The club has a very nice snug atmosphere, the staff is courteous and besides, there is also a Jacuzzi, where some people prefer to go naked inside. If you are in the mood for some crazy things, you might love this place!

Brzozowa Str, 37 – go down from the Old Town Market to Kamienne Schodki

Openig hours: daily from 4 pm til 2 am, nonstop on weekends

4. Rasko

If you are looking for some nice conversations and want to make some new friends, you should go visit Rasko that consists of a welcoming and intimate café, bar and art gallery. This place is famous for its clientèle, gays ranging mostly from 18 to 30. Rasko also hosts some Drag Queen shows and strip-tease that can be so much fun and make your evening. Besides, you can sing karaoke there.

Krochmalna Str, 32a – turn right from Aleja Jana Pawla II

Opening hours: daily 5 pm till the last guest

5. Utopia

This is the place that is known for the strictest face control and dress code in the city. The doormen are known for being the most picky. That is why you have to stay cool in the lineup and if you are lucky enough to get inside, you can enjoy an evening being surrounded by beautiful people, sitting in the nicely decorated place and listening to some of the most famous DJs in Poland. There is also a VIP room in Utopia that can make you enjoying your party even more.

Jasna Str, 1 – turn right from Marszalkowska Str.

Opening hours: daily 12 pm till 12 am, Friday 12 am till the last guest, Saturday 2 pm till the last guest

6. Wild Club

This is definitely your destination if you want to really go wild. This is a two-level sex club for men that has a video bar, video rooms and cruising labyrinth. Wild Club hosts delirious theme parties with special dress code that can be: naked, underwear, fetish. On Saturday nights the club gets really packed and the party goes on till the sunrise.

Prozna Str, 8 – this is a small street behind Marszalkowska Str, close from Swietokrzyska Metro station

Opening hours: Monday closed, daily 7 pm – 2 am, Fridays and Saturdays longer.

Photo of Drag Queen show at Rasko, Warswas, originally posted by pipp.pipp

This is especially true when discussing the gay and lesbian communities of the country. The gay and lesbian community thrives throughout the country but is especially prolific in southern France. All the big cities of France display many places for gays and lesbians and the French population is usually as tolerant as Parisians are for this particular community.

There are basically two types of dining establishments in France – brasseries and restaurants. Restaurants are typically open from 7:30pm to 9:30pm except for Sunday nights and one night of the week when they are closed for the day. Brasseries are more the café-style eating establishment serving the more traditional French cuisine for lunch and dinner. Some are actually open around the clock as well.

Listed below are the top rated gay and lesbian-friendly pubs and dining establishments to visit in order to enjoy your gay and/or lesbian travel experience to Paris:

• Le café de L’homme

This café and pub combo features a menu divided into four parts – traditional and international cuisine, as well as a healthier, leaner menu and desserts.

• La Pachanga

A South American pub with an exotic atmosphere and a menu to match. Also featured at La Pachanga are daily Salsa dance classes. These are typically followed by dance soirees that oftentimes last until 2am in the morning and sometimes even later.

• Le Train Bleu

This pub and restaurant’s most unique aspect is its décor dating back to when it was erected after the Universal Exposition in 1901. It still maintains all of the authenticity of baroque and luxury influences of the era right down to the French cuisine that is served.

• Les Flots

Enjoy your meal on the Seine as you dine here. This restaurant that poses a unique yet original idea for a dinner between friends or lovers. The restaurant features some of the better traditional French cuisine that you will find anywhere in Paris.

• Cocoa Café

The pleasant décor of this establishment and its unique concept make this café not only different, but also high-quality as well. The cuisine here is a combination of East and West as well as sweet and salty, all of which afford you an interestingly unique dining experience.

• Bofinger

A great brasserie that features Alsacian cuisine, Bofinger is very similar to Brasserie Julien in nature. Despite the phenomenal décor, the affordability of the menu may just amaze you. Oftentimes a characteristic of brasseries, Bofinger displays a very inviting and warm atmosphere.

• Brasserie Julien

One of the largest and most renowned brasseries in all of Paris featuring art nouveau décor. The establishment is the epitome a French brasserie at its traditional best.

