Full disclosure: This is Sydney but it’s a hot pic
ManAboutWorld Global Correspondent Paul Teixeira and his partner Jose are in the midst of an 87-day global gay adventure. He agreed to document his trip here with highlights from many destinations around the world. In his own words:
Wellington, the capital
Photo and story by ManAboutWorld Global Correspondent, Michael Siebert
With all the hoopla about France’s vote to become the 14th nation allowing same-sex marriage. Let’s not forget about the 13th. On April 17, 2013 New Zealand lawmakers pass a bill in favor of gay marriage with a wide majority, with 77 votes in favor and 44 against. Gay-rights advocates celebrated outside parliament after the bill was passed, making New Zealand the 13th country to legalize gay marriage.
Click here to watch lawmakers and the public singing the New Zealand love song, “Pokarekare Ana.”
We covered Auckland, New Zealand in our December 2012 issue. Click here to subscribe and download.
The Pilbara
This gorgeous sunset is brought to us courtesy of ManAboutWorld Global Correspondent Michael Siebert.
It was taken at Hearson’s Cove in the Pilbara, only 20 min drive from Karratha. (Don’t worry, we had to look it up too! Pilbara is in Western Australia. Click here to learn more.)
New Zealand Maori Dancer Postcard; Flickr/CrayolaMom
Travel writer and gay tourism expert Jeff Guaracino recently visited Down Under (New Zealand and Australia).
He compiled his findings into a terrific tip sheet for anyone considering traveling there. And why wouldn’t you? It’s nearly summer in the SoHe (Southern Hemisphere0 and, well, the guys are hot and rugged!
Here are a few of his tips. For the complete article, visit Windy City Times.
On the looooong flight:
On a flight this long, it is important to rack up miles on one airline and you should definitely choose your carrier wisely. You will want a newer plane with a great international service. Air New Zealand now flies two new planes between Los Angeles and Auckland. Service is Kiwi-friendly and the food is superior. The airline has a good sense of humor and is very gay-friendly. Fitness celebrity Richard Simmons stars in the onboard safety video “Mile-high madness with Richard Simmons,” a hilarious take on safety. Check it out on YouTube.
At last check, roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles on Air New Zealand in November cost $2,000 for economy; slightly more for premium economy; and about $8,000 for business premier. Visit http:// www.airnewzealand.com for current prices. A round-trip flight between New Zealand and Australia costs about $500. It is best to search multiple airline websites at http:// www.kayak.com .
What does a gay traveler need to know?
Consider a travel agent or tour operator to book your trip. A trip to these two countries could be complicated and you will want to plan a few organized or group tours. Check out www.iglta.org for gay-friendly and LGBT-owned businesses operating in New Zealand and Australia. There are also a number of U.S. and Canadian based tour companies that organize group trips to these destinations. Research destination itineraries and explore New Zealand at http:// www.newzealand.com/us .
For gay nightlife, spend the weekend in Sydney. You will find a number of gay bars ( also called hotels ) along Oxford Street. New Zealand’s LGBT scene is very, very small but you will find bars that cater to mostly men. Search the web for up-to-date information. Grinder is also a terrific travel app where you can ask the locals what is happening while you are there.
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