PALM SPRINGS---California's Desert Oasis

By Roy Heale
Basking in the heat of the California desert lies one of America’s most alluring vacation playgrounds. Nestled in a vast fertile valley surrounded by lush and ancient palm groves, banked by steep ravines and mountain peaks, the village of Palm Springs is no mirage as it proves to be a real desert oasis.
Some of the original residents included Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Lucille Ball, President Gerald Ford, Roy Rogers and Gene Autry just to name a few. This resident ancestry plus the subsequent Mayor and later Congressman Sonny Bono led to the development of a vibrant community which evolved to provide an escape from the frenetic pace of life in Hollywood.
Times have changed and today the community has become a year round destination for those seeking a vacation in the sun. With an average annual rainfall of only six inches you are almost guaranteed a hot and sunny holiday---a claim which very few places can promise. Whether you are a golfer, tennis player, enjoy horseback riding, can't wait to shop, take a hike in the wilderness,or just want to relax poolside with a cocktail soaking up the rays, this desert sanctuary proffers everything for a perfect escape.
Plam Springs is one of nine adjacent cities that comprise the Coachella Valley sheltered by the
Little San Bernadino Mountains to the north, the Santa Rosa Mountains to the south and The San Jacinto Mountains to the west. This affords spectacular mountain views in every direction creating amazing sunrises and sunsets that vary every day and never disappoint. When you leave Palm Springs to visit one of the other desert communities you are considered to be “going down Valley” and this journey provides plenty of new vistas to explore.
It's a true paradise valley boasting an average 354 days of sunshine each year with winter temperatures which average a daily high in the 70's Fahrenheit rising to over 100 degrees during the summer months. Patios are open year-round and outdoor activities never stop for the change in seasons. That's why it's a golfers dream destination.
In addition to all the daytime outdoor activities the vibrant nightlife and gourmet dining promises you will definitely feel as though you have discovered paradise.
Just ask any of the four hundred thousand plus valley residents why they never want to leave.
GETTING THERE:
Palm Springs airport is located in the center of the city and is served by ten major airlines with approximately 100 flights daily. This includes direct flights from Calgary, Vancouver and Edmonton via Westjet plus connections to and from other major Canadian cities. Upon arrival at the airport it is easy to rent a car and drive to the other communities within the Coachella Valley or utilise public transportation to your final destination.
Driving times from nearby major cities are approximately three hours from San Diego,just under two hours from Los Angeles and slightly further with five hours from Las Vegas or Phoenix.
It's understandable why this desert oasis has become so popular given the close proximity to many other major tourism destinations plus convenient airline connections.
FAST FACTS ON The Coachella Valley and Palm Springs:
The Coachella Valley is in Riverside County, California and is comprised of nine cities with approximately four hundred thousand residents. The desert cities of Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, Indian Wells, Indio, Coachella, and Desert Hot Springs make up most of the resident population plus the native reserve lands.
The major San Andreas Fault runs down the Valley's east side. Because of this fault the Valley has many natural hot springs.
More than two hundred golf courses blanket the valley making it one of the world's premier golf destinations.
The most renowned mayor of Palm Springs was Sonny Bono and his statue can be found in the heart of Palm springs on Palm Canyon Drive.
The average annual temperature ranges from a high 108 F degrees in July to a low 70F degrees in January.
The average annual rainfall is less than 6 inches and overall there are 354 days of sunshine throughout the year. The perfect vacation climat

