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When you are planning gay romantic getaways for two, the question comes up about choosing a destination. Do you plan a destination based solely on its merits or do you go through a structured getaway because it caters to the GLBT community? There are different answers with different benefits and drawbacks.

Usually, one plans out a gay romance vacation because they want to spend a little time with their significant other without interruption or real responsibilities. Yet sometimes you plan it because your partner has always wanted to go to someplace special. While there are a lot of really great packages available, it’s quite possible that you won’t be able to book your favored destination with a group and therefore will end up striking out on your own.

If you’re planning on your own you have to make sure to get your due diligence done before you end up in a country that still jails suspected gays and lesbians. Booking your trip independently can give you that special destination but you have to be sure to gather all the information that you can before you decide for certain.

What is it that you are looking to gain from this little getaway? What does romance actually mean to the two of you? Are you up for fun, adventure, and daring new events? Or do you prefer room service and a hotel room that doesn’t force you to see the light of day unless you choose to? Maybe you’re looking for a little of both?

Structured packages give you a chance to find some of the most impressive destinations. You can not only find incredibly fun things to do but you will most likely experience the freedom that you just can’t find anywhere else. There is no need to steal glances, remain a respectable distance apart, or refer to each other as “friends.” You get to be completely and totally yourself. You can even explore the different sides of who you are and you can do it without fear. That type of freedom is something very few of us get to live with.

Naturally when you think of a romantic gay trip you think of a gay cruise. They are becoming tremendously popular. While not your only choice, these are trips that are seriously fun and cool and should be experienced by all of us at least once in our lives. If you haven’t been on one yet, add it to your list of things to do.

You can take a safari or you can end up on a romantic island. You can go off exploring other countries and you can find themed vacation for your and your partner. Sometimes making a gay romantic getaway turns into nothing more than the ability to be romantic. Yet you have to admit the scenery can add quite a bit to the romantic ambiance.

If you’re going it alone you just can’t have the same freedom that structured gay romantic vacations offer you. There isn’t the same sense of privacy. Sure, spending a weekend in a hotel room can be romantic when it’s your choice. A week isn’t quite as romantic.

Commentary originated by Howie Holben. Spirit Journeys arranges gay weekend breaks and has gay tantra retreats.

Tucked between Tibet and India in a remote region of the Himalayan Mountains, lies a tiny Buddhist kingdom called Bhutan. Visitors to this spiritually and culturally-rich country will find a simpler way of life that is largely unaltered by Western culture and modern attitudes. Every aspect of life in Bhutanese villages and towns is steeped in the age-old traditions, beliefs, customs and practices of Buddhism, which is the basis of this country’s conservative, traditional way of life.

Although Bhutan is a conservative, traditional country in most ways, folks on gay tours are welcomed by the warm Bhutanese people and the tariffs paid by visitors on both straight and gay vacations are used to improve life in Bhutan through education, public services and economic growth and stability. Because tourism is limited, travelers who have the opportunity to explore this mystical Buddhist kingdom should take advantage of the chance to experience the rich Bhutanese culture to its fullest.

Bhutan has no LGBT scene to speak of; therefore, a gay vacation planned to this magnificent mountain kingdom would certainly not be planned with the intent of experiencing a distinct LGBT community or visiting LGBT establishments. Of course, this is not to say that same-gender behaviors and relationships do not occur. These activities are actually common and accepted and there is a significant amount of bisexual sexual behavior practiced among Bhutanese men.

In fact, bisexual behavior among men is not considered taboo and is a commonplace occurrence that does not affect ones identity. Languages in this region do not have words for lesbian, gay or bisexual and most of the men who would perhaps be defined as bisexual in Western cultures are monastic monks or are married to women. While there is an old law outlawing same-sex sexual activity that is still technically on the books, there is no evidence that this law, which includes the possibility of life imprisonment, has ever been enforced.

Partaking in gay travel in Bhutan is an experience that provides the opportunity to experience a community and culture that has been left relatively untouched by Western culture and offers an ideal environment for spiritual awakening or renewal. Bhutan gay vacations include opportunities to visit Buddhist temples, hike through the Himalayas and explore sacred sites.

For the most enjoyable, fulfilling experience, it is highly recommended that you visit Bhutan as part of gay adventure travel tours, which will provide numerous opportunities to experience all that Bhutan has to offer, while ensuring that you respectfully experience the culture and traditions of this land that has only recently opened its doors to newcomers.

Post about Bhutan authored by Howie Holben. Spirit Journeys presents gay tantra workshops and romantic gay travel.

