RSVP Southern Caribbean Cruise

to Aruba, Curacao & more …..  February 9-16, 2013

RSVP takes you to the southern edge of the Caribbean this February to explore three exotic islands in seven amazing days. It all starts in the sunny gay center of Ft. Lauderdale where you’ll sail to the hottest island celebration of the year – Carnival in Curacao. Enjoy a day on this gay-friendly island before sailing to the world-famous white-sand beaches of Aruba. A relaxing day at sea follows as you sail to RSVP’s very own private island paradise on Half Moon Cay. And that’s just the beginning.

This signature Caribbean cruise gets hotter than ever in 2013 with dazzling new entertainment, RSVP’s signature performers, original parties, and more opportunities to make friends than ever before. All on the beautiful and sophisticated Holland America Eurodam.

Great rooms are available now for the biggest cruise of the year. Join RSVP next year and discover the magic of the original gay cruise vacation.

Call or Email us for your personal travel consultant.

Email us: info@GWtravelandcruise.com  Call us: 425-988-3184

RSVP Danube Riverboat Cruises

*Blue Danube Discovery from Budapest | July 22 – August 2, 2013

*Legendary Danube from Prague  |   July 29 – August 9, 2013

Experience one of the most popular vacations of all time with an RSVP Danube riverboat cruise. In 2013, RSVP is offering two departure dates, both of which include Budapest and Prague along with Vienna, Durnstein, Salzburg (from Linz), Passau, Regensburg and Nuremberg. You’ll have plenty of time to explore each magnificent city with the included tours and ample free time.

Travel in style onboard the new all-suite Avalon Visionary. This ship boasts some of the largest and most luxurious staterooms of any ship sailing the rivers of Europe, featuring floor to ceiling telescoping glass doors to enjoy the amazing views.

And of course no RSVP cruise would be complete without a mix of their signature entertainment, talented local performers and unique cultural experiences.

Space is very limited on these once-in-a-lifetime experiences with only a handful of rooms left on each sailing.

Call or Email us for your personal travel consultant.

Email us: info@GWtravelandcruise.com  Call us: 425-988-3184

Did you Know?

Let start off with Acronyms!

LGBT = Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender

Most common and inclusive way to refer to the entire community (GLBT can be used interchangeably)

IGLTA = International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association

Organization made up of LGBT Travel and tourism industry professionals

TAG Approved = Travel Alternatives Group

A hotel certification program that includes more than 1,800 properties worldwide. TAG Approved properties must meet certain standards, which include enforcement of non-discriminatory sexual orientation policies and LGBT sensitivity training for employees.

Did you know:

  • The LGBT community represents approximately 4.5% of the US population
  • 1 in 7 people has a gay family member, co-worker, neighbor or friend
  • 44% of gay men and 65% of lesbians live with a partner (so they already have their travel companions!
  • 5% of gay men have children
  • 20% of lesbians have children
  • 85% of gays and lesbians take annual vacations, compared to national average (65%)
  • Because gay and lesbian adults are less likely to have children than heterosexual adults, it may come as no surprise that they have more pets! 71% of LGBT adults own pets (compared to 63% of heterosexual adults), so a hotel’s pet policies may be important to them.

 

 

 

There is always something going on with LGBT organizations…Here are a few samples

  • International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics
  • Gay Games
  • Gay Softball Association (NAGAAA & ASANA)
  • International Gay Bowling Organization
  • International Federation of Black Prides
  • International Gay Rodeo Association
  • Lesbian and Gay Band Association
  • National Gay Pilots Association
  • National Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce
  • GALA Choruses
  • GLMA – Gay Lesbian Medical Association
  • Out and Equal – the federation of LGBT ERGs (Corporate Employee Resources Groups)

 

Here are some Gay and Lesbian Travel Magazines to check out:

Out Traveler- www.outtraveler.com

Passport Magazine www.passportmagazine.com

 

This is all Thanks to Ask Charlie!

