GAY TRAVELERS MAGAZINE
  • Home
  • LGBTQ+ VOICES
    • * Tommy McGlothlin - before the age of nine, I knew I was different
    • * We Must Never Forget That Being Gay Was A Crime
    • * Scott Wood - 29 months since I accepted I was gay
    • * Why I Celebrate LGBTQ Pride by Steven Skelley
    • * On Coming Out, Self-esteem, and the Love of Being Gay by Curt Solash
    • * Chet Kabara - Fairy child that did not expect to live long enough to grow up
    • * Happy Pride From A Former Homophobia Hostage By Christen Christensen
    • * Michael Doonan - Love That Dare Not Speak Its Name
    • * The Truth About The COVID19 Vaccine
  • Florida Spotlight
    • Pride Journey Orlando By Joey Amato
    • Florida Things To Do Links
    • Big Gay Key West - A large social event for gay chubby men and their admirers
    • Steven and Tom Visit the Wizard of Oz Museum
    • Key West Pride to Feature Parties, Performances and a Parade June 1-5
    • We Would Choose This AirBnB Condo Rental Over Any Hotel Room In Melbourne
    • Key West Pride to Celebrate Diversity in Paradise June 2-6, 2021
    • Manhattan Tower – New Units, Covid Protocols and Dining
    • Key West to Host Annual Womenfest Sept. 4-8
    • LGBTQ Miami - The best choices to create your dream Miami vacation
    • CEDAR LAKES WOODS AND GARDENS - A must-see Nature Coast attraction
    • GayStPete House - the laid back, quirky, friendly and relaxing clothing optional B&B in St. Petersburg, Florida
    • One Magical Weekend - a new kind of PRIDE
    • Central Florida's Freebie and Cheap Fun for Families​
    • Florida Theme Parks and Attractions
    • Gay Travelers Magazine Visits The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
    • Schooner Freedom - Tour St. Augustine In A Tall Ship
    • St. Augustine Gold Tours - Private Driving Tours of St. Augustine Highlights
    • Pompano Beach – Florida’s Warmest Welcome
    • Casa Grandview - Historic Bed & Breakfast in West Palm Beach Florida
    • WBSC Women's Baseball World Cup Comes to the USSSA Space Coast Complex in Viera, Florida
    • Come Out With Pride Orlando – Our interview with Jose Luis Dieppa
    • Valerie Paul Wedding and Event Planning
    • LEGOLAND 2018 Events!
    • Beach House Cabanas - Treasure Island, Florida
    • The Villa Bed & Breakfast in Daytona Beach, Florida
    • Old Florida Vacation Rental Homes – Short Term Vacation Rentals Near Sebastian
    • The Big Coconut Guesthouse - The friendly clothing optional gay men's guesthouse
    • Fishermen’s Village – Charlotte County Florida’s Resort, Shopping, and Entertainment Icon
    • Orlando North – Food, fun and entertainment in Seminole County
    • A Celebration of Friends - a celebration of mature men in the gay world
    • Coral Castle Museum - Miami’s quirky, mysterious and world famous attraction
    • Five Reasons You Should Go To The Delray Beach Open
    • Florida.com - deals on restaurants, concerts, sporting events and more
    • Christmas at Gaylord Palms – Kissimmee, Florida
    • Big Cypress Gallery and Swamp Cottages
    • Butterfly World - Coconut Creek, Florida
    • Liberty Garden Suites
    • Grand Resort & Spa - Fort Lauderdale’s Luxury resort and spa for gay men since 1999
    • Reunion Resort
    • Where To Find Florida's Space Coast Surfing Hotspots
    • Palm Island Resort
    • Smyrna Beach Club
    • Black Dolphin Inn
    • Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa Welcomes LGBT Weddings
    • Playalinda Beach - Florida's Space Coast nude beach
    • Island House
    • Renaissance World Golf Village Resort & St Augustine’s Nights of Lights
    • Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort
    • Surfing Santas
    • Pompano Beach Resort & Spa
    • Tarpon Lodge
    • Two Fish Inn
    • Five Things You Must See In Cedar Key
    • Cypress Cove Nudist Resort
    • Florida Keys & Key West Events Summer & Fall 2015
    • St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park
    • Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
    • White Sands Buddhist Center
    • FREE Florida Travel App
    • Schooner Freedom Charters
    • St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum
    • Manhattan Tower
    • The Hilton Orlando
    • Plaza Beach Resorts
    • Our Naples, Florida Top 5 Attractions
    • Kennedy Space Center / Cape Canaveral Launch Schedule
    • Marineland Dolphin Adventure
    • Babcock Wilderness Adventures
    • Steinhatchee Landing Resort
    • Florida Same Sex Weddings
    • Historic Casa Marina Hotel Offers Same-Sex Weddings
    • Daytona Beach On A Budget
    • MLB Spring Training 2015 Schedule
    • Fishermens Village Resort - Punta Gorda, Florida
    • The Shell Factory - North Fort Myers, Florida
    • Boca Grande, Florida
    • Blue Man Group - Orlando, Florida
    • Delray Beach Open - Delray Beach, Florida
    • Tuckaway Shores Resort - Indialantic By the Sea, Florida
    • Discover NW Florida – Our Pensacola Area Favorites
    • King Fisher Fleet - Punta Gorda, Florida
    • Lake Como Family Nudist Resort - Lutz, Florida
    • Renninger’s Antique Extravaganza - Mount Dora, Florida
    • B2 Hotel - Miami, Florida
    • Palm Beach Hibiscus B&B - West Palm Beach, Florida
    • Liberty Suites - Dania Beach, Florida
    • Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens - Delray Beach, Florida
    • Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club & Lodge - Orlando, Florida
    • Busch Gardens - Tampa, Florida
    • The Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa - Wilton Manors, Florida
    • Camp Mars Gay Campground - Venus, Florida
    • Casa Marina Hotel - Jacksonville Beach, Florida
    • Charlotte Harbor Highlights - Charlotte County, Florida
    • Cirque du Soleil La Nouba - Orlando, Florida
    • Fort Christmas, Florida
    • Gatorland - Orlando, Florida
    • The Grand Resort and Spa - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
    • Hammock Beach Resort - Palm Coast, Florida
    • Haulover Beach - Miami, Florida
    • Historic Cocoa Village - Cocoa, Florida
    • The Inn On Charlotte - St Augustine, Florida
    • Inn on Fifth - Naples, Florida
    • Jungle Adventures - Christmas, Florida
