Pride around the world

Every year spring marks the beginning of pride season or at least preparation for pride. Gay men and women around the world wake from winter’s slumber and hit the gym or the treadmill to get into tip top shape for pride. Get ready as shirts will fly when these international celebrations begin.

But before we look at various pride festivals around the world – just how did these celebrations get started?

Answer: In the 1950s and 1960s the only safe places for gays and lesbians to gather were underground gay bars. In the 1960s the police would often raid these bars and arrest the patrons. At the time, it was common all over the United States for police to raid gay and lesbian bars. While they were purportedly looking for liquor law or other violations, patrons were often arrested and dragged off to jail with no legitimate charges. The names of those arrested were often published in the local newspapers and many of those people were fired from their jobs as a result.

In the early morning hours of June 28, 1969 the patrons of the Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village, New York decided they were not going to put up with the police raiding their bars. When the police arrived the patrons fought back and that event has gone down in history as the Stonewall Riots.

After the Stonewall riots, gays and lesbians in New York City faced gender, class, and generational obstacles to becoming a cohesive community.  Within six months, two gay activist organizations were formed in New York, concentrating on confrontational tactics, and three newspapers were established to promote rights for gays and lesbians. Within a few years, gay rights organizations were founded across the U.S. and the world. On June 28, 1970, the first gay pride marches took place in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco commemorating the anniversary of the riots. Similar marches were organized in other cities; today Gay Pride events are held annually throughout the world toward the end of June to mark the Stonewall riots.

Pride is now a time of celebration and a time of activism. It is a time to remember the brothers and sisters we have lost to AIDS and to look forward to a future free of this disease. It is a time to remember Stonewall and it is a time to continue the fight for equal rights including the right for same sex marriage. Above all, it is a time for celebration!

The following is a list of gay pride history and celebrations from around the world.

Toronto Pride:  June 19 – 28, 2009 www.pridetoronto.com
Pride Toronto has been in existence in various forms since the late 1970’s and annually since 1981. In the early 1970’s there were Gay Days picnics that were held at Hanlon’s Point, moving later to Cawthra Park, with ceremonies on the steps of the 519 community centre, and Pride Toronto’s first-ever beer garden.

In 1981, police raided various bathhouses that motivated gays and queers and their supporters to organize a major demonstration held at Yonge Street and Wellesley on the day that followed. This event raised public awareness of queer issues. In 1984 for the first time Church Street was closed and people danced in the street. Pride Toronto’s first Pride Committee was created in 1986, and in 1987 sexual orientation was included in the Human Rights Code. The momentum built up and in 1991 the City Council proclaimed Pride Day for the first time and 80,000 people celebrated.

June 29th 1996 the first Dyke March met at the 519 Community Centre. Toronto Dyke March founders Lesha Van Bij and Lisa Hayes work with a handful of volunteers to organize a successful Dyke March with 5,000 participants. The Dyke March is now a year round engagement, a beacon to Dykes and Trans people everywhere and a signal that Dykes and Trans are needed, valued and welcomed. Since 1996 the Dyke March continues o raise awareness of Dyke and Trans’ visibility in the queer community, and the Dyke March has become a tradition in most cities across North America.

New York City Pride: June 20 – 28, 2009 www.nycpride.org
The Gay Pride March “NYC Pride March” is an annual March more commonly referred to as the Parade, traversing southward down Fifth Avenue and ending at Greenwich Village.  The March passes by the site of the Stonewall Inn on Christopher Street.  The March has been and will continued to be called a March not a Parade until there is full equality for the LGBTQ community.

The March, PrideFest (the festival) and the Dance on the Pier are the main events of Pride Week in New York City Gay Pride Week. Since 1984, Heritage of Pride (HOP) has been the producer and organizer of Pride Events in New York City.  These events are organized for and on behalf of all lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender individuals and groups, and all others who support the struggle for the liberation of these communities.

In the spirit of Stonewall, Heritage of Pride welcomes the participation of all, regardless of age, creed, gender, gender identification, HIV status, national origin, physical, mental or developmental ability, race, religion or sexual orientation.

