Saturday, October 3, 2009

France Was Made for the Gay Traveler

By Howie Holben

Whether as a stop on a tour through Europe, or a standalone vacation destination, France offers travelers world-renowned beaches, snow-covered alps, bucolic countryside dotted with castles and remnants of Frances long history, some of the most amazing art collections in the world, the fabulous French Riviera and, of course, the truly exceptional, unique city of Paris.

People often do their gay travel planning around Paris and its vibrant LGBT community, cultural and historical landmarks and accepting cosmopolitan environment, visitors will find that throughout France there is plenty to do and see, as well as many LGBT establishments and a welcoming atmosphere. Laws outlawing sodomy were abolished over 200 years ago and Frances LGBT community has enjoyed civil unions for the last decade. With legal protections in place and a general laissez-faire attitude that is common among the French, visitors will find that France provides an accepting, and pleasant gay vacations destination.

Visitors will find a number of community festivals and events taking place throughout the year in different parts of the country, including pride celebrations in many cities, a gay and lesbian film festival in Paris and Paris world-famous pride festival and parade. A gay vacation in Paris should also include a stop at the Legay Choc bakery in the Marais district, as well as the collection of male images at ArtMenParis and the female impersonation cabaret shows at LArtishow, Madame Arthur and Chez Michou. Paris nightlife often starts early with bars opening in the afternoon, followed by clubs opening around midnight and thumping the night away, often until noon.

For men in search of the bawdier side of gay vacations in Paris, sex clubs, bars with backrooms and popular cruising spots are readily available. There are also plenty of saunas (bathhouses) to choose from; however, French saunas operate differently than what some travelers might be accustomed to in Canada or America. In France, saunas have relaxation cubicles rather than private rooms for rent and visiting saunas is largely an afternoon activity, with Sunday afternoons being the most popular time.

Lesbian travelers often find that gay travel destinations are filled with bars, clubs and saunas for the men, with barely a hint of lesbian presence to be found; however, this is definitely not the case in Paris, where women will find a delightful blend of groups and venues dedicated to lesbians. From walking groups to sex shops that cater solely to women, Paris has much to offer to the womens community. Paris is home to several clubs and bars located in varied neighborhoods, including the Palais Royal, Saint Germain des Pres, Grands Boulevards and Halles-Beaubourg districts, as well as many options in the Marais neighborhood, known as the center of LGBT life in Paris. One of Paris first lesbian bars can be found in the Palais Royal district and the Bastille-Republique neighborhood is home to a community bookshop.

Although Paris might be the most visited gay tours destination in France, many other options are available throughout the country, including Avignon in Provence, Montpellier and Nice on the Mediterranian coast, Annecy in the Alps, Nantes in Brittany and the nude community beaches of Camargue. For those who hope to rub elbows with the rich and famous, Saint Tropez on the French Riviera should not be missed, while those looking for a romantic retreat might opt for an LGBT-owned B & B outside of Bourdeaux. With so many gay travel options to choose from, France is truly an ideal setting for a gay holidays package.

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