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India is a country with many distinguishing characteristics and has plenty to offer all kinds of travelers. From pristine coastlines to snow-covered Himalayas, and all of the diverse terrain between the two, India offers abundant gay trips to relax or partake in amazing adventures. India has long been a center for spirituality and important advancements in natural medicine, making a gay vacation to India the perfect option for those in search of the opportunity to center themselves, rejuvenate their spiritual side and refocus on the things that really matter in life.

Of course, India has many other sides, which allow for gay vacations that also focus on exceptional dining experiences, visiting important historical, cultural and sacred sites, experiencing life in a rural Indian village, exploring India’s untouched wilderness or partaking in shopping trips that include both modern boutiques and traditional bazaars.

When on a gay vacation to India, it can be difficult, or sometimes impossible, to find a visible LGBT community, even in larger cities. Delhi took a very important step in decriminalizing same-sex sexual behavior in that city in 2009, when the Delhi High Court overturned a British colonial law that had been on the books for–8 years. This law included same-sex sexual behavior in the behaviors that are outlawed as “carnal intercourse against the order of nature” and is no longer on the books in Delhi; however, elsewhere in the country, the acts defined under “carnal intercourse against the order of nature” are still a criminal offense for both straight and gay people, and are punishable by fines and imprisonment, including imprisonment for life.

Activists are being diligent about changing these old laws and folks on gay tours are very unlikely to face issues regarding this law; however, it is still important to be aware of it. The community and government have mixed feelings about the LGBT community; however, there is a steady movement toward acceptance, making India a gay trip destination that is always increasing in popularity.

Although same-sex relationships are still somewhat taboo in most parts of the country, India has always been popular travel destination for gay vacations, with very few LGBT travelers ever reporting issues during gay travel. The best way to ensure that your gay vacation to India is a remarkable, safe, fulfilling trip is to partake in a pre-arranged tour that is organized by a professional, well-established travel company that focuses on providing outstanding travel opportunities to the LGBT community. Choosing to travel in India with a tour group is an excellent way to ensure that you have the opportunity to enjoy India’s most alluring attractions, rejuvenate your spirit at sacred temples and experience life-changing moments during your travels.

Howie Holben gay tours to India thoughts. He is the dreamer behind Spirit Journeys, a gay vacations enterprise. Spirit Journeys suggests spiritual gay travel all over the planet.

The country of Italy is known for all of the beauty and romance that is many times associated with it. It is for this reason that there are so many gay vacations to Italy; this is a city that is friendly to couples who enjoy all that life has to offer them from this country. On visit is never enough to catch all that this city has to offer a person in the way of music architecture and food. Just the name alone is enough to conjure up feelings of love.

There is so much to see and do in this country, that you will find yourself making the trip on a yearly basis in order to see all that this country has to offer its guest. There are several cities in the country that not only welcome same sex couples; they do so with open arms. These cities are the heart and soul of the country and this country is full of life from shore to shore.

Milan is one of the more welcoming cities that are in the country. There are a number of attractions that the city has to offer the guest that come to visit. These guest know what the importance of having plenty to do in a city is, there is nothing that will kill a romantic vacation, than a city that has nothing to do in it.

If Milan is not up your ally, then head to Venice to check out all the sights and sounds that the city has to offer its guest. Many of the hotels in the city are friendly towards gay couples and sometimes even offer discounts to guest that are celebrating their anniversary or other special occasion. You can stay just mere feet away from some of the most famous sites in the country.

The nightlife in Italy is always alive and there is never a bad place to head after a day of sightseeing and shopping. Many of the clubs are very accepting and welcome gay couples. There are a lot of things that can be done while enjoying a night out on the town. There are so many things to see and do that you will never get bored in the country.

After taking in all that the city has to offer, it is time to grab a Gondola and take a romantic ride through the streets. This is a sight that is best seen at night, as the city comes to life with its alternate personality. The lights and sounds are enough to make any problems that the two of you are having seem to just melt away with each stoke of the gondolier.

Head to your local travel agent and have him book you a trip to this romantic country. They will be able to assemble a package for you that will allow you to enjoy the country no matter what the time is on the calendar.

Gay travel to Italy will be a trip that you will always have fond memories from. These trips will be a highlight for you and your loved one for a long time.

Travel to Italy tips by Howie Holben. His company, Spirit Journeys, is a gay tours association. Spirit Journeys presents gay vacations world wide.

St. Louis has many claims to fame. From hosting World’s Fairs and Olympic Games to its fabulous and unique Gateway Arch, this city by the Mississippi has much to offer. For those who enjoy soaking up history, St. Louis provides a myriad of exciting experiences just waiting to be discovered.