Sao Paulo Pride: June 14, 2009 www.paradasp.org.br
Brazil is well, just so sexy!!  The Sao Paulo Gay Pride Parade (in Portuguese Parada do Orgulho GLBT de São Paulo) first started in 1997 and gathered a small crowd of 2000.  In 2007, organizers said that the event gathered nearly 3.5 million people but these numbers have not been confirmed.

Pair a trip to Sao Paulo pride with OUT Adventures Rhythms of the South Tour

Capetown Pride: late February 2010 www.capetownpride.co.za
South Africa is a country not to be missed.  Cape Town’s Pride Festival began in 2001 and then merged the following year with another local gay event. After the 2002 festival the decision was made to revert back to its original identity, and as part of the implementation of a long term strategy the 2003 festival was postponed to February 2004 in an effort to attract gay tourism to the festival and the city. The months of February and March are traditionally the period during which Cape Town sees the greatest income from tourism, and this move proved successful.

Pair a trip to Cape Town pride with OUT Adventures South Africa Experience

Sydney Mardis Gras: February 27, 2010 www.mardigras.org
The Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras is an annual gay pride parade and festival for the LGBT community in Sydney, Australia, and claims to be the largest such event in the world. The parade features individual entrants in colourful costumes, gatherings of local and inter-state community group members, and elaborate floats representing a topical theme or political message.

The parade and dance party attracts many international and domestic tourists, providing a significant economic boost to Sydney each year. The celebrations emerged during the early 1980s after arrests were made during pro-gay rights protests that began in 1978. Despite its name, it is not held on Mardi Gras (Shorve Tuesday) or indeed, on a Tuesday at all.

Have a safe and happy pride!!

Destination – Costa Rica

OVERVIEW

The jewel of Central America, Costa Rica’s environment is world-renowned as one of nature’s most diverse, vibrant and healthy and is an eco-tourism destination like no other. Costa Rica is well and truly a tropical paradise and it wont take long for you to fall in love with this beautiful country, its spectacular beaches, abundant jungles, flora, fauna and its friendly people.. You will quickly understand why the Ticos (as the locals are called) refer to their country as Pura Vida, Spanish for Pure Life!

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

FULL NAME: Costa Rica

CAPITAL CITY: San Jose

AREA: 51,100 km2 / 19,730 sq miles

POPULATION: 4,327,000

TIME ZONE: GMT -6

GEOGRAPHY: Costa Rica is located in Central America and the country borders both the Caribbean Sea (to the east) and the Pacific Ocean (to the west), with a total of 1,290 kilometers (802 mi) of coastline. Costa Rica’s land borders include Nicaragua to the north and Panama to the south-southeast. In total, Costa Rica comprises 51,100 square kilometers (19,730sq mi) and has seven provinces.

The highest point in the country is Cerro Chirripo, at 3,820 metres (12,532 ft), and is the fifth highest peak in Central America. The highest volcano in the country is the Irazu Volcano (3,431 m / 11,257 ft) and the largest lake in Costa Rica is Lake Arenal.

Costa Rica protects 23% of its national territory within the Protected Area System and it also possesses the greatest density of species in the world

CLIMATE: There are two distinct seasons in Costa Rica. The dry season is from December through to April and the wet (or green season as it’s now referred to) runs from May to November. Even during the “green season” it is typically sunny during the day and clouding over in the late afternoons with rain in the evenings.

Wildlife enthusiasts may wish to plan their trip around the following: Turtle season on the Caribbean coast is from late-February to October, with the peak season for leatherbacks in April and May and for green turtles in August and September. On the Caribbean coast, the season for leatherbacks is from October to March.

LANGUAGES: Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica however English is widely spoken in most major tourist destinations. We always recommend that you learn a few key words or phrases to help you along the way – it’s a great ice breaker!

RELIGION: Costa Rica is predominantly Roman Catholic (88%) with Protestant accounting for 8% of the population. You will see beautiful colonial churches throughout this fascinating country.

