New Gay Travel Guide

Gay Cruise with Atlantis this week - MAN OVERBOARD

2012-02-04T09:20:00Z

It seems that a passenger has fallen overboard from an Atlantis cruise off the coast of Mexico on Friday.

ABC7 photojournalist Sean Patrick Lewis aboard the Royal Caribbean cruise ship Allure of the Seas said passengers were awakened Friday morning by an emergency announcement, saying a man was believed to be overboard.

The ship's captain confirmed the incident to passengers and said all rescue attempts were being made.

An emergency assembly was called so passengers could be counted.

Royal Caribbean has aid a passenger witnessed another passenger going overboard at about 7 a.m. According to the statement, footage from the ship's closed-circuit camera showed the passenger, a 30-year-old British man, going over the balcony railing in his stateroom. More details at ABC NEWS.

THE ALLURE OF THE SEAS holds the record for the largest passenger ship ever constructed - though her sister ship, Oasis of the Seas, is just 2 inches smaller!

The ship features a two-deck dance hall, a theatre with 1,380 seats, and an ice skating rink. Many of the ship's interiors were extensively decorated by muralist Clarissa Parish.

Steven Barry Krumholz, 51, was arrested while on board the Allure of the Seas while it was docked in St. Thomas.

News repoorts said that Customs and Border Protection agents boarded the ship and found drugs on another passenger, who said he had purchased them from Krumholz before the trip and picked them up while on board.

Agents who searched Krumholz’s cabin reported finding more than 140 ecstasy pills, nearly three grams of methamphetamine, a small quantity of ketamine and about $51,000 in cash. While waiting for the suspect in his cabin, two more passengers came to buy drugs, according to agents!

I never have like cruise ships.....

Ideas for Exploring Hawaii

2012-01-25T21:27:07Z

Hawaii attracts visitors of all kinds throughout the year, and with the vast array of shops, nightclubs, and activities forming a conglomeration of possibilities, it is not a stretch to suggest that there truly is something for everyone. The island of Oahu's LGBT community has built a particularly active and thriving scene, which has made it one of the most popular gay friendly tourist destinations over the years. Waikiki, with its buzzing beach and active nightlife, features a large array of gay friendly Hawaii hotels and plenty of gay bars and clubs waiting to be explored. The rest of the island follows suit, with plenty of gay friendly activities that are aimed at locals and visitors alike, ensuring that the Aloha spirit is felt regardless of where you're from! And with the recent recognition of same-sex unions in Hawaii, why not come and celebrate under the island sun. As is the case with any vacation, the problem is finding time to take it all in, and for someone hoping to experience the vitality and energy of Hawaii, here is a list of some of the favorite LGBT activities and hangouts so you can streamline your schedule while meeting fun and interesting people from all over!

The Right Starting Point

A close proximity to the sights and sounds of this dynamic island will ensure that your schedule is fast and action packed. A series of boutique, LGBT-friendly Waikiki hotels offering comfort and luxury just minutes away from the best spots are there for your choosing, and are a great place to call home during your island visit.

Bars and Nightclubs

Honolulu features a host of gay bars and nightclubs that, depending on your mood, can either energize you or help you unwind after a long day. In Between, a karaoke bar near the famous Kuhio and Kalakaua Avenues, is a favorite for those hoping to relax, have a drink, and sing in a very casual, friendly environment. Locals and tourists mingle here in perfect harmony. Fusion, on the other hand, is a high-energy, buzzing night club that promises a late night of fun and dancing. Open till 4am, this locally-owned club is sure to entertain with its drag show, loud music, and diverse crowd.

Beaches

While all beaches on Oahu promise a fun time in the sun, Queen's Surf Beach has emerged as one of the best-loved gay beaches on the island. Work your tan to a state of perfection while enjoying the warmth and endless bliss of the water!

Hiking clubs, shops, and other gay-friendly ventures help make Oahu the accepting, diverse paradise that it is. Come forge memories and friendships that you'll never forget!

HOT Mens Swim Suits from DOWN UNDER

2012-01-25T16:43:53Z

Looking for the perfect square-cut swimsuit?

2wink Australia has created one exclusively for you!

