Evolution of a Man...

Somewhere Over the Rainbow…

It’s summer time, and once again, everyone seems to be frantically searching for locations far, far away at which they can let their hair down, forget about their troubles, and perhaps, get down with gay people from across the globe. This latter agenda item leaves us questioning our friends, researching online and more in the hopes that we will find a comfortable, entertaining and relaxing destination where we can be as gay as we wanna be.

I, myself have yet to extensively travel the globe- I’ve only been out of the country once a few years ago, and that was on a trip with family members. Right- not gay at all! It is definitely time, however to spread my little queer wings a little wider and go on holiday. But where does one travel when conquering the gay globe? After doing a little research of my own, I’ve compiled a list of what I’ll call the 5 Gay Meccas of the world. Hopefully they will help you in researching your next big gay vacation.

First, let’s start at home… NEW YORK CITY!

Now, I know many, if not most of you are thinking, “Bitch, I live in NYC. Why the hell would I want to vacation here?” If this is you, I ask you to consider the following. Consider the fact that there are probably many, many places that you have not yet visited, and many things that you have yet to see and do in the city in which you live- regardless of whether it’s NYC, ATL, Chicago, etc. Try opening your mind just a little bit more, and go on an adventure in your own city. Visit a part of the city (perhaps known to be gay) that you would normally not travel to or party in, and see what comes up. Who knows, you might find your new favorite coffee shop, club, boyfriend- whatever. You never know what’s out there…

Now, let’s get outta the country!

Mykonos:

First and foremost, Mykonos boast a wide variety of beaches both gay friendly and predominately gay. Now, it may be true that many black gay men aren’t going near any body of water for no swimmin’, but if there’s one hobby that gay men across the globe participate in, it’s staring at other hot gay men. What better place than to do that than on the beaches of some foreign land? The general rule of thumb around Mykonos beaches is that the more rocky the beach, the more likely you will find studs cruising it.

It is advised that you plan your stay in the port for more lively gay nightlife. However, if you wish to have a more relaxing trip, a location near Plati Yalou Beach would be more for you. There is a very gay friendly area called Little Venice- known for its outdoor café’s, bars and shops. And after all, that eating, drinking and shopping, you can catch the sunset at the Kastro Bar (also in Little-Venice) and then dance the night away amongst the local divas at Pierro’s gay disco.

Ibiza:

God, I love Spain! When I visited there (only for a few days), I found myself in need of many changes of underwear after a healthy day of cruising and sightseeing. Ibiza remains to this day, one of Europe’s premiere destinations for homos and their friends.

Don’t you dare visit Ibiza without hitting up Privilege- the world’s largest club. There’s also Es Paradis- noted for its water parties, and Amnesia- known for foam parties. (side note: if you’ve never been to a foam party before, you have not yet lived! That shit is bananas!). The point here is that although the beaches of Ibiza are fantastic, and definitely worth seeing; if you don’t hit up all the clubs and bars that Ibiza has to offer, then you are not only missing out on some serious dancing, but some serious chorizo as well.

Montreal:

Although Montreal does have a great gay social scene, I, being a peaceful-natured queer love the draw of the many Bed and Breakfast spots located in the village. These quaint little mini-hotels are located right in the heart of gay Montreal- many of them open for men only. What’s great about them is that at first glance, one may think of them as a simple hotel, they are so much more- they tend to be a bit more comfortable than many other hotels- and as opposed to staying in a hotel, one of the pluses of staying at a B&B is it’s feeling of home. You don’t ever really feel too far away from home staying at a B&B.

Also, while in Montreal, I would recommend venturing out into the country and going for a hike. Montreal has great hiking within the city limits, and much more backpacking in the surrounding regions. Not all vacation destinations have to end up with a trip to the beach and/or club. I love the outdoors, and quite often jump at the opportunity to strap on a backpack, and hike up a mountain to a nice lake/ campsite. While in Montreal, if hiking/ backpacking strikes your fancy, be sure to check out the mountain, Mont Royal. There you will find dozens of trails and pathways in the area. I know it sounds intimidating and just plain “not fun” for many of you, but try it out. What’s the point of living if you’re not going to try something new every once in a while.

Bangkok:

Finally, there’s this little piece of Thailand that boasts some of the wildest parties and most extreme gay culture. Bangkok is the heart of gay Thailand, although money can’t buy you love, it can buy you a close copy for a short time- if that’s what you’re into. The party scene in Bangkok ranges from bars, to clubs, to saunas, to karaoke and cabaret. If you can think it up, it probably exists somewhere in Bangkok. The “gayborhood” of Bangkok is located in the ever-so-trendy Silom/Suriwong/Patpong area. The nightlife is fierce, bordering insane, with most of the gay go-go bars featuring sexy shows in addition to go-go dancing. (y’all know I love me some strippers!).

If you haven’t already guessed, Bangkok gives a little more of a seedy representation than the other gay destinations on this list. I wanted to add it so as to show the vast differences in experiences that you encounter in your trek across the gay globe. In gay Bangkok, the feminine side of society is celebrated. In fact, upon visiting, you will learn of the famous “ladyboys” who walk the streets in search of their next party, function, etc. Most are she-males who cannot afford the full operation, but interestingly enough find themselves partners in both gay and straight men. Sure, it may be a vast difference from what you are used to, but you’re bound to learn a lot about the world once you visit.

*****

Of course there are many, many more destinations and adventures to be had across the globe- I just wanted to point out a few that I have been researching while looking to plan my next vacation. Regardless of where you are going- whether it’s near or far to your current location, as you travel over the rainbow, be sure to be careful, stay protected, and take a camera- you’re gonna want to catch it ALL on film! Have a great trip!