GAY COSTA RICA: Homosexuality is not illegal according to the law and the age of consent for both sexes is 18. A law enacted in 1999 makes it illegal to discriminate against sexual and other minorities punishable by law. Same sex couples can jointly apply for health and insurance benefits along with housing credits. Cost Rica is a safe country for the gay tourist and has become one of the most popular gay travel destinations in Central America.

COSTA RICA GAY TRAVEL MUSTS: Key gay highlights include the capital city of San Jose and the beach area of Manuel Antonio. Costa Rica really does have it all for the gay traveler: vibrant city life with bars, restaurants, cafes and gay friendly accommodation to the tranquil beauty of the jungle and fabulous beach stays.

SAN JOSE: San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica is situated in the middle of the country and is most likely your entry point into the country. Flights operate into Costa Rica from the US, Canada and some parts of Europe. This Spanish colonial city has many memorable sights and is easily seen on foot. Costa Rica is a safe country however just as anywhere caution is always advised. There are numerous gay bars and the locals will likely speak English. Nevertheless, learn a few key words and phrases and you’ll get a long way with the Ticos.

MANUEL ANTONIO: Manuel Antonio near the coastal town of Quepos is a must visit for the gay traveller. It’s a mini Puerto Vallarta and even has it’s own stunning, secluded gay beach called La Playita (the little beach) and gay bars such as the Bar Tutu with a fantastic roof deck and amazing panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Almost every hotel in the area is gay friendly, and most feature views of the ocean or rainforest. If you’re looking for more than a relaxing beach stay then some of the surrounding activities include trekking through the preserve of Manuel Antonio, white-water rafting, or why not try a canopy safaris. Get hooked into a harness (not that kind of harness) and zoom from tree top to tree top over and through the jungle below. Truly amazing!

COSTA RICA WITH OUT ADVENTURES: If you’re short on time but want a taste of this country’s unique sights then jump onboard this OUT Comfort trip through San Jose’s colonial streets, La Fortuna’s emerald green countryside, Monteverde’s lush cloud forests and Manuel Antonio’s turquoise seas. With abundant wildlife, intense volcanic landscapes and superb Pacific beaches, this comfortable adventure is sure to be a trip to remember.

OUT TRIPS – join OUT Adventures on a comfort class trip that visits all the gay highlights

Food glorious food!

tips from travel expert and OUT Adventures Co-Founder Steven Larkin

This is one of the main reasons I choose to travel the world. You can learn so much about a country, it’s people and it’s culture by sampling the local delicacies. It’s not always for the faint of heart but it always delivers an opportunity to experience the real world. Now, there are always some safety practicalities to consider like only drinking from bottled or secure water sources but it’s equally important to know that the food is being prepared under safe, hygienic conditions. Your tour guide is probably the best source for pointing you in the right direction – especially in developing countries. Since they travel regularly through these regions they know where to go and what to eat. So, follow their lead and you will be pleasantly surprised.

On a recent trip through Northern Thailand we spent an entire day in a cooking class in Chiang Mai. This is probably one of the best ways to get an authentic experience and understanding of Thai cooking. The day started with a visit to a local market to gain an understanding of the produce, spices, herbs and meats available in Thai cuisine. Fresh and fragrant ingredients are selected and we are then off to learn how to prepare a typical Thai meal. Now, we’re not talking 3 courses here. You actually learn how to make a whole variety of courses including of course Pad Thai and Tom Yum Soup. The instructor first shows you how to prepare the ingredients and then you take charge and create your own meal. In a word – delicious!! Who knew cooking Thai was so much fun. Course after course is demonstrated and prepared and you leave with a real sense of accomplishment and an understanding of what great Thai food is all about.

Cooking School in Chiang Mai

Having this first hand knowledge of the local cuisine makes it that much easier to make your way through local restaurants and markets. You’ll know what to look for and what to order. A good tip is to check out where the locals are eating. If you want a real sense of great food – then eat like a local. The busier the restaurant with locals – the better the food will be and it’s probably quite inexpensive too. This holds true for probably any restaurant in the world.