With its premiere 2012 swimwear range, the only Western Australian underwear company, 2wink Australia, has created a line of swimwear called Aussie Defence AUS12 as a follow-up to its first ever swimwear range launched in 2011, which included styles named after famous Aussie stars.

“We’ve created comfortable swimwear that’s perfectly Australian: sexy and stylish,” says 2wink Australia co-owner Carl McNeill. “We hope that guys around the world will catch on to the AUS12 theme with AUS representing Australia and 12 being the current year; 2012.”

The company intends to release their Aussie Defence range year after year.

Popular fitness model Lee Stram modeled the new line, and is featured in some of 2wink Australia’s videos on youtube. Watch AUS12 behind-the-scenes footage!

AUS12 swimsuits are made from imported Italian fabric, which is 80% nylon and 20% lycra, but 100% Aussie-made. The masculine square-cut swimsuits are fully lined on the inside and include a tie cord and elastic waist. The range is available in three different colors, including light blue, orange and red. Each swimsuit retails for around $40 USD (free worldwide shipping), and are available online.

For more information about 2wink Australia, please visit: 2wink.com.au.

ou can also keep on top of special promotions and news updates by following 2wink Australia on Facebook and Twitter at @2wink.

Airplane Do's and Dont's Etiquette

2012-01-23T17:36:55Z

Airplane Etiquette

2 words. Common Courtesy.
Use common sense people.

I can't believe I am even writing about this. And I hate to stereotype, but honestly, I don't think I have seen a gay person on any of my flights, do any of these.

But on a flight this past week, I was offended by at least 4 of these situations, and maybe, for what it's worth, this advice may help someone out there.

My biggest pet peeve; the plane lands and stops and EVERYONE jumps up and crowds the aisles. Really People? Where do you thin you are going? For God's sake, please wait until your row has arrived to leave the plane. There is no need to jump on and clog the aisles. Waiting patiently, in your seat, will make the deplaning process much easier.They can only empty a plan so fast. And I find it SO RUDE, when someone from behind me, jumps up into the aisle ahead of me. UNLESS your are connecting and running late, stay seated and wait like civilized humans.

Cell phones really should not even be used on a plane. Is your call THAT important?

Bathe. I don't care if your flight is at 6am and you had to be up at 3am - take a bath or shower. We're going to be in close quarters for the next few hours!

Seats seem to get smaller and smaller! If you are on an aisle or window, try to be conscientious of that person in the middle. Maybe lean a little that direction and give the person in the middle more breathing room. And if you are in the middle - remember that. If you doze off, you don't want to end up laying to the far right or left!

Armrests are so tiny! But try to share. If there are three seats to a row, the middle person should have first rights to armrest space because the person on the aisle and window gain a little extra space. However, those in middle seats should also understand that people to the left and right of them will also want a small bit of space to lean their arms or place their elbows; the middle seat person should adjust slightly for their travel companions so that everyone is as comfortable as possible

With the pressure in the cabin, sometimes peoples ears get "clogged" or "stuffed up" and they have a tendency to talk louder. Use your indoor voice. Try to talk softly.

Attire. Remember when people would "dress up" to fly? Probably not - you're too young. Dress comfortably, but appropriately. Remember you will be sitting next to strangers and they do not need to look at your cleavage the whole plane ride. And avoid strong perfumes and colognes.

Speaking of attire....

Flip Flops? Really? Flip flops were made for the beach - and the gym shower. That's about it.

If you have a really long flight, you might want to take off your shoes. Are your feet clean and smell-free?? But DO NOT take them off if you have sweaty smelly feet. And DO NOT take your socks off.

Speaking of smells... Do not bring food on the plane that will have a strong or lingering smell. Like Thai Curry Shrimp! EWWWWWWW!

Some travelers do not want to talk to others.
It’s reasonable and courteous to briefly acknowledge the traveler next to you so that they may increase their comfort level with sitting by you for the duration of the flight.Offer polite chitchat or a hello with your seatmate, but know when the conversation should end. Do not go on and on.

Consider using the bathroom when other folks in your row are using it as well. Avoid making people get in and out of their seats several times.

Unless you are challenged in some way, do not grab onto the seat in front of you when you are getting up from your seat. You will yank the seat back and bother the person in front of you.