FLORIDA SUNCOAST

TAMPA & ST. PETERSBURG

By Roy Heale

White sandy beaches and a calm, clear-blue ocean skirt the Gulf Of Mexico in Florida’s Suncoast region. The west coast cities of Tampa and St. Petersburg are year- round destinations perfectly suited for those who love the ocean and all that is associated with seaside holidays.
Time stands still when you bathe in the glow of a Suncoast sunset while enjoying a seafood dinner at Hurricane’s beach restaurant, it feels as though nowhere else in the world exists at that moment. The sugary white sand spit known as Pass-a-Grille Beach is renowned for postcard sunsets which bankrupt the English language. It also happens to be one of the five gay beaches in this region and an evening spent here will be the experience of a lifetime and a true photo opportunity to make everyone immensely jealous back home in the chilly north. This is the oldest resort destination on the west coast of Florida and is a national historic district.
Not surprisingly the largest gay resort on Florida’s west coast is located in St. Petersburg just minutes from the Suncoast beaches.
With one-hundred and twenty rooms and suites the Suncoast resort complex includes white sand volleyball courts, a heated pool, four bars, tennis courts, the Flamingo Restaurant and more. This is the exclusively gay accommodation for a relaxing stay in the Suncoast region and all that it has to offer for surfside leisure and night-time fun. The outdoor Tiki Bar beside the swimming pool is the heart of the resort especially during the weekly Sunday afternoon T Dance. This gathering is renowned by tourists and the local gay community as the only place to be on Sundays where you are certain to make new friends.
This resort also includes shops, a professional live theatre “Gypsy Productions” and large comfortable rooms making it a truly gay entertainment complex. The staff are friendly, helpful and full of great suggestions for where to dine and what to explore while you’re visiting this neighbourhood.
Gay nightlife in St. Petersburg and Tampa has much to offer with a diverse selection of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. If you want to remain close to the ocean the Backroom Bar at Madeira Beach is a perfect spot.
A short thirty-minute drive to Tampa will be rewarded with some of the larger bars and clubs. The largest is Club Chambers with dance floors on two levels and great DJs catering to a mostly young male crowd with drag shows and male or female dancers wrapped around a strippers pole on most nights. Just for the gals Tampa offers Flirt nightclub with regular drag king shows and younger large crowds on the weekends. Also in Tampa, The Azalea Lounge is located in an old brick building but when you enter it’s like stepping through a time portal into a swanky modern hideaway specialising in big, strong cocktails.
Back in St. Petersburg there is no gay village but there is a concentration of gay establishments in the downtown core and smaller neighbourhood bars around the city. Worthy of a visit is Georgies Alibi owned and operated by the same people who run the Wilton Manners, Fort Lauderdale hotspot of the same name. Grand Central Station and The Platform offer the choice between a neighbourhood pub atmosphere in Grand Central or Levi, leather and uniform in The Platform. There’s a very cruisy atmosphere and a secluded courtyard at the back of the building which houses both bars.
From gay beaches to restaurants and bars this region has everything to satisfy the gay traveller.
A car rental will be important if you enjoy exploring as there are so many sights and attractions to experience around the Suncoast region. However, there is also an excellent transit system if you plan to stay closer to home at the Suncoast Resort. The Beach Trolley runs every thirty minutes and will take you from one end of the beaches to the other with stops along the way allowing you to enjoy the sights and learn what the beach townsites have to offer. From the beaches the trolley also goes to downtown St. Petersburg, Baywalk and the Pier.
Whatever your mode of transportation it’s a must visit to Treasure Island and the historic John’s Pass fishermen’s village and boardwalk. The Pass was created in 1848 by a mighty hurricane and was named after John Leveque, a sea turtle fisherman, who was an early settler of the region. After the land was divided by the hurricane, fishermen settled along the shores and built the community which still stands today. The boardwalk is dotted with seafood restaurants offering the catch of the day and a multitude of fruits de mer. It’s a beautiful stroll along the boardwalk as you decide where to dine.
This is also the place for two fun and very different ways to enjoy some ocean cruising. The Pirate Ship and the Sea Rocket both launch from John’s Pass and each offers a unique experience on the high seas.
The Pirate Ship is a fun cruise for all ages and offers games for the kids and free beer and wine for the adults while dolphin watching with the wind in the sails floating you across the ocean at a gentle pace.
At the opposite end of the spectrum the Sea Rocket travels at more than sixty miles per hour for a heart-pounding, adrenaline rush as you traverse the Gulf of Mexico. A sunset cruise is available and will afford the opportunity to see the horizon from several different vantage points as the sun goes down.
Travelling north along the beach road a rich reward awaits every explorer at Tarpon Springs. With dockside attractions and downtown treasures this small waterfront community combines the feel of a Grecian fishing port with historic Victorian era homes in the village. The vintage mansions are hosts to numerous antique shops for those who love to find keepsake treasures and the lively Greek fishing community proffers the atmosphere of a Mediterranean escape. Just one visit will leave you wanting to return as soon as possible.
The beaches and villages with everything they have to offer will provide days of exploring possibilities or simply fabulous sandy stretches for decadent relaxation by the calm blue ocean.
Further south in Sarasota Bay the Ringling Museum Of Art is a unique experience and provides hours of fascinating entertainment. The waterfront mansion Ca d’Zan was once the home of John and Mable Ringling during their circus years and where they entertained the rich and famous. The Circus Museum houses the world’s largest miniature circus covering 3300 square feet and the galleries house the Ringling’s historically significant art collection and the legacy built during their lifetime. Located on sixty-six beautiful waterfront acres this a day trip worthy of the drive south. Well organised guided tours are available or you can simply stroll the grounds at your own leisurely pace and enter the buildings that interest you the most.
Flamboyant, eccentric and brilliant Salvador Dali made his dreams come to life on canvas and St. Petersburg is home to one of the largest collections of his unique works housed at the Salvador Dali Museum. His unforgettable art made him a celebrity and established Surrealism-the 20th century art movement-as a worldwide sensation and changed the history of art, film and culture forever. This is a great place to spend some time wandering amongst his shocking and often controversial artistic creations.
Just a short thirty-minute drive to the northern end of Tampa brings you to the world of Busch Gardens Africa. This combination of African Safari natural wildlife and hair raising amusement rides will take you across exotic terrain or climb two-hundred feet high for a view from the sky of all that the park has to offer. A leisurely train ride will take a circular route and show you where every attraction is located in just over one hour or a thirty-minute jeep Serengeti Safari will take you right into the natural habitat of zebras, giraffes, elephants and many more exotic African animals. Restaurants such as Zambia Smokehouse, Sahara Snacks, Kenya Kanteen and Sultan’s Sweets will tempt your palate. On stage Katonga, Musical Tales From The Jungle, is a stirring theatrical event filled with music, dance, lavish costumes and larger-than-life puppets. Amusement rides and roller coasters with names like SheiKra, Python, Scorpion, Rhino Rally, Gwazi and Montu will satisfy the biggest thrill seekers. It wouldn’t be a trip to Florida without a theme park visit and Busch gardens has everything for any vacationer.
Just a short drive back towards downtown Tampa is Ybor City, the historic Latin Quarter, providing an interesting blend of architecture, aromas, flavors, sights and sounds that remind one of Bourbon Street in New Orleans. Watch the historic art of hand- rolling cigars, relax with a famous café con leche, or stroll down La Setima looking for a great place to dine or dance the night away Latin style. Founded by Vincente Martinez Ybor in 1886, old brick buildings with wrought iron balconies give Ybor City charm and the creative Latin people give this community character and excitement.
From the cultural cities of Tampa and St. Petersburg to the gay beaches along Florida’s Suncoast, this region is rich in experiences for the gay vacationer. The locals are friendly and happy to see tourists of all kinds and a gay-friendly welcome is almost guaranteed wherever you end up visiting during your stay. There is so much to see and do it is certain to be a place where you can visit often and not run out of fresh holiday experiences. And then there’s the beaches, the sunsets, the seafood and more.
A diverse gay get-away for sure.