Turkey is a unique country with a distinctive culture resulting from being situated on both the European and Asian continents. Turkey’s history and daily life is heavily influenced by both, with most considering Turkey to be economically and politically closer to other European countries, while it is geographically located mostly on the Asian continent and is solidly positioned as an Islamic country, along with its Middle Eastern neighbors, in terms of religion.

However, while Turkey is definitely an Islamic nation, visitors will find that a much more progressive mindset and Westernized culture is more evidence of the European influence that abounds. These characteristics that distinguish Turkey from other Islamic countries allow for safe, enjoyable gay tours.

Millions of visitors come to Turkey each year, many on gay vacations filled with relaxing days on breathtaking beaches on the Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, visiting ancient ruins and old-world architecture, and participating in gay tours that include visits to some of the most intriguing cultural, historical and spiritual sites in Turkey.

Istanbul has had a long, diverse history including time as the capital of the Roman, Latin, Byzantine and Ottoman Empires. This rich history has resulted in a nearly limitless list of historically important sites scattered throughout the city, as well as the country. Whether tourists choose a relaxing resort vacation on the Aegean or Mediterranean coasts, urban gay travel based in Istanbul or a rural vacation visiting old-world villages, travelers will find that cultural attractions and unique experiences wait around each corner.

From visiting hammams (traditional public Turkish baths) to sitting at sidewalk cafs drinking sweet black tea or strong Turkish coffee, gay vacations in Turkey allow travelers to immerse themselves in this distinctive culture, with plenty of opportunities to partake in once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Those who opt for gay tours to Turkey will find that their vacation experience can be even more memorable and fulfilling when they enjoy the additional benefit of having travel professionals organize their trip.

While travelers may not see a vocal, well-organized LGBT community during their gay vacations to Turkey, they will see that there is an LGBT scene and community. Unlike other Islamic countries, there are no laws specifically targeting the LGBT community and there are numerous community discos, bars and other establishments, many of which can be found in the Taksim Square neighborhood of Istanbul.

The abundance of community establishments allows those partaking in gay travel in Turkey to experience Turkish LGBT life during their visit, while opting for gay vacations ensures that you will not miss out on some of the most breathtaking sites and experiences that Turkey has to offer.

Ideas with a gay tour in Turkey authored by Howie Holben. Spirit Journeys makes available a wonderful gay tour destination.

India is a multidimensional country that has much to offer to any type of traveler. From the snowcapped Himalayas to sunny, sandy beaches and all of the diverse terrain in between, gay trips to India includes a plethora of opportunities for adventure or relaxation in this ever-changing country. Long-known as a nation with a distinct dedication to spirituality and natural healing, a gay vacation to India is an ideal choice for those looking for the opportunity to refocus on what is important in life, reprioritize, and awaken or reawaken their spiritual center.

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

Those who take a gay vacation to India will find that it is very difficult to find a noticeable LGBT community, even in urban areas. In 2009, the Delhi High Court took an important step towards decriminalizing same-sex relations when it voted to overturn a–8-year-old law still on the books from when India was a British colony. This antiquated law, which is no longer upheld in Delhi, but is still enforced in the rest of the country, prohibits “carnal intercourse against the order of nature” and includes same-sex intercourse, as well as some heterosexual sexual acts.

Activists are trying to rectify this situation, but in the meantime, those who are on gay tours to India should be aware of this. With that said, there are many LGBT people living in India and there are some gathering spots, as well as the cruising areas you can expect in nearly any country, no matter how conservative. While there are mixed feelings at both a community and government level about LGBT folks, ideas about sexuality are changing, making India an ever-improving option for gay travel.

While the subject of same-sex relationships may still be somewhat taboo in India, it is a popular destination for gay vacations and most LGBT travelers report no problems during their gay tours. One way to help ensure that you do not experience issues during a gay vacation to India is to participate in an organized tour arranged by a well-established, professional company offering exceptional tour opportunities that cater to the LGBT community. Opting for traveling to India as part of a tour group is a great way to make sure you do not miss some of the most popular attractions, visits to sacred temples and life-changing experiences available when traveling in India. Opting for traveling to India as part of a group is a great way to make sure you do not miss some of the most popular attractions, visits to sacred temples and life-changing experiences available when traveling in India.

Article from spiritual author Howie Holben. Howie runs Spirit Journeys and SpiritWear they offer metaphysical jewelry.