The Missouri History Museum is an excellent beginning point for your historic outings. Exhibits include local aviation history as well as homage to famed aviator Charles Lindbergh. One section includes highlights from the 1904 World’s Fair. Another exhibit explores the city’s beginnings as a French trading post.

For centuries prior to European expansion, the St. Louis area was home to a huge population of Native Americans. A visit to nearby Cahokia Mounds and travelers will find the remains of a city that once rivaled the size of many great cities of the world. This National Historic Landmark and World Heritage Site is the largest pre-Colombian Native American site north of Mexico.

Another fun historic adventure is a trip to Faust Park. The park includes the Thornhill Historic Site, which is the preserved estate of the second governor of Missouri. In addition to exploring his mansion, outbuildings and family cemetery, the park also features an impressive historic village. The village includes a variety of different historic homes as well as barns and a schoolhouse.

There are many more historic attractions, including tours of Daniel Boone’s home. The Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site and Scott Joplin State Historic Site are a few more options available.

When you book your St. Louis stay, keep the historic theme going and enjoy a few days at the historic, 19th-century Fleur-de-Lys Mansion. This upscale Missouri bed and breakfast is located in a posh St. Louis’s historic district and includes four romantic guest rooms.

The luxurious rooms at this St. Louis inn include featherbeds topped with 600-thread count lavender rinsed cotton sateen sheets and down comforters. Each of the en suite baths is stocked with L’Occitane bath products and includes special amenities such as towel warmers. Some guest baths also offer a Jacuzzi tub.

In addition to all the grandeur of this St. Louis inn and its guest rooms, guests are also treated to a full, gourmet breakfast each morning, featuring specialties such as baked eggs with brie cheese, bananas Foster French Toast or perhaps ricotta cheese and blueberry crepes.

Jane Leisteiner is a frequent traveler and is fond of blogging about her travels. For further information about this Missouri bed and breakfast or further info about attractions such as the Missouri history museum, please visit the Fleur-de-Lys Mansion website now.

It seems like Cuba’s once atheist communist government has now taken a close interest to religion, for the second year in a row, Cuba’s Roman Catholic chief has read a Christmas message on national television. In a past broadcast, Cardinal Jaime Ortega showed his appreciation towards the lift of the ban governed by President Barack Obama allowing the Cubans living in America to be able to travel or send money to the Islands families.

A Christmas concert that had taken place at the National Cathedral was proposed to be shown – a representative Orlando Marquez, Havana’s Conference of Bishops confirmed this on behalf of the authorities. The entire communication was aired on the government controlled television in Cuba.

A 67 year old retired mother Elisa Ramos, stated; for the first time in 12 years her son will spend Christmas in Cuba. It’s the greatest thing that has happened to them.

After Jaime Ortega’s broadcast, there have been some growing signs of some improvement between the relationship of the government and the church.

A year ago, President Raul Castro surprisingly united with many believers of faith for the beatification of Friar Jose Olallo Valdes in the city of Camaguey.

Raul Castro replaced his brothers’ Fidel Castro’s position as president in 2008. His first general meeting was with Pope Benedict XVI’s secretary of state, Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone during his trip to Cuba marking the 10th Anniversary of Pope John Paul II’s visit.

Religion in Cuba was affected in 1959, this was after Fidel Castro was designated as President of the Country. The government closed down religious institutions and expelled priests. However, changes were made in 1990 – all reference to “no religion” had been removed and people with different faiths were allowed to unite with the Communist Party. Later in the year, the condition changed when a visit from Pope John Paul II was made to Cuba.

Want to find out more about Cuba, then visit Aaron Maurette’s site on how to choose the best Cuba holidays.

Morocco is a land of legends and myths, steeped in rich history and culture, where travelers can stay in a hotel made of sand, trek across the desert on camels and bargain with spice and rug traders in old-world marketplaces. In many places homes have been converted into hotels, called riads, that are sometimes more welcoming for visitors on gay travel and offer visitors the opportunity to experience the life and culture of Morocco more closely. There is no definable scene in Morocco, which is a conservative Muslim country; however there are many reasons to include Morocco in your gay travel planning, including pristine beaches, ancient ruins, enticing souks (markets) that wind through narrow streets offering a variety of wares, vast desert landscapes and amazing architecture.

With exquisite Muslim mosques, ancient Roman ruins, snake charmers and street performers, a Morocco vacation is an exceptional opportunity to indulge in this unique country sights, colors, sounds and smells. No Morocco travel experience would be complete without exploring the Dar Si Said Museum in Marrakech, winding through the many quarters of the Fes medina, gazing at Casablancas amazing art deco architecture and standing on an ancient wall in Tangier to view the expansive ocean and breathtaking sunsets.