    • Kennedy Space Center - Cape Canaveral, Florida
    • Key West Express - Key West, Florida
    • Koreshan State Park - Estero, Florida
    • Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club - Naples, Florida
    • Naples On A Budget - Naples, Florida
    • Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens - Naples, Florida
    • Old Powderhouse Inn - St Augustine, Florida
    • Renaissance Orlando at Sea World - Orlando, Florida
    • Ringling Museum - Sarasota, Florida
    • Titanic The Experience - Orlando, Florida
    • Gay Wine Weekend in Sonoma
    • White Cap Beach Condos - Fort Myers Beach, Florida
    • Wyndham Deerfield Beach Resort - Deerfield Beach, Florida
  • USA Spotlight
    • Autumn is Provincetown’s Secret Season
    • New Mountain Biking Tour of North Dakota's Maah Daah Hey Trail
    • The Naked Trainers LIMITLESS RETREAT - A Transformative Nude Wellness Event For Men
    • The best Pride celebrations this June
    • Glow in the Park at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
    • Southern Utah Offers New 190-Mile Glamping Trail
    • Pride Journey Savannah by Joey Amoto
    • Pride Journey Chicago By Joey Amato
    • Summer Series of Gay Wine Events
    • Pride Journey Colorado Springs By Joey Amato
    • LA Black Pride weekend kicks off free community driven festivities throughout Los Angeles & West Hollywood
    • Pride Journey - Palm Springs, California
    • 2021 NYC Pride
    • Pride Journey: Atlanta
    • The 190-Mile Aquarius Trail Hut System in Southern Utah Unveiled
    • Joseph Puopolo Hikes the Constellation Trail in Prescott, Arizona
    • Southern Christmas Getaways From the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Blues of Mississippi
    • SILVER AIRWAYS NONSTOP FLIGHTS START NOVEMBER 23, 2020 WITH FARES FROM $49* TO ORLANDO, TAMPA, AND FT. LAUDERDALE
    • Pride Journey: Monterey, California
    • Pride Journey: Aspen Gay Ski Week
    • Pride Journey: Columbus, Ohio By Joey Amato
    • Pride Journey: Grand Rapids/Saugatuck By Joey Amato
    • Bryce Canyon National Park - Utah
    • Pride Journeys St. Louis By Joey Amato
    • Southern Decadence 2019 - parties, parades, brunches and events in New Orleans
    • Pride Journey: Providence, Rhode Island
    • Las Vegas Accommodations For Every Taste
    • Las Vegas Grows More Fabulous with LGBTQ+ Events and Celebrations
    • Las Vegas Issues 20,000th Same-Gender Marriage License
    • Rainbow Room to Host Inaugural Pride Ball - NYC Pride’s Only Black Tie Event
    • Pride Journey: Spokane, Washington
    • Pride Journey: Phoenix/Tempe
    • THE FIRST ANNUAL MENDOCINO PRIDE: CHASING THE RAINBOW FESTIVAL
    • Escape Resort Palm Springs – Our interview with Co-Owner Mark Hunter
    • Pride Journey: Provincetown Cape Cod
    • Foodies Guide To New Orleans
    • Pride Journey: Milwaukee
    • Pride Journey: Portland, Oregon
    • Triangle Inn - Award-winning, historic Palm Springs Resort
    • The Best of the Best By Donald Pile and Ray Williams
    • Bearfoot Inn - An oasis in the desert in sunny Palm Springs, California
    • Pride Journey Indianapolis
    • Experience Holiday Chill in San Diego
    • Park Ridge Lodge - a relaxing men's retreat nestled in the Great Smoky Mountains
    • Starland Community – campground/retreat center located in a Southern California high desert setting near Joshua Tree
    • How To Enjoy Three Palm Springs Gay Resorts In One Week
    • Tortuga Del Sol - One of the most beautiful clothing optional gay resorts we have ever experienced
    • Cedar City, Utah – The Amazing Destination For All Four Seasons
    • Tyler Morgan Tells Us about The Utah Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City
    • US West Coast Holidays Bus Tour – Salt Lake City, Jackson, Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Devil’s Tower, Crazy Horse Memorial, Mount Rushmore and more!
    • Pride Journey: Kansas City
    • The Appalachian Trail Day Hikers' Guide: Downhill to Fine Wine and Accommodations: Georgia, North Carolina and Tennessee by Carol and Jim Steiner
    • Pride Journeys: Rochester, New York
    • Carpe Diem Guesthouse and Spa - One of Provincetown's finest boutique guesthouses with a unique clothing optional spa
    • Southern Cheyenne Marlon Fixico Helps Us Understand The Native American TWO SPIRIT (LGBT) People
    • Grant Philipo’s Las Vegas Showgirl Museum
    • Pride Journeys: Houston By Joey Amato
    • Pride Journey: Philadelphia By Joey Amato
    • The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo ¬- just about everything one could ever ask for!
    • Kings Island - The perfect combination of world-class thrills and family attractions.
    • A Visit To The World of Coca-Cola in Atlanta – Coke Nirvana
    • Copper Cactus Ranch Men’s Retreat – The Men’s Sanctuary Near Phoenix, Arizona
    • The Best Of LGBT New York City
    • Provincetown – Where LGBTQ+ can be themselves
    • Seattle - The perfect cocktail for adventure
    • Long Beach Pride
    • Philadelphia LGBT Hotspots
    • The National Gem and Mineral Collection of the Smithsonian Institute
    • Escape Resort - Palm Springs, California
    • Santiago Resort - Palm Springs private, luxury, swimsuit-optional escape for gay men
    • Pigeon Forge – The Great Smoky Mountains Destination With Something For Everyone
    • Memphis – Discover the Home of the Blues and the Birthplace of Rock n Roll
    • Circle J Guest Ranch - Where men can come together in beautiful East Texas
    • New Orleans Fall Festivals
    • Michigan - Home to the Midwest’s Largest Gay Resort and more
    • Hollywood Museum Salutes LGBTQ
    • Coney Island & Luna Park
    • Elvis Presley’s Graceland – The Memphis Mansion and Museum of the King of Rock and Roll
    • Nashville – The Songwriting Capital Of The World and Much, Much More
    • LBGT MUSEUM EXHIBITS IN NEW YORK CITY
    • Roseland Resort & Campground – The gay, clothing optional resort on 222 acres in West Virginia
    • Simple Ways To Save On Airfare – Tips from AAA
    • William McKinley Memorial Monument and William McKinley Presidential Library & Museum
    • Silver Dollar City - The amazing theme park for anyone who has ever played cowboy or cowgirl