Gay naked yoga yoga has some positive benefits for anyone willing to give it a shot. You may be wondering what it is, but the name explains it perfectly. It’s yoga without your clothes on. It breaks with the norm and brings in a new liberating element to the art of yoga. It’s a way to cut loose of inhibitions and find a deeper meaning to self and to life.

This type of yoga is designed to push you past the normal limits of your comfort range, and on to a more liberating and a more free experience. It may sound unappealing to you at first, but once you get past those feelings and into the experience, it has many benefits for those who dare to practice it. It’s intention is not to exploit sexuality by any means, it’s to go beyond that into a harmony and peace you haven’t experience yet.

When you practice this form of yoga, your goal is to attain a freedom you’ve never experienced before. If you can free your body, clothes and all, then it seems easier to free your mind and spirit as well. Inhibitions are seen as barriers to progress, and roadblocks to being able to connect the mind, the soul, and the body. Once the barrier is removed, then a new and more gratifying sense of freedom can be attained.

The bottom line with this form of yoga, is that, even though it’s practiced in the nude, it’s still basically yoga. It’s a form of self-appreciation and discovery. It’s a way to tune in to the universe in body, mind, and spirit. Society still doesn’t accept nudity per say, so you wouldn’t think many would take to this form of yoga. But you’d be surprised at how fast this is catching on. And in a positive light.

The art and practice of yoga has been around for centuries. Men have always had a passion for trying to connect the body with mind and soul, seeking a peace and a harmony between all that they are within themselves. Yoga is very simple to learn and can be done about anywhere. It can be practiced in groups, or you can practice it alone. It’s very versatile.

There are a lot of benefits to yoga. Peace, tranquility, and a sense of one-ness with the universe. And some real benefits occur in the body. It aids the body in getting rid of toxins. It can improve your lung capacity and help with blood circulation. It aids in the body’s digestive process. There is much to be said for this practice, whether done in the nude or not. The nudity is part of the freeing process taken a step deeper.

Another term you hear when speaking of naked yoga is ‘naturism’. Naturism is a movement that is both political and cultural that takes up the cause of nudity, both in private and in public. It’s much like the old nude beach causes fought over in years past. It teaches you to appreciate the body, and to see it in a better and different light. To realize the beauty of the body, and of being free to express yourself in it.

Naked yoga classes are becoming a big business. There are some classes that are mixed and only a small few with women only. The vast majority of these classes are for men. It’s an ancient technique, but it’s taking on new life as more and more people are discovering the benefits it holds for them. You can find classes and techniques online if you want more information. It can be a very liberating and fulfilling experience when done properly and practiced frequently.

As an offshoot to naked yoga you could also look at gay tantra.

Article about gay naked yoga by Howie Holben. Spirit Journeys has gay tantra workshops as well.

There is a phenomenal vacation destination, filled with one-of-a-kind adventures and exciting locales. Its cities are urbane and vibrant, perfect for gay tours. It is a land of wonders so diverse, with natural and manmade settings so remarkable, it is almost indescribable. Where? Australia!

Australia offers gay travelers a welcoming destination, brimming with activities to suit the whims of any traveler. And that’s probably the reason that so many gay couples and singles are saying, “G’day, mate,” and making a beeline for this beautiful continent.

When you’re in Australia you are rarely far from experiences that will excite you as never before. For the wine connoisseur, try going to Yarra, Coal River or Swan Valleys. Visit the wineries and their tasting rooms to experience first-hand the contrast between a smooth white and smoky red. Excitement junkies can go diving on the Great Barrier Reef in Queensland or Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia.

Visitors can swim with giant whale sharks at Ningaloo. In the Northern Territory at Darwin Harbor, you can dive World War II shipwrecks. In Tasmania you can hike national parks and ancient rainforests, home to interesting plants and animals.

No gay traveler can miss Melbourne, the second-largest city in Australia. This is a multi-cultural metropolis where Victorian and contemporary architecture blend seemlessly. In this very gay friendly city, you can spend time with the sculptures in Werrebee Park, shop to you drop at high-end shops or less expensive boutiques, go to first class theater productions, and then end your day with a visit to one of Melbourne’s hot clubs! Perfect for a gay romantic getaway too.

For gay travelers who enjoy driving, consider embarking on the Pacific Coast Touring Route and take in the lush and quaint scenery. But remember, Australians drive on the left side of the road! If that sounds too sedate, you can get your heart pumping during various water sports, such as river rafting or kayaking.

Australia is located in the Southern Hemisphere, its seasons are upside down from those of the Northern Hemisphere. Summer in Australia takes place December through February. Australia is a very big continent, so check with your travel agent for weather information about your particular time of travel and your destination.

