Gaycation Magazine Issue 21 Nov-Dec 2015 by Gaycation Magazine

Gaycation November/December 2015 Issue 21

Winter Wonderland:

London at Christmas Ring in 2016 with Evolve

Vegas NYE!

Holiday Gift Guide For Your Favorite Traveler

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18 A Holiday In London

CONTENTS

Christmas in London can be magical, cheesy, beautiful, annoying or perfect

26 Feast Mexico Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rich heritage can also be tasted through its food.

The Wire

11LGBTQ

travel news and information, ranging from new hotel/resort openings to cruise itineraries and travel planning tips and products.

Hotel Tango

32Doing Indy Cocktails right.

The first Disabled-Veteran owned small batch distillery in Indianapolis, Indiana.

42 Vietnam Motorbiking from Hanoi through Northern Vietnam.

62 Book it! Andersen Hotel Copenhagen

52 Holiday Gift Guide

Postcards

38Show off your Gaycation with photos of

places you have visited so everyone can be envious of the great time you had (as well as having proof)!

Explicit guide to

70Gaycationing

How-toâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and tips on what to do and where to do it from your favorite travel writers and bloggers.

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Gaycation m a g a z i n e

About the Cover Photo

Founder/Editor-in-Chief DJ Doran dj@gaycationmagazine.com

Executive Editor Aaron Drake @theaarondrake aaron@gaycationmagazine.com

Feast Editor Joe Morales joe@gaycationmagazine.com

Advertising Department sales@gaycationmagazine.com National Advertising Representative Rivendell Media 212-242-6863

Subscription Department subscriptions@gaycationmagazine.com

About the Cover Image: Christmas lights illuminate the London Eye. London, England

Article + Photo Submission editor@gaycationmagazine.com

General Info travel@gaycationmagazine.com

Contributors

www.gaycationmagazine.com GaycationMagazine GaycationMag

Send address changes and subscription info to: Gaycation Magazine PO Box 2972 Indianapolis, IN 46206

David Brown Donovan Kaneshiro Joe Morales Meg Ten Eyck Andrew Villagomez

+GaycationMagazine1 GaycationMag GaycationMagazine GaycationMagazine ISSN 2378-7279 (PRINT) ISSN 2378-7287 (ONLINE)

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Nov/Dec 2015 Issue 21

Dear Gaycationers,

The holiday season is here! Though I’ve been seeing the countdown since—it seems like anyway—the holidays ended last year and I’ve been seeing Christmas decorations since before Halloween, the season is now upon us. I must admit, I was particularly ecstatic to dive into this particular issue this year (my husband usually calls me a Scrooge) because this issue we travel to London for the holiday season. There’s something about visiting London, with Covent Garden illuminated in lights, the annual Norwegian Christmas Tree lighting in Trafalgar Square, Hyde Park’s winter wonderland and most especially the bustling shops on Oxford Street, that can put you in a holiday mood. Flipping through these pages, you’ll be tempted to bundle up and take a gander with us, mouth agape in childlike wonder, at the twinkling lights that line the streets of a world-favorite destination. If you’re dreading shopping this holiday season, we’ve got something even more special for you (and your favorite travelers) with our first Holiday Gift Guide. Travel and fashion blogger Andrew Villagomez, of VeeTravels.com, shares which gadgets, fashions and shortcuts can make traveling in style throughout the year just a bit simpler. Our travel writers haven’t let the holiday season slow them down, as you’ll see. They are off on their

usual adventures; we motorbike through Northern Vietnam and—bravely!—stuff our faces and fill our bellies in Mexico City. David Brown of Two Bad Tourists gives his recommendation of where to stay during a jaunt to Copenhagen in Book It, and Feast Editor Joe Morales reluctantly (not) takes a break from his own chef training to taste a few handcrafted cocktails at a small batch distillery in Indianapolis. Lastly, our friends at Evolve Vegas NYE, Las Vegas’s new LGBT New Year’s Eve bash that was a huge success when the ball dropped last year, drop in to give us a few tips on how to prepare for THE night on the town. As varied as our travels are as the year closes out, Gaycation’s travel experts can attest 2015 was another remarkable year for LGBT travel. We hope you’ve reveled in our recommendations of where to relax, make merry and gaycation this year. We’re looking forward to even grander happenings and adventures in 2016. Have a happy holiday season and see you in the new year! And of course, safe travels. Warm wishes,

Aaron Drake

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Miami Beach Pride on Ocean Drive (Photo Credit: Juan Saco) MIAMI BEACH, Fla., Oct. 13, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Long the fun, high-end destination for gay travelers around the country and all over the world, this fall Miami Beach has lots of events, activities and deals for stimulating and exciting fall travel. From unique packages at several hotels to the one-of-a-kind White Party, one of the largest fundraisers in the country for HIV/AIDS, Miami Beach is buzzing with a calendar stuffed with experiences and happenings. Global LGBT spending on travel is estimated to be more than $200 billion per year[1] with millions of those dollars spent in South Florida. "Miami Beach has always been a haven for the LGBT community," notes Peggy Benua, Chair, Miami Beach Visitor and Convention Authority (MBVCA). "With each passing year, however, our hotels, cultural and social venues really turn up the heat on the quality of offerings available to this community. That's what makes our city so exciting to visit, the unpredictable but endless variety of lodging and entertainment that's accessible here." The Gaythering, Miami Beach's only hotel exclusively built to accommodate the LGBT traveler, is a 3-minute walk from Lincoln Road and one mile from the beach. Gay travelers are treated to a steam room, a cedar sauna, a hot tub and a hammam and mud lounge. A lowkey bar offers craft beers and cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients. There's also a library lounge and a coffee shop. The Dream Hotel-South Beach on Miami Beach's Collins Avenue, directly behind the former Versace Mansion and two blocks from the beach, is offering a www.gaycationmagazine.com

Read more at: www.prnewswire.com/newsreleases/gay-travelers-to-miami-beach-can-fall-intodozens-of-gay-friendly-deals-and-activities-all-seasonlong-300158809.html