    • Gay Naturists International - An organization that cares about who you are, not what you do
    • San Francisco - Use Attraction Passes To Save Money And See San Francisco
    • Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction
    • Arcadia – Washington State’s Romantic Nudist Club Getaway
    • Where You Can Fly High In San Diego
    • What To See and Do In Ptown In 2017 - Provincetown, Massachusetts
    • Hillside Campgrounds - Pennsylvania’s clothing optional attitude free campground for gay men
    • Freedom Valley Campground - Ohio’s safe haven for gay, questioning and straight men
    • Vermontology Guided Tours - An intimate tour experience that feels like traveling with a group of friends
    • Maison Dupuy – The New Orleans French Quarter Hotel just two blocks from Bourbon Street
    • CampBuckwood - The All male campground resort in the rolling hills of central Indiana
    • The Metropolitan Opera House at Lincoln Center welcomes tourists, visitors, and first timers in 2017!
    • The Woods Campground - The LGBT clothing optional camping resort in the Poconos
    • Camp Camp - The all-inclusive, week-long real summer camp experience for LGBT adults
    • NUDE AT THE BOTTOM OF THE GRAND CANYON
    • The 1886 Crescent Hotel & Spa - Eureka Springs, Arkansas
    • Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art – Bentonville, Arkansas
    • The Showboat Branson Belle
    • Eureka Springs, Arkansas
    • Brimfield Antiques & Collectibles Show
    • PRIDE Events - USA, Canada, Mexico
    • Provincetown Spring 2016 Events
    • Our interview with American Association for Nude Recreation President Beverly B. Price
    • Louisville Celebrates Marriage Equality With Wedding Contest
    • Provincetown Halloween 2015
    • Hot Air Balloon Festivals
    • Fall Foliage Sightseeing Tips
    • Tin Can Tourists
    • Broadway 2015 / 2016
    • GNI Gathering 2015
    • AANR Skinny Dip 2015
    • National Register of Historic Places Itineraries and Self-Guided Tours
    • Do It Yourself Covered Bridge Tour
    • U.S.A. Tourism Links
    • A+ Weddings by Rev. Vernon Diannah Porter
    • Edenfield House Bed and Breakfast
    • Gay Hotels & Accommodations USA
    • Gay Campgrounds USA
    • Alabama Road Trips - Alabama
    • USA National Parks
    • USA Zoos
    • Land's End Inn - Provincetown, Massachusetts USA
    • Chatham Gables Inn - Chatham, Massachusetts
    • Captain David Kelley House - Centerville, Massachusetts
    • Old Manse Inn - Brewster, Massachusetts
    • St. Simons Island, Georgia - Artsy, Classy and All About Friends and Family
    • Parliament Resort - Augusta, Georgia
    • Our St. Mary's, Georgia Top Ten - St. Mary's, Georgia
    • Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta - New Mexico, USA
    • The Best of Columbus - Columbus, Ohio
    • Georgia Mountain Fair - Hiawassee, Georgia
    • Goodbread House B&B - St Marys, Georgia
    • Huntington Hotel and Nob Hill Spa - San Francisco, California
    • Pride Journey Indianapolis By Joey Amato
    • Inns of Elegance - St Augustine, Florida
    • Jekyll Island, Georgia
    • Las Vegas, Nevada
    • Long Beach, California
    • Luray Caverns - Luray, Virginia
    • Napa Valley Wine Train - Napa, California
    • Oahu Nature Tours - Oahu, Hawaii
    • Palm Springs, California
    • Philadelphia & Brandywine - Pennsylvania's Uniquely Beautiful Gems
    • Pro Football Hall of Fame Festival - Canton, Ohio
    • Pink Jeep Tours - Las Vegas, Nevada
    • Provincetown: The Iconic LGBTQ Destination - Provincetown, MA
    • The Queen Mary - Long Beach, California
    • Renaissance World Golf Village - St Augustine, Florida
    • Ritz Carlton LGBT Package - Cleveland, Ohio
    • San Francisco Helicopter Tours - San Francisco, California
    • San Pedro & The Port of Los Angeles - San Pedro, California
    • South Carolina National Heritage Corridor - Mountain Lakes Region
    • Terranea Resort - Los Angeles, California
    • Tower Tours / Yosemite In A Day - San Francisco, California
    • Tybee Gay Days - Tybee Island, Georgia
    • Unique Beach Vacation Ideas
  • International Spotlight
    • INTERNATIONAL MEN ENJOYING NATURISM - social and recreational organization of like-minded men
    • Norse Atlantic Airways takes off from the west coast for the first time with its inaugural flight from LAX to Oslo
    • Naturist / Clothing Optional Boutique B&B in East Northamptonshire UK
    • Vigeland Sculpture Park - Oslo, Norway
    • NO TAN LINES VACATION - Clothing Optional Condo Rental in Tulum, Mexico
    • R Family Vacations LGBThailand 2020
    • SIX OF THE BEST CITY TOURS BY BIKE
    • Saddle Skedaddle - Break away from the tourist hordes and enjoy a different side of France from the comfort of your saddle
    • WILD TERRAINS ANNOUNCES 2020 SCHEDULE FOR PORTUGAL & MEXICO CITY
    • Pink Rose Guesthouse & Spa - Experience Cape Town and the Winelands
    • GAY CANADA - The best links for LGBTQ2 travelers
    • PARIS FRANCE for the gay traveler
    • HAVEN RIVIERA CANCUN RESORT - This haven is a little piece of heaven that welcomes LGBTQ guests
    • TheXT10 Men-Only GuestHouse in Costa Rica
    • Gay Travelers Magazine Visits Tulum Mayan Ruins, Mexico
    • Gay Travelers Magazine Visits El Rey Mayan Ruins in Cancun, Mexico
    • Gay Travelers Magazine Visits Chichen Itza, Mexico
    • Gay Travelers Magazine Visits Vigeland Sculpture Park & Museum in Oslo, Norway
    • Frank Jones Visits The Magnificent Cave Temples of Dambulla, Sri Lanka
    • Adventure Trips for Solo Travelers
    • NKD Training – Nude Fitness In London
    • PrivateFly - Island Hop In The Bahamas Luxuriously
    • St. Thomas Food Tours - Walking tours with a delicious twist
    • Butterfield & Robinson Offers Amazing Walking Trips Europe Asia, Latin America and Africa
    • The Abridged Guide to Venice’s Most Beautiful Canal Crossings
    • Enjoy Budapest With Free, Self Guided Walking Tours
    • Amatungulu Tours – Nudist Activities In The Most Picturesque Places In South Africa
    • MajorPride - The first Pride event in Llantwit Major, the Vale of Glamorgan, South Wales, UK
    • 48 Hours in Stuttgart
    • IRELAND’S DROMOLAND CASTLE COMPLETES 20 MILLION EURO REFURBISHMENT