American and European socialites, writers and composers involved in the jet set scene once flocked to Morocco as a preferred gay vacation destination; however, while Morocco was once known as a liberal playground welcoming gay men and lesbians from around the world for vacations, a push by recent Muslim leadership to move the country back towards the strict moral code of Islam has caused this welcoming atmosphere to change. Although the law is not commonly enforced, homosexuality was deemed a criminal offence in 1962 and remains so today. Same-sex conduct is punishable by fines and between six months to three years in prison.

The government recently released a statement noting that increased efforts to repress homosexuality would be put in place and that homosexuality will not be tolerated; which may lead to stricter enforcement of this law. This type of intolerance and laws against same-sex conduct are not uncommon in African nations or conservative Muslim countries and does not mean that Morocco must be avoided during your gay travel.

However it does mean that caution and discretion are advised while visiting this conservative country and that travelers may want to consider visiting Morocco as part of organized gay tours or working with a gay holidays agency that is knowledgeable about the safest locations and lodgings for Morocco vacations.

The creator of this commentary about Morocco is Howie Holben. Howie operates Spirit Journeys, a gay travel organization. Spirit Journeys presents spiritual gay tours world wide.

With a barely existent gay scene, is putting Mongolia on your list for gay tours a good idea? Despite little knowledge and a practically invisible LGBT community, Mongolia offers incredible views, outdoor activities and vibrant culture that may appeal to all travelers, gay or straight. Homosexuality is legal and the unique experience of Mongolia makes it a great destination for gay couples and groups.

Mongolia is sparsely populated, leaving plenty of room for the beautiful lakes, majestic mountains and flowing rivers for which the country is often known. Mongolia boasts a unique history as the Mongols and Genghis Khan once ruled powerfully, only for the country to later fall under Soviet grasps.

Despite having little in the way of gay establishments, the unique history and culture of Mongolia make it a worthwhile destination for gay travelers.

With an international airport and train station welcoming overland travel from China, the capital city of Ulaanbaatar serves as the best starting point for your Mongolia adventures. With low priced guesthouses doubling as travel coordinators, it is the best place to settle in and plan for your visit to the country.

While staying in Ulaanbaatar, you can expect to pay roughly twenty dollars per night (for double rooms) if staying in a guesthouse.

They can help you to coordinate both longer and shorter stays. If you are planning a shorter vacation, they will likely advise you to visit Kharakorum, Genghis Khan’s ancient capital city, as well as the Terelj National Park, which is a good stopover on the way to the Gobi Desert. You may also be interested in doing a family home stay, in which you lodge with local residents and get a feel for everyday life and culture in Mongolia.

Longer stays are better for incorporating all parts of the country, including the north where majestic mountains and pristine lakes are abundant.

Ulaanbaatar itself offers tourist sites to visitors. It maintains a vibrant culture and delicious yet cheap restaurants, including Mongol Shabu, which offers traditional menus. You can also visit the Natural History Museum or catch a performance by the esteemed Mongolian National Symphony Orchestra at The Culture Show.

While Mongolia may be an incredible, off the beaten path for gay vacations, homosexuality is not necessarily received well. There are few religious barriers to it; however, a general lack of gay context leaves a general sense of naivete on the subject.

Planning your own vacation may be great for independent travelers, but tour groups catering to gay travelers also offer structured excursions that visit a wide variety of Mongolia’s most popular sites.

Typically they served as a way to see the “best of” the country and highlights include the Gobi Desert, ancient capital of Kharakorum, local camel farms and the Terelj National Park. With various activities like horseback riding along the Mongolian Steppe and cultural activities like traditional Naadam festivals, they appeal to all types of travelers.

These groups typically incorporate some LGBT excursions to community groups and whatever gay adventure travel may exist. With a wide range of activities, their itineraries make up for a lack of a gay scene by offering something for everybody.

Gay tours to Mongolia pointers written by Howie Holben. He is the the force behind Spirit Journeys, a gay tours association. Spirit Journeys suggests spiritual gay vacations all over the planet.

Mexico is a destination for many people looking to both relax and have a great time. This country is known for its friendly people. Some cities are big, fun, and loud, others are small and quaint with lots of culture. Gay vacations to Mexico are already a popular choice for couples and singles alike.

Though the culture of the country is typically conservative, Mexico is a tolerant, welcoming place to visit. There are anti-discrimination and gay rights laws throughout the country, and large local gay scenes in the major cities. If you are looking for gay friendly environment, then there are many places in Mexico to accommodate you.