Travelling through Europe and knowing how to eat on the cheap is sometimes a challenge but the same principal as above holds true. Eat like a local and you will avoid the tourist traps. In most of the western European countries it is customary to have a light breakfast – continental of course. No heavy hot American breakfasts here. Go light in the morning with some bread and cheese and a croissant and a piece of fruit. Lunch is always on the go! And by on the go, I mean that you can easily pick up a baguette and cold meats from a local butcher and baker and create your own little picnic. If you feel like you need a jolt of coffee order at the bar and enjoy the coffee standing up. As soon as you sit down at a table you will pay more – that’s typically where you will find the tourists. Europeans, especially in the Mediterranean countries of Spain and Italy eat quite a late dinner. So, if you don’t want to stand out like a sore thumb then be prepared to eat past 10pm. This might sound strange but if you want to eat like a local, then show up late & enjoy a late dinner.

Dining throughout the world whether you’re in Thailand or Italy is a social event. It brings people together to laugh, share and learn. Take the opportunity to learn more about a people, its food and culture by stepping away from the typical guide book recommended restaurants and venturing into local cafes, bars, bistros and stalls to sample food, glorious food. It’s what travel is all about!

-Steven Larkin

Thailand – Part 1, Bangkok

If you aren’t among the millions of gay tourists that have travelled and fallen in love with Thailand, read on. When you are finished, be sure to check out our related tours at the bottom of this article. Our March 1st departure of Comfort Thailand will be hosted by Co-Founder Robert Sharp and is filling fast.

Thailand can offer a completely different experience than any place you have been. In Thailand, gay men are not only welcomed but they are embraced, and in general the Thai people will make you feel that their home is your home. This “land of smiles” as many call it can offer a very well rounded vacation for all types of travellers.

Whether you are interested in experiencing Thai food, the local culture, the history or even just to work on your tan while sporting the latest aussieBum swimwear collection – there is something for you.

Upon arrival in Thailand, we always recommend a few days to get to know Bangkok and to adjust to the climate and culture. Known as the City of Angels, Bangkok is the center of gay life in Asia.

From bears to twinks to every shape size and age of man (or woman), this the place to go if you want to experience a unique Asian culture with a very gay-welcoming atmosphere. This is a city with a rich culture and history; so you can dive into the local culture during the day, eat wonderful meals and experience a vibrant night life.

One of the most popular destinations in Bangkok is the Damnoen Saduak floating market. You can sample local food while an experienced guide will take you on a boat ride through the canals where you can purchase tons of souvenirs for friends and family back home.

Thailand is full of majestic temples that will impress any western visitor with their splendour. Wat Trimitr, Wat Po and Wat Banjamaborpitr are three of the most beautiful. Plan to bring your camera and try to hire a local guide so you can learn the rich history and nuance of each and every place of worship.

The Grand Palace is the most popular tourist destination in the city. For centuries it was the residence of Thailand’s powerful kings. Make sure you take time to see the Reception Palace, the Funeral Palace, The Throne Hall and the beautiful revered Temple of the Emerald Buddha. Just be prepared; the Thais take their temples seriously and will not let you inside if you are wearing shorts or flip flops.

When you are done sightseeing Thailand offers nearly every type of cuisine from traditional Thai food to classic Western cuisine. No matter what your tastes, you should be able to satisfy your hunger before your night on the town!

If the vibrant nightlife interests you, then you will need to check out Surawong Road – the capital of gay nightlife in Bangkok. For those nights where you just want to eat and drink in a friendly setting check out Silom 4 a wonderful gay area with bistros with cold drinks and good food where you can chill out and talk with other cool guys!

Petchaburi Road features gay karaoke and good drinks. If that’s your thing, you’ll have a great night belting out the classics!

The Sapan Kwai and Kao San Road areas of the city feature gay venues that cater almost exclusively to local Thais. These are nowhere near as western friendly as the other gay sections of town, but if you are brave and friendly, you will likely have a great time. Of course, like any city, the hot spots in Bangkok come and go constantly. What’s cool today might not be hot tomorrow and new places are popping up all the time.