    • Flavors of St Thomas Food Tours
    • Sacred Tours of Mexico - Experience the spiritual and historical traditions of Mexico
    • Olympus Tours – Tours of Cancun, Chichen Itza, Tulum and More
    • Vinales Valley, Cuba - Touring the UNESCO World Heritage Site
    • Shady Ladies Tours Presents Shady Ladies of Paris
    • Rusty Rover Tours – Delightful Tours of Prince Edward Island
    • A Free Tour Of Quebec
    • Contiki Travel - Celebrate pride in Athens, Ios and Mykonos
    • Camp It - Australian Camping For Gay, Bi and Trans Men Who Love Men
    • Whistler Pride and Ski Festival - Sports, culture, entertainment and LGBT Human Rights celebration in Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
    • Villa Rainbow – The charming guesthouse on St Martin for gay males
    • Out & Out Club Jamboree - Toronto's fun-filled week of summer camp for LGBTQ campers
    • DETOURS Travel - Laid Back Gay Adventure Travel
    • Gay Homestays - Matching travelers with LGBTQ property owners
    • TLVFest - Tel-Aviv International LGBT Film Festival
    • Titanic Belfast - Experience the Titanic on the very site where the she was built
    • Zoom Vacations- Gay Vacation Experts
    • World Naked Bike Ride
    • Bimini
    • CUBA! NOW BY LAND AND SEA
    • Poldie's Bed and Breakfast
    • Mexico Travel Tips
    • Australia Tourism Links
    • Cozumel Cruise Excursions - Cozumel, Mexico
    • Blue Lagoon Island and Dolphin Encounters - Nassau, Bahamas
    • Journeying Through The Swiss Alps - Switzerland
    • Blue Lagoon Dolphin Encounter Nassau, Bahamas
    • Abaco Island Beach Resort, Bahamas
    • Adventure Eagle Tours - Tahiti
    • Avventure Bellisme Tours - Venice, Italy
    • Bruges, Belgium
    • Butchart Gardens - Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
    • Chez Rick & Phil B&B - a safe environment in Normandy France for LGBTQ brothers and sisters
    • Dover, England
    • Eze, France - A fascinating medieval village
    • Flavors of San Juan Food & Culture Tours - San Juan, Puerto Rico
    • Godfrey Tours - St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
    • Best Western Hotel Bologna - Mestre, Italy
    • Nassau Bahamas Easy Walking Tour
    • Niagara Falls, Canada
    • Pride Journey Iceland By Joey Amato
    • Polynesian Xplorer Tours - Western Samoa
    • Reykjavic, Iceland
    • Red October Tours - St Petersburg, Russia
    • San Blas Islands - Panama
    • Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
    • Vancouver Island, BC Canada
    • Vigeland Sculpture Park - Oslo, Norway
  • Cruise Spotlight
    • The Big Easy Cruise - New Orleans music festival at sea
    • The 70s Rock and Romance Cruise
    • Ultimate Disco Cruise 2023
    • Beach Boys Good Vibrations Cruise 2023
    • Country Music Cruise 2023
    • 12 DAY POLYNESIA CRUISE ABOARD ARANUI
    • Uniworld’s Mekong Jewel - Spectacular vacation in Vietnam & Cambodia
    • California Cruisin’ with American Cruise Lines
    • MIM TRAVEL - Join our Annual LGBT Cruise Event for the mature male and his admirers
    • The Viking Mars Will Be Named on May 17 by the Countess of Carnarvon of Highclere Castle
    • Great Deals on Two New Atlantis Cruise and Resort Vacations
    • MSC CRUISES OFFERS AN INCREDIBLE CHOICE OF SHIPS AND DESTINATIONS FOR SUMMER 2023
    • VIKING Announces Newest Ocean Ship And Three New Itineraries
    • Atlantis 2021 Gay Greek Isles Cruise
    • American Cruise Lines - First to Cruise the U.S.A. and the Only Line Cruising the East Coast
    • Expedition Cruise Lines for Summer 2021
    • Overseas Adventure Travel to Resume International Travel
    • Two Bad Tourists Gay Sailing Trip of Croatia - August 2021
    • Star Clipper Returns to Mediterranean for 2022 Season Star Clippers has announced that its namesake tall sailing ship, Star Clipper, will return to ply the blue waters of the Mediterranean for the 2022 season.
    • MIM TRAVEL - 17th Annual Gay Group Cruise for Mature guys (and gals) and their younger and older admirers!
    • Virgin Voyages is Loud and Proud for Pride
    • TLO Cruises & Tours - Cruising with Polar Bears
    • We Cruised To CUBA For $339 With An Open Bar!
    • Here’s where to find your Cuba Cruise
    • MIM TRAVEL 2019 and 2020 Gay Cruises and Tours
    • ON THE BLUE cruise 2020 hosted by Justin Hayward of The Moody Blues
    • Everything To Sea - Clothing-Optional Relaxed Sailing for Men
    • Atlantis Events - 2019 All Gay Cruises and Resorts
    • Upcoming Meet Me On Board Gay Group Cruises
    • NAVIGATOR OF THE SEAS SAILS INTO MIAMI WITH $115 MILLION NEW LOOK
    • Princess Cruises to Activate Three Additional Princess MedallionClass Ships in 2019
    • Disney Cruise Line Epic Adventures in 2020 - Star Wars Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea
    • BLISS CRUISES– 2019 and 2020 Cruises for adult swingers
    • Norwegian EPIC 11 Day Western Caribbean Cruise
    • Gorgeous Ladies of Wresting – From their Netflix tv series to ComicCons to cruises, GLOW keeps entertaining 80s style!
    • Discover Florida Cruise Ports & Which Cruise Lines Sail From Each
    • National Geographic and Scenic Add New Sailings for 2019
    • Princess Transatlantic Cruise
    • Disney Cruise Line Announces 2019 Return of Star Wars Day at Sea and Marvel Day at Sea
    • Cruise To Cuba On The Norwegian Sky and Discover The Vinales Valley
    • Book Your Big Nude Boat Cruise For 2018 & 2019
    • Atlantis Events All-Gay Cruises For 2017 & 2018
    • Big Nude Boat – Start Your 2019 With A Nude Cruise
    • Windstar Cruises - Experience Asia in Private Yacht Style
    • Cunard Welcomes Same-Sex Marriages on its Iconic Three Ships
    • Five Reasons To Cruise To Cuba On The Norwegian Sky
    • Chub Cruises – Cruises For Large Gay Men And Their Admirers
    • SAILORdudes Gay Sailing Adventures – Nude and Clothing Optional Gay Cruises
    • Amazing Nude Cruise Opportunities For 2016
    • Norwegian EPIC – Our Caribbean cruise from Port Canaveral, Florida
    • Atlantis Events – Gay Cruises and Events
    • Viking’s 10 New Ocean Cruise Itineraries for 2017
    • Why Oceania Cruises is the Best Choice for Mature Travelers
    • Viking River Cruises Grand European Tour