Photo of Le Train Bleu Restaurant, Paris originally posted by guinn.anya

Gay-friendly hotel in Berlin

A gay-friendly hotel with good reputation near the station is called Tom’s and lies at Motzstrasse 19. The hotel will spoil you providing free internet access, breakfast until 5pm and even a pass entitling you to get discounts in the neighborhood.

If you weren’t coming alone to Berlin, I would recommend the RoB Berlin Leather Apartments, at Fuggerstrasse 19. It’s also close to Nollendorfplatz and definitely a nice place to spend the night on someone’s company, but consider yourself lucky if you find a vacant apartment there.

Cruising and sightseeing

After exploring the hotel’s surrounding area, walk to Tiergarten, a huge park where many nudists feel at home during the summer.

One of the most popular cruising spots of Berlin is right there at the park, more specifically on its western side, opposite to the Siegelsäule. This imposing monument with a statue of an angel on the top is also the core of gay parades.

Walking eastwards along the 17.June Street, you will reach Brandenburger Tor, the city’s post card and the most popular check point while the wall divided the city in 2 different worlds.

Café Berio

I know you’ll be tempted to keep on walking around, but here is my advice: return to Nollendorfplatz and stop in the prestigious Café Berio, at Maaßenstrasse 7, before you go back to your hotel.

You will need to save energy for the big party, so take a nap and don’t bother leaving before 1am.

Nightclubs

Your destination is the Panorama Berghain, a huge nightclub set in an old factory at Am Writzener Bahnhof. Get there taking the U-1 subway at Nollendorfplatz and getting off at Warschauerstrasse subway station. Then ask for directions and walk 10 minutes. Here is an important tip: stay cool on the lineup. The doormen are famous for barring people who are loud or even too well-dressed.

The club tends to get packed on Saturday night and everything is possible on its dance floors, in the dark rooms and mixed bathrooms. The party goes on after the sunrise, but you can also just leave it in the morning and walk a few blocks to the Kit Kat, at Köpenikerstrasse 76. This is a smaller nightclub, but still has 4 different environments, including a lounge with an outdoor pool.

The Kit Kat’s community has played a very important role for over a decade in the gay scenario of Berlin, so it’s worth passing by after 8am, when the Afterhour starts and the dress code is forgotten.

Flea market

As you might be half-dead on Sunday, here is a light, yet interesting program: visit the Flohmarkt am Mauerpark, a stylish second-hand market and meeting point for many young adults from the early morning until late in the afternoon.

Other than old stuff, you will find new exclusive clothes and several options to have a coffee or lunch in a contagious laid back atmosphere. The closest subway stations are Bernauerstrasse (U8) and Eberswalderstrasse (U2).

Sauna

To end your weekend, I’d suggest you to relax in one of the gay saunas of Berlin. The Treibhaus is located at Schönhauser Allee 132, very close to the ‘Flohmarkt’. You can spend some time in the bar before you go upstairs to the wet or dry saunas. In case you’re no longer alone at this point, you should get one of the private cabins and enjoy your time.

If you decide not to go to the flea market, I recommend the Apollo Sauna Club Brasil, which lies at Kurfürstenstrasse 101, about 10 blocks from the Nollendorfplatz station. The greatest thing there is the foam party that usually takes place on Sunday afternoon.

After that, I’ll leave it up to you. Have fun, stay safe and don’t forget to pack and take good memories of this weekend with you.

Photo of hotel room courtesy of Tom’s Hotel Berlin

This club had an S&M theme with chains hanging from the walls, a dungeon d?cor and dark rooms that were very dark indeed (the name means ‘sinners’). As tacky and fun as this was it failed to serve the growing trend in Russia of gay life becoming main stream. As such, Greshniki failed to pull in the punters and has recently closed its doors for good.