PUSH TO ENSURE GAY VISITORS ARE WELCOME ON THE COAST By Stuart Cumming THE Coast's reputation as a gay-welcoming community has been shown off to gay and lesbian tourism professionals from around Australia. Gay and Lesbian Tourism Australia members held their annual general meeting in Noosa at the weekend and toured hinterland accommodation houses to get a wider understanding of the region's attractions. Organisation president and owner of Horizons at Peregian resort Rod Stringer said tourism operators at Noosa tended to recognise the benefit of marketing towards the gay and lesbian market but he encouraged more to get involved. "We just like to make the local industry here aware that it is a good market," Mr Stringer said. In Maleny are Louise Terry, Ben Elder, Gerry Bourke, Mel Patterson-Gray, Rod Stringer, Vincent Cooper, Mario Paez, Mark Peterswald, Dean Rallison , David Collishaw, Dennis Basham, Brett Max and Kat Patterson-Gray. In Maleny are Louise Terry, Ben Elder, Gerry Bourke, Mel Patterson-Gray, Rod Stringer, Vincent Cooper, Mario Paez, Mark Peterswald, Dean Rallison , David Collishaw, Dennis Basham, Brett Max and Kat Patterson-Gray. He had no definitive figures on how much gay and lesbian tourism market was worth but referenced anecdotal evidence that in the United States, it was Gaycation Magazine

thought to be a $100 billion industry. "Gay people seem to travel more than anybody else," he said. Mr Stringer said some tourism operators' bookings had already doubled around the first week of March next year, coinciding with the build up to and completion of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. He said about 150 accommodation properties and tourism businesses were affiliated with Gay and Lesbian Tourism Australia. The members who were able to attend the weekend's events cruised the Noosa River and visited bed and breakfasts in the hinterland. It was the first time the annual general meeting had been held in Noosa. Read the rest of the article here: www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/gay-visitorsare-welcome/2810732/

6 HANDY MOBILE APPS FOR THE SAVVY GAY TRAVELER By Jay Deratany

Photo courtesy of Thinkstock. If there’s one thing that’s as good as going on vacation, it’s planning a vacation. Your departure day may be weeks or even months away, but the process of planning can help the time pass and kindle the flames of your joyful anticipation of what’s to come. But for gay travelers, this process can also sometimes be a little daunting. There are far fewer resources out there to help LGBT jetsetters plan a trip that’s guaranteed to make them feel comfortable and welcomed everywhere they go. The good news is that’s slowly changing and there are an increasing number of useful books, websites and publications that are created specifically to help gay 12

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travelers have the best possible experience on their journeys. Here we’ll explore some of the best mobile apps that can come in handy both before and during your travels. GayCities With more than 175,000 users, the GayCities App is active in 225 cities in the world and combines social networking with local recommendations. The app allows users to check in where they are and to see which other users have checked in there or at other spots nearby. This would be a great resource for the solo traveler looking to find LGBT-vetted businesses and meet other gay travelers and locals who are hanging out in the same area. Gay Scout by Damron Called "The Little Black Book of Gay Travel,” Gay Scout is the travel app of one of the first known gay travel guides in existence. Damron still produces new guidebooks every year, but their app is a convenient way to access all of the most up-to-date listings and info on LGBT hotels, bars restaurants, entertainment and more in a whopping 2,700 different locations in North America (not just limited to big cities). You can use the app to plan ahead by searching for cool things places to visit in your vacation destination or pull it up when you’re out and about to instantly see what’s in your vicinity. Passport This is the perfect app for armchair travelers or those who want to take a vacation but just don’t know where to go yet. Passport Magazine is one of the only gay travel magazine in the U.S. and boasts stunning photography, engaging stories and fabulous inspiration for amazing destinations to add to your bucket list. When you download the free app, you get one issue gratis but have to pay for a subscription or individual back issues to see more. Spartacus International Gay Guide Featuring 24,000 constantly updated listings in 2,600 cities around the world, this interactive gay travel guide allows users to search for gay-friendly businesses in a given area, save favorite locations for future use, rate the places you check out, and provide feedback to the editors in case you find that a recommended business is less than friendly. The app even features location-specific information www.gaycationmagazine.com

on the socio-political climate for gays in various international destinations. Moovz Although this internationally popular app is more social networking than travel, it can be put to good use by travelers who are looking to network and meet people when they hit the road. Users can search for other users around them or go global and find new friends in their upcoming travel destinations. This could be a big help if you’re visiting somewhere new that might not be as obviously gay-friendly as The Castro, allowing you to get in touch with people who live there to get the local lowdown on what to do and where to go before you arrive. Misterbnb Inspired by a not-so-friendly room rental experience in Barcelona, the Misterbnb founder decided to start a similar service for gay travelers looking for travel accommodation that’s guaranteed to be completely safe and welcoming. You can use the app and the site to list or rent privately owned rooms and apartments for short-term stays. They also organize meet-up groups in several cities around the world and seek to build community among members in real life. Next time you’re planning a trip or looking for a little inspiration for future travels, explore some of these helpful apps that cater specifically to gay travelers. In many cases, a little information can go a long way in assuring a safe and fun vacation, no matter where you go. Read the original article here: www.travelpulse.com/ news/travel-technology/6-handy-mobile-apps-for-thesavvy-gay-traveler.html

l Like It? If you see something you like, share it and tell them you

JETBLUE INCREASES CUBA LIFT FROM NEW YORK By Gay Nagle Myers

Photo Courtesy of Cuba Travel Services JetBlue and Cuba Travel Services will launch a second weekly charter flight between New York and Havana on Tuesday, Dec. 1. The existing flight, launched last March, operates on Fridays. “Even as the world anticipates what future air travel to Cuba will look like, we recognize that many Americans need to travel there today,” said Scott Lawrence, JetBlue’s senior vice president of airline planning. JetBlue flies to Havana and Santa Clara from New York, Fort Lauderdale and Tampa on 150-seat Airbus A320 aircraft, offering the same inflight services as its commercial flights. Customers should arrange travel directly with the charter operator. Read the original article here: www.travelweekly. com/Travel-News/Airline-News/JetBlue-increases-Cubalift-from-New-York

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Un rendez-vous élégant L’escale française par excellence, que ce soit pour des vacances ou un voyage d’affaires. Dans le confort luxueux d’une demeure historique située en plein centre-ville de Saint-Pierre, à 200 mètres du traversier. Une expérience exquise vous attend.

For a holiday, getaway or business trip... NSP is the quintessential French experience. Indulge yourself in modern luxuries. In the centre of town and a mere 200 meters from the ferry terminal our heritage building is a haven of elegance. An exquisite experience awaits you.