Look at the seat in front of you; there is not much room right? If you recline your seat, do it slowly and gently as to not smash the person’s knees behind you. Or maybe they have a drink on their tray top - and you wouldn't want to spill it everywhere. They have the same amount of room as you do. Be considerate of space.

Many travelers feel entitled to recline their seat as much as possible to gain a few more inches of room, but never consider that the business traveler behind them may be using the tray table for reading or working on their computer.

When there is not enough legroom, as is the case when flying economy class, it is polite to limit your movements according to the space available. For example, instead of stretching out the pages of a newspaper, read a pocketbook instead.

Passengers should always store only one item in the space above their seats; however, some who board the plane first may inappropriately choose to store both of their items in the overhead bin so that they have more leg room during the flight. Be considerate.

    Use headphone for electronic devices. People around you do not need to listen to your music or movie.

       Be aware of how much you drink as to not get tipsy or drunk. A drunk on then plane is not pretty.

    Carry your bag in front of you as you walk down the aisle. If you have a back pack, take it off, and hold it down in front of you. This will help you avoid hitting other passengers as you walk by them.

Those are most of violations I see on a regular basis! It's not rocket science to be courteous to fellow travelers!

Wieliczka Salt Mine outside of Krakow

2012-01-22T17:51:57Z

I have not been to Poland yet - but I would like to go one day. I am told it is not the most gay friendly place on Earth. Someone from Krakow told me, "Being gay in Poland is like being a Michael Bolton fan at a metal concert: it's looked down on, not something you announce in a crowd of skinheads, and might get you beaten up."

Historically, unlike in many other Central and Eastern European countries, homosexuality was never punished by law in Poland - but to say it was tolerated is a stretch. Until 1991, homosexuality was listed as a disease. Today, legally homosexuality is allowed, and the age of consent for gay (or straight) sex is 15 years. Gay and lesbian couples do not need to register their partnership, but adoption by gay or lesbian couples is not permitted. Prostitution, however, is legal.

But for a country as homophobic as Poland, the gay rights movement is surprisingly strong and well-organized, especially in recent years.

There is a site called Cracow Life which provides LGBT information. Everything from clubs to restaurants.

I AM TOLD that Krakow's Wieliczka salt mine is no less magnificent than the Egyptian pyramids. A subterranean world of labyrinthine passages, giant caverns, underground lakes and chapels with sculptures in the crystalline salt and rich ornamentation carved in the SALT ROCK! Pretty Amazing! Visitors also marvel at the ingenuity of the ancient mining equipment in the Wieliczka salt mine. And the unique acoustics of the place have made hearing music here an exceptional experience.

The Wieliczka Salt Mine, located in the town of Wieliczka in southern Poland, lies within the Kraków metropolitan area. The mine, built in the 13th century, produced table salt continuously until 2007, as one of the world's oldest salt mines still in operation.

The mine's attractions include dozens of statues and an entire chapel that has been carved out of the rock salt by the miners. The oldest sculptures are augmented by the new carvings by actual artists. About 1.2 million people visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine annually.

FOR 900 years, it used to be one of the world's biggest and most profitable industrial establishments when common salt was commercially a medieval equivalent of today's oil. Always a magnet, since the mid-18th century Krakow's Wieliczka salt mine has become increasingly a tourist attraction in the first place. Today visitors walk underground for about 2,000 m in the oldest part of the salt mine and see its subterranean museum, which takes three hours or so.

Gay Travel Around the World

2012-01-20T16:36:10Z

TRAVEL - is such an amazing experience!
You can meet new people, experience new cultures, travel feeds the soul!

Mark Twain said, “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do.

So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from YOUR safe harbor.
Catch the trade winds in your sails.
Explore. Dream. Discover.”

Top 5 Cheap Restaurants in Washington DC

2012-01-19T14:52:21Z

Top 5 Cheap Restaurants
in Washington DC

There are many luxury hotels in Washington DC where you will certainly find yourself a fine meal; in fact you will undoubtedly dine well in any of the hotels in Washington DC. If however, you are looking to venture from the hotel here are some of the places you can lick your lips to.

Looking for something ritzy and expensive? 1789, located at 1226 36th Street, is open every day for dinner. It has been around for five decades now, and is known for delicious, modern American cuisine. Dress formally, this place is so classy that they even offer valet service.