    • Chumley's BearCruises
    • Norwegian 2017 Itineraries
    • Cruising On The Carnival Breeze
    • Carnival Breeze Behind The Fun Tour
    • Prime Timers 7 Night Cruise
    • Atlantis All Gay Cruises for 2016
    • Star Trek: The Cruise
    • Pearl Seas Cruises Cultural Voyages to Cuba
    • Avalon Offers Palate-Pleasing Themed Cruises in 2016
    • Cruise Line Websites
    • Caribbean Princess - 5 Day Western Caribbean Cruise
    • Atlantis All Gay Cruises - 2015 Cruise Schedule
    • Carnival Victory - 7 Day New England / Canada Cruise
    • Carnival Inspiration - 5 Day Western Caribbean Cruise
    • Cruise Line Carry-On Alcohol Policies
    • Holland America Statendam - Alaska: Glacier Discovery Cruise
    • Holland America - Panama Canal & Inca Discovery
    • Holland America - 7 Day Western Caribbean
    • MSC Poesia - Caribbean Cruise
    • MSC Musica - Mediterranean Cruise
    • MSC Poesia Transatlantic
    • Norwegian Cruise Line - Chef's Table Experience
    • Oceania - Western Caribbean cruise
    • Princess - Australia / New Zealand 12 Day Cruise
    • Princess - Greek Isles 12 Day Cruise
    • Princess - 28 Day Hawaii, Tahiti & Samoa Adventure
    • Princess - 15 day Iceland & Greenland Transatlantic Cruise
    • Princess - Northern Europe Grand Adventure Transatlantic 28 day Baltic Cruise
    • Princess - 10 day Tahitian Princess Polynesian & Cook Islands
    • Royal Caribbean - 3 day 4 night Bahamas Cruise from Port Canaveral, FL
    • Royal Caribbean- 7 Day Serenade of the Seas Southern Caribbean
  • Nudist and Naturist Spotlight
    • Federation of Canadian Naturists - Canada’s national nudist organization
  • Entertainment, Dining & Theater Spotlight
    • Photographic Artist Gianni Gianorso Rauso Shares His Love Of Italy, Photography, The Nude Body And Body- Positivity
    • Sunken Roads: Three Generations After D-Day movie review by Steven Skelley
    • A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood movie review by Steven Skelley
    • DON’T YOU DARE by Gayla Turner Book Review by Steven Skelley
    • Sheryl: Music From The Feature Documentary
    • COUNTRY MUSIC COMMUNITY MOURNS THE LOSS OF NAOMI JUDD
    • 100 Years of Men in Love - The Accidental Collection movie review by Steven Skelley
    • THE BATMAN movie review by Steven Skelley
    • Farewell Yellow Brick Road - The Final ELTON JOHN Tour Dates
    • Gotham Knights NYC Gay Rugby Team 2020 Calendar
    • SISTER AIMEE - Movie Review by Steven Skelley
    • FREE ADMISSION EXTENDED THROUGH AUGUST AT NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AMERICAN JEWISH HISTORY
    • ROCKETMAN – Movie Review By Steven Skelley
    • Boy Erased - Movie Review by Curt Solash
    • John Wick Chapter 3 Parabellum - Movie Review by Steven Skelley
    • YESTERDAY The Movie - Movie Review by Steven Skelley
    • La Cage Aux Folles at the Titusville Playhouse
    • The Opera House - The Met’s odyssey for a new home in the 1950s and ‘60s
    • The Wizards of Winter - Time Travel Back To A 70s and 80s Prog Rock Holiday
    • Wilander On Wheels - The first fantasy tennis experience with a former World #1 that comes to you
    • Ollom Art – Our interview with John Ollom about healing art, nudity and dance
    • The Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts - Bringing World Class Live Entertainment to Florida’s Space Coast
    • The Court of Two Sisters – New Orleans
    • Naked Boys Singing - Six guys. Sixteen songs. No clothes!
    • The Birdcage Fine Art Gallery & Studio
    • Spamilton - A hilarious parody of Hamilton
    • Zeek Taylor
    • Tab Hunter Confidential Documentary Debuts on DVD and Blu-Ray
    • Sleuths Mystery Dinner Shows Laugh your way to solving a crime
    • AA Garden Fusion
    • The Cork & Bottle
    • Lewis Black
    • Sister Act
    • Belinda Carlisle
    • The Naked Magicians
    • Kathy Griffin Wows Audience on Carnival Cruise Ship
    • Hairspray
    • Savory Faire Food Tasting Tour
    • Dracula
    • The Shady Maple Smorgasboard
    • The Full Monty Titusville Playhouse Inc.
    • Brazilian Grill - Cape Cod, MA
    • Zeta Brewing Company
    • Arlo Guthrie - Alice's restaurant 50th Anniversary Tour
    • Al Capones Dinner & Show - Kissimmee, Florida
    • Arabian Nights - Orlando, Florida
    • The Best of Columbus Dining - Columbus, Ohio
    • Broadway Palm Dinner Theater - Ft Myers, Florida
    • The Golden Apple Dinner Theater - Sarasota, Florida
    • Jakes On Market - San Francisco, California
    • The Lazy Goat - Greenville, South Carolina
    • Mai Kai Polynesian Restaurant & Dinner Show - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
    • Medieval Times - Kissimmee, Florida
    • Oh Canada Eh? - Niagara Falls, Canada
    • Outta Control Magic Comedy - Orlando, Florida
    • Pirates Dinner Adventure - Orlando, Florida
    • Dining In Provincetown Massachusetts
    • Sleuths Mystery Dinner Show - Orlando, Florida
    • Sugardaddy's - Columbus, Ohio
    • 3030 Ocean Restaurant - Fort Lauderdale, Florida
    • Titanic Dinner Event - Orlando, Florida
    • To Live and Love Well: The true story of a gay man's struggle with poverty, abuse, and excommunication from the Mormon Church
    • Treasure Tavern - Orlando, Florida
    • Wohlfahrt Haus - Wytheville, Virginia
    • Zeta - Jacksonville Beach, Florida
  • Gay Romance Stories
    • THE MILE HIGH CLUB by Steven Skelley
    • The Amorous Amishman
    • CHRISTMAS IN SANTA
    • The Officer And Gentleman by Steven Skelley
    • CRUISE SHIP STEAM ROOM ROMANCE by Steven Skelley
  • Marc Perreault - Music That Matters
    • Marc Perreault - MACY GRAY
    • Marc Perreault - NEW ORDER
    • Marc Perreault - THE CARS
    • Marc Perreault - WHEN IN ROME
    • Marc Perreault - ELVIS COSTELLO
  • Curt Loves Oldies - Curt Solash dishes on the best and worst movies of all time
  • Contests & Sweepstakes
  • About Us
  • Blog
  • Product & Book Reviews
  • STEVEN SKELLEY POETRY
    • STEVEN SKELLEY POETRY Page Two
  • Subscribe to Gay Travelers Magazine
  • Travel Photos
  • Nude & Natural Male Photos From Around The World
  • Media Kit
  • GAY TRAVELERS MAGAZINE September 2022 Travel News
Please LIKE, TWEET and SHARE!

