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Queer WeHo Without a Car – Windy City Times

January 25, 2018 by J. Scott Coatsworth

Winter is the perferct time to visit Southern California. With temperatures in the high 60s to 70s ( and everything in bloom as it is the rainy season ), the area is a great respite from the dreary winter in most of the country.

Best of all, you can relax and rely on transit and walking to get around with your visit to West Hollywood, arguable America’s biggest gayborhood. They also have a shared bicycle system so bring your helmet if you plan to use it.

Getting there: I grabbed a Southwest sale fare of $79 from Indy to LAX. From LAX, grab the shuttle to Lot C and take the Big Blue Bus #3 to Santa Monica for $1.25 ( ask for a transfer ). In Santa Monica, transfer to the 704 Rapid Bus Line to West Hollywood. ( Yes, I paid $1.25 from LAX to WeHo. ) Exit at San Vincente street and walk three blocks east to your hotel.

By Bill Malcolm – Full Story at Windy City

West Hollywood (WeHo) Gay Travel Resources

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway – Traveling in Our Fabulous Gay World

December 29, 2017 by J. Scott Coatsworth

If you have never been on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway you have certainly missed a very exciting experience. Thousands of visitors visit the city but have no idea what an educational experience it is take the Aerial Tramway.

Palm Springs has an altitude of only 479 feet however when you drive 15 minutes to the base of the Tramway Valley Station, you at 2,643 feet. Then you take the Tramway up to over 8,500 feet and the temperatures are 30 degrees cooler so be and proper clothing with you.

It is the largest rotating aerial tramway in the world and opened in September, 1963. It goes from the Coachella Valley to near the top of San Jacinto Peak. In 1998, the Tramway said that they were embarking on news cars and update its facilities.

In September of 2000, passengers first rode the world’s largest rotating tramcars.

Once you are at the top station, you have a large variety of things to see and do. They have a very upscale restaurant, Peaks Restaurant where we had a great lunch while overlooking the valley below. Ryan was our server and he did an outstanding job.They also have a Pines Cafe which is more informal and cafeteria style. They also have the Lookout Lounge for drinks and appetizers and a great gift shop.

You can walk outside on the Long Valley deck and view the beautiful Mt. San Jacinto State Park.

For those you like to ‘rough it’ you can a Guided Nature Walk or hike on your own in the over 50 miles of trails. They have three different hiking trails for novice, experienced as well as expert hikers. We chose not to take those hikes. Plus if you are very adventurous you can even go camping overnight!

In the downstairs Valley station they have a documentary movie showing the building of the Aerial Tramway. Visiting the Palm Springs Aerial Tram is one of the World’s greatest wonders and something that you remember for a lifetime.

As we travel around the country we are so fortunate to meet a lot of professional people. Greg Purdy, Vice President of Marketing and Public Affair or the Tramway is one such person. We first met Greg when he was the Director of Marketing for the Palm Springs Follies. He is extremely professional. Thanks Greg for doing things the right way!

For more information on the Aerial Tram; 888-515-8726 or email them at pstramway@pstramway.com and their website is www.pstramway.com

Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone!

TRAVELING IN OUR FABULOUS GAY WORLD is written by Donald Pile and Ray Williams, Award-winning, Celebrity travel columnists who write for gay publications from coast to coast (And now legally married).

Proud members of the IGLTA. You can email them at gaytravelers@aol.com and visit their website at http://gaytravelersataol.blogspot.com/

Las Vegas Gay Travel Resources

Half Moon Bay and Pescadero – Gay Star News

December 23, 2017 by J. Scott Coatsworth

If you are visiting San Francisco and feel like a change of scene for a few days, take your cue from the locals who weekend in nearby Half Moon Bay and Pescadero.

Half Moon Bay

It’s a short but spectacular 46-minute drive from San Francisco to Half Moon Bay – through the Santa Cruz Mountains.

Half Moon Bay is everything that you could want from a weekend mini-break – great restaurants, interesting shops, art galleries, wineries, redwood forests, and the stunning Pacific Ocean shoreline.

If you’re into surfing (or just into surfers), then this is where you’ll find the Mavericks’ surf break location – a beacon for boys who like to ride waves.

