It’s no surprise to learn that the folks at the tourist office touts London as the most gay friendly city in the world. That’s their job. But here at GayCities we can attest that it is indeed one of the most fascinating and diverse gay cities in the world. Just last spring, the city hosted our very own founder, Scott Gatz, and he got a first hand look at all it has to offer, from world class Indian food to the fabulous nightclub Heaven. The streets of Soho bustle with gay life.

And this year we hired a terrific London journalist and champion, David Oppedisano, to create what we humbly believe is the best gay guide to the city, one that’s unparalleled both in detail and scope. Here’s how David sums up London’s many charms:

Which city has more theatres than New York, more artists than Paris, and a gay and lesbian scene to rival San Francisco? Home to Europe’s largest gay and lesbian population, London remains a hot spot for the discerning international gay traveler. And with more than 300 languages spoken (though you’ll need just the one) and nearly a third of the population born outside of the country, you don’t get much more international.

The downside? It’s too expensive to stay forever. Maybe the tourist board can tackle that little problem next…

More London on GayCities

Photo of Ku Bar by London tourist office

UPDATE: By a comfortable margin, voters in Maine rejected same-sex marriage. Marriage equality has now lost in 31 states where it was put to a popular votes, but organizers held out hope that the traditionally open minded and libertarian state would be different, a hope that for the time being is dashed. Five other states–Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Iowa–have legalized same-sex marriage, and plenty of LGBT folks will now be steering their travel dollars away from Maine since there is now no shortage of great options.

Volunteers are pouring into Maine to reinforce locals in the fight against the Nov. 3 ballot measure that would strip the state’s citizens of marriage equality. Tony Giampetruzzi, the creator of the GayCities guide to lovely Portland, ME, and a resident of the city, sent this dispatch from the battleground.

Viewing the television ads released by No on 1, the Maine campaign to defeat an effort to overturn the state’s recent gay marriage law, you’d think that the state’s tourism bureau lent their own PR professionals to their noble effort.

The most dramatic of the series features aerial views of the Maine coastline, quaint New England villages, and a mélange of Yankees talking about equality and fairness – straight families, gay families, laborers and fishermen, including one fellow with an “ayuh” accent so thick that it almost seems contrived.

The “no” campaign seized upon this strategy early on, and has managed to own it: the Mainer’s vaunted sense of place, Yankee hospitality, the live and let live mantra and simply doing the right thing.

Will this emotional tactic work? With the campaign deadlocked in polls, there’s no telling, but it’s nice to see a message that puts gay equality squarely on the side of the local ethos and values, something campaigns in other states have not managed.

Mainers go to the polls Tuesday to decide the fate of gay marriage in the state – or, more accurately, marriage equality, the term that helps to soften the rhetoric and frame the debate.  Victory is critical. It is not just that a loss would be devastating to us here in the state. A win would mark the first time that voters anywhere in the nation will have decided the issue at the polls–in our favor, in equality’s favor.

There’s also a pragmatic reason to defeat the initiative. Maine is Vacationland that lives up to its reputation as one of the most beautiful and romantic states in the country. In truth, the tourism bureau would have been well-advised to get behind the effort  for marriage equality not only because it will fill hospitality coffers with pinkbacks. It will anchor Maine’s rightly place as one of the leading destinations for gays and lesbians brave enough to tie-the-knot.

GayCities guide to Porland, ME

Photo by samm4mrox

Bobby Crush as Liberace. Not such a stretch for the highly-regarded London pianist, now his third turn as the celebrity in Liberace, Live from Heaven at the Leicester Square Theatre. Crush took an intermission from his performance, hailed as “full-blooded and affectionate,” to chat with GayCities about Liberace the man, the closeted performer–and where to hang out in two of the camp icon’s favorite cities, London and Las Vegas.