Not lucky enough to have $40.00 to spend on an entree for one? That's why we've compiled a list of the top 5 places to eat in Washington DC for prices that the average person can afford. You won't find a valet at these restaurants, but you will find good food for reasonable prices.

Amsterdam Falafelshop: Located in Adams Morgan, the Falafelshop boasts of tasty Middle Eastern fast food. It's known for late-night dining, and it's outdoor seating. Every meal is priced under $14.00, offering a nice atmosphere and great food for a decent price. If Amsterdam Falafelshop is your style, you may also enjoy El Khartoum.

Ben's Chili Bowl: Enjoy a good chili dog and shake? Look no further. It can be found in Shaw neighborhood, next to the Lincoln Theatre. The Bowl is a huge part of Washington DC's history. It was a main spot for the 1968 riots, and the founders of the restaurant have been inducted into the city's Hall of Fame. Celebrities such as Bill Cosby, Chris Tucker, and Barack Obama have all eaten here. The American meals sold here are all normally under $10.00 each.

CF Folks: Home of the Well Dressed Burrito, this is a little diner with a little lunch counter, located in Dupont Circle. Outdoor seating is also available for patrons that enjoy CF's American cuisine. Everything is under $14.00, and everything is delicious. The only downside is that it's closed on weekends. If you enjoy this type of American food, the Shake Shack may also hit the spot for you.

Etete: Vegetarian? Etete is an Ethiopian food restaurant that will have plenty for you, as well as your meat eating friends. You won't find much for over $14.00 here. Little Ethiopia Restaurant is another great Ethiopian eatery in Washington DC.

Levi's Port Cafe: Interested in some southern soul food? This place is perfect to bring a large group, because of their all-you-can-eat buffet. You'll pay less than $14.00 per person for some down-to-earth barbeque.

There's something for everyone in Washington DC, no matter how much money you have.
You've just got to be willing to look.

Some of the Best attractions in Boston

2012-01-19T14:20:51Z

Some of the Best
attractions in Boston

Boston City in Massachusetts is a diverse place filled with various historical and cultural landmarks. Boston is the biggest city in New England, also regarded as Massachusetts capital city. Amongst the many hotels in Boston you have to choose from you will also be in the presence of some amazing attractions.

Home to world-famous Harvard University and MIT, Boston is a hub for education. Tourists flocked to the place because of Boston’s numerous attractions. A plethora of fun-filled recreational activities await the visitor including the following:

Taking a leisurely hike in the Freedom Trail will transport you to the olden times when America was young. The trail enables the traveler to experience Boston on a more personal level. The trail is two and a half kilometers long which starts at the Boston Common and ends at the Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown.

The trail provides views to the most historically significant places in Boston such as the Old State House, Old South Meeting House, Quincy Market, Faneuil Hall, USS Constitution, Paul Revere’s Residence, The North End, the site of Boston Massacre and other Revolutionary landmarks.

The Bunker Hill Monument is another historical place that hikers will pass by as they trod the Freedom Trail. The Bunker Hill is the site where the Revolutionary War between American soldiers and British troops was waged. A giant obelisk about 200 feet in height stands as a commemorative symbol of the brave soldiers who lost their lives during the war.

Faneuil Hall Marketplace is one of the most visited landmarks in all of US, accounting for 20 million visitors in 2011. It ranked fourth most popular tourist destination next only to Times Square, Las Vegas Strip and National Mall and Memorial Parks.

The Faneuil Hall was built by Peter Faneuil in 1742. This is a festive marketplace housing hundreds of stores for dining, shopping and drinking. It is located between North, Congress and State streets. It is a commercial center of the city. It is also known for its historical significance particularly when Samuel Adams delivered his speech about independence. Most of the visitors frequenting the place today are shoppers who are looking for great finds.

Boston has a number of world-class museums known for their extensive collection of artifacts and other precious pieces. The Museum of Fine Art is the biggest and most popular which houses more than 450,000 pieces of art. More than a million tourists visit the museum each year. Other notable museums in Boston include Harvard Fogg Museum, Boston Beer Museum and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Why not treat yourself to one of the many luxury hotels in Boston and take in the finer traits of the city.

Immigration Help With Global Visas

2012-01-18T16:14:00Z

Global Visas is the largest and most trusted immigration company in the world. Servicing both individuals and businesses; Global Visas will help you determine the best visa to meet your needs.