By Gareth Johnson – Full Story at Gay Star News

Half Moon Bay Gay Travel Resources

Ten Things You Must Do in Los Angeles

December 19, 2017 by J. Scott Coatsworth

It may be called “The City of Angels” and most well-known for the deep saturation of ‘the industry,’ but in reality Los Angeles is home to incredible culture, cuisine, arts and nightlife, especially for the gay traveler. And as with most international destinations, there are simply some experiences that must appear on your Los Angeles itinerary, especially if you’re a first-time visitor.

Below we’ve taken the opportunity to share some of those experiences. Whether you’re an L.A. virgin or have visited a ton in the past — even if you’ve called Los Angeles home for more than a decade — the perfect L.A. affair will include several of these museums, meals and nights out on the town.

Exploring the City’s Rich Gay History

Sure, you may be in town for vacation, but your Los Angeles itinerary can still have you learning a thing or two while you play. Out and About Tours will take you through the city’s culturally rich gay history step-by-step, exposing fun, vital and hidden information about the LGBTQ community’s roots.

By Alexander Kacala – Full Story at The Hornet

Los Angeles Gay Travel Resources

TRAVELING IN OUR FABULOUS GAY WORLD: A Two Week Driving Trip to California

December 4, 2017 by J. Scott Coatsworth

We decided to take a 2 week driving trip from our home in greater Kansas City to California. We always travel by auto and there are good Interstates all the way there. We usually stop in small towns for lunch and dinner since we really are not into chain restaurants. Usually they are good as they are so far on this trip.

Kansas is 400 miles long and really nothing to see or visit. However they do have largest Catholic Church in the Midwest which was built out of limestone over a year ago, so we did visit it. The architecture is very interesting.

Our first day’s stop was in Limon, Colorado which is a very small town. We always talk to everyone and a semi truck driver came in and we were talking with him. He had a truck load of Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream.

We kept telling him how much we enjoyed Ben and Jerry’s Ice Cream, but being such a small town they didn’t have any at the only small grocery store in town. Yep, he felt sorry for us and went out to his semi and brought back a 1/2 gallon for us. It PAYS to talk to people!

Our second night was in the middle of Utah and the only place to stay is in Green River which has a population of 952 and most everyone works in the 10 motels in town.

Needless to say after the sun goes down, there is absolutely nothing to do in town. However the scenery along Interstate 70 is absolutely incredible. Native American Indians are selling their hand made wares at the rest areas.

The next night we stayed in Primm, Nevada which is about 40 miles southwest of Las Vegas. Room rates at the resorts are like $39.95 so is much less expensive than staying in Las Vegas. We were both lucky on the penny slot machines. Ray first won $49.60 and Donald won $176.50. So that was a nice surprise!

At the Resort where we stayed they had on permanent display the actual auto that Bonnie and Clyde were killed in – with dozens of bullet holes in it.

Then, next, onward to West Hollywood where the temperatures are tremendously warm! Upon arriving to Hollywood the news came out that Jim Nabors had died so we went immediately to his Star on the Hollywood Walk of Stars on Hollywood Blvd. Flowers had already been placed at his star by fans.

Now we will have a very interesting time in West Hollywood and then more fun times in Palm Springs before driving back home.

Always remember to have fun when traveling, meet new people and talk to everyone!

Proud members of the IGLTA. You can email them at gaytravelers@aol.com and visit their website at http://gaytravelersataol.blogspot.com/

Eating Out San Francisco – Lesbian Travel Edition

November 30, 2017 by J. Scott Coatsworth

Long ago, in another era and career that involved cubicles and quarterly reports, a colleague sat his khaki-clad butt on my linoleum desk and asked me the question that would ultimately lead me straight out the front door.

“What would you do, professionally, if you could do anything?”

The answer came immediately. “I’d write.”

Working beside me day after day, he’d witnessed the frowning and temple rubbing–my career frustration hadn’t escaped him.

At my response, he stood up and put a hand on my shoulder.

“Do it,” he said. “Go find what you love and fill up on it.”