Mexico City is the capital and one of the biggest cities in the world with lots to offer. Learn all about the country through its vast number of museums. It is even home to the world’s third largest pyramid and a host of ancient ruins. Accommodations can be whatever you like, whether you prefer modern hotels or charming bed and breakfasts.

The city was one of this first in Mexico to legalize same sex marriage. It has a large gay community, the center of which is called La Zona Rosa (The Pink Zone). It is named after the color of the cobblestones. The neighborhood is also packed with gay friendly dance clubs, but the party starts early. Many of the locals ride public transportation, which shuts down at eleven pm, so the clubs may be filled to capacity a little earlier than you might expect.

Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular spots on the west coast. This is a quaint town that has developed over the years to provide modern convenience with ATMs and internet cafes. Take advantage of tours to the hot springs or take an excursion into the jungle with a river hike.

PV is a popular stop for the gay traveler. You can relax and enjoy fine dining in an upscale restaurant or go horseback riding when you want an escapade. There are a number of gay beaches, but you might be able to sight a school of dolphins or whales on the Playa Los Muertos. Drag shows and gay bingo are fun night time diversions.

Cancun is not just a Spring Break destination. This is the place for anyone who wants a beach vacation with the right price tag. This island was made for tourism, and the beaches are beautiful. Head to downtown Cancun to get away from the tourist traps and find local shopping and restaurants.

While it has a huge reputation as a Spring Break destination, it is also becoming a favorite for those looking for gay friendly environments. The Cancun International Gay Festival is held in May and in November there is the Cancun/Rivera Maya Gay Fall Festival. The number of gay bars is always increasing, and the beach is in the south of the hotel district.

There are many more cities to consider for your gay tours to Mexico. Only a few have been mentioned here. Look for more information online to discover the trip that’s right for you.

Howie Holben wrote this gay journeys to Mexico opinion post. He is the the force behind Spirit Journeys, a gay travel group. Spirit Journeys provides spiritual gay tours.

The majority of visitors who vacation in Iceland do so to explore the diverse natural beauty that is truly unique when compared to other popular spots for gay vacations. From Europe’s largest glacier and vast volcanoes, to the barely populated Arctic Circle island of Grimsey and the Northern Lights, Iceland offers nearly limitless opportunities to explore the outdoors in an unprecedented way. Hiking, rafting, kayaking, ice climbing, whale watching, bird watching and sea fishing are just a few of the many popular outdoor activities that travelers enjoy during their stay in Iceland and are great options for gay tours filled with adventure.

Folks who might prefer a more urban journey will also find what they are looking for in Iceland, particularly in Reykjavik, the nation’s capital, where solo travelers and participants in gay tours will enjoy numerous historical and cultural attractions, a vibrant nightlife, plenty of shopping and dining options, an expansive waterfront and museums.

Birdwatchers and nature lovers will also want to take a side trip to the small island of Grimsey, just 25 miles to the north. There is just one town on Grimsey, Sandvik, which is the northernmost settlement of Iceland and has a population of 150. The island is best known for the steep cliffs lining its shore and its abundance of bird colonies, both of which are popular draws for folks on gay vacations to Iceland. Lucky visitors might also catch a glimpse of polar bears, which sometimes show up on the shores of Grimsey after drifting on ice from Greenland.

As a fun, additional perk, travelers to Grimsey can pick up a certificate for crossing the Arctic Circle while visiting. For other outdoor adventures, solo travelers and gay tours also flock to the Vatnajokull icecap, which is Europe’s largest glacier and a popular spot for ice climbing. In total, glaciers cover just over 10% of Iceland’s geography, offering a plethora of photo opportunities and opportunities for outdoor activities.

There are also numerous waterfalls and awe-inspiring cliffs throughout the country, offering a wide variety of hiking, outdoor adventure and picture-taking opportunities. Visitors will not want to miss Videy Island, a small island just moments from the shore where travelers will find various sculptural art pieces and Iceland’s oldest stone building.

Gay vacations to Iceland require particular consideration when it comes to which time of year you should go. This is because there are three distinct natural phenomena that happen at different times of the year: the Midnight Sun, Polar Nights and Northern Lights.

Regardless of the time of year, there is one must-do activity that no gay vacations to Iceland can be complete without: taking a dip in the Blue Lagoon. This mineral-rich, geothermal seawater pool is located just 45 minutes from Reykjavik and treats visitors to a unique experience with fluorescent blue waters surrounded by black lava rocks.