À Nuits Saint-Pierre le petit déjeûner est inclus At Nuits Saint-Pierre, breakfast is included

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Une petite faim? Besoin d’un cadeau ou d’un souvenir? A tad hungry? Need a gift or a souvenir? Rendez-vous au rez-de-chaussée de l’hôtel aux Délices de Joséphine Visit Les Délices de Joséphine on the main floor of the hotel

10 rue du Général Leclerc, BP 4445, 97500 Saint-Pierre et Miquelon 011 508 41 20 27 | 011 508 55 59 82 (cell)

nuitssaintpierre.com info@nuitssaintpierre.com

vos hôtes

A Holiday in London by Andrew Villagomez As my first escape across the Atlantic, London has always been a special place for me. My family decided on finally traveling to Europe for a vacation and we picked London in winter after many vacations to the Caribbean, Orlando and Peru (being Peruvian that was almost an annual thing). Growing up in Connecticut we get the best of all the seasons, but wanted a change for vacation time and decided to plan a trip to London on the evening of Christmas to minimize cost and traffic (figuring not many traveled on the actual day compared to the days leading up to and after it). We arrived to Heathrow and I was so thrilled to be hearing British accents all around me, I couldn’t wait to get into the heart of London. Being on a budget we chose to use our Starwood points to book a stay at one of the airport hotels and take the tube into the city. Even with having to commute into London during a cold December, I still loved every minute of our trip. Now as a journalist, I’ve gotten to explore my annual vacation spot through the eyes of first-class jetsetters, but I still find myself enjoying being a tourist in London (I still am filled with glee when I see Big Ben) and venturing into different neighborhoods and parks. Christmas in London can be magical, cheesy, beautiful, annoying or perfect—depending on how you see the holiday and your feelings on city travel. If you take the tube—which now runs past midnight, thank God!—to Oxford Circus or Covent Garden, you’ll think you’ve arrived in what one could imagine the North Pole to be like if it was a metropolis. Holiday décor is all over: on storefronts, hanging over the streets, on buses and on the streets themselves—especially Covent Garden and its lively street performers. Covent Garden Filled with glowing lights and Christmas cheer throughout the season, the cobbled piazza and market turns into a winter wonderland for the holiday season. There’s a huge Christmas tree all lit up on the west side of the square, and a magnificent silver reindeer statue on the east side where every Saturday afternoon live reindeer are brought in for visitors to help feed and take photos with. In London’s West End, rather centrally located, Covent Garden is popular for its shopping, theatres, restaurants, bars, restaurants and history. Within walking distance of Soho, the River Thames and 18

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Trafalgar Square, there are a few different parts to Covent Garden from the market piazza, the Opera Quarter, St. Martin’s Courtyard, Seven Dials, Neal’s Yard and Floral Street. Attractions in the area and nearby include the London Transport Museum, The Royal Opera House (home of The Royal Ballet where you can catch The Nutcracker every holiday season), the Somerset House, Leicester Square, the National Gallery and Trafalgar Square, another spot to visit during Christmas time. For shopping in Covent Garden, there are both British and international brands such as Burberry, Apple, 7 for All Mankind, Marks & Spencer, COS, Hackett, Paul Smith and Sandro. There are countless dining options in Covent Garden; among them is Rules, the oldest restaurant in London. First opened in 1798, it has been an established star of the London food scene and serves up classic British fare. The restaurant has become famous for the gilded grandeur of its décor and the quality of its game cookery, oysters, pies and puddings. For another classic venue that opened a little earlier, Covent Garden’s Punch & Judy pub was built in 1787 and was thought to be named after the famous Punch and Judy puppet performances that used to take place in the piazza for the children of flower-sellers. Located facing the West Piazza, guests have the best view to watch the street performers when sitting on the balcony. Visit for classic British bangers and mash or enjoy a juicy rump steak burger and chips. A nearby hotel to note is the The Savoy Hotel, which gives you a historical and luxurious stay in an elegant, Edwardian or art deco-style room—some with views overlooking the River Thames, the London Eye and Big Ben. Trafalgar Square For over 50 years, ever since WWII, a Christmas tree has been given to London from Oslo in gratitude of the country’s support of Norway during the war. Twenty meters high, it’s the largest Christmas tree in London each holiday season and it is decorated in traditional Norwegian fashion, with vertical strings of lights. Carol singers can be found singing in front of the tree in the evenings when different groups perform Christmas carols in the square to raise funds for charitable organizations. As one of the city’s most vibrant open spaces, Trafalgar Square also hosts a variety of events and activities, including cultural celebrations, commercial events, rallies (London’s annual Pride march goes by it), and film and photo shoots. Cultural attractions in and www.gaycationmagazine.com

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near the Square include Nelson’s Column, iconic stone lions, the famous Fourth Plinth, The National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery and St. Martin-in-the-Fields. Stay at the nearby Corinthia Hotel London for a modern, upscale, five-star experience that provides an easy stroll to the River Thames and Westminster. The hotel features elegant restaurants, two bars, a florist, London’s largest spa and the world’s first Harrods boutique in a hotel.

the holiday season surrounding a mix of independent boutiques and big brand stores such as Ben Sherman and Lyle & Scott. Visit Kingly Court, a three-story food and dining destination which brings together 21 British and international restaurants, cafés, bars and food operators around a courtyard, open air in the summer season but covered in the winter. Carnaby is also known for holding shopping events, live music gigs and one-off pop-up shops.

Oxford Street & Carnaby Street Hyde Park London has always been well known as a shopping and fashion destination, and every fashionista/o should head to Oxford Street for a mix of high-street fashion and international shopping. With over one and a half miles of high street brands such as Topshop and River Island, there’s also a number of iconic department stores. Those included Selfridges, John Lewis, House of Fraser and Marks & Spencer—more than 300 shops make up the street. Every Christmas season, lights are put up that attract thousands each year. The lights get switched on in the early evening to give visitors extra time to enjoy them. Just off of Oxford Street, not too far from Oxford Circus, is Carnaby Street where travelers can find more Christmas lights and installations during 22

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For another holiday escape in London, check out the festive atmosphere at Hyde Park’s annual Winter Wonderland. Free to enter with activities and rides being individually priced, the center area of the massive, iconic park hosts Christmas-themed fun and activities such as big top shows, an observation wheel and a huge Christmas market. Adults, kids and families can all find something to do while in the Winter Wonderland—from ice skating that encircles a Victorian bandstand, an ice forest of frozen sculptures and a gleaming ice castle to acrobatic wonders of shows at Zippos Circus and Cirque Beserk. Rides include a mix of carousels, funhouses and rollercoasters. www.gaycationmagazine.com

Andrew Villagomez is a journalist, blogger and photographer based in the New York metropolitan area. He specializes in everything travel from LGBT, design and luxury, to food, drink and adventure, as well as menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion and style, grooming, skincare and lifestyle tech. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter at @VeeTravels and his blog at VeeTravels.com.

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EVENTS

Here are some events and shows Gaycation Magazine will be attending or will have a presence. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re always adding more and looking for that special event for us to be at. If you would like us to attend your event, please let us know at travel@gaycationmagazine.com

December 31, 2015 Evolve Vegas NYE 2016 www.evolvevegasnye.com

June 11-12, 2016 Indy Pride 2016

www.indypride.org

June 25-26, 2016 St. Pete Pride 2016 www.stpetepride.com

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Feast

An exploration of a traditional local dish and how it connects to the culture, with recipes and recommendations where to eat

Mexico City: Culture Meets Cuisine By Andrew Villagomez

Located in Mexico’s central highlands and surrounded by mountains, the modern capital of Mexico City has a culinary scene that is home to and attracts top international chefs and restaurateurs that serve gourmet food, from formal meals to street side, caféstyle dining to street vendors. With historic architecture, booming gastronomy and a cutting-edge cultural scene, there’s always something new to find, do or taste in Mexico City.