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Suggested Bangkok Hotel:

Silom Serene Boutique Hotel
The Silom Serene hotel is an affordable gay-friendly hotel that is used on all OUT Adventures Comfort and In Style trips. Book with us for special rates.
http://www.silom-serene.com

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Suggested Thailand Trips departing from Bangkok:

Thailand Hike, Bike & Raft – 13 days, $1025 per person
Trip Style – Active
2009 Departures: Jul 27, Nov 30

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Thailand Hike, Bike & Raft

Comfort Thailand – 10 days, $1015 per person
Trip Style – Comfort
2009 Departures: Mar 01, Jul 12, Aug 02, Aug 23, Oct 04, Oct 18, Nov 08, Dec 06

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Thailand Trip

Ancient Kingdoms of Thailand – 7 days, $1345 per person
Trip Style – In Style
2009 Departures: Jul 19, Dec 13

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Ancient Kingdoms of Thailand Trip

Thailand Family Adventure – 14 days, $1015 per person
Trip Style – Family
2009 Departures: Jul 19, Dec 21

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Family Vacation

Bangkok Experience – 5 days, $575 twin
Trip Style – Independent
2009 Departures: flexible

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Bangkok Experience

Phuket Beach Break – 5 days, $330 twin
Trip Style – Independent
2009 Departures: flexible

OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Phuket Beach Break

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Useful Links:

Utopia Asia Thai Tips 
OUT Adventures Gay & Lesbian Tours

Get off the beaten gay path and pave the road to adventure

Get off the beaten gay path and pave the road to adventure

 

Are you suffering from “been there, done that” syndrome?  Have you been to your fair share of all inclusive resorts and cruises?  Tired of burning up hard earned vacation time on family reunions, weddings, and the pre-requisite Christmas and Easter visits with the family?  Are you thinking that it’s time to do something different, something challenging, something rewarding with your time?

 

Then it’s probably time to put some thought into getting off the beaten gay path and exploring adventure options.  The easiest way to break down your options is to look at the obvious and then dive into adventure.

 

Europe first up!  Planning a summer trip could typically include a visit to Rome and why not?  Rome is an amazing city in it’s own right but in order to get to know the real Italy you’re going to have to dig a bit deeper.  Trust me it will be well worth it and you will come back with a more intimate (maybe even that kind of intimate!) knowledge and appreciation for not only the country but its’ culture, language, cuisine, and people. 

 

So, what could you do that would be considered off the beaten path in Italy?  This is a magnificent country and the adventure options are actually quite plentiful.  After your pre-requisite 3 day stay in Rome it’s time to escape to experience what Italy is all about.  The well trodden Rome-Venice-Florence circuit is truly well trodden and hundreds of thousands of tourists visit these cities every summer.  Instead head to the Amalfi coast and trek up Mount Vesuvius.  How about an apartment stay in the medieval city of Lucca located in Tuscany.  Use your apartment as your base to explore a region synonymous with fine art, beautiful landscapes, ancient architecture and some of Italy’s finest wines.  There are also a whole host of independent walking tours that you can take participate in.  Everyone has heard of the Italian riviera but did you know that you could spend a week walking from Sestri Levante to Camogli along the Italian riviera.

 

Asia is up next!  With direct and in some instances non-stop service from Canada to Asian capitals like Hong Kong, Singapore, Beijing, Tokyo, Manila and Seoul it is easy to see why Asia holds such a fascination for many gay Canadians.  Some of these cities actually have quite buoyant gay life due in part to the large ex-pat communiities that live in these cities.  In Singapore for instance you’ll find gay bars, restaurants and cafes.  But in most Asian cities the gay options are pretty scarce and when they do exist they operate under the radar.

 

But that actually presents an opportunity to really explore Asia in a different light.  Unless you’re travelling to gay beach meccas like Phuket or Pattaya in Thailand then you are probably going to get off the beaten path to explore the real Asia.  This region is so fascinating for so many reasons and so varied as a result.  Why not consider a trip through the former French colonies of Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos.  This region once known as Indochine or Indochina is an area that will get your adventurous spirit flowing.  There are so many magnificent things to see, do and experience. 