DESERT SPA EXPERIENCES

By Roy Heale

Believe it or not the hot, dry desert has certain similarities with the cold, dry winters in Canada---parched skin problems. And what better way to discover the cure for this northern curse than to experience a spa treatment designed specifically to moisten a male body's surfaces using local desert remedies. I set out to compare a couple of these special treatments and judge their effectiveness for myself.
First I visited Spa Terre at the Riviera Resort & Spa. After explaining my major reason for the visit my therapist recommended the Native Desert Sage treatment and massage. He assured me that this would not only solve my skin problems but it would enlighten my senses and lift my spirits. First I enjoyed the hot pools and developed a nice warm glow all over before the treatment began. Once on the massage table my workout began with a gentle exfoliating body polish which was followed by a warm shower without soap. When I returned to the massage table heaven and the angels enveloped me as the aromatic massage began using a rare desert sage oil for effect. I gently slipped into a lower level of consciousness as strong hands worked the magic oils into my parched skin. It seemed to last forever but when his hands ceased their marvellous work it felt like it had only lasted for seconds and I wanted more. Alas it was over! It was time for me to return to normal levels of awareness, head to my room and prepare for dinner. However, I was definitely moving slowly and in the mood for a nice long, relaxing dinner at the Falls Restaurant. Whatever the excuse I could easily become very accustomed to this kind of pampering.
My second experiment took place at The Spa in the Spa Resort Casino. I began with their signature service Taking of the Waters. This proved to be a truly incomparable combination of steam, sauna, Eucalyptus inhalation followed by a therapeutic, relaxing ten minute soak in my own private sunken tub filled with the Spa's famous hot mineral waters. Then it was time for my aromatherapy one hour therapeutic massage with a custom-blended pure essential oil designed to soften and moisturise my skin. Here the emphasis was placed upon the massage and when it was over every muscle in my body seemed to have completely stopped functioning as total relaxation set in. After a few minutes resting on the massage table I was able to move again in order to shower, dress myself and head off to the Fisherman's Market and Grill for a light luncheon of my favorite Halibut and chips.
Well now to my conclusions. I've been home for several weeks and instead of my usual immediate re-acclimatisation to the winter atmosphere with instant itchiness and dry finger tips I can almost say my skin feels like a baby's bottom. That might be a slight exaggeration with my advancing years but all things are relative and I can feel like a baby if I want to. Without a doubt these desert spa therapists have some magic potions and they know how to make you feel rejuvenated.

SAVE MONEY AT KIMPTON HOTELS

By Roy Heale

During these unusual and difficult economic times almost every traveller is looking for a deal. So in keeping with its mandate the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association ( IGLTA ) has announced a new benefit discount program with longtime partner and hotel industry leader Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants.
Using a special rate code “GLT” on Kimpton's Web site, http://www.kimptonhotels.com/, all GLBT travellers will now receive a ten percent discount on the best available rate at any of the company's unique properties. Additionally, each time IGLTA's code is used, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants will donate $10 per stay night back to IGLTA's mission of raising the profile of GLBT travel worldwide.
Since its founding in 1981, the company has been a pioneer in the hotel industry and was one of the first hotel groups to target specialized outreach to the GLBT market.
So when you're travelling in the near future check to see if your destination city has a Kimpton property and you can save some money on your accommodations.