Australia has a very wide range of accommodations. From hostels to small inns for romantic holidays, to high end spa retreats and everything in between, making a gay adventure travel to Australia affordable, no matter what you budget might be.

Thoughts about Australia written by Howie Holben. Spirit Journeys list of gay guides is amazing. Their gay travel in 2010 is well rounded.

Gay travelers take vacations for a number of reasons, including the opportunity to meet new people, experience new cultures, see exotic places, take a break from the stresses of everyday life and to spend time with people that are special in their lives. Each vacation has some purpose, even if the purpose might simply be to lounge on a sandy beach and take some time away from the cares and worries back home.

One example of travel with a purpose is going on gay spirituality vacations that go beyond the quest to relax on the beach and are undertaken with a purposeful intention and awareness. Most people take vacations with the common goal of getting away from it all, but those who choose a spiritual vacation begin their voyage with the intent to really arrive in their chosen, specific location and to connect with the energy, people and land in their chosen destination.

A gay spiritual vacation can be a solo pilgrimage, a retreat focused on assisting couples in reconnecting and growing, or conscious travel undertaken with a group of travelers with similar intentions organized by a professional travel agency catering to those who wish to partake in a spiritual journey to a variety of locations across the globe, including Thailand, Egypt, India, New Zealand, Peru, Mexico or the American Southwest.

Individual pilgrimages are one option for spiritual vacations, but there are several benefits that come with choosing professionally organized conscious travel with a group of fellow seekers who can significantly influence the positive experience and spiritual growth you achieve during your joint journey. Professional companies that provide opportunities for spiritual travel have the information and experience needed to create powerful, meaningful personal voyages that will result in remarkable experiences that stay with the participants for the remainder of their lives.

Conscious travel tours visit sacred sites, provide organized group activities and manage logistical aspects of the trip to allow you to focus on your personal journey and growth. Professional tour groups also have ongoing relationships with locals in each destination, which provides participants with opportunities to see and experience things that are unavailable to solo travelers on conventional vacations.

Participants in gay spiritual travel have the distinct opportunity to connect with like-minded travelers that are also seeking a spiritual awakening, renewal or reconnection. This allows you to participate in shared group activities, learn from each other’s experiences, share your story with people who have a deeper understanding and ability to relate, discuss experiences that you are having while on this specific journey and forge new friendships that will last a lifetime.

Anyone seeking a truly meaningful journey with a focus on partaking in a unique travel experience with the intention of spiritual centering and personal growth should consider undertaking spiritual travel as they begin to consider options for their next vacation. Partaking in a spiritual journey is the pinnacle of self care and allows you to take the opportunity to refocus on the people and things that are important in your life, reset your priorities and return home centered and refreshed.

Treat yourself to the opportunity to partake in a personal voyage focused on reflecting on your past experiences, learning to live in the moment and discovering ways to nourish your soul for a centered spiritual life. Participating in intentional travel is a fulfilling experience that can change your life and allows you to return home with the tools and intention of living every day centered, focused and aware.

Info post originated by Howie Holben. Spirit Journeys suggests gay retreats and is a place for gay spiritual singles.

categories: gay spirituality,spirituality,metaphysical,spiritual,spiritual travel,travel,vacations,tours,gay,self help,inspiration,motivation,health,wellness

Egypt hosts a wide variety of historical, cultural and religious sites, which makes the entire country fascinating. Gay travel to Egypt can include anything from taking a cruise on the Nile, crossing the desert on a camel, shopping in open-air souks, and taking in the awe-inspiring Great Pyramids of Giza, to shopping and dining in modern cities and relaxing on the pristine white sands of world-famous beaches. From the Temple of Edfu and the burial tombs in the Valley of Kings, to browsing through the Khan al Khalili Bazaar or visiting King Tutankhamun’s treasures in the Egyptian Museum in Cairo, Egypt truly has endless offerings. Folks planning a gay vacation to Africa will not want to pass up the mystique and allure of Egypt, which is an excellent choice for gay travel.

While gay vacations to Egypt can be safe and very fulfilling travel experiences, there are some things that LGBT travelers should know. The government of Egypt has increased efforts to persecute and imprison members of the LGBT community in recent years, which includes undercover sting operations at local gathering places, setting men up for arrest through meetings arranged in online chat rooms and some well-publicized trials and imprisonments, such as the Queen Boat raid where over 50 men were arrested in 2001.