• Central Station Saint Petersburg

The reason for Greshniki´s fall from favor was the opening of a new club almost next door to it, with several floors, many bars and a laid back vibe that customers seem to prefer over the dungeon motif. Central Station incorporates a sushi restaurant on the ground floor with the club above and it boasts that it is the only gay sushi restaurant open all day (it opens at 11 in the morning) in St Petersburg. This is now the hub of the St Petersburg scene and it attracts a large and varied crowd, especially at the weekend when the place fills to nearly bursting. On special occasions the large stage is used for comedy and music shows which usually involve a lot of audience participation. If you are the shy type you may want to avoid being in the front, especially as whatever the show you are likely to end up naked. Central Station is located on Ulitsa Lomonosova, just to one side of Gostiny Dvor. The entrance is subtle to the point of being invisible but the security staff are usually very helpful. They keep a look out for gangs of thugs hanging around waiting to target people leaving the club, which is both reassuring and terrifying at the same time.

• Tri El  Saint Petersburg

St Petersburg is also home to Russia´s first lesbian club, Tri El. Tucked away in the maze of streets to the north-east of Moskovsky Vokzal this is an intimate place with a mixed crowd on Thursday and Fridays, which are the only days men are only allowed in. Like Central Station, Tri El can also be hard to find, 5ya Sovietskaya Ulitsa runs parallel to 3ya Sovietskaya Ulitsa which is where the HI International Hostel is based, if you are unsure you can ask for directions at the hostel reception.

The opening of Central Station has set the St Petersburg scene into flux and it will take some time for the effects to be fully realized. As well as Greshniki closing down other small bars have closed as well. This is in line with the aims of the city authorities who, while officially tolerating gay venues, would prefer to have one single venue such as Central Station than have many small ones spread throughout the city.

Photo of St Petersburg, Russia by night originally posted by k.ivoutin

What is the Best in Gay Travel?

The Outraveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2008 reveal that the gay destination of the year  is Buenos Aires, Argentina, followed by Barcelona, Spain and Amsterdam, Netherlands. 

If you’re looking for a gay-friendly destination in Canada, watch the Dave Does Montreal video,  a new humorous advertising made to lure gay tourists to Montreal.

Italian Beer and Gourmet Dining:

In an article by the author of “Good Beer Guide: Prague and the Czech Republic” – that will interest any craft beer lover traveling to Turin or Milan, the Herald Tribune makes you discover some of the best beer-themed restaurants in Northern Italy.

Food shopping in Paris:

Planning a gourmet holiday in Paris? Check out Gridskipper’s selection of French specialty food shops and go shopping for the city’s finest foie gras, champagne, snails, truffle, honey and mustard.

Travel Blog News:

If you’re interested in travel industry news check out the new Travolution blog. And if you’re a backpacking junkie start following Vagabondish on Twitter and Facebook.

A favorite of both locals and tourists alike is Le Marais district which sports both fun for couples, solos, and alternative lifestyles. Here, you can stay out all hours of the night, eating, drinking, and meeting new people.

• Le Cabaret

If you’re looking to get your “groove on” some great places in Le Marais for that are Le Cabaret, the new “in” place close to the Louvre. It is decorated in a posh theme that encompasses North African and the Middle East. The bar offers such exciting drinks as Caipirinihas, a uniquely Brazilian drink made of sugar cane and also Cosmopolitans. You can get cigars at the bar while checking out the unique African art and relaxed atmosphere. Looks like a space ship and plays the latest top 40 music. However, it can be hard to get into if you don’t have the right “look” which is chic, casual, and cool clothes. Many celebrity sightings have been made there including Mick Jagger and George Clooney. Le Cabaret also features a gay tea dance on Sundays at 5 p.m. and they are open every night from 11 p.m. The cover charge is 20 euros. The hours of operation are Mon.-Sat. 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. and they are located at 2 Place du Palais Royal 75001.

• Mixer

Mixer is a great little dance club where both gay and straight patrons can dance to the latest hits from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. They can be contacted at 01 48 87 55 44 and are located at 23 rue Sainte Croix de Bretonnerie 75004.

• Les Bains

Les Bains is a great club that although was once a huge hit in the ‘80’s is still going strong today. It’s clientèle is both the beautiful people and everyday locals and tourists. The dress is casual is the cover is 20 euros. They are open from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. and are located at 7 rue du Bourg L Abbe 75003.