BERLIN---GAY UNIFICATION

By Roy Heale
When American President Ronald Reagan uttered the now famous words “Mr. Gorbachev, tear down this wall!” in June 1987, it’s highly unlikely that he anticipated the impact he would have on Berlin’s GLBT communities. He was, of course, referring to the wall which separated the east and west sectors of the city of Berlin. Coincidentally, for decades this wall also divided the GLBT community into two separate groups, each of which grew and thrived despite the wall’s overall suffocating effect on Berliners.However, when the wall finally came down in 1989, instantly the size of Berlin’s gay community doubled and in the new unified city the total gay population was integrated over a much larger area. This also encouraged gays and lesbians from other parts of Germany to relocate to Berlin, where there was a comfortable acceptance of their lifestyle and the feeling of safety in numbers. In turn, this led to tourists from other countries visiting Berlin to enjoy the lively, diversified and liberated gay scene, which had developed in the city.Twenty years after Reagan’s famous speech, Berlin today is one of the most popular European GLBT vacation destinations. When you visit Berlin it’s easy to understand this newfound reputation based on freedom rather than oppression. Thank you, Mr. President!

The first openly gay Mayor in Germany is Berlin’s Mayor Klaus Wowereit, who undoubtedly created a positive influence on the acceptance of gays and lesbians in his city.Berlin still has several clusters of GLBT communities, each with its own unique flair and style. Each district has its own centre for shopping and nightlife. A very colourful and diverse gay and lesbian scene primarily developed over the years in the districts of Schoneberg, Kreuzberg and Prenzlauer Berg. In Schoneberg, one finds the largest and most popular gay area of Berlin. The gay scene in Kreuzberg is more alternative, while the nightlife in Prenzlauer Berg is influenced by the many students who reside in the neighbourhood. Several discos and clubs in the districts of Mitte and Friedrichshain are popular with the gay and lesbian community. Before arriving in Berlin there is a wealth of GLBT information to be found at http://www.visitberlin.de/ and Berlin Tourism also publishes a gay guide to the city, Out in Berlin.True night owls know that Berlin has the longest nights to be found anywhere in Europe as there are no regulated closing times for bars in this city. This is also probably the most sexually liberated city in Europe and most bars and sex clubs have dark rooms or play rooms where anything goes. However, you need to exercise caution with your valuables in these areas and always play safe, as Berlin has the highest incidence of HIV/AIDS cases in Europe—along with its reputation as the gay sex capital.

Having said these words of caution, Berlin boasts the most vibrant gay nightlife scene likely to be found anywhere in the world, with a multitude of choices for your nights on the town.During the day walking tours or cycling tours of gay Berlin provide a wealth of GLBT history and enjoyable sights. The Eldorado—Marlene Dietrich’s favorite place to hang out—was built in the twenties and the original Art Deco interior can still be enjoyed today. Perhaps the nostalgia of the famous Kit Kat Club would be perfect at cocktail hour. The Neues Ufer bar was the favorite neighbourhood pub for David Bowie and Iggy Pop when they spent time in Berlin recording albums together and today you can still enjoy the relaxing atmosphere that appealed to them so much. The Rainbow Monument at Nollendorfplatz underground station is a tribute to the approximately 10,000 “pink triangle” prisoners who were held captive in concentration camps. The Nazi regime forced these individuals to wear pink felt triangles so that their sexual preference would be publicly displayed. The Gay Schwules Museum is unique in the world and it contains two centuries of artwork and memorabilia from everyday gay life. Since its establishment in 1985, a mostly volunteer staff has assembled an amazing collection of gay historic items for all visitors to enjoy and perhaps learn from.

This city is full of fascinating and unique activities to enjoy on any gay vacation.But Berlin has also played a major role in Europe’s history and many reminders of the past are still standing today.The Berlin Wall and Checkpoint Charlie are perhaps the most well known memories from Berlin’s past. Today there is a permanent reminder of Checkpoint Charlie at the museum of the same name, displaying remnants of the original crossing station between East and West Berlin. The museum contains original objects and artifacts from successful escapes both over and under the wall plus the history of the wall and the border it created. Just a couple of blocks from Checkpoint Charlie is the Topography of Terror where a substantial remnant of the wall itself is accompanied by a pictorial history and stories from a time past that could easily be forgotten by future generations.The Brandenburg Gate, Berlin’s most famous landmark, is over 200 years old. Until 1989, it symbolized the division of Berlin and Germany—today it is a national symbol of unity. The structure is the only remaining city gate in Berlin. Built in 1789–91, designer Carl Gotthard Langhans modeled it after the Propylaeum in Athens, making it the first significant example of Berlin classicism. When the Berlin Wall still stood, the Gate stood alone and isolated. Today it is once again integrated into the recently designed Pariser Platz, a pedestrian area.