Twenty years later, not a day goes by that I don’t sit down to a blank page and feel grateful for that conversation. Today, I write for a living and have been blessed with bylines in some of the best publications in the world. It never gets old–especially when the subject matter combines three things I love to muse over—people, places, and food.

When the opportunity to pen Unique Eats & Eateries of San Francisco came along, it was impossible to say no. San Francisco is that place, for me, where food and memory are inextricably linked.

By Kimberley Lovato – Full Story at Tango Diva

San Francisco Gay Travel Resources

Villa Santa Rosa – Gay Friendly Santa Rosa Vacation Rental

September 27, 2017 by J. Scott Coatsworth

Bring your friends or family (children very welcome!) to our luxury five bedroom (2 King master suites, one queen suite, two queens with shared bath), 4.5 bath villa with 3 jetted tubs and 3 gas fireplaces, a flat-screen t.v. in every bedroom, and gorgeous views from every window, looking out over a long wooded open space valley.

Watch for deer, quail, and hundreds of wild birds. Have a glass of wine at sunset on your own private balcony, or sit out on one of two larger balconies with seating for everyone, looking out over the gardens, pool, and valley.

Sit with your morning coffee under a secret rose arbor and watch the hummingbirds and families of quail in the garden. Enjoy being all together, or go off and find that private space with a good book; our gardens are full of secret or group sitting areas.

Lounge in the sun by our tropical jungle pool with it’s splashing waterfall, or share lunch in the big gazebo. Discover the secret hammock garden under the cooling shade of the palms. This is a serene and peaceful property (no parties with outside guests allowed), a great place to reconnect with friends and family.

Owners on-site nights only, in owner’s studio with no shared walls, separate entrance.

Inside, everything is high-end, with luxury cotton linens, and wood, marble, granite and glass touches throughout. Stainless steel gourmet kitchen, sunny breakfast nook, large great room with Netflix and Pandora, and a formal red dining room. Hire a private gourmet chef for a special dinner, hire a masseuse to come to the house, or arrange for a wine country driver to take you on a Napa or Sonoma tasting tour, from our own Referrals List (you can even arrange a private wine tasting right at the house!)

Central to all major wine roads, with Sonoma Valley ten minutes to the south, Napa Valley 20 minutes north-east, the quaint town of Healdsburg and the lush Dry Creek Valley ten minutes north, the Russian River Valley, Redwoods, and our gorgeous wild beaches a short drive west, and the exciting city of San Francisco only an hour to the south. Do Napa one day, Sonoma the next. Or rent a kayak or canoes and paddle down the Russian River through the Redwoods, in the gay-friendly town of Guerneville!

Float in our pool (heated April-Oct.), lay in a hammock, or soothe tired muscles in our in-ground, year-round spa. Get our our Karaoke set for group fun at night, or play one of our many fun board games. Grill up a feast on our covered upper balcony with two kinds of gourmet grills, a gas fireplace, and seating for all. Be sure and leave time to relax in our gorgeous rose and perennial gardens, with birds and flowers everywhere you look, and soak in the beauty. Welcome gift of roses, wine and chocolates!

See the Villa Santa Rosa Expanded Listing on Purple Roofs Here

Sonoma County Gay Friendly Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, and Vacation Rentals

Restful Nest B&B Resort – Gay Friendly Mariposa, California Resort

August 10, 2017 by J. Scott Coatsworth

Periodically we’ll feature one of our properties here to let our readers know about some great gay friendly places to stay:

Nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills in the heart of California Gold Country, you can experience old California hospitality with the flavor of Provence.

Our Restful Nest is a wonderfully relaxing bed and breakfast on eleven acres of oak trees, and just 40 miles from Yosemite National Park.

Each of our guest rooms has a private bath and a/c, and we also offer a seperate guest house, with wood burning stove, a/c, living room, bedroom and bath.

Our Yosemite area B&B offers all the amenities: a barbecue pit, picnic area, swimming pool, hot tub, spa, and fishing pond (catch and release).

Breakfast takes place at a leisurely pace, served in our country dining room. Awaken to the aroma of fresh baked brioche and other breads (Rated tops by visitors from France and Belgium), homemade sausages, fresh fruit, country jams, preserves, juice, freshly brewed coffee and a variety of teas.

