Welcome to Palm Springs California where depending on who you ask, 40 or even above 50% of its population is gay! That is like half a city of homos! Once I heard this (not to mention the average of 360 sunny days per year!!!) … I had to go and experience it for myself.

I decided to land in Las Vegas and drive through the desert in a convertible with my boyfriend.  Soooo Thelma and Louise … minus the trail of murder, robbery and destruction … oh … and not to mention death at the end.  I am sooo not that dramatic!  It is a wonderful drive and it was on my bucket list of things to do (check #24!)

Upon arriving in Palm Springs, we are greeted by wide open roads lined with palm trees.  It is gorgeous, green and not what you would expect from a city in the middle of the desert.  Thank god for those springs!  The main strip that takes you downtown is called Palm Canyon Drive.  The first thing we notice … a huge amount of rainbow flags!  There are gays in cars, restaurants, shopping, walking, working, biking, hiking … they are crawling out of the woodwork!  So this is what it is like where to be in a city where nearly half the residents are friends of the proverbial “family”!!

We make the short drive downtown to our hotel, The Willows (www.thewillowspalmsprings.com/) where a giant sliding gate opens to display the hotel’s hidden beauty.  It is a meticulously restored Mediterranean Villa that exudes luxury and comfort.  It has 8 rooms furnished with timeless antiques, fitted with fine linens and hosted by a wonderful staff that is there for your every need.  Within an hour of arriving, we are presented with wine and a platter of hors d’oeurves.  To our great delight, we are told this is served daily!  The breakfast area (by the way, breakfast is a gourmet 3 course meal) is served in the back of the house open to the waterfall and huge stone fireplace.  It is romance, luxury and comfort all rolled into one.  A wonderful private pool and hot tub are open 24 hours for the guests enjoyment.  I feel as though I never want to leave!

After being spoiled with our wine and hors d’oeurves, we head back to the room to shower and change.  We are told that every Thursday night, Palm Canyon Drive shuts down for Villagefest (www.palmspringsvillagefest.com)   The street is overflowing with people from all walks of life.  Up and down the street vendors display their wares.  You can find painters, woodworkers, jewelery designers, craftspeople and a huge selection of food for those who get peckish.  We end up buying a wood sculpted bowl for $35 but nearly lost it to a couple visiting from Germany.  When you see something you like … act fast!

I had heard that Palm Springs was a sleepy little town with little to do other than enjoy the sun or play a round or two of golf.  Much to the contrary … we find TONNES of great things to do.   Since the city is very easy to navigate, my suggestion is to rent a car and go explore!

Day 2 brings us to a guided tour of the San Andre’s Fault with Desert Adventures’ Jeep Tours (www.red-jeep.com).  Now, to be honest, I have never been one for a guided or “hand held tour” as I call them.  I have to say, it is informative and funny … our guide is a riot!!  I am very VERY surprised to learn that most deaths in the desert are caused by drowning.  HUH … who knew!  Of course along side that little tidbit, we also learn about the fault and earth quakes, plants, animals, how the Native Americans survived using plants for medicinal purposes and of course hike our little selves through some really tight terrain reminiscent of Planet of the Apes … cooooool!

You can not come to the Palm Springs area without popping into Joshua Tree National Park.  It takes its name from the Joshua tree and was declared a National Monument in 1936 and named a national park in 1994.  It is renowned for its rock climbing and people come from all over to enjoy the challenges it offers.  Now I am not much of a climber, or even hiker for that matter and given there are a bunch of little critters that bite, I found driving through the park to be inspiring enough.  My boyfriend on the other hand … lets just say he let out his inner monkey and away he went!

One of my favourite activities is eating (not that you can tell by looking at me) and Palm Springs has an abundance of fantastic restaurants.  A couple of my top picks are Cheekys for breakfast (www.cheekysps.com) mmmm Eggs Benny, Circa59 at the Riviera Resort and Spa (www.psriviera.com/riviera_dining.aspx) for upscale dining (eat poolside if you can!) and for a great little coffee joint, check out Koffi (www.kofficoffee.com).  Bring your appetite as Palm Springs offers every type of cuisine your pallet may desire!