Global Visas Ireland is one of our many branches located all over the world. Our Irish office – located in Dublin – is one of 10 worldwide offices. We are the biggest and most successful immigration company in the industry. The network of offices includes Australia, Canada, China, Dubai, India, Ireland, the Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

Global Visas employs qualified solicitors and ex-immigration officers, guaranteeing our rate of success continues to be the highest in the industry.

Global Visas employs teams of experts in several countries all over the world. We currently have 10 offices spanning five continents. We can handle a visa to any destination, employing specialist consultants to deal with 20 different destinations in all corners of the globe.

Global Visas was founded in 1996 by a former immigration officer with first-hand experience dealing with difficult and complex immigration laws. Our original mission was to secure working visas for our clients.

Since then,;they have grown into an industry leader, dealing with visas and immigration for any destination.

Today,their website attracts over four million people each year seeking our advice and assistance.

Contact Global Visas for an easy free assessment.

Captain Francesco Schettino Jailed Facing Manslaughter

2012-01-17T15:35:41Z

The Captain does NOT always,
go down with his ship.

Captain Francesco Schettino was in charge of the ship that ran aground off Italy. He is jailed and is being interrogated by prosecutors and a judge will decide on whether to keep him under arrest for allegedly abandoning the vessel before rescue efforts ended.

The questioning today in the city of Grosseto comes as details emerged about Schettino's actions after the Costa Concordia hit rocks off Giglio Island near the Tuscan coast at 9:45 p.m. on Jan. 13.

Schettino was ordered by a Coast Guard official to return to the cruise liner to help with rescue efforts about three hours after the accident, according to audio of telephone conversations between them posted on daily Corriere della Sera's website today. But he fled the scene.

“Get back on the ship and tell me how many people are still there,” Coast Guard Commander Gregorio Maria De Falco, speaking from the city of Livorno on the Italian mainland, told Schettino, according to the tape. “Tell me if there are women, children and people in need there.”

Schettino didn't return to the ship and took a taxi on Giglio before being arrested, media including Sky TG24 said. He is accused of manslaughter and abandoning the Costa Concordia when passengers were still on board “since we know he was in the harbor about midnight,” Francesco Verusio, chief prosecutor in Grosseto, said in a Jan. 15 interview. He is also accused of causing the accident that left at least six people dead.

A gay couple from Austin Texas escaped to safety. Fortunately the couple had read about the location of the lifeboats. - See why it is important to pay attention to safety features?!

Amazing Deals with AirBNB Apartment and Vacation Rentals

2012-01-16T17:10:42Z

While this is not a gay specific service, it's a COOL service a lot of my gay friends have tried. (Once you create an account, you can join a LGBT group - and search for LGBT places, if you wish).

You have heard of couch surfing, and home sharing - now come AIRBNB. A community marketing unique places to stay, at all price points.

Airbnb makes available a platform or marketplace with related technology for Guests and Hosts to meet online and arrange for bookings of Accommodations.

We connect people who have space to spare with those who are looking for a place to stay. Guests can build real connections with their hosts, gain access to distinctive spaces, and immerse themselves in the culture of their destinations. Whether it's an urban apartment or countryside castle, Airbnb makes it effortless to showcase your space to an audience of millions, and to find the right space at any price point, anywhere.

1. Use the search page to find a property. Enter the dates you need and browse by availability. Message hosts with any question through the onsite messaging system.

2. Enter your credit card information and click Book It! A host will accept your request within 24 hours and at that point contact information, the address of the property and other important information will be shared. You payment is held until 24 hours after your arrival - to make sure there are no problems.

3. Get your itinerary details immediately upon host confirmation of your request. Contact your host to confirm arrival details. After the trip is over, share your experience by leaving a review.

As the host, you can list your place for free. AIRBNB takes a small percentage from the renter and the lister, after a transaction takes place.

LOTS to choose from. New York City is the biggest market and has over 2500 listings! But other places like Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Washington DC , Hawaii, Paris, Italy - just about everywhere, have inventory to select from.

+19,000 cities
192 countries

Since its debut in 2008, AIRBNB, based in San Francisco, has booked more than two million nights of lodging all over the world. People rent out their entire home or apartment — or just a room or a bed — to others who find Marriott boring or want to see life in a new area as a local would. And some of the spaces are very cool! Stay on Yacht, stay in a tree house, find a place with a hot tub, or simply find a bed to crash on.

