Inside Gay Travel

Gay-Friendly Azur Real Boutique Hotel, Cordoba, Argentina

26 Jan 12

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Azur Real Boutique Hotel, Cordoba, Argentina

 

By Roy Heale

In the center of Argentina—about 700 km northwest of Buenos Aires—with a student population of more than 300,000, Cordoba is a bustling, gay-friendly city. With nearly 1.5 million people, and 3.2 million in the region, Cordoba still has a small town feel to it with a variety of neighbourhoods and parks to enjoy. Nueva Cordoba is the heart of the university scene, full of gay life and community hang-outs. Just a short walk from here is Viejo Cordoba where the historic part of the city includes the San Martín square, the Cathedral, Córdoba´s Townhall, and the Jesuit Block which was declared by UNESCO in 2000 as a World Heritage Site with a group of buildings dating from the 17th century.

The most gay-friendly living quarters in the city is surely the Azur Real Boutique Hotel located just two blocks from the heart of Viejo Cordoba and a ten minute walk to the Nueva Cordoba community. The historic hotel exterior proffers an unassuming entrance, but the short elevator ride to the hotel lobby reveals an elegant, calm, and tranquil haven in the heart of the city. Stylish and comfortable with gay-friendly, English speaking staff, the 24/7 reception area will immediately make you feel right at home.

 

Hotel Lobby

The original house, where Azur Real Boutique Hotel is located, was built in 1915 as a traditional home-store, where the household members and the family business co-existed. The property evolved over the years, becoming a Drugstore, a Restaurant, and later a Students Residence. Part of the building was used by Dean Funes National School, where personalities from the City of Cordoba attended classes. Perhaps its most famous student was Ernesto “Che” Guevara.

The current owners began restoration work in 2004 and after five years finally the hotel opened its doors in 2009. However, the property is so well maintained and cleaned it appears to have made its debut yesterday.

Stylish Rooms

Azur Real Boutique Hotel has fourteen spacious rooms each with a unique architectural style and exquisite modern design, equipped with LCD TV, Internet Wi Fi, computer sized safety deposit box, mini-bar, multi-function shower, and American percale 180 thread count sheets. The attention to detail is luxurious including bath robes, slippers, and nightly turn-down service. Comfort is combined with an opulent ambiance to make every guest feel pampered while staying here.

Home Comforts

A sumptuous daily breakfast buffet is served from a civilized 7AM to 11AM in the top floor restaurant, or by room service, or outside on the comfortable rooftop sun deck. The restaurant is also open for À La Carte lunch and dinner with exquisite local Argentine specialities being served. The Deli Lounge lobby bar also serves refreshments throughout the day and evening.

Throughout the property there exists a peaceful aura of relaxation combined with the total professionalism of the gay-friendly staff. A rare combination today in many hotels.

Roof Top Sun Deck

One of the many attractions of Cordoba is the surrounding Sierras (hills) where many smaller towns and Villas (villages) offer unique tourist attractions and historic buildings from the earlier Spanish Colonialism and Jesuit Orders. Most of these communities can be visited as day trips from Cordoba via local buses or on organized tours. The Azur Real front desk staff will be happy to provide you with additional information.

The Hotel is also conveniently located close to the main Omnibus Terminal and the Mercado Sur Bus stop for easy access via local transit to the Sierras. A visit to Cordoba is not complete without at least one excursion into these hills to enjoy the scenery and local history. Of special note is the Villa General Belgrano, a small mountain village named after the creator of the Argentine flag—Manuel Belgran—and located in the lush green valley of Calamuchita. The Alpine architecture of the village attracted immigrants from Germany, Switzerland, Italy, and Austria which gives this small town a truly European atmosphere and charm.

So be sure to stay at the gay positive Azur Real Boutique Hotel while you enjoy the LGBT life and the Sierras of Cordoba. It will be the perfect, memorable gay get-away during your visit to gay-friendly Argentina.

Azur Real Boutique Hotel Services:

  • Deli Lounge
  • Room service
  • Roof-Top Terrace with splash pool
  • Meeting room
  • Wi Fi
  • Transfers
  • Maid service twice a day
  • Laundry, dry cleaning and ironing
  • Luggage Storage
  • Safety deposit box in rooms
  • Bilingual Staff
  • Pillow Menu
  • Massages
  • Shoe shine service
  • Gays and Lesbians Welcomed

For More Information Visit: www.azurrealhotel.com

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Argentina

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Gay-Friendly Hotel Rosario, Argentina

11 Jan 12

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Plaza del Sol Hotel, Rosario, Argentina

 

 

By Roy Heale

You know that you have arrived at a gay-friendly Hotel when the local gay guide is displayed prominently in the hotel lobby along with other tourist information brochures. Such was the case when I arrived at The Plaza del Sol Hotel in the heart of downtown Rosario and the De Ambiente gay guide was readily available in the foyer. The welcoming staff were also extremely helpful and spoke English, which is not always the case in Argentina.