GC: You would seem made for this role–gay man, musician, performer…

This is actually my third Liberace project. The first was a play called Liberace’s Suit, which I did five years ago at the Jermyn Street Theatre. It was a dramatisation of the court case that Liberace took against the Daily Mirror in the 1950’s. The next Liberace show was a recreation of his old nightclub act with a live band, singers and dancers …. which brings us to the new show. The playwright and director Julian Woolford has come up with a one-man show called Liberace, Live from Heaven, which charts Liberace’s ascent to Heaven after his early death in 1987.

GC: The name of your show is sooo appropriately over the top! Was Liberace actually a good musician and performer or just great camp?

He was spectacular in both areas. A lot of people just remember him for the outrageous outfits but he was a gifted, classically trained pianist who played with some of the finest orchestras in the world.

GC: What would it have been like to actually be him, this icon who never really revealed himself publicly as gay yet was gayer than, well, than a three dollar bill, as we say in the US? Can you imagine, since you came out in 2007?

I nearly met him once. Early in my career, just after I got my initial TV break, my publicist at the time approached Liberace’s publicist to see if we could set up a photo shoot along the lines of The Old Trooper Meets The New Boy. He was coming over to do some concerts at the Palladium. Apparently, he was up for it but unfortunately, as he flew into London for his concerts, I flew out to Australia to do my first work over there, so it never materialised.

GC: The gay aspect of his life must have been difficult. Things were very different back then and his audience was middle-aged women who might have found it hard to accept.

My own “coming out” was a lot easier although even I would have thought twice about coming out in the 70’s, when attitudes were not as relaxed as they are now.

GC: Much like Sir Elton John, who came out early. Why do performers still think they can’t be openly gay, even in this day and age? Hollywood is full of closet cases, though the closet in England appears less strong.

I can understand it, to an extent–actors not being open. They think it will cancel them out when it comes to “romantic leads” and that they’ll no longer be “believable.” In 2009 it really shouldn’t be a big deal. Young people seem to be quite accepting of the whole gay thing with openly gay pop stars, gay storylines in soaps, civil partnerships, etc. Hopefully, we’ve turned a corner.

GC: Liberace played all over the world, but was a huge hit in Vegas.

Yes, I visited the Liberace Museum in Vegas in preparation for my first role. It’s wild! I loved viewing the costumes and the cars and. when the volunteers got to hear that I was a famous pianist from England, I was invited to play Liberace’s mirrored piano, which was quite a thrill. Liberace, along with the Rat Pack, was the person who really put Las Vegas on the map as a centre for entertainment.

GC: What do you think of Las Vegas? Where do you stay? Where do you go out there?

I only started going about five  years ago. When I fly to the States, it’s nearly always to New York so I can see the new shows on Broadway but I was desperate to see Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme at the Stardust Hotel, LV, so that prompted my first visit. They were sensational … one of the best acts I’ve ever seen. I stayed at the Flamingo Hotel but I’ve been back a couple of times since then and stayed at the MGM Grand and the Bellagio. I go and see a show every night and so far have seen Barry Manilow, The Pointer Sisters, Celine Dion and Gladys Knight, as well as countless Cirque de Soleil shows and the like. I love it!

GC: Wow! Sounds like fun… How ’bout London. Where do you like to hang out there, say, before & after your show? Where should a visitor to your show get a hotel? Do you have a favorite?

Well, I live in London so I’m not really one for staying in hotels here. Dinner after the show is often at Joe Allen’s in Exeter Street or the Ivy, which has long been a favourite. I’ve just become a member of the Groucho Club so if I’m just going for drinks, perhaps there. My show is at the Leicester Square Theatre and friends who came down from Birmingham to see it last week stayed at the Soho Hotel in Richmond Mews, which they absolutely loved.

GC: Where should your audience go to really enjoy London. Any inside tips?

It’s an old cliche but go and stand on Waterloo Bridge for a while and take in the stunning view from both sides … especially effective at night!

GC: Anything else you’d like to impart to visitors to London?