My only caution is to be sure to check out reviews / ratings. Since this is an unregulated situation, one must keep in mind, you are not renting a hotel room. The mattress may not be a deluxe pillow top. It could be in a noisy neighborhood. But they are trade offs, as with anything. You must be a flexible traveler - or stick with the chain hotels.

Check out AIRBNB for your next trip!

Cruise Ship in Italy Runs Aground - Several Dead, Many Missing

2012-01-14T18:49:11Z

Ever since Poseidan Adventure, this is my worst fear -

Italian authorities were questioning Saturday the captain of a cruise ship that ran aground, knocking the vessel on its side and killing at least three people, with dozens more missing, officials said.

"Fear and panic are comprehensible in a ship long over 300 meters with over 4000 passengers," Del Santo said. "We can confirm that the ship has a breach on the hull of about 90 meters, and that the right side of it is completely under water."

The three persons dead were two French tourists and a crew member from Peru, Port authorities in Livorno said.

A spokesman with the local civil protection agency, said 40 to 60 persons were missing, though authorities are reviewing passenger lists to confirm the exact figure. Many people jumped - who did not want to wait for the lifeboats.

More details, photos and videos at CNN

Is Tel Aviv The Best Gay City?

2012-01-13T19:15:26Z

TEL AVIV is being touted by some
as THE BEST GAY CITY.

Hmmmm, really? The BEST? We have watched Tel Aviv grow in popularity over the last 5 years. They do have a powerful PR and Marketing team, I will give them that. Their presence in the media has grown at leaps and bounds over the last 5 years. But are they the BEST? or perhaps the best up-and-coming?

In a world-wide survey hosted GayCities.com and American Airlines, 43 percent of voters cast their ballot in favor of the White City, pushing it ahead of other proud towns including New York, Toronto and London.

(New York City with 14 per cent, Toronto with 7 per cent, Sao Paulo with 6 per cent, Madrid and London with 5 per cent each and New Orleans and Mexico City with 4 per cent each.)

I think it all just depends on who you ask and who is surveyed! Tel Aviv is the gay mecca of the Middle East, for sure, and boasts of plenty of designers, fashionistas, night clubs, fancy beaches, shopping malls and outlets, DJs, women activists, gays, jews and financiers. You really couldn't find a more open-minded place like Tel Aviv outside of Israël. Tel Aviv, in sharp contrast to Jerusalem, is a liberal, hedonistic and secular city, where leisure life revolves around beaches, cafes and nightclubs.

Lonely Planet named it one of its top three cities in the world for 2011, describing it as "the flipside of Jerusalem, a modern Sin City on the sea rather than an ancient Holy City on a hill" and adding: "There are more bars than synagogues, God is a DJ and everyone's body is a temple." The Israeli-Palestinian conflict is rarely on the radar.

According to Tel Aviv's 30-year-old deputy mayor, Asaf Zamir, 16% to 17% of the city's 403,000 population is gay.

"It's a very strong community here, a comfortable arena for the gay community. Two men walking hand in hand is a very normal thing," he said.

The city municipality funded a gay centre and was promoting gay tourism, he added.

They even have a gay pride parade each year - that has grown to about 100,000 local people! And also about 5,000 gay tourists.

Amsterdam, Barcelona, London, Prague...there are so many amazing choices. Just depends on what you want? Value? Nighlife? Culture?

As for Tel Aviv - The weather is hot, the guys are hot, it's a hot city!

Gay Tel Aviv4U - The official LGBT site

Maui Hawaii Celebrate Gay Marriage this Week

2012-01-06T15:08:04Z

Paradise is a strong word, and I don't use it lightly. But Maui, Hawaii is truly a paradise in every way.

It has glorious warm weather all year, with just enough of a breeze from the trade winds to keep you feeling refreshed. The tropical greenery and colourful flowers are spectacular, and there's nothing better than the relaxing sound of the surf crashing on the beach as you drift off to sleep every night. Wouldn't you want to get married in Paradise?!

A gay Oklahoma City couple is happy to be on Maui and among the first couples to be joined in a civil union after a state law allowing such unions went into effect last Sunday.