Located on San Juan Street near attractions such as Plaza Montenegro, The National Flag Monument, Plaza 25 de Mayo, and the Cordoba Street Pedestrian Mall, this is a perfect place to explore Rosario. Also nearby are Independence Park Theatre and El Círculo Opera House plus numerous gay-friendly cafes, bars, and clubs.

Of course the renowned riverbank promenade is also just a ten minute walk from the Plaza del Sol Hotel. Here you will find spacious and beautiful parkland with cafes overlooking the Rio Parana plus the islands and beaches of the Westbank.

Spacious Rooms With Balconies

Plaza del Sol is a comfortable hotel with all the necessary amenities for a perfect trip. Hotel guests can enjoy a free buffet breakfast served daily on the second level. The staff provides concierge services, tour assistance, ticket purchases, business services, and translation services. Additional amenities include a fitness facility, swimming pool, sun deck, laundry, and room service during limited hours. There is also a computer located in the hotel lobby for guest use.

The spacious guestrooms have views of the city with cable television including free movie channels. All rooms have personal safes and telephones. Internet access is provided with free high-speed wireless connections. Beds have down blankets and the bathrooms have shower and tub combinations with jetted tub and rain shower head. They also offer bidets and hair dryers. The rooms include air conditioning and private balconies. In addition, guests may request iron and ironing board, bathrobes, and wake-up services.

During my visit to Rosario I learned that San Juan Street was one of the original gay cruising streets in the city, dating back about forty-five years when there were no bars or clubs in which the LGBT community could gather and no internet for instant hook-ups. Although times have changed it is interesting to find a gay-friendly hotel located on a street with such gay history.

Hotel Lobby

Rosario is situated only 300 kilometers from Buenos Aires making this an easy destination for a visit during an Argentine vacation or business trip. By car the journey takes just over three hours and slightly longer by bus or train. The River Parana with its islands and beaches makes for an ideal relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of Buenos Aires.

With moderate prices for room rates Plaza del Sol Hotel is perhaps the best option for staying “gay” in Rosario.
For More Information Visit: http://www.hotelesplaza.com/hotelplazasol/hotelplazasol.html

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Argentina

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Tom Ballard Since 1989 – Belvoir Theatre – Sydney

18 Oct 11

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If you are in Sydney this week or next catch Tom Ballard’s latest show “Since 1989″.

Ballard is best known for co-hosting TripleJ’s breakfast radio show.

Tom’s life has gone for just over 21 years. In that time he’s been skinny dipping, had his heart broken and experienced dermatological issues.

This is a show about youngness from one of Australia’s brightest new talents.

More information:

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Australia

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Gay Party Festival on Mykonos

03 Aug 11

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The XLSior International Gay Festival on Mykonos will take place from 24-28 August. 
All the best global clubbing brands are all united for the first time in one event on the gayest Greek island.

Now in its third year, the festival is full of mind-blowing events and hosts the hottest boys in the world and the best DJs, stars, and performers.

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Greece

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Plan Now Not To Miss Tropical Fruits NYE Event on North Coast NSW

02 Jun 11

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If you’re holidaying anywhere near tropical north Australia (NSW – QLD borders) this December, the Tropical Fruits New Year’s Eve party should be part of your itinerary.

Rod Spark Photography
The Tropical Fruits New Year’s Festival is a four-day queer celebration held in the city of Lismore in sub-tropical northern NSW – an area known suitably as the Rainbow Region.

The NYE Party and the Recovery Party are held at the retro-chic Lismore Showgrounds, lovingly transformed by hundreds of volunteers into a sumptuous smorgasbord of our own unique culture.

Mark your diary, as tickets go on sale September 1st for a potentially sold-out event.

Some highlights:

  • An on-site camping facility, replete with themed areas.
  • For the dance party, there are two massive, proto-industrial dance spaces featuring top Australian and international DJs.
  • Also on are an Art Show & Cabaret plus the Queer Fruits Film Festival in Lismore’s grand old Starcourt Theatre.
  • At midnight, enjoy an over-the-top fireworks spectacular.
  • Rejuvenate on New Year’s Day at our sensational, slippery, sexy Pool Party held in the post-deco ambience of Lismore Baths, booked exclusively for Tropical Fruits.
  • Back at the Showgrounds, as the sun starts to set on New Year’s Day, feast on a BBQ and get set to groove the night away at Recovery.

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Australia

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Brisbane’s Sportsman Bar Celebrates Pride

12 May 11

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Downstairs @ Sportsman

Affectionately known to regular patrons as “Sporties” the Sportsman Hotel and club is located in the heart of Brisbane, and now noting its 21st year of serving Brisbane’s gay community.

Downstairs @ The Sportsman Hotel is the section that caters to MEN ONLY and MIXED events throughout the year. During the pride festival, it has a different theme on Saturday nights. On 5 June, it is hosting T Bar (transgender and mixed) and on 18 June is BrisBears (men only).

For more information, see the events calendar for Sportsman Hotel. Both locals and visitors will find this is a great place to party during Brisbane Pride Festival.