Given that the gay population is so prolific, gay bars are plentiful.  There is a main little strip on E. Arenas that has several bars, pubs and of course the Gay Mart.  Here you can find ALL of your needs from porn to poppers and books to bikinis!  On Sunday we decide to check out the notorious Beer Bust at the Barracks (www.thebarracksbarps.com/index2.html).  Boys in power pumps, Prada and coiffed to the 9′s will feel a tad out of place.  Wear denim and a T … oh, and get ready for an eye opening experience!

There are also a multitude of gay resorts available to those who prefer a homo-ogeneous hotel.  Most can be found on a cute little street called Warm Sands.  Here you will find resorts that cater to luxury, sex, and everything in between!   If you are into it, you might be lucky enough to catch a XXX film being shot on location.

Day 4 and we decide to hop on the Aerial Tramway (www.pstramway.com/) to head to the top (literally!) of Palm Springs.  Ascending two and a half miles up in a Tram car is daunting.  Throw in the fact that it rocks, sways AND rotates and its a party for your innards!  It is a fantastic view and quite surreal going from the 90 degree weather below to the low 60′s up top.  The air is noticeably thinner and is crisp and fresh.  The view is outstanding.  Here, you get the big picture of how Palm Springs and the other desert cities lie in Coachella Valley.

Our last day we challenge ourselves to go for a hike into Indian Canyon.  I know what you are thinking, I said I was not a hiker!  Right, well they have different levels of intensity to suit every individual.  We (more so I) took the lolly gagging through the mall esque version … much more civilized!

Indian Canyon is surrounded by the Palm and Andreas Canyons and features the most palm trees of any canyon in the world!  (Indian Canyon – Cahuilla Indians 760.323.6018).  A must see, but go early morning or late afternoon as the mid day sun will cook you!

Later on we decide to go for a drive and check out some of the amazing architecture that we keep hearing about.   Palm Springs is known world wide for its mid-century modernism or ”dessert modernism” architecture.  Some of the houses are really quite spectacular.  I make sure to pick up a coffee table book to remind me of what I one day WILL own!  Check out this link to get an idea!  (www.curatorial.com/exhib_shulman.html)

What drew me to Palm Springs initially ends up being just a small part of why I fell in love with this desert oasis.  The city offers everything.  Wining, dining, dancing, shopping, outdoor activities galore, friendly locals, art and culture, golf and the list goes on.  Basically, if you can name it, Palm Springs has it.

So, I now find myself standing in the middle of the airport (which by the way is open air!) and as I look around, a few dozen people are spending their last minutes how it is meant to be … smiling and enjoying the sun.  Be careful Palm Springs, you might just find me closing escrow very soon!

After a horrific winter and a most abysmal summer, Canadians all across the country are crossing fingers (and toes!) in hopes of a gentle winter.

In the following weeks, I will be posting blogs (and video!) to take you away from the doldrums that are inevitably right around the corner.  Either for future planning or for a brief escape from reality, I hope you enjoy.  For now … I thought I would share my top 5 winter travel destinations!   Let the planning … or dreaming begin!

5.  Puerto Rico - A gay positive travel destination that in my eyes is often over looked.  Great weather, gay bars, hotels and other friendly establishments make it very appealing to the GLBT traveler.  The currency is the American dollar and while nearly at par, prices are very reasonable.  Oh wait … did I mention how friendly and HOT the Puerto Rican people are??

4.  Cuba – White sand beaches, beautiful and genuinely friendly people along with fantastic weather makes for an abundance of pluses that keep Canadians coming back for more.  Try going off the beaten path of the resorts and check out some of the national parks, small towns and villages.  Havana is one of my favourite cities in the world.  Check out the architecture and of course … the vintage cars are every where!  57 Chevy anyone?  Two thumbs up!

3.  Costa Rica – A great option for sun, surf, sand, city and eco toursim!  I love that you can hang out in the capitol San Jose for a weekend of city life.  Enjoy dancing, dining and shopping and then board a bus or small plane and head to the coast for surfing lessons or eco-tours.  Best of all worlds? … I think so!

2.  Puerto Vallarta – The crown jewel of gay travel destinations!  Puerto Vallarta is known world wide for its hospitality toward the GLBT traveller.  With numerous gay bars, clubs, restaurants and beaches specifically catering to the pink dollar, it is a hot spot worth visiting or revisiting!  Try one of the many tour companies that offer day cruises, eco and adventure tours!