Yes, come and see Liberace, Live from Heaven at the Leicester Square Theatre! Audiences are loving it and we’re getting a lot of repeat business. It’s a fun night out, glorious costumes and a chance to hear some of Liberace’s greatest hits … you even get to vote whether he stays in Heaven or gets sent below!

More of the fabulous GayCities London guide

Rio de Janeiro Pride — October 29-November 2

Last year there were an estimated 1.2 million participants at Rio Pride–in other words, don’t miss out on this if you can help it. Enjoy the carnival-like spirit of the event, and take in the stunning coastline before the festivities kick off.

Photo by Gay Pride Barzil

Atlanta Pride — October 30-November 1

This year the Atlanta City Counsel voted to extend bar hours for the Sunday night of Pride (under normal circumstances bars close at midnight on Sundays). Bars will serve until 2:30am, and stay open until 3am. So save some energy for Sunday and go out with a bang.

Photo by Atlanta Pride

Palm Springs Pride — November 7-8

You can still count on Palms Springs to deliver outdoor festival-worthy sun. Escape to the desert for one last chance to experience a pride event this year. And if that’s not enough, Palm Springs Leather Pride is the very next week–so pick your poison pleasure.

Photo by Palm Springs Pride

For more events, view our full calendar.

Pam Ann, né Carolyn Reid, is the comedienne who has taken Europe and Australia by storm. She is currently on a multi-city “USA Layover Tour” skewering airlines, airports and everything they represent and embody. Dubbed “cruelly funny” by the likes of Madonna, Pam Ann has developed a cult-like following in the vein Dame Edna, Lily Tomlin and Tracey Ullman.

As she jets into the U.S.–with stops in late October in Miami, Atlanta, DC and New York City before heading to Europe for more tour stops–Pam took a few moments to chat with Gaycities contributor Tony Giampetruzzi.

GC: What city are you most looking forward to visiting and why?

PA: Oh, I can’t answer that – there are so many fabulous places, but I’d say, if I had to, San Francisco. It’s just off the f-ing hook! I love the Castro, the Haight and all the guys. I also love Miami. I stayed at the Delano last time I was there. But I have to say that you can’t have any self-esteem issues if you’re walking up and down Ocean Drive.

GC: For a while, Al Queda was the biggest threat to travelers, even gay ones. What do you think is the greatest threat to gay travelers now?

PA: Ambien. They take one, and then don’t know what the hell they are doing. Red wine and Ambien!

GC: Do you think 9/11 was a conspiracy?

PA: Please. The (Bush administration) couldn’t get their shit together to pull off something that big. Bush couldn’t even read a children’s book. I mean, it takes a REALLY fucked up mind to do something like that.

GC: What’s your least favorite airport?

PA: Frankfort. It’s just awful. It stinks of vomit, it has low ceilings, and it’s hot as hell. It’s just disgusting.

GC: Which airline do you think best outfits their stewardesses?

PA: Definitely Singapore Airlines. They are immaculate perfection. It’s just the absolute best at service AND grooming.

GC: Peanuts of pretzels?

PA: Definitely nuts, very hot, salty nuts.

GC: What’s the worse experience you’ve ever had flying?

PA: All of them. People just breathing. Really.

GC: Do you have a favorite book for flying?

PA: I like magazines. Gay porn is good. Maybe a little Men’s Health, Italian Vogue …

GC: Any advice for gay flyers?

PA: Don’t take your damn Xanax while you’re still in the terminal. These guys go to a party, they get all f-ked up, pop a pill and then wake up before they’ve even left JFK. Just wait until you’re on the plane.