Close to the Brandenburg Gate is the Bundestag, the German seat of Parliament, in the Reichstag Building that was built in the 1890s. This imposing building with monumental facades has a powerful effect on the beholder. Surrounded by a beautiful park and other federal government buildings this complex is the very heart of German democracy as it is in today’s Federal Republic of Germany. Today the building houses some six thousand public servants and tours of the Bundestag reveal the interior renovations and the spectacular glass dome ceiling.The Victory Column at Grosser Stern is—after the Brandenburg Gate and the Television Tower—one of the most well known landmarks of Berlin. The sixty-nine meter high cylinder has partially the Love Parade to thank for its popularity. For many years the parade’s end party was celebrated at the plaza around the Victory Column. The Victory Column was originally dedicated to acts of war. The monument, built by Johann Heinrich Strack, recalls Prussian victories over Denmark, Austria and France in 1864, 1866 and 1870/71.This is the reason it is decorated with gilded gun barrels. Even the 8.32 meter high golden figure on the top of the column does not conceal her military background. Located in the Volkspark it is situated beside one of the most well-known gay cruising areas in the park. Here on weekends you can see same-sex couples and their children enjoying a picnic or possibly just enjoying each other.


The Berlin Gay Map lists one hundred and eighty gay and gay-friendly businesses, so finding suitable accommodation is easy with choices in every price range and for every style of home-away-from-home. Several places offer playrooms or slings in the rooms but many are simple gay hotels and Bed & Breakfasts. Staying in Schoneburg is probably the most central for everything Berlin has to offer, but with an excellent and inexpensive public transit system, anywhere in Berlin is close to some of the GLBT community. Two convenient hotel choices in Schoneburg are the Hotel Berlin, Berlin and The ArtHotel Connection. The first is a modern, recently renovated large hotel with all amenities and gay-friendly staff. The ArtHotel Connection is a smaller gay boutique hotel with old world charm, luxurious rooms and very helpful gay staff. Both are located close to subway stops and buses making it easy to travel to all the gay quarters of Berlin.There are many ways to enjoy tours of Berlin either by yourself or as a part of an organised group. Tours on bicycles include biking the Berlin Wall, Potsdam by Bike or an Insider tour. Walking tours include Reich Berlin, a concentration camp memorial tour, Cold War Berlin or perhaps a refreshing pub crawl. The unique “Berlin From Below” tour will take you down into Cold War Bunkers and underground tunnels in the dark world beneath the city. Boat tours along the River Spree and Landwehrkanal allow visitors to experience the old and new city either by day or night. For those with more ambition sightseeing flights are available by helicopter, flying boat or in the classic airlift “candy bomber” .Whichever way you choose to tour this city you can be sure its many wonders will entertain and educate every vacationer searching for the real Berlin.Of course, Berlin is a shopper’s paradise with everything from small boutiques to the renowned KaDeWe department store. The Galeries Lafayette, Potsdamer Platz Mall and stores along Kurfurstendamm offer every major designer label and probably some names that will be new to even the most accomplished shoppers. Bruno’s gay emporium has two very large locations stocked with everything gay under the rainbow. Be prepared for European prices and a day of shopping that will leave you with some great memories—even if you can’t afford to buy everything you see.

Berlin is the setting for the movie Cabaret (Liza Minnelli and Joel Grey). With its stunning modern buildings blended with the historic architecture, urban parkland and wide-open streetscapes, enticing nightlife and liberal-minded citizens, it seems as though some of that cabaret mystique still exists today. No wonder gays and lesbians from all over the world are journeying to Berlin to experience the sexual liberation and a unique holiday experience.Helpful Websites:• http://www.visitberlin.de/• http://www.out-in-berlin.com/• http://www.berlinfo.com/• http://www.arthotel-commection.de/• http://www.hotel-berline-berlin.com/ • http://www.cabaret-berlin.de/• http://www.schwulesmuseum.de/