Charlotte Harbor Highlights
Charlotte County, Florida

Picture
Charlotte Harbor sunset by Thomas Routzong
Charlotte Harbor Highlights

Charlotte County, Florida

One of Florida's best kept secrets - the beautiful and unique Charlotte Harbor

By Steven Skelley & Thomas Routzong

Located between the bustling, touristy beaches of Fort Myers and Sarasota, more and more savvy travelers are discovering one of Florida's best kept secrets - the beautiful and unique Charlotte Harbor. 

Charlotte Harbor has been called one of the "10 Greatest Places to Sail" but it's about more than just sailing. Charlotte Harbor offers fine dining, nature adventures, hundreds of miles of Blueways trails, five National Wildllife Refuges, prime birding opportunities, golfing, fishing, beaches, unique shopping, a thriving arts community and some of Florida's most creative and enjoyable festivals.

Not only are LGBT travelers welcome, but according to the Urban Institute Factsheet from the Office of Public Affairs, Punta Gorda has the highest concentration of same-sex, coupled seniors in the U.S.A.!

“Punta Gorda and Charlotte Harbor & the Gulf Islands embraces and welcomes travelers and families of every lifestyle. The community is gay-friendly and the destination makes the perfect getaway for those who enjoy dining in our eclectic collection of restaurants, connecting with nature, participating in a weekend festival or just seeking a low-key vacation to reconnect with what’s important in life,” Jennifer Huber, the Tourism Public Relations Manager for the Charlotte Harbor Visitor & Convention Bureau told us.

We have spent quite a bit of time exploring Charlotte Harbor. Here are some of our Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf Islands favorites.


Things To See & Do:

Fishermen's Village

Fishermen's Village on Charlotte Harbor is one of the most popular spots for locals - and, you know the old saying, "Go where the locals go!" With 35 specialty shops, 5 restaurants, on-site villa rentals, a marina, a swimming pool, tennis courts and a fantastic sunset view every evening, Fishermen's Village has something for everyone.

We spoke with Kathy Burnam, Marketing Director for Fishermen’s Village. "Fishermen's Village is kind of the hub - the Disney - our area. We offer many events and at least one very significant event each month. Over 10,000 people attended our Pirate Festival this year. Our villas are kind of a best-kept secret. Fishermen's Village offers 47 villas on site. Each unit features two bedrooms and a loft and sleeps six. We have a swimming pool, free wifi, BBQ grills and free bicycle rentals."


Fishermen’s Village is located at 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. Phone 941-639-8721or visit www.fishville.com  for more information.