• Chez Omar

If you want to grab a bite to eat, there are some great little eateries to check out along Le Marais. If you want the quintessential French brasserie experience, check out Chez Omar with its pepper steak that is only 16 euros! The restaurant is the hot spot for the local politicians, so if you happen to be a political junkie, this is the place for you. Chez Omar does not have a reservation system, so it’s always a good idea to come early or you’ll face a long line. Contact them at 01 42 72 36 26. They are located at 47 rue de Bretagne 7503.

• Bofinger

Bofinger is a foodie legend near the place de la Bastille. You can find such dishes as home made foie gras of duckwith briche toast and poached haddock known as “David” which comes with fresh spinach and butter sauce. Got a sweet tooth? No problem. Check out their Vanilla and blackcurrant vacherin with blackcurrant coulis or the Traditional millefeuille. You can contact them at 33 (0)1 42 87 82. They are located at 5-7, rue de la Bastille 75004 and you can take the subway route Bastille to get there.

• Chez Jenny

For a great taste of Paris, try Chez Jenny. The menu includes Choucroute Paysanne, Tartare de Boeuf, Frites ou Salade, and Puree aux Herbes. They offer great desserts such as Profiteroles au Chocolat and Crème Brulee Vanilla Bournon. They are located at 39, Bd du Temple, 75003. The hours of operation are 12h00 to 1h00. Contact them at 0892 700 259 for more information.

• The Frog and Rosbeef

Feel the need for a cocktail? You’re in luck! Le Marais has great pubs and bars that stay open after hours. Check out The Frog and Rosbeef where you can find a wide variety of classic British dishes and beer at a great price. They can be contacted at 01 42 36 34 73 and can be found at 116 rue St Denis, corner rue Tiquetonne, 75002.

• The Auld Alliance

Want a little culture with that beer? The Auld Alliance is a great place for that. It is near the Hotel de Ville and the Bastille in the Le Marais district. The Auld Alliance is a great place to get in touch with your Scottish side as it is a home for both Scots, French, and tourists alike. You can try authentic Scottish fare and check out great Scottish memorabilia.

The hours of operation are Mon.-Fri. 3 p.m.-2 a.m. and noon-2 a.m. on weekends. They offer a weekend brunch from noon to 4 p.m. and also happy hour from Mon.-Fri. from 3-8 p.m. On Monday nights, they hold their Pub Quiz night at 8:30 p.m. and it is open to four teams each with great prizes offered. Wednesday night is Ladies night with all cocktails at just 6 euros.

The Auld Alliance is located at 80 Rue Francois Miron, Paris IV and you can get to it by taking the nearest metro station, St. Paul, line 1 or Point Marie, line 7.

• The Blue Book

If you’re out late and feel the need to shop, Le Marais has a variety of shops that offer everything you could think of. If you are a book lover, check out the Blue Book, a great place to pick up a good read. The Blue Book specializes in literature in the alternative lifestyle genres. You can find great works from gay and lesbian writers from all over the world, as well as many magazines, cd’s, and dvds. They are open Mon. and Sun. from 1-11 p.m. They are also accessible on Tues to Sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. On Sat. 6-8 p.m., the Paris Gay Village Association meets there for informal meetings for both the straight and LGBT or lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, and transgendered community. The Blue Book is located at 61, rue Quincampoix, 75004 and can be contacted at 01 48 87 03 04.

• Monoprix

The Monoprix is a supermarket where you can buy everything you can dream of and is open later than most in town as most of the markets in town are only open until 7 p.m.; The Monoprix is open until 9:30 p.m. You can find them at 160 rue du Temple, 75003.

Daily Monop is a boulangerie or a bakery where you can find tasty baked goods for a great price. It is open from Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m. to midnight and is located at 55 bis, boulevard Montparnasse, 75006.

If you need to grab a few things you forgot to pack, stop by Chemist where you can get anything you need for those last minute emergencies. They are open until 2 a.m. on weekdays and are located on 24 boulevard de Sebastopol, 75004.

Photo of Le Marais, Paris by night originally posted by subpop77