SHOPPING IN PALM SPRINGS

By Roy Heale

Today almost all resort towns offer a veritable smorgasbord of shopping experiences to both residents and tourists alike and Palm Springs including the valley townships are no exception. Throughout the Coachella Valley there are numerous shopping malls which offer not only multiple shopping options with major retail store chains and small boutiques but also air conditioned respite from the unrelenting desert heat.
However, there are also some very unique alternatives to the kind of shopping experience which you are familiar with in your own home town.
Just a short drive down the valley to Old Town La Quinta and you will feel as though you have stepped back in time to an old Spanish town with beautiful white 18th century style Spanish architecture. The shops, restaurants and services will provide a pleasant leisurely shopping experience or a self indulgent visit to one of the day spas. The town is very proud of its artistic residents and local jewellers plus arts and crafts galleries are a highlight of this community. There is no rushed or pressured shopping here just relaxed shopping enjoyment.
If you're looking for the Rodeo Drive luxury in the Valley then head to El Paseo Avenue in Palm Desert where you will find approximately 300 specialty boutiques, day spas, fine jewellers and the likes of Gucci, Theodore of Beverly Hills and Ralph Lauren. Plus when you need to rest your feet, enjoy a beverage or some great food you can enjoy indoor dining, patio dining and cocktail lounges at Tommy Bahama's Tropical Cafe and Pacifica Seafood. Both promise a gourmet delight and exotic décor for a pleasant respite from the hard task of shopping.
Also, The Gardens on El Paseo is a collection of small boutiques, cafes and services plus Sax Fifth Avenue and Tiffany & Co. situated in an open air lush tropical garden and parkland with unique sculptures by local artists. You will probably find this to be the most laid back shopping experience you have ever partaken. You might even forget to spend money and just enjoy the tropical gardens, flowers and scenery.
Perhaps the most unique shopping experience in Palm Springs is the VillageFest when every Thursday night from 6PM to 9PM the main street Palm Canyon Drive is closed to traffic for about ten blocks in the heart of downtown. A diverse array of artists, artisans, entertainers, and purveyors of fresh fruits and vegetables, flowers, jewellery, snacks and sweets all set up booths on the street to sell their wares. The regular retail stores stay open late and the restaurants, bars and cafes welcome the crowds. This is one of Southern California's most popular festivals and it is a weekly tradition with local residents and visitors to get out and enjoy the Festival. It provides a unique opportunity to purchase unusual and distinctive gifts to take back home to friends and family.
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If you have just purchased your new vacation property somewhere in the valley then some home furnishings might be needed and there are plenty of stores ready to help you to furnish your new home. In Palm Springs the unique store Room Service can offer you modern furnishings, accessories and interior design assistance. Also, the Galleria of Palm Springs is a mid-forties California original arcade, with ten unique shops featuring 20th century art, design and fashion from Europe, Asia, Africa and the America's.
When you're ready for a break from the suns rays at the pool or need some time away from the greens then shopping can be a most enjoyable time out from the desert heat. This is a true nirvana for shoppers no matter what you are looking to buy.
Browse the web before you leave your hotel room to browse the stores:
http://www.westfield.com/ http://www.oldtowmlaquinta.com/ www.palmsprings.com/elpaseo
http://www.pacificaseafoodrestaurant.com/ www.tommybahama.com www.VillageFest.org
http://www.thegardensonelpaseo.com/ http://www.roomservice-la.com/ www.palmspringsgalleria.com

THE OTHER ROME

Europe's Gay Village


Almost everyone knows the expression "Rome Wasn't Built In A Day" and wandering around this ancient city you will soon realise that it will take several days just to visit a few of the numerous historic sights and monuments. The Eternal City---as Rome is renowned--- is perhaps the only urban center in the world where you stroll along an ordinary street and turn the corner to be confronted by the massive Roman Colosseum. Or perhaps you are taking a leisurely walk along a narrow cobbled lane and at the end of the street is a piazza with the magnificent Trevi fountains right before your eyes.
But Rome has much more to offer than simply the well-known tourist attractions. Mussolini's home and gardens are soon to be open to the public for the first time since his death and the Auditorium Parco Della Musica is a modern day amphitheatre dedicated to arts and music which is also the host of Rome's gay and lesbian film festival every year. There is in fact The Other Rome comprised of lesser-known but equally fascinating and historic sights to enjoy.
But for the past six years Rome is well known amongst Europe's GLBT communities for the annual Gay Village which is a popular element of the Estata Romana---Roman Summer---and is now a tourist attraction of this city. Although the influence of the Pope reaches far beyond the Vatican walls and Rome's gay night life may not be as robust compared to other European capitals, the Gay Village is a phenomenon. You might even see the advertising billboards for the Gay Village at major airports throughout Europe attesting to its widespread recognition.