 

Vietnam is a long skinny country running from Hanoi, the capital in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south.  Dont stop there and make sure that you visit Halong Bay where you can take an overnight junk boat into the bay.  Go swimming or kayaking and explore the islands of the bay.  Spend a couple of days in the Hoi Ann, a world heritage site where you can take Vietnamese cooking classes and get made to order clothing.  When you get down to Ho Chi Mihn City make sure you visit Uncle Ho himself.  Ho Chi Minh is credited with helping the Vietnamese to expel not only the French but also the Americans in what they call the “American War” not the Vietnam War as we are taught.  He is embalmed and lies in state for public viewing.  Kind of creepy but, hey how often to you get to see an embalmed national war hero?

 

Laos, pronounced Lao is a country not very often visited by Canadians but trust me that it’s worth the effort.  Luang Prabang, another world heritage site is nestled along the Mekong River and is just such a charming throw back to the french colonial days.  Not that there was anything charming about the french colonizers…quite the opposite as they were quite brutal in their occupation but they did leave  behind some amazing architecture and french food.  You can have an authentic croissant in Luang Prabang – one that would rival a croissant in France.  Blocks of the city are preserved to retain their french flair.  It is amazing to see especially in the middle of the Laos jungle along the Mekong.

 

Cambodia, likewise if pretty much off the beaten gay path and you wont be disappointed for making the effort.  Strolling through the imperial palace grounds in Pnohm Phen is such a different experience from the royal palaces of say Thailand.  There are so few tourists that you can take your time and get some pretty amazing photographs.  Cambodia does have a very sad and tragic past and you must spend some time understanding the masacre that took place in the 1970′s.  The Khmer Rouge rose to power and wiped out entire generations of their own people.  The elite, teachers, business people, lawyers, doctors were all killed as the Khmer attempted to revert the country to a feudal society and one based solely on farming.  It’s a sad history but an important one to remember.

 

The absolute highlight of Cambodia is however the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat.  Wow, is pretty much the only way to sum it up.  Anyone interested in Asian cultures surely has this site on their top 10 list.  You will marvel at the intricate stone carvings of the various temples and ruins.  Watching the sun set and the sun rise over the ruins are two definite musts.  Be warned that it does get more than a bit crowded…this now is well and truly a tourist highlight and people from around the world make their way to Siem Reap to view the temples.  And it does get stinking hot especially as the sun beats down onto the stone ruins.  But, it is so worth it.  You will be amazed at the craftsmanship of the ancient Khmer culture.

 

Let me now tackle South Africa as this destination and in particular Cape Town is definately on the gay radar and rightly so.  Cape Town is spectacular and rates right up there with Vancouver, Sydney and Rio.  Beach, sun, great restaurants, wonderful scenery and quite a fun gay life all help to make Cape Town a must on the gay go-to list.

 

But, there is so much more to South Africa than just Capetown.  Where to start?  An adventure to South Africa just wouldnt be an adventure without some time spent in Kruger National Park.  This national park is now considered one of the largest national parks in the world and actually crosses borders into Swaziland and Zimbabwe.  Where fences once existed the animals are now free to roam and move between countries.  Game viewing is not particularly easy and requires some patience as you drive through the park searching for the big five: lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo.  You will see other such gorgeous creatures like the giraffe, gazelles, wart hogs, hippo, and the list goes on.  A definite hightlight of your Kruger visit will be a bush walk accompanied by armed leaders.  You actually get to walk in the park with the animals surrounding you.  It is a wonderful experience. 

 

In close proximity to Kruger are two countries that you should definately consider.  Enter into Swaziland and experience the culture of the people.  If you are lucky enough you will visit a traditional village where the people will greet you and entertain you with traditional song and dance.  You might even be invited to join!!  Why not visit Mozambique?  Spend a few days well and truly “chilling” on the most spectacular beaches that you will ever see. 

 

Back to South Africa and a few of the other hightlights could include: Addo National Elephant Park; a drive along the Wild Coast; a drive along the Garden Route; the wineries of Stellenbosch.  The variety of the countryside will absolutely amaze you and will leave you wanting to discover more of Africa.