Check out Pam Ann’s international tour

The results are in and 1outta4 (real name Courter) is GayCities’ Next Top Reviewer. Though he calls New York home, Courter has reviewed bars and shops all across this great gay nation, and clearly knows how to have a good time. It is his willingness to share the details of his escapades–from the “3-toothed Drag Queen doing Beyonce’s ‘Soldia’ Boy’” at Play in Nashville (where Courter is pictured, singing), to admitting of Gay 90s in Minneapolis: ”Yes, it’s old and sticky, but that’s what I loved,”–that gives our readers a real sense of place, and earned him top honors. Congrats, Courter, and enjoy two free nights from our contest sponsor, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants.

Here’s what our jurors had to say about the top pick:

“He’s got lots of solid and useful info that’s easy to follow. I also appreciated his first person descriptions to really highlight his experiences.” – Tanya Churchmuch

“I was impressed by the thoroughness of 1Outta4’s reviews. They were fun to read and included useful tips, such as which nights are the best to go to a certain club or which B&B rooms to avoid. After reading his reviews, I felt like I had a true sense of each place (and a sense of 1Outta4’s fun and adventurous personality). I trust this guy’s recommendations; He can plan my next vacation anytime.” — Mike Jurs

“His reviews show a lot of personality and enthusiasm. They’re scrupulous, and they present useful specifics and details. His writing is crisp and witty, and he presents a wide range of opinions about a wide range of venues.” — Thomas Mallon

Finishing a close second is…

We have come up with a solution. GayCities is proud to announce that our already popular iPhone app–which allows you to locate gay friendly places wherever you live or travel–now allows you to rate & review, upload photos and become a fan. So let’s keep those bar, hotel, shop and restaurant owners honest, and let them know how we feel about their businesses.

In addition, we have added the following features:

–See local, national and international event schedules

–Let others know which events you are attending

–Update info about a favorite place

–Mark a venue as closed–or brand new

–New & improved maps that scroll more easily and detail easy access to parking and public transportation

Get and upgrade the GayCities iPhone app–and happy reviewing!

Phase1 is teaming up with the National Equality March for a dance party and march fundraiser on Friday, October 9th. Doors open at 9pm with a $10 cover, and DJ Boom Boom Laroo spinning. Half the cover will be contributed to the March.

On Saturday, head to Lace for the women’s kickoff party. On the agenda are DJs, giveaways and presentations from community members. Back over at Phase1 on Saturday, you’ll find the 14th Amendment Party (celebrating the equal protection clause). DJ LS will play the “pop favorites & gay anthems,” according to bar manager Angela Lombardi. Doors open at 7pm with a $5 cover.

If you’re looking for a way to keep the party going after the Sunday march, head back to Phase1 for a drag king show by the DC Kings on Sunday night. Doors open 7pm and the show starts at 10pm.

Post by GayCities contributor Laura Hautala

Full GayCities Equality March guide

If that’s not enough, he also happens to be DJing the GayCities/Homo Hotel Party on Friday night. GayCities caught up with Zack as he was preparing for the big weekend to learn how to have the most fun in the nation’s capitol while creating change at the same time. 

The old joke is that DC is hollywood for ugly people, which of course is unfair because it actually has a great gay scene. Isn’t proximity to power the ultimate aphrodisiac?

Before anything else, people should be aware that DC is actually two cities. In Capitol Hill, and below M street, it is largely a provence of type-A, career-driven types who will try to impress you with their government job. The rest of the city though is filled to the brim with cute, smart, creative gay people that buck any stereotype that people propagate about the district. So if you like unctous men in three piece suits then yes, their power can be an aphrodisiac. But the key to enjoying DC is stop trying to be a superstar and just go enjoy yourself. Thats how to stay away from the “Hollywood for ugly people” world.

You do a great job covering events on your site. What’s the key to throwing a great party?

Thank you! The key to throwing a great DC party is to figure out what everyone is doing and then do somethign different. You have to fill the voids. For instance-there were no parties for gay people to dance to music from the 60s, 70s and 80s so I threw one called Transformer. There aren’t a lot of spaces for queer ladies and trans folk, so a party called Backdoor at the 930 Club fills that void, and it is one of the best parties in DC right now. If everyone in the world is throwing an electro party, do the opposite and you’ll probably see some new faces.