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The City While the culinary scene is flourishing in the city, the overall offerings are as well along with the cultural aspect. Boasting four UNESCO World Heritage sites, the city’s creative juices and history has allured travelers from around the world to explore the 16 different neighborhoods in the city. With more than 100 art galleries, 150 museums and 30 distinct architectural and historic sites, hotspots to check out while in Mexico City include: The Blue House (or Casa Azul, the hometurned-museum of art legends Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera); Chapultepec Castle (a National History Museum where visitors can get a glimpse into the lives of the Second Empire and the presidents by viewing many priceless historical objects); Museo Soumaya (a free art museum with a stunning, modern architectural design that is home to over 66,000 works from 30 centuries of international art); Museo del Juguete Antiguo México (home to a private collection of over 45,000 toys from all over the world, find seven floors of cute and creepy nostalgia from walls of Barbie dolls and a lucha libre section to haunting figurines—also on the rooftop there’s a section for artists to showcase their talents); and MUCHO Mundo Chocolate (where you can get a comprehensive history of chocolate and even make some yourself or nibble on some amazing gourmet bites). The Food Mexico City’s rich heritage can also be tasted through its food. Chefs are fusing that tradition with modern ingredients and techniques, which has led to an explosion in popularity for foodies. Tacos, guacamole, tostados, huevos rancheros, tamales, mole, chilaquiles— the list of Mexican cuisine known throughout the world

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is endless. A few places to dine in the city to get a vast taste of the Mexican cuisine, from traditional dishes to fusion, include starting off your morning at the Four Seasons Mexico D.F. for a breakfast of chilaquiles or huevos rancheros at Reforma 500 (which is popular for its Sunday brunch outside on the property’s fountain courtyard), where you’ll also be able to taste Chef Edgar Kano’s blend of contemporary Latin cuisine. For lunch time, try some eclectic insect-focused dishes (and noninsect fare for those not interested in the little crawlers) at Limosneros in the city’s center and historic district. From chef and owner Juan Pablo Ballestero, one dish you have to try is the escamoles (ant eggs), which are a pre-Hispanic delight that you can easily get addicted to for its soft texture. The menu is full of creative and tasty taco dishes and shareable plates, making for a festive group lunch. And for dinner, try to nab a spot at The Hidden Kitchen—which is created by Chef Gerardo Aguilar and organizes pop-up dinners that have become very popular. It has opened up a new permanent space that hosts a dinner at least once or twice a week (for which you can register online at thehiddenkitchen. mx) that features a mix of Mexican and fusion dishes prepared right next to you in a loft-style kitchen and dining room. Try to make your own Mexican dish at home with this recipe from the Four Seasons Mexico.

Andrew Villagomez is a journalist, blogger and photographer based in the New York metropolitan area. He specializes in everything travel from LGBT, design and luxury, to food and drink and adventure, as well as men’s fashion and style, grooming, skincare and lifestyle tech. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter at @VeeTravels, and his blog at VeeTravels.com.

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CHILAQUILES IN SPICY HABANERO SAUCE By Edgar Kano, Executive Chef, Four Seasons Hotel México City Serves 6

Ingredients 6 cups corn tortilla cut in medium size squares, deep fried 6 cups of spicy habanero sauce (see recipe below) For garnish 2 pc. avocado, small diced ½ cup sour cream ½ cup Oaxaca cheese, grated (string cheese) ¼ cup serrano chili, finely chopped ¼ cup coriander, chopped ¼ cup white onion, small diced Method 1. In a deep sauté pan, bring sauce to a boil 2. Add the corn tortilla chips and stir quickly 3. Top with garnish and serve immediately

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Ingredients for the Hot Habanero Chili Sauce 4 cup plum tomato 4 cup green husk tomato (tomatillo) 3 cup white onion 1 pc. morita chili 1 pc. de árbol chili 2 pc. serrano chili 7 pc. habanero chili 2 cup cilantro leaves Add sea salt and crushed black pepper to taste Method 1. Cut the vegetables in large chunks 2. Place them on a sheet pan, roast in oven at 380°F until lightly charred 3. Blend all the ingredients until a smooth consistency is achieved 4. Season with salt and black pepper

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Happy Thanksgiving

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Feast An exploration of a traditional local dish and how it connects to the culture, with recipes and recommendations where to eat

DOING INDY COCKTAILS RIGHT: HOTEL TANGO By Joe Morales

After moving and getting settled in Indianapolis, I checked out a few places to eat and asked locals what their opinion was on various food and drink establishments. I received so many recommendations for places to eat or drink, I was having a hard time keeping up. So I created a list. The list is still long and it in no way scratches the surface of places I have yet to visit. The first place I decided to visit was a small batch distillery located in Fountain Square, a neighborhood of Indianapolis. Hotel Tango Whiskey, or Hotel Tango, is the first combat-disabled veteran-owned distillery in the country and the first artisan distillery in Indiana. The idea was first cooked up by Travis Barnes, a former Recon Marine who served three combat tours, and his wife Hilary. Mix in three of their closest friends and you have a recipe for an exceptional small batch distillery. Hotel Tango opened its doors on September 15, 2014, and just celebrated a very successful first-year anniversary. The distillery sits back on a corner lot in Fletcher Place next to a production warehouse. The former 1890s Carriage House served as a mortuary and 32

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the parking lot housed caskets and the horse-drawn carriages. The first portion of the tasting room was the main barn where the horses lived. The hayloft is still visible. In the distillery room, you can see the grooves where they repaired carriages on a turnstile. In the center of the tasting room is a massive woodburning fireplace handcrafted by the owner’s father, a third generation stonemason. The Indiana Fieldstones were carefully placed so as to preserve the richness of the room with the chimney rising above and into the hayloft. The tasting room itself has living room-style seating, pub-style tables and counter seating so you can watch the drinks being made. The cocktails are carefully selected and created to enhance the flavor profiles of the ingredients they are crafted with. You can sip, taste and buy various bottles of spirits. Original spirits such as Romeo Rum and Victor Vodka were quickly joined by Golf Gin, Mike Moonshine, Lima Limoncello and now Whiskey. If by chance you’re wondering where the unusual names of the spirits come from, they are derived from the phonetic alphabet of the military. The first initial of Hilary and the first initial of Travis’s name became Hotel and Tango. The turnstile section of the distillery houses three www.gaycationmagazine.com