People from all over the world come to visit the Yosemite area, so plan ahead for your vacation with us. Forget your daily routine and relax, and let us pamper you.

Come to the Restful Nest and enjoy a wonderful vacation experience.

See the Restful Nest B&B Resort Expanded Listing on Purple Roofs Here

Gay Friendly Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, and Vacation Rentals in Mariposa, CA

Adams No Eve – Gay San Diego Guesthouse

August 3, 2017 by J. Scott Coatsworth

Periodically we’ll feature one of our properties here to let our readers know about some great gay friendly places to stay:

Adams No Eve is a unique 2 story studio guesthouse in a quiet tropical backyard with a Zen like atmosphere. This is the perfect setting for you to relax and refresh after adventuring out in beautiful San Diego CA.

The private entry of this unique Studio Guesthouse opens to a Kitchen painted in festive colors and a small bathroom with a pedestal sink and a cozy stall shower. 14 stairs lead you up to the sleeping area where a queen size bed awaits you. A 55″ TV with local HD channels and Amazon Fire stick and a sound system you can plug your mobile device into allows you feel at home. WiFi service is available in the guesthouse and the surrounding lagoon pool area.

Adams No Eve is located in a very quiet single family neighborhood in the mid-city area of San Diego CA. The Main House and the Studio Guesthouse share the \0xBD acre terraced property. Citrus trees, fruit trees, avocado trees and a working vegetable garden along with the tropical lagoon pool make up this unique property.

The backyard view to the north gives you Cowles Mountain and night lights. Cowles Mountain is a prominent mountain which is a popular hiking area and the highest elevation of the city of San Diego. On any given day you will see neighbors out walking and socializing with each other. Ample on street parking is available for guest, however off street parking can be available for an additional fee.

Once you enter off the driveway through the locked entrance, prepare to be relaxed. The surrounding tropical Zen atmosphere takes over and compels you to relax and unwind. Guests are free to use the tropical lagoon pool and surrounding backyard. Hosts John and Rick live in the main house and are on site to answer any questions and to ensure you enjoy your stay.

Pool hours are 9 AM to 9 PM, No glass or food by pool, Quiet hours are 10 PM to 8 AM, 2 Adults maximum occupancy, no children, no pets, Tobacco free. 420 friendly.

Adams No Eve is just a short drive or an inexpensive Lyft or Uber ride to Hillcrest, Gaslamp, Downtown, Balboa Park, North Park or any of San Diego’s fun attractions and a quick 20 minute ride to the Mexico border. The Studio Guesthouse is a short walk through the neighborhood to public transportation and one mile from San Diego’s trolley service.

See the Adams No Eve Expanded Listing on Purple Roofs Here

Gay Friendly Bed and Breakfasts, Hotels, and Vacation Rentals in San Diego

Twenty Four Hours in Bodega Bay – Tango Diva

July 21, 2017 by J. Scott Coatsworth

Across the Golden Gate Bridge and past the winding roads through meadows of green grass on Highway 1, you will soon land in the enchanting town of Bodega Bay. This quaint destination lends itself to a truly peaceful and relaxing getaway. And, if you’re longing for a solo getaway that includes amazing views, an awesome massage, delicious food, and miles of coastal trails, then book a stay at Bodega Bay Lodge. The Lodge is a cozy inn perched atop a tranquil bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The crown jewel of the resort is the pool and hot tub that has endless views of the bay.

If you happen to find yourself is 24 hours of free time, here is my perfect itinerary for you.

4:00 PM Check into the hotel and relax in your room.
5:00 PM Everyday in the lobby complimentary wine and cheeses are paired and you can enjoy sampling a local winery’s selection.
6:00 PM Enjoy a sunset dip in the hot tub and feel free to savor the view with a glass of sparkling.
8:00 PM Dine at their Drakes Sonoma Coast Kitchen. Chef Jeff Reilly has established close relationships with local organic family farmers, ranchers, fishermen and artisan cheese makers to create a fresh and innovative menu. Everyday is an adventure! Do order the crab cakes and finish with a piece of Jeff’s Mom’s Chocolate Cake.

By Teresa Rodriguez – Full Story at Tango Diva

Marin Gay Travel Resources