 

The further you get off the beaten gay path the more you’ll realize that the world is an amazing place full of amazing people, places and things to see and do.  Dont be afraid to take a chance and to challenge your view of the world.  You’ll be happy you did & adventure travel will become your new passion.

 

Are you being ‘greenwashed’?

 A lot of companies are jumping on the green band wagon and for very good reason…customers are now expecting that the companies they chose to deal with have green practices.

Here are a few questions travellers and agents should ask their suppliers:

1. Ask the tour operator or hotel if they have a written policy on responsible tourism that covers not only the environment but also the local communities. If they do ask to see it as it should be published quite prominently on their website. If they don’t then they probably don’t have one. I smell a greenwash!

2. Ask the company how they measure their contribution to conservation of the environment and to local communities. Do they have a carbon offset program? Do they support local charities? If you’re getting vague to no answers…then, I smell a greenwash!

 

OUT Adventures Carbon Offset

 

3. Ask the company what type of information they provide their customers prior to arrival on local custom, religion and practices. Do they have guidelines for sustainable travel? How do they convey this information? Is it readily available on their website, tripnotes, etc. If not…then I smell another greeenwash!

4. Ask them how they support local communities? Do they hire local guides?

 

Rob & Jo (pronounced Cho) - a Thailand guide

 

Do they support local businesses and in return contribute to local employment? Beware of the answer…”yes, of course we do, we all do.”

Yeap…greenwashing!

5. Ask them what they are most proud of in terms of responsible travel? Can they tell you? Do they have to get back to you? If so…yes again..I smell, you smell, we all smell a greenwash.

Five simple easy questions that will help you and your clients weed out the “green warriors” from the “greenwashers”.

I’m dreaming of….somewhere far, far away!

The two toughest travel questions I get asked are:

What is your favourite travel destination?
What is your least favourite travel destination?

Let me tackle the easier of these two questions…my favourite travel destination is without a  doubt…ANTARCTICA!

There are so many reasons why this magical land, ice and water are so special. It could be the distance and the isolation. It could be the amazing variety of wildlife, birds, and sea life. It could be the ice. It could be the history. It’s actually all of this and a lot more!

Rob and I made the journey to Antarctica in February of 2007 onboard the now illfated M/S Explorer or also known as the Little Red Ship. Getting to Antarctica is a journey in itself. You first have to make your way to
Ushuaia, the southern most city in the world at the very tip of Argentina.

Ushuia, Argentina

We arrived there after an amazing weekend in Buenos Aires. Come on what’s not to love: fantastica architecture, gourmet food, spectacular wines, and let’s not forget the beautiful Argentine people. Hot, hot, hot…caliente hot!

Sidetracked, sorry so back to Ushuaia, a trip that is about a 3 hour flight from Buenos Aires. The town of Ushuaia is quite cute and bigger than you’d expect with great shops, restaurants, gear specialists (yes, you can rent everything you’ll need for this journey), and even a pretty authentic Irish Pub. You’ll also be a bit surprised at how warm it is – even this far south – even in their summer. OK, warm defined as above zero celcius, but still you are on your way to the “frozen continent”.

All ship crossings from Ushuaia take you through the Drake Passage.  Everything you read warns you of the treacherous waters ahead and a two day sailing to the Antarctic Peninsula. I guess we were lucky as both Rob and I did not suffer from sea sickness. Others weren’t so lucky and there were a few “green” passengers on board. We actually had a pretty calm crossing and the crew soon nicknamed the Passage the Drake Lake.

After the 2 day crossing land was sighted and we were greeted by thousands of penguins swimming and undulating in front of the shhip as though welcoming us their home and directing us to land. This is a magical moment.  One of those truly “Ah ha” moments where you realize just how lucky you are to experience this. Remember there are only about 20,000 people per year who make the journey to Antarctica.

This is a truly special moment.

The next six days are action packed and filled with lectures from the expedition team and zodiac landings (at least 2 per day, but occasionally 3) to shore.

Words simply cannot describe the feeling of being in such a pristine environment surrounded by such amazing wildlife.