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stills, a 150-gallon “big batch pot still” and two 50-gallon “small batch pot stills.” One of the 50-gallon pot stills is dedicated solely to gin. In order to create a flavorful and quality gin, it needs to be distilled more than once and then have florals infused. Most semi-private events are held in this area so you will find a few picnic tables and more pub-style tables, or you can just wander back and forth exploring. I had the pleasure of running into Fletcher, the Pixie bobcat and mascot of the distillery. Fletcher is a very friendly tabby and bobcat mix. He’s the official peacekeeper and mouser, which is a tradition in distilleries because the mice population is so fond of the grains used in the distillation process. Fletcher is beginning to be a celebrity in his own right and can be found on Instagram under the hashtag #whiskeywhiskers. He recently escaped on a Saturday night and went on a bender until the following Sunday evening, putting everyone on alert and a search was underway for him for over 24 hours. (He’s currently on house arrest.) We sat at the bar and chatted with bartender Thomas as he made us a couple of cocktails. With only six spirits in production, they have a wide range of drinks available for you to taste. We chose two of the bestsellers: Gin Bravo, which is gin, green tea, simple syrup, muddled blackberry and a fresh basil leaf. It had a nice tartness and hint of basil to it. The second cocktail was The Battle of Old Charlie made from Limoncello, lemon, simple syrup and angostura bitters. The lemon and herby angostura bitters were a perfect blend of flavors. Everything was so perfectly balanced you would never even know you were drinking liquor—until you stood up that is! I’ll definitely be back for a visit. They have been brewing up a whiskey that I would like to get my hands on. It’s been described as a smoky, peaty flavor and has already created quite a buzz in the community. It’s a young barrel program and after nine months of resting, it’s four-week debut would make you think there was a run on liquor just like the Prohibition era. You can find Hotel Tango spirits throughout Indiana and parts of Cincinnati. To find out more about Hotel Tango, visit their website at HotelTangoWhiskey.com. Hotel Tango Whiskey, 702 Virginia Ave., Indianapolis, IN 46203 (317) 653-1806 facebook.com/HotelTangoWhiskey, Twitter & Instagram @hoteltangoindy

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Joe Morales is a chef-intraining, a writer, blogger and foodie by nature. His blog, Edible Fares, highlights his journey through culinary school studying various recipes and of course, eating. Joe is also the food editor for The Word located in Indianapolis. You can follow his progress on Facebook and Twitter at @ediblefares or visit his website, www.EdibleFares.com.

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Gin Bravo (Hotel Tango Classic) • • • • •

4 blackberries 3 basil leaves 2oz. Golf Gin 1oz. green tea simple 1oz. fresh lemon juice

1. Muddle 3 blackblerries and two basil leaves in shaker. 2. Shake and double strain & Pour into double rocks glass 3. Garnish w/black berry and basil leaf on skewer

The Battle of Old Charlie

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• • • •

2oz. Lima Charlie Limoncello .75oz. fresh lemon juice .75oz. simple syrup 4 dashes of Angostura Bitters

1. 2. 3. 4.

Combine all ingredients into shaker Stir and strain Pour into single rocks glass over big rock cube Garnish with a lemon swath

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2014

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MIAMI’S LGBT VOICE

We warmly welcome you to the LGBT Visitor Center, the proud voice of all things gay in Miami and the Beaches. We’re located in Old City Hall in the heart of South Beach at 1130 Washington Ave., Suite 100, Miami Beach, FL 33139. To plan your next vacation in fabulous Miami Beach, go to GoGayMiami.com or call us at 305/397-8914. MAR Winter Party

APR Miami Beach Gay Pride Miami Gay & Lesbian Film Festival

MAY Aqua Girl Sizzle Miami

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LGBT VISITOR CENTER •1130 WASHINGTON AVENUE, 1ST FLOOR, MIAMI BEACH • GoGayMiami.com This ad made possible through the support of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. For a complete listing of events, please visit GoGayMiami.com Additional support generously provided by:

NOV White Party

Postcards SHOW OFF YOUR GAYCATION! SEND IN YOUR VACATION PHOTOS (WITH CAPTIONS) AND WE’LL PUT ‘EM HERE AND BE ENVIOUS OF THE GREAT TIME YOU HAD!

Photos from the Maldives: Four Seasons Resort Maldives At Landaa Giraavaru. Courtesy of Ylan Chrem from Aitken Spence

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Lanka

Photos from Sri Lanka Courtesy of Ylan Chrem from Aitken Spence

Stone-carved Buddha at Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka

Stupa, ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

Stone-carved Buddha, ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa, Sri

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Monkeys, Sri Lanka Ylan Chrem wearing a local sarong

Photos from Sri Lanka Courtesy of Ylan Chrem from Aitken Spence

Welcome at hotel in Central Province, Sri Lanka, by women playing fire drum

Sri Dalada Maligawa, temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka, which is the Monk on top of the rock fortress of Sirigiya, Sri Lanka

most important Buddhist temple in the world as it holds the tooth of Buddha

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Prayer at Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka

Stone-carved detail in ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka

Sunset at Elephant Stables Boutique Hotel in Kandy, Sri

Train ride from Kandy to Nuwara, Sri Lanka, crossing tea and

Lanka

spice plantations

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7 Incredible Views of Vietnam: Motorbiking from Hanoi through Northern Vietnam By Meg Ten Eyck As a travel journalist, I’ve done a lot of pretty amazing things: I’ve worked as an elephant eco-volunteer, I’ve learned to cook traditional cuisine in a Thai kitchen, I’ve hiked 40 consecutive miles of the John Muir Trail—I’ve even white water rafted in a Dominican rain forest. Yet nothing compares to my time motorbiking through Northern Vietnam. This past December, my friend Julia and I rented motorbikes in Hanoi. Julia had never ridden a bike before but agreed with a bit of coaxing. Julia is 24 going on 76. She researched safety laws, traffic codes and licensure bylaws before reluctantly agreeing though I insisted that we’d live to tell the tale. I’m older but still play the rebel. I’m the “YOLO yelling” rule-breaker to Julia’s color-coded excel documents. Despite our personality differences, we were both nervous about mechanical issues and getting lost. I’m not your stereotypical lesbian; I can’t even build IKEA shelves. If we broke down, we were screwed. To ease some of our nerves about the ride, we decided to hire a guide to serve as a mechanic and opted for automatic bikes.