When there is not a special party, where do you like to hang out?

Again, this speaks back to avoiding the well-known areas of the city like the mall and the downtown and just sticking with the neighborhoods that people actually live in. The best bars in my opinion are the ones where you can just sit around and have a beer. So that would be Solly’s Tavern on U street, Fox and Hound on 17th, Wonderland in Columbia Heights, and The Raven and Tonic in Mt. Pleasant. And for dancing there’s always the Black Cat, which is where we’re throwing our Homo/Sonic dance party on Sunday!

Let’s say your ran into a closeted aid to an anti-gay member of Congress at a gay bar–or into a staffer for one of those dastardly types. What’s the appropriate response? Drink in the face? Something more subtle?

Seduce him and take pictures… subtly.

You are heading to dinner after HH on a Friday night? Where in the Dupont ‘hood would recommend?

I’d say get off 17th Street. Its good for drinking, but not so good for noshing. Bua Thai on P street, just off 17th, is the best. Thai Tanic on 14h is great too, and still in the hood. You can go up to 18th Street for Ethiopian at Meskerem or Falafel at Amsterdam Falafel. All this stuff is good bar fortification, though the Ethiopain can leave you too full and drowsy to do much partying after.

After a night on the town, where to head for brunch the next morning?

The hands down best brunch in the city is at Asylum. It’s a biker bar with a vegan and non-vegan brunch menu. I cure my hangover there every sunday with the vegan chili cheese waffle fries. Its always full of cute, ambigous boys and girls as well.

It seems DC now has more than one gay hub–with 14th and P streets in Logan Circle looking increasingly gay. What’s the difference between Dupont and Logan?

Dupont would probably be the Chelsea to Logan/Shaws Hell’s Kitchen or East Village. The farther east you go in DC, like 14th or 9th street, the younger the crowd gets. The parties can get slightly edgier as well, depending on the bar and the night. Generally, though, in DC some of the best parties are held at non-gay bars. Homo/Sonic at the Black Cat, Mixtape at Rock & Roll Hotel are examples of this. DC is such a gay friendly city that there are alot of queer folk to be found outside the queer spaces.

Even young people in DC come across as pretty conservative, at least when it comes to fashion. What’s a trendy guy or gal to do? Where would one shop?

I wait till I go home to Chicago and visit the thrift stores. DC is hardly a place for shopping. It’s great for everything else, but I buy my clothing elsewhere.

More Washington, DC, on GayCities

GayCities guide to the National Equality March weekend

In honor of Montreal’s infamous circuit Black & Blue Festival–which runs Oct. 7 to Oct 13–we at GayCities created a new and improved guide to one of the word’s most vibrant (and certainly gayest) cities. So when taking a break from the lavish parties, check out some somewhat more low-key fun, much of it centered in the gay village of Sainte Catherine. We’ve added pages for a batch of shops, from cool fashion boutiques such as Boutique Encore to hot sex emporiums such as the legendary Priape on Sainte Catherine.

And for the boys: We are sure we don’t have to remind you to check out the strip clubs & bathouses. Because of the liberal climes of this ultimate multicultural heaven, there are no less than nine bathhouses–yes, count ‘em, 9, several of which line St. Catherine Street with over-the-top billboards directly along the sidewalk. Men quite literally travel continents to check out the strips clubs–from mainstay Campus to the nearby Taboo–which are famous for featuring full-frontal nudity, a rarity in the comparatively puritanical U.S.

If you make through the week-long orgy of events at the Black & Blue Festival you are sure to end up black & blue in one way or another. Drink lots of water and get plenty of rest!

More Montreal on GayCities

Photo by touristiquementgay

(Note: The newly expanded GayCities guide to Montreal was partly underwritten by Tourism Montreal.)