If travelling to Brisbane check out the Rainbow Tourism Australia Brisbane page

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Australia

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Engaging and Erotic Films Screening in New Zealand Reel Queer Festival

10 May 11

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There is tension and eroticism on a secluded shore…

“International Male” is just one of many films focusing on gay men at this year’s Reel Queer Film Festival, held in New Zealand’s capital city Wellington, and also screened in Auckland, which boasts the largest gay community in the country.

Auckland: ‘International Male’ 5 Jun 4:30pm at Rialto Cinemas Newmarket
Wellington: ‘International Male’ 11 Jun 2:40pm at Paramount Theatre

If you’re visiting the North Island between 26 May and 12 June, be sure to catch a flick or two and meet up with the locals who support this annual fest.

For more information see the film trailers and descriptions online.
Rainbow Tourism Accommodation: Auckland, Wellington

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New Zealand

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Vancouver Gears Up for Leather Fetish Ball

09 May 11

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Over the Victoria Day Weekend, HARD 2 Leather Fetish Ball is on for Sunday, 22 May in Vancouver, BC. Time to party, and leave your streetware at home. This is a leather party only.

Men in Leather’s annual HARD – Leather Fetish Ball – is an epic event and party, for just $25 a ticket! Itwill be held at FIVE SIXTY (560 Seymour St.). The former historic A&B Sound store has been transformed into one of Vancouver’s hottest new clubs. With multiple levels and various rooms you can expect many a surprise including a “Dungeon Play Area.”

Special performance by Mantra, on deck DJ Nick Bertossi, Marcus Purnell & Ntectect will have the dance floor pulsing. Dress code enforced: Leather + Fetish only.

Visiting Vancouver for HARD 2 (May 22), the OUTGAMES (25-31 July) or PRIDE Festival (31 July)? Check in at these Rainbow Tourism Accommodations in Vancouver and Whistler.

For more information visit Men In Leather Vancouver.

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Canada

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Couples Retreat at Mt. Tamborine’s Songbirds in the Rainforst

04 Apr 11

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Songbirds Rainforest Retreat offers a serene but purely decadent experience in idyllic surrounds less than an hour’s drive from either Brisbane or the Gold Coast in Australia’s Sunshine State (Queensland).

Songbirds’ boutique accommodation has luxurious views inside and out. There are six spacious and beautifully appointed villas scattered over the 51-acres of pristine rainforest on Mount Tamborine.

Picture you and your partner or group of friends in your own private sanctuary, arrange a massage or beauty treatment, enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the double spa bath, walk through the rainforest property, or simply relax by the gas-ember fire or the rainforest views from the private balcony.

Breathing clean mountain air and awaking to the sound of birds – kookaburras, whipbirds and lorikeets -is as heavenly as ating in the award-winning restaurant. Songbirds in the Forest restaurant has won many awards and has an international reputation for its food, wine and high standard of service as well as its spectacular ambiance.

Visit the Website: www.songbirds.com.au

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Australia

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The Royal Palms Reinvented as Oasis of Style on Fort Lauderdale Beach

04 Apr 11

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The Royal Palms, North America’s Largest Luxury Gay Resort, Opens in Fort Lauderdale

This famous Fort Lauderdale property was recently transformed from award-winning guesthouse into sleek, full-service luxe boutique hotel.

Contemporary Euro style meets tropical splendor at the new Royal Palms, a stunning reinvention that’s poised to change the face of the city’s hotel market. The long-time gay favorite unveils its expansion to 62 rooms April 11 – courtesy of two additional buildings that underwent head-to-toe renovations. The makeover also added two heated swimming pools (one clothing-optional), a bar/grill, spa and fitness center, all just one block from Fort Lauderdale Beach.

Guest rooms vibrate with pops of color against a white backdrop; rain showers spill onto pebbled floors; and original artworks from photographer Dennis Dean hit a sensual note. All rooms come with 42-inch flat-screen TVs, and the signature orchid blossoms still accompany each stay—along with complimentary WiFi throughout the property, and access to iPad 2s, mobile phones, white bicycles and the ultimate guest amenity: a sleek 54-foot private luxury yacht, available for guest excursions, celebrations and commitment ceremonies.

“It was time to take gay accommodations to the next level,” says Richard Gray, who was instrumental in putting Fort Lauderdale on the gay destination map when he opened the Royal Palms in 1991. “While many boutique hotels have begun catering to the gay market, our new hotel uniquely combines world-class luxury with the sexy, social vibe that will never be found at mainstream or ‘straight-friendly’ hotels.

GG’s Bar and Grill is the open-air showpiece of the front building, with ruby-red glass tiles, misters, and a polished concrete bar overlooking one of the pools. Steel, grey and black patio furniture and stylish poolside cabanas add to the scene. A spa with wet room and massage rooms for single or double use and a fitness center ensure guests can get appropriately relaxed or pumped before exploring the city’s gay nightlife.

Rates for standard rooms start at $159, making the hotel an affordable oasis of style.  For more information, visit Royal Palms and Facebook.

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USA

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