The next morning, we got up two hours early and waited on the stoop of Flamingo Travel. Once the shop opened, we met our tour guide Johnny, a native Vietnamese man in his 30s. With the inner calm of a professional, he helped us get fitted with motorcycle jackets and helmets while Julia pretended like she knew what she was doing. I had ridden a motorbike before, but not since middle school in my grandmother’s backyard. I acted like an old pro until the first time I revved my engine on accident. On the inside I was mentally repeating, “Be cool, be cool. This was your idea...” I was an anxious wreck when Johnny told us we’d be taking the highway out of the city of Hanoi. Once we got started, it ended up being a smooth ride. We adjusted quickly, following the flow of traffic. As we got outside the city, we settled onto the country back road and farm country views of our three-hour ride. As I rode, I found myself relaxing and taking in the scenes and people around me. I passed a family of four on a yellow Yamaha. A mom was driving with a tiny baby in a carrier strapped to her chest. Behind her, two elementary school girls in uniforms rode with their arms clasped around each other. At a four-way cross, a man on a motorbike pulled up next to me. Strapped over his shoulder like a jousting javelin was a piece of metal piping that spanned at least 30 feet. The metal was lightly skimming the ground on each end. Motorbiking gave me the freedom to witness everyday life outside of the cities. On our way to Cat ba Island and La Han Bay we got a tiny glimpse of what the world looked like through Vietnamese glasses.

After arriving late, we spent our first night wandering aimlessly around the narrow side streets of Hanoi. We settled for dinner at the Ladybird Restaurant, enjoying some quiet people-watching as we ate our roasted chicken and stir-fried noodles. 42

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We were driving on winding roads within a hairâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s breadth of the edge. As we came around a bend and I got our first glimpse of La Han Bay, I pulled off to the side of the road. I had to take a minute to let the view sink in. I posed for this photo, not caring about the dirt on my face or ugly shoulder pads as I let the reality of my day hit me full force. I was really in Vietnam.

La Han Bay is the kid sister to UNESCO World Heritage Site Halong Bay. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smaller but more local. Halong bay has gorgeous views crowded with tourists, whereas La Han Bay is home to a community of fish farmers who live on the water. Families live in houses built on floating platforms made of wood. Each family raises fish and seafood they sell in the local market.

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We left our bikes with a local merchant and boarded a small junk boat just before sunset to tour the fish farm village. Standing at the top of the boat, I caught this photo of the captainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wife as we headed towards the farm community.

It was low tourist season and we were the only boat on the water. The water was so still we could see the reflection of the limestone cliffs hovering in the wake as we passed. 44

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As we made our way through La Han Bay we passed local fisherman making their living. When the sun began to set, I sat back in my wooden boat seat and thought about the morning. It felt like each section was a whole day in itself. I looked over at Julia who was smiling to herself as she took in the boats around us. No excel spreadsheets here for my rule-follower friendâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;just beautiful water and fish for sale.

Meg Ten Eyck is a former LGBT rights activist, currently living in South Korea and traveling the world with her partner, Lindsay. She writes about their experiences as a queer couple traveling together on her blog Dopes on the Road and posts their travel photos on Instagram at @dopesontheroad. www.gaycationmagazine.com

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Evolve Vegas NYE 2014-2015 New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Celebration

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Submission Guidelines Editorial Features What was I thinking?: Stories submitted by Gaycationers about crazy experiences that left them scratching their heads and opining, “What was I thinking?”

Cruising Corner: Tips and insights from cruising experts and short stories from our readers about their cruising experiences.

Book It!: Recommendations of LGBTQ friendly hotels and resorts that help you engage with the identity of a destination.

Feast: An in-depth exploration of a traditional local dish and how it connects tot he culture, with recipes and recommendations where to eat.

There’s This Place: Where to go next? Gaycation Magazine’s recommendations of unusual LGBTQ destinations off the beaten path.

Threads: The latest style trends, insights and tips from our fashion experts for the world traveler in all of us.

Postcards (Photo Section): Photos of Experiential LGBTQ travel moments captured by Gaycationers worldwide.

The Wire: Brief LGBTQ travel news and information about new hotel/resort openings, cruise itineraries, travel planning tips, and products and services.

Gaycationers: Photos of real LGBTQ travelers and explorers who have gone before you providing insights and resources which inspire you to pursue your personal travel passion.

Found It!: Short description of “must have” travel items for everyone from the novice weekender to the seasoned globetrotter.

Any articles, photos or information submitted to Gaycation Magazine become the sole property of Gaycation Magazine. The views and opinions stated throughout the magazine are not necessarily the view and opinion of Gaycation Magazine. Gaycation Magazine and its affiliates will not knowingly publish or advertise information, which is fraudulent or misleading. The Publisher reserves the right to edit, limit, revise, or reject any submission without cause. Gaycation and its affiliates assume no finanical responsibility for typographical errors. If any errors are found, please notify Gaycation Magazine immediately. Materials in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the Publisher.

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Holiday Gift Guide: Style, Tech & Travel By Andrew Villagomez Whether you still need to get a present for a travelloving friend or want to treat yourself this season, these are a few travel tech and style essentials to check out. Sony a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera With a quicker autofocus than a DSLR, the compact Sony a6000 is the perfect camera for the traveler who loves to capture moments. Allowing you to take photos with superb 24MP quality, other features of the lightweight camera includes 11 fps continuous shooting with subject-tracking, a 3-inch tilting LCD, area-specific noise reduction and detail reproduction technology Full HD video recording at 1080/60p and 24p. Available in black, silver and a new white body, then camera also allows for uses of interchangeable lenses. Sony.com

Plantronics BackBeat SENSE Headphones Headphones are important for travel, and finding the right one for your ears can take some time. One to keep in mind is the BackBeat SENSE from Plantronics. Stylish and comfortable, the stereo headphone features an 18hour battery life, a lightweight structure and delivery of wireless sound over Bluetooth. Also features a carrying case. Plantronics.com

House of Marley Legend In-Ear Headphones While over the headphones are super comfortable, it canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t beat the packing versatility of in-ear headphones. Creating premium sound products, the flagship in-ear from Marley features a premium balanced design that delivers exceptional sound quality. With an aluminum body, the headphones are also designed with FSCcertified sapele wood to create a highly sophisticated look. TheHouseofMarley.com

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Dell XPS 13 For the business traveler or those who like to stay connected when on the go, a laptop is a rather important tech item to have. I love my 15â&#x20AC;? MacBook Pro, but it can get heavy when I have a lot of trips in a row or a lot of flights during a trip. Introduced earlier this year, the Dell XPS 13 is a small, lightweight and powerful 13-inch laptop that has received popular reviews since its release and even earned seven awards at CES 2015. The ultrabook has an attractive aluminum design, Intel 5th gen core processor, a Quad HD+ display with 5.7 million pixels, a touch screen and an amazing battery life that can last up to 15 hours. Dell.com