Just one of the sights of Antarctica

We saw thousands of penguins, so plentiful and so entertaining and so fearless of human contact.

We saw whales in pods and with newborns. We saw seals up close and personal – man, do they stink! We saw hundreds of seabirds including the albatros, a bird that can stay off land for up to 2 years as it circles Antarctica in search of food. And we learned the history of man’s early attempts at exploration and also of man’s destructive nature with the whaling industry.  So, sad to think that wew could kill these gentle creatures almost to extinction.

And, have I mentioned the ice – both beautiful and tragic. A direct result of global warming, huge ice shelves are dropping from the continent and drifting out to sea. They are a spectacular sight but also a reminder of
just how fragile this environment is.

So simple, so beautiful

 

Ice, Ice and more Ice

After 6 glorious days in Antarctica we had to face another 2 day crossing of the Drake Passage…ang again, lucky for us the crossing was calm. The crossing gives you plenty of time to dream about your next voyage to Antarcica. This place is magical. It will change you and it will leave you wanting more.

Why not end the trip on a gay note! Back to Buenos Aires for a few days is the perfect way to wind down (or wind up). Did I mention the hot, caliente Argentines??

Rob and I would love to share this experience with you and we are in the planning phase of offering and all gay expedition to Antarctica. This is not an Atlantis cruise. This is a trip of a lifetime to the most amazing
continent on earth.

Sign up now for more information.

Tips for being a responsible traveller

Many people today don’t understand what it means to be a “Responsible Traveler” or perhaps they have heard the term “Eco Travel” or “Sustainable Travel”.

Being a responsible traveller is more important now than ever before.  Follow these simple guidelines & you’re well on your way.

Before you book: 

1. Cut your carbon by planning your route to minimize emissions.  Travel by train, subway, any form of public transport where possible.

Steven on a train in Northern Thailand

2. Ask to see the tour operator’s policies for responsible tourism.  Make sure it explains how they minimize their environmental impacts and supports the local economy.

3. Beware of companies that ‘green wash”

 

Before you travel:

 

1. Research the culture you are about to visit.  Learn a few words and be aware of what is considered appropriate clothing.

2. Pack light as this will help reduce your carbon emissions especially on long haul flights…the lighter the load…the fewer the emissions.

3. Are there any usuful gifts that you can bring along – ask your tour operator for appropriate and meaningful gifts.

 

While on your trip:

 

1. Buy local only & support local shop keepers.  Never purchase products made from endangered species.

Local Crafts for Sale in South Africa

2. Respect local cultures, traditions and religions.  It is customary for women to cover their hair and shoulders when visiting holy places such as mosques or temples.  Bare legs on both sexes is also often frowned upon.

3. Use local transportation or better yet use your own two legs and hike & bike.

4. Use water sparingly as it is scarce in most places.

5. When taking photographs of people always ask for permission first & offer to send a copy (even electronically) if possible.

 

Follow these simple guidelines and you’re well on your way to being a responsible traveller.  For more information visit our responsible travel page at http://out-adventures.com/responsible-travel/

Welcome to OUT Adventures!

Adventure travel is my passion.  It’s about getting out there and experiencing the real world.  It’s about the people and places.  It’s about the food and the shopping.  It’s about challenge and reward.  It’s about sharing experiences.  It’s about laughter.  it’s about frustration.  It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and learning a new language (or a few words).  It’s about travel.

How lucky have I been to have travelled the world and to have visited all 7 continents.  The more I travel the more I want to see.  The more I want to challenge myself.  The more I want to learn, experience and share. 

OUT Adventures is about bringing the world of small group adventures to the LGBT markets.  We will take you out of your comfort zone for an up close and personal view of the world.   Choose from over 35 international destinations and almost 100 departures for 2009. 

As I start this blog it will be an opportunity for both Rob and I to share with you our favourite travel destinations.  We’ll post photos and videos and will write about the things that most inspired us on these trips.  Hopefully what inspired us…will inspire you.

Stay tuned for my all time favourite destination – Brazil.  What’s not to love?  Beaches, sun, the most gorgeous people in the world, great food, amazing sites…it’s all there!