I
f you enjoy a finer dining experience with beautiful harbor views, try The Captain's Table. The "elegantly casual Captain's Table" specializes in "delicious gourmet dishes prepared by our award winning chef." For more information, visit http://www.thecaptainstable.com


King Fisher Fleet

While you are visiting Fishermen's Village, be sure to book a cruise on Captain Ralph Allen's King Fisher Fleet. King Fisher Fleet offers a variety of sightseeing cruises both in Charlotte Harbor and to the out islands including eco-tours, full and half day cruises, sunset cruises and harbor tours. If you like shooting photos of beautiful sunsets or jumping dolphins, this is a great choice for stunning vacation shots. King Fisher Fleet also offers charter fishing. For our sunset cruise, we found Captain Allen's boat to have surprisingly comfortable webbed seats. The boat's first floor is enclosed with a bar and restrooms. The second floor is covered to protect guests from Florida's sun but still allows in plenty of fresh air and offers excellent views.

For more information, phone 941-916-1689 or visitwww.kingfisherfleet.com.


Babcock Wilderness Adventures

Stepping onto the Crescent B Ranch is like stepping back in time, back to old Florida. There's a good reason for that - Crescent B Ranch has been in operation for 100 years. How big is Crescent B Ranch? The 90,000 acre ranch is larger than Manhattan!

The ranch offers a Cypress Lodge Heritage Tour, an Eco Tour and a Photography Tour. The 90-minute tours wind through the Crescent B Ranch and Telegraph Cypress Swamp. Experienced guides offer "in-depth descriptions of birds, animals, plants, and the cattle and horses that are raised on the ranch." Keep your camera ready because there are ample opportunities to view 
alligators in their natural habitat.

 The Crescent B Ranch features a museum highlighting Florida history, Crescent B Ranch operations and natural history artifacts. Film lovers will be interested to know that the museum was used by Warner Brothers in the 1995 film "Just Cause" starring Sean Connery.

Babcock Wilderness Adventures is located at 8000 State Road 31, Punta Gorda, Fla. 33982.

For more information, phone 800-500-5583 or visithttp://www.babcockwilderness.com



Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary 

The Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most amazing and unique places we have visited anywhere in Florida! Owner Lauri Caron rescues abused animals - but these are not house pets. Caron rescues and rehabilitates abused lions, tigers, bears, primates and more!

"We take animals that people had illegally. One man in Miami had a sloth and a hyena in his apartment!" Lauri told us. "These animals have nowhere else to go. Zoos don't want animals that have been abused. Our bear Balloo is from a circus. Someone broke his jaw pulling all his teeth out. He is now over 40 years old but his jaw is still crooked. Two of our bears were rescued from Texas. They had only been fed popcorn and dog food. They were not in good shape. It took quite a while to get them on the foods that were good for them. Our cougar was rescued from Alabama."

The Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary is staffed by volunteers. Approximately 45 volunteers and several veterinarians donate their time and talents to care for these abused exotic animals.

Want to get married in Florida? Lauri Caron is a Notary Public who performs weddings at Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary. "I'm a notary. We perform weddings here. We had a wedding here where the best man was a tiger!" she said.

The Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary is located at 41660 Horseshoe Road, Punta Gorda, Fla. 33982.

For more information, phone 239-543-1130 or visit www.octagonwildlife.org.


Boca Grande

The village of Boca Grande, on the island of Gasparilla at the southern end of the Cape Haze Peninsula is seven miles of powdery, white sand stretching alongside the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico. 

Scuba divers from around the world travel to Boca Grande beaches in search of rare and ancient shark’s teeth and to view the pristine sea life. Boca Grande’s Main Street still exists as it did years ago with no stop lights, billboards, fast-food chains, high-rise hotels or multi-story condos. As you walk down the street, it feels as if you’ve stepped back in time to the peaceful beauty of yester-year. I was pleasantly surprised to see the unique shops, art galleries, casual and fine dining establishments which are run by locals. 

The Boca Grande Chamber of Commerce boasts that the island is a “secret island that presidents, dignitaries and celebrities sneak away to because the island denizens have a low-key attitude regarding celebrity and fame.” Former President George H.W. Bush and his wife Barbara are just some of the famous people who have enjoyed the warm winters in Boca Grande.


For more information on Boca Grande, visithttp://bocagrandechamber.net/things-to-do/boca-grande-welcome

 For a full article on Boca Grande highlights, be sure to read Steffany Skelley Gilmer's article in Family Travelers Magazine athttp://familytravelersmagazine.com/BocaGrande.html


Special Events and Festivals

Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf Islands host a variety of festivals and special events throughout the year. For a list of special events and festivals, visithttp://www.charlotteharbortravel.com/press/Top_Attractions_and_Activities#sthash.BIojDeKx.dpbs


Dining:

Trabue Restaurant

Located in the heart of downtown Punta Gorda, Trabue Restaurant offers "fresh and modern American fare by Chef Keith Meyers." Why is it named Trabue? Trabue was the original name of Punta Gorda in 1885 when it was named after Colonel Isaac Trabue who had purchased the land from British investors. 

Trabue is a delightful change from the big-box, chain restaurants that line the streets of other cities. From the interior design to the service and menu, Trabue is unique.

"I call this Modern American Cuisine," Chef Keith Meyers told us. "The technique that I use is fresh, good ingredients and good process with as many flavor profiles as we can manage - something for everyone. We use a lot of fresh ingredients. We use a lot of corn, black beans and cilantro. We want to keep it fresh and keep it simple."" 

Chef Meyers also offers special events. "Every week, I offer a wine dinner and try to get people out of their comfort zones. It's three glasses of wine and three courses for $30!"

Trabue is located at 258 W. Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, FL 33950. For more information, phone 941-639-0900 or visit www.trabuerestaurant.com.


The Perfect Caper 

Another of downtown Punta Gorda's finer dining options - The Perfect Caper -  offers a "menu with Asian-Fusion accented with French and American flavors." This casually elegant neighborhood restaurant is a cool and peaceful oasis on sunny Florida days. 

Chef Jeanie Roland is a four-time James Beard Foundation Best Chef in the South nominee. The Perfect Caper is owned by Jeanie and her husband James Roland.

The Perfect Caper is a "165-seat, display-kitchen restaurant." The Roland's goal is to offer "a truly unique dining experience as well as superior service and atmosphere." 

If you are looking for a place to enjoy a cocktail, some Jazz or casually elegant dining, The Perfect Caper is great choice. If you are a chocolate lover, be sure to try their seven-layer chocolate dessert.

The Perfect Caper is located at 121 E Marion Ave., Punta Gorda, FL 33950.