Since 2002 a city park has been the venue for the festive Village and this year from June to September the Parco del Ninfeo---instead of at Parco delle Cascate as in previous years--- has been home to an open-air community of shops, cafes, bars, movies, performances, parties and more. Nestled amongst the trees and shrubbery, the Village compound is a hub of activity after dark on Thursdays and Fridays and all day long on Saturdays. One of this year's special attractions is a fitness centre including indoor cycling, reiki, volleyball and Tango. To appreciate the size and scope of this undertaking it should be noted that the estimated cost of Gay Village is $2.4 million. Sponsors have contributed $300,000 and the rest is expected to be made up by admission ticket sales and earnings from the shops, restaurants and bars in the Village. The Gay Village is located at the Parco del Ninfeo in the relatively new EUR Business District of Rome ( located at Via delle Tre Fontane and Via dell’Agricoltura) and is a little difficult to find but after searching for the location the gratifying gay rewards are immense. Almost every gay and lesbian Roman visits the village regularly throughout the summer and tourists make the trek from all over Europe to experience the sense of community, plus enjoy the parties and festivities.
As with so many major European cities Rome has several major parks to enjoy and the Parco Gianicolense is one of the largest and is located at the summit of one of the seven hills---la città dei sette colli---encapsulating Rome. Here you will not only find some of the most beautiful parkland and pathways to enjoy but also one of the most spectacular views of the city. Strolling around this large verdant acreage you will come across the Fonte Acqua Paola, the Porta San Pancrazio, the Garibaldi Monument and Piazza, the Faro al Giancolo clock tower and even an unusual view of the Vatican from this height which is spectacular at night time. Whether you are an amateur photo buff or not, the sights here will definitely prove to be worthy of a take-home memory. It is also a wonderful escape from the extreme summer heat of the city on any sumer day when you are searching for some cool breezes.
Another flight from the inevitable Roman summer heat in the city is a day trip to the less well-known Spiaggia Il Buco gay beach. From the heart of the city it is about a one hour journey on public transit and makes a fun picnic day away from the historic ruins and a chance to catch some eye-candy as the local gays and lesbians enjoy their piece of paradise on the Tyrrhenian Sea. There is a stretch of nude beach which is mostly populated by the gay community. And of course there are plenty of places to escape the sun and enjoy a cool beverage plus some local pasta specialties or real Italian thin crust pizza. Getting there is slightly complicated but if you take the Metro B (blue) line train from the Termini Station to Piramide and then change to the Metro destined for Ostia and get off at Cristoforo Colombio, then take the number seven bus to Capocotta, you will easily find the beach using your gaydar---or by asking a local resident. It is well worth the journey and any Roman holiday needs some oceanside time.
In the city of Rome there are over fifty gay and gay-friendly, bars, clubs, restaurants, cafes, shops, saunas and other businesses to enjoy. There is a Gay Map of Rome presented by gaydar.it and it provides very comprehensive listings for all that is gay in this metropolis. You can find the map at most gay establishments. An easy place to discover, pick-up your map and begin your tour of gay Rome is the appropriately named Coming Out bar close to the Colosseum at 8 via S. Giovanni in Laterano. This is in the heart of the city and once you have your map in hand you can plan a route to visit some of the popular night-spots such as Gloss, Gorgeus, Hangar---very popular with tourists---Mediterraneo Sauna, Frequency Club, Sky Line, Sphinx and of course the most popular disco Muccassassina---the number one night club in all of Rome. As with all European cities the action begins after midnight and the bars and clubs fill to capacity very quickly on weekends. Romans are very friendly and wherever you go you are sure to receive a warm welcome and most of the locals speak English or are very adept at making themselves understood!
If it's your first time in Italy then you will probably soon discover the uniquely Italian phenomenon of roof top gardens. If you can take a moment to divert your eyes from the visual feast at street level and cast your sight to the skies, then you will notice that almost every building has a roof top garden in varying shapes, sizes and complete with robust flora and fauna. It is an Italian expression of prid---and of course very gay--- to out-do the neighbours with a spectacular city garden on high and enjoy the views from a very inviting and luscious patio in the sky. Due to the warm climate these gardens proliferate each year and some have grown to resemble a full fledged city park. If you're lucky enough to meet a local and visit their roof top paradise you will understand this obsession in the heart of the city. As you walk around Rome cast your eyes upwards and see if you can spot the gay gardens even if there is no rainbow flag to assist your gaydar.

Gay accommodations in Rome are not abundant but there are several reasonably priced gay Bed & Breakfasts. The Gay Open Bed & Breakfast is centrally located at Piazza Vittorio and a little further out is The Frutta & Verdura Bed & Breakfast, both very conveniently located for sightseeing and nightlife. Close to the main train station you can stay at the very gay-friendly Edyta Bed & Breakfast for perhaps the cheapest price in all of Rome, yet still enjoy your own spacious, clean room with a bathroom plus friendly and helpful owner operators. It is still possible to enjoy Rome on a limited budget but in order to achieve this online advance research and early booking are a must.
However, if you are looking for a decadent treat on a special occasion The Bernini Bristol---a Sina Hotel and member of IGLTA---is set in a 19th Century Roman Palace located at Piazza Barberini and is close to many Roman sights including the Trevi Fountain, The Spanish Steps and of course the famous via Veneto. Here you can indulge in luxury and even luxuriate in one of their suites with your very own large roof top garden overlooking the city and with memorable sunsets and night time vistas with luminous extravaganzas. All of the the rooms are spacious and include ultra-modern or classic décor with indulgent accompaniments. They also have a gourmet rooftop restaurant with a 360 degree view of the city.
Whatever type of holiday home-away-from-home suits your budget you can find multiple choices in this city of copiousness. However, it is likely that you will probably spend very little time in your hotel room if you intend to experience and enjoy all that Rome has to offer in culture, history and gay life.

Any lover of Italian food should be prepared for a true gourmet experience, but it can also be an expensive undertaking. When planning your dining adventure it is advisable to leave the tourist areas and head off into the side streets to find a pizzeria or smaller cafe where a traditional Italian four course dinner perhaps including antipasta, pizza, veal, pasta or other Roman specialties can be enjoyed at more reasonable prices. Try to avoid dining at the attractive and very appealing restaurants on the beautiful piazzas where you will pay a high price for the view as well as your meal! Of course dinner on the via Veneto at one of the renowned restaurants like Harry's or Cafe de Paris is a must at least once during your vacation but the prices are around one hundred dollars per person for a three course gourmet dining experience with a guaranteed vacation memory to match every penny spent.