Toshiba Canvio Connect 2TB Portable Hard Drive A portable external hard drive is also very important to have to back up files or have a space to keep extra ones. The Toshiba Canvio Connect is a compact hard drive that is just bigger than the palm of your hand and able to carry 2TB of storage space. Other features include data transfer rates up to 5 Gbps and an 8MB cache buffer (means speedy pretty much), and thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also an internal shock sensor to keep the hard drive safe while moving around. US.Toshiba.com

LAT_56 RW_03 Road Warrior Carry-On Suitcase LAT_56 is a luxury travel bag brand headquartered in Scotland that makes sturdy, smart and attractive luggage. The RW_03 Road Warrior Carry-On Suitcase (8 Wheel) was released this summer and is a cabinapproved suitcase perfect for the international jetsetter. Lightweight, but strong, the build features precision engineering, high-quality craftsmanship and hi-spec components. The spinner luggage features a detachable water-resistant sealed shoe/laundry bag, a luxury lining, ample pockets, external access to your 3 oz. toiletries with an easy access pocket and a suit compartment. Lat56.com

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Mod by This is Ground Creating stylish products for travelers, This is Ground is an L.A.-based brand that makes attractive handmade leather goods. Among them is the Mod, a zip-around tablet case that doubles as a portfolio and is customizable depending on the needs of the user with its insert attachments. ThisisGround.com

Kyte&Key Whip & Cabelet The relationship between fashion and tech getting better, Kyte&Key camouflages digital accessories within premium leather style. The Whip is an attractive handbraided leather USB cord that is one meter long that will get compliments from everyone that sees it, and the Cabelet is a wearable charge and sync tool that is super cool. The genuine braided leather bracelet features a stainless steel clasp to cover a hidden USB. KyteandKey.com

Olloclip 4-in-1 Lens Add some extra shooting power to your iPhone with the 4-in-1 Olloclip. Offering four lightweight lens options—a fisheye, wide-angle and two macro lenses (one 10x and the other 15x)—it is very useful for interiors and capturing moments that the iPhone alone just can’t. Olloclip.com

MyCharge HubPlus Portable charges are an essential for everyone with a smartphone these days. In case you have a lot of tech to charge, the new myCharge HubPlus eliminates the need to bring many of the cords needed in life, such as the Apple lightning cable and USB. Folded neatly into the side of the tool are built-in wall prongs, an Apple lightning cable and micro USB cable. With 6,000 mAh, HubPlus is designed to recharge itself four times faster than most power sources. MyCharge.com

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Herschel Supply Co. Pouch After you get all your new tech, you or the person you are getting a present for will need something to carry it all in. Pouches are amazing tools to not only hold all your tech, but also to hold all your travel essentials such as wallet, lip balm, sunglasses and your passport. Shop Herschel Supply Co. for a range of cool options in various sizes. The Vancouver-based brand creates a number of eye-catching designs each season and offers a bold range of colors year-round. HerschelSupply.com

Uri Minkoff Samsen Backpack For a stylish backpack with a unique shape, look to Uri Minkoff’s Samsen Backpack. Versatile and minimal, the backpack works perfect for city jetsetters and business travelers in creative industries. Comfortably holds a 13” laptop, a filled dopp kit and a packable jacket. UriMinkoff.com

Coach Manhattan Tote If a tote bag is more your style, Coach released an amazing black and hand-painted drip-leopard print in olive on a luxe pebbled leather design this fall with its Manhattan Tote. Giving some serious street chic attitude, the tote works perfect for carrying all your travel essentials and more with a spacious body. Coach.com

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Book it!

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RECOMMENDATIONS OF LGBTQ-FRIENDLY HOTELS AND RESORTS THAT HELP YOU ENGAGE WITH THE IDENTITY OF A DESTINATION.

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ANDERSEN BOUTIQUE HOTEL IN COPENHAGEN’S VESTERBRO DISTRICT By David Brown

Copenhagen is an urban city with a population creeping just over a million inhabitants. Famous for its Michelin-starred restaurants, buildings with colorful facades along the Nyhavn waterfront, bike culture that rivals that of Amsterdam, bold and unique architecture, historic landmarks and monuments and Tivoli—the second oldest amusement park in the world— there’s something here for every kind of traveler. The city is also especially gay-friendly with a small-but-noteworthy collection of gay bars clustered around Rådhuspladsen, the city hall square in the center. In fact, Denmark itself was the first country in the world to legalize same-sex unions back in 1989 and went on to legalize same-sex marriage in 2012. Copenhagen is also known for its annual Pride celebration in August; this event is filled with drag performances, discussions related to LGBT issues, short films, parties and of course a Pride parade that had over 20,000 people participating and more than 120,000 spectators in 2014. When visiting Copenhagen as an LGBT traveler, it’s important to be located in an ideal area to easily get around. I found staying at the Andersen Boutique Hotel to be a great place to unpack my bags for a long weekend in the Danish capital city. The Andersen Boutique Hotel is not a specifically gay hotel, but it is gay-friendly and the front desk even showed off rainbow flags in support of the recent Copenhagen Pride event in August that brought me to the city. It’s well-situated in the center, near the Meatpacking District and right next to the Copenhagen Central Station, making arrival to and from Copenhagen by train or by plane quite easy. The neighborhood, today known as Vesterbro, was the former red light district in Copenhagen; however, today it’s an up-and-coming trendy area for cafés, restaurants and bars. The gay area of the city is just 10 minutes away on foot— though in a city like Copenhagen one should really travel by bike. Luckily for its guests the hotel also has a bike rental at the reception for about DKK 100 ($15) per day. The lobby of the Andersen Hotel is tastefully decorated with pops of bright pink and purple colors throughout and brightly painted artwork adorns the walls. The general manager, Karen Nedergaard, mentioned that upon opening the hotel two years ago, her family inquired if she was opening a gay hotel. Her reply was “no,” and that she was opening a hotel for everyone—a hotel that, unlike most hotels in Copenhagen, would be colorful www.gaycationmagazine.com

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instead of bland and subdued. The hotel was named after her grandmother Erna Andersen, who founded the Absalan Hotel Group which now includes Andersen Boutique Hotel, the 4-star Absalon Hotel and Annex Copenhagen, a budget hostel. The staff was incredibly helpful and friendly upon check-in and throughout my stay. The single elevator up to the room is a bit cumbersome as it slowly makes its way among the five floors, so I often used the stairs to get down from my fourth floor room. The 73 rooms of the hotel are decorated similarly to the lobby, again with fun and energetic color palettes. The bed in my room, like in most hotels, was delightfully more comfortable than the one I’ve got at home. The rooms are also equipped with the main necessities including free wifi, a television and a small fridge. There are four different accommodation options with specific color themes to choose from, Princess, Mermaid or Emperor. The Cool Standard Room starts at about DKK 1145 ($170), and then there’s the larger Brilliant Deluxe room, the Wonderful room with a lounge sofa corner and the even more spacious Amazing Junior Suite with its very own yellow rubber duck in the bath that’s all yours. Seriously! 66