1.  Cruise away! – I know … sounds odd but it truly is my favourite way to get away from it all.  There are a tonne of options from entirely gay cruises to a Hanukkah cruises!  Fantastic food, sports, live entertainment and fabulous ports of call keep me coming back for more!  One of my favourite things to do is rent a moped and explore all the little nooks of the island.  Find a secluded beach or intimate little town.  Ask locals about a great pub or restaurant option off the beaten path.  (when in Rome!)

Finally, a place that I not only love to visit but would love to live one day … Palm Springs, CA.  With about a 50% gay population, 330 plus days of sunlight, warm days and cool nights … need I say more?  I can!  Right now due to the low housing market, you can buy a nice 3 bed 2 bath home with pool for around the mid $200′s!  More to come on Palm Springs in a future blog (with video!).

No matter where you choose to go, just remember to travel smart.  Get the needed travel documentations, vaccinations and be safe!  A smart traveler is a safe traveler!!

Any questions on my personal choices listed above, please feel free to contact me.  I would also love to hear where you love to escape to!

Until next time … XXX

This year’s Big Brother is making a splash promoting a gay ex Jehovah’s Witness (Kevin) as one of the house mates.  Little did they know (or did they?) that Braden would garner most of the attention with this video from prior TV exposure on Dante’s Cove! 

I know it is gratuitous nudity … but it is Friday after all and do we not deserve a happy week ending??

I travel as much as I can possibly manage so when folks find out I am afraid to fly, the usual response is shock or laughter.  I should be a seasoned veteran, I should not even give it a second though BUT  … I do. 

One of the main reasons for my fear is that I am not in control.  I recently went to test drive a BMW with someone and somehow ended up in the back seat!  Just like Baby, I don’t do corners or backseats!  I am a driver, no ifs ands or buts about it!   

Thankfully the ride lasted a mere 10 minutes.  Now, if I happened to have found myself on Continental flight #61 … my reaction would have required something in pill form followed by a couple very strong chasers!  To read the whole story CLICK HERE.  My condolences to the family of the pilot … and of course to the few on the plane who like me, would have needed quite a bit of consoling.

Suffice it to say, I have never liked having my feet any further off the ground than need be.  At 6’6″, I think that is really about as far off Terra firmaas this guy needs to be … at least until the next assignment comes in.  Between Pharmacist and I, we always manage to get me on that flight!

The top 10 most livable cities in the world were recently published by the Economist Intelligence Unit (sounds spooky!).  Out of the top 10, Canada held 3 spots including Vancouver at #1, Toronto at #4 and Calgary tied at #5!!  Australia did as well holding another 3 of the top ten spots.  For the full article and the rest of the top ten, click here!

Having spent a lot of time in our top ten list makers, I was happy to see Canada SO well represented.  Each city has a very special spot in my heart for very different reasons.  Vancouver … the beauty of its natural surroundings is breathtaking and the with Olympics right around the corner, definitely the place to be!!!  Calgary … clean, contemporary and with world class skiing at its doorstep, sign me up!  Toronto … the most multicultural city in the world makes my heart roar with excitement every time I step foot on its streets!  Given I know these 3 winners so well, I think it should be my job to visit the rest of the top ten … purely for research purposes only!    I’ll keep you posted!

I put it to our readers … what are YOUR thoughts as to why these cities made top 10??

I just love the fact that as a gay man living in Canada I can choose to marry the one I love AND, if / when the time is right, add another little adopted life to our family.  So … you can only imagine the smile that grew on my face when I read about the following adoptive gay dads.  I would love for all those back-assed bible thumpers to have a gander at this as proof that its just all as natural as … well take a look for yourself!     HERE TO VIEW!!

A new advertising campaign depicting Air New Zealand’s staff donning only body paint is receiving rave reviews.  CLICK HERE to see the video. 

I guess I will be visiting New Zealand in the very .. VERY near future!  I wonder what perks they now have in first class??

…Say goodbye to cancellation and emergency health benefits!

I was curious about what travel issues we as Canadians are now facing with the H1N1 flu racing around 30 countries.  What I found took me a bit by surprise.