For more information, phone 941-505-9009 or visit www.theperfectcaper.com.


Pies & Plates 

Pies & Plates - It's a bakery! It's a cafe! It's a retail store! It's a cooking school! And - Pies & Plates is a lot of fun!

The Pies & Plates retail store is filled with cool cooking gadgets, specialty foods and gift baskets available. It was voted Best Gift Shop and Best Gourmet Foods in the 2012 Charlotte Sun Herald Reader's Choice Awards! 

The Pies & Plates Cafe offers wraps, panini, soups, salads, pot pie, gooey butter cake, whoopie pie, lattes, coffee cream shakes and real fruit smoothies!

Have you always wanted to try a cooking class? "We offer a variety of classes," Culinary academy director Beth Lanni told us. "We offer regular classes and Floridian classes. We offer themed classes. We offer a Julia Child class were everyone - women AND men - dress up like Julia Child and talk like her! It is a blast! We also offer a teen or tween class with a Harry Potter theme. We have a flying broomstick hanging from the ceiling." 

Pies & Plates is located at 2310 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda, FL . For more information, phone 941-505-7437 or visit www.piesandplates.com.


Dean’s South of the Border 

If you enjoy nachos, munchies, sandwiches, burgers, tortilla chips, soups and salads, quesadillas and desserts with a south of the border flair, you'll enjoy Dean’s South of the Border in downtown Punta Gorda.

From breakfast to lunch to dinner to evening cocktails, Dean’s South of the Border offers relaxed inside and outside dining. If you want to try a spicy, breakfast adventure, be sure to order their Diablo Rojo omelet.

Dean’s South of the Border is located at 130 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda, FL 33950. For more information, phone 941-743-6100 or visit www.deanssouthoftheborder.net.


Peace River Seafood

If you are looking for great seafood with an "old Florida" atmosphere, Peace River Seafood is a "local seafood shack in an authentic Florida Cracker House."

Peace River Seafood also has its own parrot, a petting zoo and boat-to-table, fresh-seafood. Their specialties include Blue Crab, shrimp and fish from local crabbers and fishermen.  

"My husband is a crabber," Kelly Beall told us. "We found this place and opened up. We are now celebrating our 10 year anniversary. We are known for our blue crabs. They are caught right here. When you eat here, you are eating what we caught that day. We believe that fish is good only if it is fish caught that day."

Chef Jerry Collins agrees. "We catch our mullet right off Boca Grande. It's a much cleaner fish with a better taste," he said.

Peace River Seafood offers both inside and outside dining. The inside dining room walls are covered in a net that is filled with one dollar bills. Why? Customers kept telling the staff that Peace River Seafood crabs were better than the crabs they'd eaten up north. The staff began responding, "If I only had a dollar for every time someone said that!" Soon, it became a tradition for customers to sign a dollar bill and hang it in the net.

Peace River Seafood is located at 5337 Duncan Road, Punta Gorda, FL 33982. For more information, phone 941-505-8440 or visit https://www.facebook.com/peace.seafood.


Lulu Restaurant Rooftop Bar at The Wyvern Hotel

For spectacular sunset views, the Lulu Restaurant rooftop bar located atop The Wyvern Hotel in downtown Punta Gorda can't be beat. 

The Wyvern Hotel is located at 101 East Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950.

For more information, phone 941-639-7700 or visit http://thewyvernhotel.com. 


Accommodations:

Four Points by Sheraton

If you desire accommodations right in the heart of historic downtown Punta Gorda, the 106-guest room Four Points by Sheraton Punta Gorda Harborside Hotel is located on the edge of the Charlotte Harbor waterfront. 

The Four Points by Sheraton Punta Gorda Harborside Hotel is a 100% Smoke-Free facility. Unlike many hotels that charge a hefty parking fee, parking at Four Points by Sheraton is completely free.

The Four Points by Sheraton Punta Gorda Harborside Hotel also offers an outdoor, heated swimming pool, a fitness facility, on-sire dining and free wifi.

The TT’s Tiki Bar at Four Points By Sheraton Punta Gorda Harborside Hotel is a great 
place to enjoy an evening cocktail while watching the sun set into Charlotte Harbor as you sit in an Adirondack chair sinking your toes in the cool sand. 

The Four Points By Sheraton Punta Gorda Harborside Hotel is located at 33 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda, FL 33950.

For more information, phone 941-637-6770 or visit www.fourpointspuntagorda.com.

In conclusion:

Charlotte Harbor and the Gulf Islands in Charlotte County, Florida is one of Florida's best-kept-secrets for a reason - it offers something for everyone but does it in a very non-touristy way. There is something very special about this place. Why else would it have such a high percentage of LGBT couples age 55+? It is definitely a vacation destination that deserves a visit or two or three!

By Steven Skelley & Thomas Routzong. Copyright 2014 Sunny Harbor Publishing. Contact Us: PO Box 560318, Rockledge, FL 32956. Phone 321-446-7552. Email: SunnyHarborPublishing@yahoo.com.

Watch our video of Charlotte Harbor highlights below.
​Keywords: Charlotte Harbor, Fishermens Village, King Fisher Fleet, Babcock Wildreness Adventures, Octagon Wildlife Sanctuary, Boca Grande, Trabue, The Perfect Caper, Pies & Plates, Deans South of the Border, Peace River Seafood, Lulu Restaurant, Wyvern Hotel, Four Points by Sheraton Punta Gorda Harborside Hotel, TT's Tiki Bar, Florida travel, gulf coast, sunset cruise, charlotte restaurants, punta gorda, port charlotte, Steffany Skelley Gilmer, Steven Skelley, Thomas Routzong, gay, gay travel, gay charlotte county, gay charlotte harbor, lgbt, gay punta gorda, gay port charlotte, Gay Travelers Magazine,
 Even if our visit may have been provided by various travel suppliers for the purposes of reviewing and writing about them, our opinions are not swayed negatively or positively. Our policy: We sometimes are invited to review a venue. We choose to only write positive articles. If you read one of our articles, you know that we had a positive experience. If we have a negative experience, we simply choose not to write anything about that venue. Our tastes may not be your tastes. We want to focus on the positives in life.
​