So When In Rome.....don your walking shoes and be ready to step back in time as you explore the ancient monuments by day, feast upon gourmet Italian dinners with real gelato for dessert in the evening, and then perhaps a nightcap with an Italian stallion to complete your Roman holiday.

HELPFUL WEBSITES:

berninibristol.com auditorium.com
gayvillage.it gaymap.info rome-bed-breakfast.eu
italiantourism.com rome.info romeitaly.ca

PALM SPRINGS ENTERTAINMENT

By Roy Heale

With a history steeped in Hollywood traditions you would expect Palm Springs and the entire Coachella Valley to be overflowing with great performances. You won't be disappointed as talented pianists in lounge bars, the singing servers at Cafe Italia plus numerous professional bands and singers, are on hand to delight one and all. In addition the movie theatre at Westfield Palm Desert Mall screens independent, alternative, documentary and foreign films.
But the most unique performers on stage are the world renowned Fabulous Palm Springs Follies. Celebrating the music of the 30s, 40s and 50s in Vaudeville style with a cast ranging in age from 55 to 85 years this show will amaze audiences of all ages. On a recent visit to Palm Springs I was treated to a night at the follies.
Whatever you might think, don't be misled by the age of these cast members because you will be dazzled by their agility, their strong voices and their stamina. And if that's not enough the spectacular costumes, creative sets and guest performers will all leave you mesmorised by the end of the three hour spectacular.
The Fabulous Plam Springs Follies has become a local institution since it was founded and now in its second decade of continuous performances it shows no signs of slowing down---like its cast members! Another Palm Springs institution---The historic Plaza Theatre opened in 1936 and located on Palm Canyon Drive---is home to the Follies and it is fitting that this history-making show takes place in a charming, neon encrusted, storybook renovated old movie house. Performances are five days per week from late October to mid-May and this season's theme is a salute to the legendary road Route 66 in song and dance routines.
Each year the show increases in popularity and one of the reasons for this growth is the sheer extravagance of the production's costumes, lighting and sets which have to be seen to be believed. Costume creation begins about eighteen months prior to each season's opening night and they cost up to $35,000 each. Amazing as this sounds you have to see them to believe it.
Producers Mary Jardin and Riff Markowitz---who is also the evening's host and comedian---have discovered a winning combination of amazing talent and unique entertainment from times gone by which they turn into eye-popping spectaculars each season. All of the performers have enjoyed a previous career on stage, in television, in commercials or other live performances and the talented Follies' producers have found a way to keep them busy in their years which might normally be set aside for retirement. And you can see that all the cast members enthusiastically love their career revivals.
Even the Guinness Book of World Records has recognised the Palm Springs Follies' performer Dorothy Kloss at 85 years old as the “Oldest 'Still Performing' Showgirl in the World.” As a precocious Chicago teenager Dorothy taught a young Bob Fosse how to tap dance and she is still tap dancing today!
So make a date with the legendary long-legged chorus line and their Fred Aistaire style gentlemen partners that will entertain you, make you laugh and leave you stunned by their charismatic extravaganza. Be sure to reserve your tickets well in advance as most performances play to sold out houses. But miss this great performance at your own folly!

TRAVEL MEDIA ENJOYS ANNUAL CONVENTION

By Roy Heale

Last week in Richmond, B.C. the Travel Media Association of Canada held its annual convention from February 3rd to 6th at the River Rock Casino Resort. Almost 100 travel writers, photographers and on-air journalists were in attendance along with numerous travel industry representatives. The industry marketplace, seminars, speeches and receptions were an enormous success and well attended by all convention delegates. There were many off-site field trips to the local scene in Richmond and Vancouver. Also, the Friday luncheon was sponsored by Cardiff, Wales Tourism as the host city for the 2010 convention and the first time that this annual gathering will be held outside of Canada. Attendees at the luncheon were treated to a sampling of what Cardiff will offer the 2010 delegates and entertainment by the Vancouver Welsh Men's Chorus. Friday evening included the 2008 TMAC Awards ceremony and the final event of the convention was the Go For The Gold Gala Dinner at the Aberdeen Centre in Richmond B.C. Everyone agreed it was a very informative convention and the ever important networking was unequalled. Looking forward to Cardiff in 2010.

LOW AIRFARES TO SOUTH AMERICA WITH LAN

Already recognised as the vacation "sleeping giant" now South America is the vacation destination for the budget conscious traveller. With new low fares just announced by Lan Airlines from Toronto to Argentina, Chile, and Uruguay the cost of a Latin American Tango experience is even cheaper. From as low as $599 round trip for bookings until February 28th online or until June 15th through a travel agency, this is a unique opportunity to head south for sunshine and a low-cost vacation. Once you're there the local inexpensive costs will surprise those who are on their first South American trip and for those who have already experienced the continent these air fares are not to be missed.
For more information visit: http://plane.lan.com/cgi-bin/log/otid.cgi?otid=64115 or call your local travel agent today.