I learned that given The Foreign Affairs Department issued a travel warning against Mexico April 27, 2009, cancellation/interruption insurance will not be covered (to Mexico after that time) and emergency health benefits may not be covered.  This will continue until the Canadian Government rescinds its warning.

I am not suggesting to throw away your dream trip to Mexico.  What I am saying is gather as much information as you can to make an informed decision.  I truly believe this should be done before leaving for ANY destination!  Knowledge is power folks … so be powerful and enjoy your vacations!  OH … and if you find a neat off the beaten track restaurant, hotel, shop or bar … let me know about it!!

For the full article CLICK HERE …

Since I happened along all of those sexy advertising videos (see my last post “Adidas hopping the Advertising Fence”) I was forwarded one of particular interest.  Looks like Nike is going where no shoe has gone before … well at least in the advertising world.  Who ever said that sex doesn’t sell … just watch.  Sure I could go down that preachy road and criticize these companies for trying to appeal to my less than intellectual side … but hey, it works!  All I can say is … you can find me at the nearest Nike store … nuff said!

TV add … CLICK HERE

Origonal explanitory full length version … CLICK HERE

Adidas certainly has my vote for creative and alluring advertising.  Their new online add campaign has a group of 5 hunky jocks waiting for you to choose which of the two will willingly swap their jerseys.  Of course, like potato chips, you can’t choose just one.  Spent a few moments with it and let me know what you think.  I have an affinity for tall dark and handsome … so you can guess which is my favourite.  SEE HERE What I love is that Adidas got it right.  They avoided the typical stereotypes, they kept it simple, they threw a bit of sexiness into the mix and voila … an add for the masses!

On the topic of advertising, I found a few other very noteworthy artistic advertorials.   SEE HERE and HERE.

I think it might be time to let go of our conservative roots here in Canada and start thinking outside the proverbial advertising box.  Women can walk topless, us gays can marry, a little green will not land us in jail AND adoption is available for all.   SO … given the Amazing Race included Thai transsexuals in their last episode … what do you say we challenge our advertisers to get a wee bit creative.  I know a great network and a huge dollar rich demographic that is willing to reward the companies that do so.

Slightly outside of my  territory lies a little story in the news that I thought rather prudent to share with our readers.  The story itself stems from a video released by The US Nation Organization for Marriage.   Given I am still unable to put together a comprehensive thought on my reaction to all of this, (screaming and banging my head against the wall clearly is not helping) I thought it best to simply share with our readers and let you come to your own conclusions.   I would like to thank Scott Dagostino for bringing this to my attention.   Below, I have also attached several other videos worth checking out….

First video:  National Organization for Marriage: click here

Second Video:  Audition tape of actors for National Organization for Marriage video click here

Third Video:  Debate on Hardball with Joe Solmonese click here

Fourth Video:  endthelies.com by Human Rights Campaign including petition click here

The fall is quickly approaching and as most people look forward to sunny days and cool nights, my heart sinks at the sight (and thought) of the leaves changing colour.  I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again … if I were to choke you, you would turn pretty colours too!  It is a crude comparison but definately makes my point.

All that being said, I am looking for suggestions for new travel destinations.  I can not do the Puerto Vallarta thing again, but thanks in advance for that suggestion.  There must be a myriad of fantastic places to visit that are at the very least gay friendly and I am looking for them!  Just an FYI … as a traveller, I do not shy away from places that folks and or media suggest not to go to.  I’ve been to both Colombia and Jamaica and feel that as long as one brings along his or her street smarts and leaves the Rolex and other bling at home … life and travel should be safe and enjoyable. 

One thing I always make a point of doing is checking travel advisories.  No matter where I am going it is always good to know what to expect prior to arrival.  Trip Advisor is a great site where regular folks post about pretty much any destination you can think of.  (www.tripadvisor.com)   Another great site offered by the Canadian government is  http://voyage.gc.ca.  Here you can find valuable information such as updates and warnings about your potential vacation spot.

So reply with your suggestions and in advance, I thank you. 

Day 4 and I find myself with enough time for one last shopping excursion.  With lady luck on my side I find that one piece that exudes a bit of what Montreal means to me … sexy, stylish, masculine and well priced! 