These undercover operations and raids usually focus on arresting Egyptian men; however, tourists and local women have also been caught up in this persecution on occasion. While Egypt does not have laws that prohibit private, consensual same-sex sexual activity between adults, other laws are being used to arrest people, such as laws against contempt for religion and debauchery.

That being said, this does not at all mean that Egypt should be avoided when it comes to gay vacation travel, or that visitors will be confronted with constant homophobia from locals. In contrast, most travelers who have taken Egyptian gay vacations have found the locals to be welcoming and warm, and have reported no issues with the police or government during their stay. While there is no real, visible LGBT community in most parts of the country, there are well-known gathering places in Luxor, Alexandria, Dahab, Aswan, Cairo and other larger cities. Of course, discretion is important when visiting local hotspots, since the police force is also aware of these hangouts.

Egypt is an amazing country with a vast array of must-see attractions of both cultural and historical value. Folks who are interested in gay vacations to Egypt may want to consider a gay travel tour, which will help to ensure that you do not miss Egypt’s best offerings and that the journey will be a safe one. If you prefer solo gay vacations, it is still advisable to at least go through a travel agent that is aware of the concerns and needs of members of the LGBT community when planning gay vacations to ensure a trip full of lasting memories and great experiences.

Column about Egypt created by Howie Holben. Spirit Journeys has great gay romantic travel and gay travel packages.

There is the perception that gay spirituality travel is not fun. When we take a vacation we want to have fun and relax. A vacation is supposed to be a time away from the responsibilities of life. We think of spiritual travel as something we should do because it is good for us. With this idea as a back drop, of course we will think that this kind of travel is not fun. When we vacation, we wish to leave behind this kind of responsibility. What would happen if we didn’t think like this?

My personal experience has shown me that the “work” done during spiritual gay travel is not “work” at all; it is a joy. You meet and connect with people at a level simply not possible on a typical vacation. The connections you make with others on such an event adds immensely to the enjoyment of your time away. To be able to sit and have a real conversation with someone; for you to be listened to with genuine interest; for you to listen to others with your heart; the importance of these things cannot be measured and bring a deep sense of fulfillment.

We have also learned that being “spiritual” means we must act solemn. We seem to think that play is anti-spiritual. The truth is just the opposite. Laughter brings a real connection to spirit and connection that is more profound than you can imagine

In actuality, I have found just the opposite to be true. When we are awake and aware of our surroundings, in other words “spiritually” connected, our gay vacations are amplified and intensified. We are able to experience more of the world around us and experience it at a deeper level. We have found that this amplified experience actually makes our adventures more “fun” because all aspects of our travel are intensified; we can play more, we can laugh more, we can relax more fully and we can even shop more!

Little children are a wonderful example of this. They are enthralled with the world around them; everything is new, everything is a wonder. Discovering and learning new things is not “work” to a child. They find joy in all that they encounter; everything is a new toy to play with.

And last, but certainly not least, sometimes people confuse the experience of being awestruck as being serious or solemn. When you travel with conscious awareness there can be times when you will be “deeply moved” (awestruck) by something you encounter. It could be the hospitality of a family you meet; a genuine smile; the grandeur of a sunrise or simply the revelation that you are blessed to be alive. Personally, even after countless visits to Monument Valley, I am still moved tears while I am there. But these are tears of joy, humility and gratitude.

Discussion by Howie Holben with info on gay retreats and gay travel deals.

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

You have oceans on one side and mountains on the other sided. The sky is ever changing, with clouds seeming to work magic over the land. All this combined makes for a perfect afternoon on the beach.So pack a lunch and head out for an afternoon of sun and surf.

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

Looking for things to do won’t be hard, either. From romantic tours in South Africa’s wine country, try Lyngrove Country House; to historical museums that will leave you emotional and speechless, three to see: Bo-Kapp Museum, District Six Museum and National Gallery; to an amazing nightlife, your vacation to Cape Town is sure to give you the most incredible memories.

On the slope of Devil’s Peak there is the Rhodes Memorial. It was built to honor Cecil Rhodes who was a gay entrepreneur from Great Britain, He was the founder of the Rhodes Scholarship, Rhodesia and the DeBeers company.

Just make sure to bring a wet suit if you plan on swimming, because the Atlantic Ocean is cold here. All in all, random wildlife including ostriches, penguins, baboon and monkeys (well, you wanted exotic) notwithstanding, gay travel tours to Cape Town are definitely well worth it.

Column about Cape Town created by Howie Holben. Spirit Journeys has a great gay holidays list and also presents gay yoga.