"We are proud to be part of it," said 40-year-old Rich Tucker, a mortgage company owner, shortly before his Monday sunset ceremony with partner 37-year-old David Dobson, a Realtor.

"We wanted to have the ceremony somewhere tropical. It's awesome to have accepting people that accept everyone. No one is segregated," Tucker said about Hawaii and the civil unions law.

Dobson added: "In Oklahoma, it's still very much the Bible Belt."

Industry insiders have said they expect that the law legalizing civil unions, which took effect Jan. 1, will lead to a boost in tourism among same-sex visitors. Hotel executives said they're actively reaching out to the gay and lesbian community with promotions and packages aimed at couples who are eager to make their commitment official.

"We've had 10 ceremonies booked so far," said Chuck Spence, owner of the Maui Sunseeker LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered) Resort in Kihei. "Already we've also seen an immediate boost in bookings, and not just because of civil unions, but because the law also opens up the perception by the gay and lesbian community that Hawaii is truly a welcoming state. We are aloha."

Hawaii's hard-fought civil unions law was bitterly opposed by conservative and Christian groups, who said the measure posed a threat to heterosexual marriage and traditional families.

Deacon Walter Yoshimitzu of the Honolulu Roman Catholic Diocese said marriage should be only between a man and a woman.

"Even with civil unions, we believe it is same-sex marriage by another name," he said.

State Sen. Roz Baker, who represents West and South Maui and was a supporter of the civil unions bill, said she hoped the law would attract couples to Hawaii.

"Let's face it, too, nowhere is the weather nicer, or are there as many beautiful places to visit year round, than in Hawaii," she said, adding that "the wedding business has always been good to Maui." Year round the weather is gorgeous!

But she and West Maui Rep. Angus McKelvey noted that the new civil unions license will be recognized only in Hawaii, so they anticipated it to attract a wave but not a tsunami of same-sex visitors.

"It's not going to be a billion-dollar law," McKelvey said.

More significant than its ability to attract visitors, he said, the law was important for gays and lesbians living in Hawaii, because it would give them the same rights as heterosexual couples.

"We still have a long way to go," said spokesman Don Bentz for Equality Hawaii of Honolulu, a gay rights advocacy group. "If a couple, let's say, comes from Florida (which doesn't have gay marriage or civil unions), they have rights here but lose them after the plane ride."

Frank and Kevin, who own a wedding service on Maui, have been performing ceremonies for heterosexual and gay couples, recognized or not, for many years. They've said they expect their numbers to go from nearly 40 ceremonies a year to more than 100.

Maui SunSeeker is going to provide group room discounts and gifts like champagne. Rich and David were the first guests to tie the knot!

He noted that they're bringing friends - as others certainly will - and that the tourists will spend money at other Maui businesses.

"In regard to tourism, absolutely this will have a great impact. No question," said Spence, whose hotel currently has 25 rooms and now plans to add more.

Applications and information about civil unions are available online at hawaii.gov/health.

Awesome Travel Photography from Around the World

2012-01-02T22:43:14Z

Balloons in Cappadocia...Cappadocia which is unique in the world and is a miraculous nature wonder is the common name of the field covered by the provinces of Aksaray, Nevsehir, Nigde, Kayseri and Kirsehir in the Central Anatolian region.

Banpo Bridge in Seoul , South Korea . GAY SEOUL KOREA

Desert with Phacelia (Scorpion Weed). Flowering once in several years.

Favelas of Brazil . The boundary between wealth and poverty. Sad.

Dubai is the leading regional commercial hub with state-of-art infrastructure and a world class business environment to support and sustain its great grouth potential. The buildings are just amazing. It's funny if you Google GAY DUBAI our site comes up in top search! And Dubai is not gay at all!

The Happy Rizzi House (usually just "Rizzi House") is a contemporary building in Brunswick , by the American artist James Rizzi designed by the architect Konrad monastery was implemented.

Restaurant on a cliff on the east coast of Zanzibar, Tanzania . Depending on the tide, you can sometimes walk out to the restaurant. The Rock Restaurant is an extraordinary seafood restaurant located on a rock in the middle of the Indian Ocean. It serves up to 14 tables, all facing a wonderful terrace on the Ocean.

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