Back on the train and I am in the comfort to which I have become most accustomed to.  While reading my magazine in preparation for departure I see an old acquaintance boarding and walking down the isle.  Have you ever happened to know someone for SO long but knew very little about them?  That was about to change in this instance.  Gina, a famous (or infamous?) personality on the club scene was sitting across the isle from me.  I was sitting alone so opened the invitation to join me and was very happy to have it excepted.  I was informed … (and told to pass along the information) that the Yves Saint Laurent exhibit was currently being shown in Montreal (May 29 – September 28, 2008 at the Montreal Museum of Fine Arts).  Gina, as a lot of us know, has a slight pension for fabulous hats and who does hats better than Monsieur Laurent?  NOTE:  to avoid disappointment, do not try to see the exhibit on a Monday as most museums are closed Mondays.  Guess we’ll know better for next time right?

We had the most fantastic trip home.  Talking, laughing, sharing stories and indulging in a little VIP treatment made the time go by almost too quickly.  VIA did themselves a favour by hiring Mourad …. our Senior Service Attendant.  He was a dream in more ways than one.  Not only was he handsome, personable and charming with us and all the other passengers … he never let our glasses go empty!   The attention to service and all out comfort has me hooked and I look forward to my future travels onboard!   I even came up with an advertising slogan … Pamper your self with the ONE … VIA 1!  You heard it here first people!  J

One last quick cab ride home finds me sitting with a glass of wine in hand. I cannot help but lose myself in the fond memories created during this magnificent trip.  Sexy old world charm, modern convenience, art, history, food and shopping are but a few of the wonderful things Montreal uses to romance each and every one of its visitors.  A tiny bit of my heart will always remain in the city and I look forward to going back again and again to reconnect.

Day 3 has my head spinning with pure joy. (and I am sure the pain killers have nothing to do with it … but that is another story all together!)   I am off for another round of brunching, lunching and disco dancing!  I always recommend indulging in some of the history, culture and art that the city has to offer.  On today’s agenda I want to check out the Museum of Contemporary Art (www.macm.org) .  I am going to see the 1^st edition of the Quebec triennial, an exhibition devoted to the current state of contemporary art in Quebec.  Now, I have never proclaimed to be a connoisseur but I know what I do and do not like.  Usually, contemporary art is right up my alley and being I find most things in Montreal to be rather pleasing to the eye,  the exhibition truly instils feelings of fascination and want.  Too bad my credit card is unable to handle any more impulsive purchases or I would track down some of these incredible artists.

Dinner finds me with new friends at a flat on the Plateau.  I love how in Montreal, dinner is an event.  I find people here really pride themselves on enjoying local fair and let me tell you … the cheese and produce that is available locally is to die for!  I make note to start having more nights like this.  Great food, fantastic company and stimulating conversation … what a treat indeed!

We all decide to head back down to the village to catch the live performance from Deborah Cox.  The park is PACKED!  Ms. Cox works the stage AND the boys into a killer frenzy and leave everyone wanting MORE!  Of course, now the big decision is to find a party to attend … oh the trials and tribulations!   With it being such a beautiful night, we decide to hit the roof top at Skybar once again.  For some reason … I wasn’t aware that there was a hot tub on the roof top.  These things usually don’t escape me … I am just guessing that given my overwhelming intoxication of the sights around me (yes I mean the gorgeous boys) I evidently overlooked it!  The night could not have ended on a better note.  I ran into a few old friends who I had not seen all weekend.  There were so many events, parties and dinners going on that there was no way even I could manage to hit them all!  We caught up and exchanged stories of our … ummmm experience over the weekend.  With the finish of my tall double V and C, a double kiss to all and I was off to the hotel. 

Day 2 and I find myself in need of brunch and a double espresso.  The streets are packed as this weekend is not only Diverse-Cite but also the Francophone Follies and Nascar!  (as if this city didn’t have enough testosterone floating around!)   I find a great little patio right by the big stage of the Follies.  While indulging in a mimosa (or two) I listen to the band doing sound checks.  Three women step up to their mikes and began to sing Frère Jacques acapella, all the hair on my body stands on end.  The world slows and for a moment, I get lost in the magical cornucopia of sight and sound. 