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Breakfast is served until 11 a.m., a bit later than most hotels and much appreciated by those of us that enjoy sleeping in. They have a decent spread of the typical hotel buffet breakfast of meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, yogurt, bread and pastries, and some hot dishes including eggs and sausages. The drip coffee included is a bit bland, though you can also purchase a quality caffè latte or cappuccino for DKK 25 ($1.60). In the evenings from 5 to 6 p.m., you can enjoy a complimentary glass of wine in the lobby, a perfect aperitif before going out into the center for a Danish dinner. There’s also a small bar in the lobby where you can make your own cocktail and pay on the honor system, a list of cocktail suggestions sits on the bar. There are also monthly events held in the lobby of the hotel, such as the upcoming photo exhibition with the opportunity to meet the artist. Another unique attribute to this accommodation in Copenhagen is their Concept24 booking which allows you to book the room for a full 24 hours regardless of your check-in time at no additional cost. This is a great attribute for those checking in a bit later in the evening or night and intend to catch up on some sleep the following day. www.gaycationmagazine.com

The striking, fun and friendly Andersen Boutique Hotel was a perfect compliment to my first stay in Copenhagen. Its stylish and trendy theme matched the vibrant ambience of the very neighborhood it’s located in. It’s no wonder the hotel won the “Luxury Boutique Hotel” Award in 2014 from World Luxury Hotel Awards, though it is still moderately priced among luxury hotel standards. My stay at the Andersen Boutique Hotel was quite a delight as I discovered the beauty, history and queer culture of Copenhagen. Andersen Boutique Hotel Helgolandsgade 12 1653 Copenhagen, Denmark +45 33 31 43 44 andersen-hotel.dk/en

David is a part-time English teacher and part-time freelance travel writer based in Madrid. He grew up in Phoenix before leaving for Chicago where he spent a few years with his husband. Soon after, they sold their belongings to travel the world and have been doing so for the past three years. He and his husband manage the travel blog TwoBadTourists.com, where you can find information on gay travel events, tips, and stories.

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Portland Oregon Christmas Tree

Meet some of the incredible people that have become part of our family of gaycationers. They can usually be spotted pretty easily by their warm smiles and willing-to-help attitude when you arrive in their towns or cities. Here are just a few that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen. Have you seen any lately? If so, send a photo to editor@gaycationmagazine.com

Joyeux NoĂŤl

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An Explicit Guide to Gaycationing PREPPING FOR NYE ON THE STRIP By Donovan Kaneshiro Before you know it, it will be time to ring in the New Year and what better place to do so than Las Vegas! Hopefully you’re planning to attend Evolve Vegas NYE, voted among the top gay New Year’s Eve blowouts in the U.S. and the only gay New Year’s Eve party on the famous Las Vegas Strip. Last year Evolve welcomed almost 1,100 guests from six continents, and this year’s event is expected to be bigger and better! What to keep in mind while partying in Vegas on NYE: 1. Book early. Las Vegas hotels sell out and will get more and more expensive as the date approaches. 2. Plastic, plastic, plastic! If you plan on walking on the famous Las Vegas Strip—which will be closed to vehicles—be aware that officers will be enforcing the use of plastic cups; some hotels will provide them when exiting the building. This is to ensure the safety of yourself and others!

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Portable Phone Charger: You’ll want to capture all the moments, maybe even that special midnight kiss. Make sure your phone is as charged as you are for the night festivities. Comfortable Shoes: You’ll probably do a lot of walking on the Strip, especially since major roadways will close early to accommodate the throng of visitors.   Water and Advil for the morning after. Needs no further explanation. www.evolvevegasnye.com

3. Plan exactly where you want to be at midnight. (Evolve of course!) Parts of the Strip will be very crowded so plan ahead. And remember that some of the hotels have fireworks on their roofs at midnight. 4. Make the most of the New Year. Vegas doesn’t shut down or stop serving, so midnight isn’t your last call. 5. Dress to impress. People get creative and festive with the party favors and costumes. It’s Vegas so glitz it up! And just to be extra prepared, don’t leave home without the following packed in your suitcase. You’ll be glad you did! Lint Roller: Not only to make sure you look good for the countdown but you’ll need this for the morning after to shake off all that glitter! That’s what you get for waking up in Vegas!

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Donovan Kaneshiro relocated from Portland, Oregon, in 2007 to pursue a degree in journalism and advertising. He got his start in LGBT travel and tourism in 2011 when he received the Student Tourism Award from the International Gay & Lesbian Travel Association. Since then he's been active in the Las Vegas LGBT community through his efforts with GayVegasTravel.com and The Las Vegas Gay Visitors Bureau. Evolve Vegas NYE, the only gay NYE party on the Las Vegas Strip, is his latest venture with producer Mya Reyes.

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Advertising Index Here’s a list of FABULOUS people that want you to visit. So much so, they wanted to be in Gaycation Magazine! if you’re interested in reaching a fiercely loyal audience, then contact us at sales@gaycationmagazine.com. Atlantic Escapes 14 Blue Chairs 36 Casa Cupula 36 Cruise Planners 75 Equator 36 Evolve 84 Floris Suite Hotel 81 Gay Destination Weddings 15 Gay Key West 2, 3 Gay Tours Ibiza 9 Gregory Kiep Marketing Solutions 60 IGLTA 68 Island House Resort 48 Maui Sunseeker Resort 83 Mayan Explorer 74 Miami LGBT Center 37 Moose Meadow Lodge 14 Nuits St. Pierre 17 OutClique 16 Outings and Adventures 82

Pride Flight 2018 31 Pink Banana Media 24 Provincetown 10 Purple roofs 8 Rainbow Tourism 16 The Word 10 Zenbiz Travel 61

Solution to Crossword on page 73

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UP NEXT January 2016

The cruising Issue CRUISING TO CUBA BONAIRE & GRAND TURK PALM SPRINGS www.gaycationmagazine.com

Gaycation Magazine

Caribbean Windjammer

Cruise with pride INTIMATE Our private charter is host to just 30 guests and our crew is always at your service.

RELAXING Kick off your shoes and enjoy the warm Caribbean sea breezes.

INCLUSIVE Surrounded by like-minded gay men, your sense of adventure will emerge with breathtaking hikes, fantastic snorkeling or just ďŹ&#x201A;oating on a noodle in the shadows of our ship. And everything is included in the price, from meals and snacks to beverages and gear, even the guided hikes and port charges are covered.

OutingsAndAdventures.com or call 727.776.5213 for more information

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