Article about Iceland written by Howie Holben. Howie runs Spirit Journeys, a gay vacations outfit. Spirit Journeys presents spiritual gay travel throughout the world.

Hawaii is a Pacific paradise that has long held a distinct allure for travelers from around the world. With a warm, welcoming native population and a well-balanced, culturally-rich blend of Asian, Polynesian and white European cultures, Hawaii is a popular destination for straight and gay vacations alike. While the LGBT community may seem a bit quiet and low-key on the islands, those taking part in gay vacations to Hawaii will find a high level of acceptance, due in part to generations of different cultures growing accustomed to living together with no one overriding cultural or religious influence.

Oahu is home to the state capitol, Honolulu, the popular tourist destination, Waikiki, and 70% of Hawaii’s population. If you plan to visit Oahu on your gay holidays, you will not want to miss La Cucaracha, an LGBT-friendly Mexican caf with authentic Mexican cuisine, margaritas and great music, or the LGBT novelty, book and clothing store, 80% Straight Inc., located in the Waikiki Grand. There are also a few bars and clubs for those interested in the scene, including Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand, Fusion Waikiki, In-Between and Angles Waikiki. If heading to the beach is more your style, Queen’s Surf and the area below the lighthouse at Diamond Head are the two spots where the community can be found any day of the year.

Those who choose a gay tour to Maui might not find a vibrant scene, other than a small area of Little Beach in Makena, but exploring quaint villages, watching the sunset atop Mount Haleakala and sunbathing near waterfalls all make Maui an enticing locale for gay tours. If exploring what is considered the most tropical and scenic island of them all is part of your plans, Kauai is sure to deliver no matter what time of year you visit. Kauai is home to a clothing optional LGBT-friendly bed and breakfast, as well as an LGBT-owned villa with a Japanese flair and a clothing optional lagoon pool, and is an ideal setting for exploring waterfalls, amazing cliffs and vast canyons.

The Big Island also has a number of friendly lodging options, one LGBT bar and several friendly restaurants and businesses. Gay vacations on the Big Island can include exploring an active volcano, walking on black sand beaches, trekking through a rain forest or standing in awe of the snow on Mauna Kea.

As the most remote island chain anywhere in the world, Hawaii is a tropical destination that everyone should have the chance to see at least once. In a single vacation to this island paradise you can ride horses down black sand beaches, attend a real luau, learn the hula, tour a pineapple plantation, explore a volcano and snorkel or scuba dive in crystal clear waters. To enjoy your Hawaii vacation to the fullest, consider partaking in a gay travel tour or enlisting the help of a travel agency that regularly plans Hawaii gay travel.

Howie Holben gay vacations to Hawaii advice. He is the caretaker of Spirit Journeys, a gay tours enterprise. Spirit Journeys proposes spiritual gay vacations all over the world.

Need to find a place to blend romance with the exotic? Then Cape Town, South Africa is a great place to visit. It is tops for gay vacations and has been for a long time. It is a beautiful place for that perfect get away for just the two of you. You will find all types of activities to catch your interest.

Bordered on the South by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, and on the North by the towering 4,000 foot Table Mountain, Cape Town’s horizons are anything but ordinary and in constant flux with the clouds rolling off the mountain’s peaks defining the sky-scape randomly and dramatically. The perfect backdrop for an afternoon of lazing quietly on the beach, wrapped in a partner’s never ending gaze.

For places to stay, try the gay owned Glen Boutique Hotel. It offers beautiful rooms and well appointed baths. For dinner try Marco’s African Place or the Off Moroka Cafe Africaine to try traditional African food. With numerous gay-friendly places to dine and hang your hat for the night.

There is plenty to do in Cape Town once you’ve rested long enough on the beach. Visit the wine country or museums, The Bo-Kapp Museum, District Six Museum and National Gallery should not be missed. And the nightlife in Cape Town is amazing! From little bars to major clubs, Cape Town has them all.

The Rhodes Memorial is built on the slopes of Devil’s Peak. This memorial is in honor of Cecil Rhodes, a gay entrepreneur from Great Britain and founder of the Rhodes Scholarship and the DeBeers company. After you have done all this, it will be time to head back to the beaches again to rest up a bit so you’re ready for the clubs again.

Did we mention the beaches? Do not miss the wonderful South African beaches. With all that Cape Town offers fantastic gay travel tours destinations, wildlife, beaches and nightlife, going to Cape Town is definitely well worth it; a vacation you won’t soon forget.

This essay about gay travel to Cape Town is by Howie Holben. Howie runs Spirit Journeys, a gay tours group. Spirit Journeys makes available spiritual gay vacations throughout the world.