After brunch I decided that I would bypass the gay mecca of the park at Berri and head down to old Montreal. Two things in life that I find terribly soothing; food and shopping, and old Montreal offers a multiplicity of both.   After shopping for what seems like hours, I stumble upon a placard noting fresh east coast lobster as the special of the day and I am sold.  Restaurant des Gouverneurs patio sits overlooking Place Jaques Catier at the corner of Rue Notre Dame E.  The promenade with buskers, tourists and curious folks is a huge attraction and a great spot to people watch.  What best finishes a great meal than a real cream soft ice cream at Oliver Twist.  I met the owner, one 20 year old named appropriately, Oliver.  Cute as a button, he explains in his oh so charming accent that the better the ingredients the better the product.  I could not agree more.  It was like heaven in a cone. 

Taking my cone, I wander off down to the water front where I continue my shopping at the tourist trinket shops that line the wharf.   Overlooking the river, I could gaze across and see Habitat 67   It was designed for the 67 Olympics to incorporate the diversity of scattered private homes with the economics and concentration of a modern apartment complex.  

Walking back through old Montreal, I stumble across a wedding that was just letting out of a grand old cathedral.  The bride, sporting a mini skirt with a long flowing trail hop down the sidewalk with her extremely handsome groom and jump into the back seat of a late 60’s pink convertible Cadillac Eldorado … so much style and fun, only in Montreal I thought.

After a little disco nap, (OH … did I mention how much I LOVE the beds at the Sheraton??)  I head out with my batteries fully charged.  I meet a couple of friends for some cocktails at Saloon (www.lesaloon.ca) and then head over to club Parking (www.parkingbar.com).   If the line-up is any sign as what is to come, I am in for a real treat not to mention one of my favourite DJ’s is spinning … Stephan Grondin!  With beautiful men abound, cocktails pouring freely and the beats of heaven on earth vibrating through my body in a sexual rhythm, I cannot help but think there are simply no words to describe the euphoria.  After my final shot of te-kill-ya, I decide it is time to stumble home for a bit of sleep in preparation for another anticipated day in this magnificent city.

OUTtv Travel Ambassador: Rob Logie  rob@inandoutmoments.com   Rob lives in Toronto and serves as Associate Producer and travel writer of In&Out Moments Community show where he worked on Ottawa, Halifax, PEI, Newfoundland, Prince Edward County, Niagara, Calgary, Edmonton, Yukon, Winnipeg, Vancouver and Puerto Vallarta!

Montreal Pride Celebrations are kicking off Aug.14-17 and OUTtv Ambassador Rob Logie, freshly returned from last weeks Divers/City festival, reveals the best way to enjoy Montreal and why he loves VIA so much.  This is a four part blog series so be sure to check out this blog everday for the complete story!       

Blog 1 of 4.

When approached to write an article of an experience going to and being in Montreal, I jumped at the chance … I just love Montreal.  The catch, leave my car behind and hop aboard VIA, VIA 1 specifically.   My car is my lifeline to friends, family and the exploration of near and far.  How was I to manage without my trusted companion?   I was to smile, pack, hop in a cab and go.  Downtown Toronto to downtown Montreal in around 5 hours … sounded like the simplicity I deserved AND riding in first class? Fabulous!

One quick cab ride to union station found me sitting in the Panorama Lounge, VIA 1’s exclusive lounge.  Boarding was a snap and I was tickled pink to find that I had oodles of leg room, such a rarity in most any type of public transport.  Stunning scenery, lots of cocktails and a fantastic meal found me nuzzled in first class comfort and falling into a nice deep sleep … something I would need for the remainder of the weekend. 

Another quick cab ride from the train station to the hotel, a quick turnaround shower, one minor fashion crisis and I was ready for cocktails chez naughtiness.  I always find it easy to slide into the fast pace of a weekend away with a starter drink or two at the local watering hole featuring the less than clothed type of entertainment.  I highly suggest Stock Bar on rue Sainte-Catherine (www.stockbar.ca) as a thoroughly enjoyable way to start a weekend!

With so many great bars in Montreal, the choice is not easy.  I followed a few  folks I had met previously and was told I would not regret spending some time at SKY (www.complexsky.com).   Beautiful people, one fantastic roof top patio and copious amounts of beverages led me to dancing the remainder of the night away with a couple of boys who really helped with my practice of frenching … errr, I mean speaking French. Until tomorrow….