Atlantis Independence Caribbean Cruise

February 2 – 10, 2013 | Independence of the Seas

We’re taking our most popular cruise to a whole new level in 2013 as we charter the 3700-guest Independence of the Seas for an 8-night cruise to the best of the Eastern Caribbean. This is the first season that Independence will operate from the U.S.A., and as many of you know she’s the (newest) sister ship of the popular Freedom and Liberty of the Seas. It’s the cruise they’ve all been asking for, with an extra day thrown in for free!

We’re pulling out all the stops for this one, with more spectacular entertainment, fresh and exciting parties, and a host of new events throughout.

Fares for our 2013 Independence cruise start at just $1,199 per person for 8 nights of pure excitement. It’s the cruise you’ve been asking for at rates you’d never believe!

Brand G Ireland Countryside & Dublin (September 2012)

8-day boutique escorted tour takes you across Ireland’s scenic countryside bringing you up close and personal with the cuisine, culture, and locals.

Enchanting Ireland resonates with a rich history, proud people and breathtaking landscapes. As we tour Ireland, magical settings unfold that will never be forgotten. Ribbons of mist glide gracefully past small villages, over forests, moors and countryside. Medieval castles stand regally along the fertile banks of deep blue lakes. Sophisticated Dublin teems with vibrant energy and modern neighborhoods blend with historic buildings and majestic cathedrals. All around are hidden delights waiting to be experienced, captivating us with their beauty and charm. Experience the rural beauty of the Island in great company. In Dublin we’ll help you get your footings with a city tour so you’ll know the general sites and gay-specific things to do when you strike out on your own in this exceptional city on the Green Isle.

Please contact: info@GWtravelandcruise.com  425-988-3184

Brand G Legendary Danube Riverboat Cruise (August 2012)

10-day tour starting in Prague, then cruising from picturesque Nuremburg to Passau, Melk, Vienna, Bratislava ending in Budapest – on an all-gay charter aboard the beautiful and innovative new MS AmaCerto.

We start with a tour in Prague, where we explore and enjoy two days in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. We’ll join the MS AmaCerto in Nuremberg and travel through the Bavarian forests of Germany to Regensberg and Passau, for an optional excursion to Salzburg and then continue along the Danube to Linz; to Melk; and then two evenings and two full days in Vienna. From here we will continue down the Danube to the historic capital of Slovakia, Bratislava. Then, conclude your European river cruise vacation in vibrant Budapest, a famous haven for musicians, writers and artists. Please contact: info@GWtravelandcruise.com  425-988-3184

Included Features

  • 2 Nights Hotel Accommodation in Prague including daily Buffet Breakfast
  • ½ day walking tour in Prague
  • Private information desk at the host hotel
  • Transfer from the Hotel in Prague to the Ship in Nuremberg
  • 7 Nights Deluxe Cruise Accommodation
  • Infotainment System in all Staterooms with Free Internet, Hit Movies, Music Library and English Language TV Stations
  • Terry Bathrobes and White-on-white plush Bedding in all Staterooms
  • Superb Dining with all Meals included during your Cruise
  • Multiple Dining Venues on select vessels
  • Free-flowing Red & White Wines from Europe’s great Wine Regions, beer and soft drinks with every Dinner on board the Ship
  • Bottled Water in every stateroom replenished daily
  • Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner & Captain’s Gala Dinner
  • Special Highlights including Lectures, Theme Dinners, Cooking Demonstration, onboard Music Performances and afternoon & evening Piano Music
  • Use of Bicycles to explore on your own
  • Services of Professional Cruise Manager
  • All English Language on board in a non-smoking Environment (smoking permitted only on the Sun Deck)
  • All local Taxes

Atlantis Copenhagen to Stockholm

July 24-31, 2012

Explore the best of the Baltic in style in 2012. You’ll sail the stunning Eurodam from Copenhagen to Stockholm visiting Berlin, Tallin, and Helsinki in seven magical days. There’s even a full two-day stay in St. Petersburg, Russia. Stunningly beautiful cities, welcoming cultures, and endless magical nights create the perfect summer adventure.

Chart a new course with Atlantis next summer as we sail to northern Europe’s most alluring cities onboard the spectacular Eurodam. And there’s no better way to see more of the Baltic then by sea. Atlantis’ custom all-gay cruise shows you the best in just seven days, all in unsurpassed comfort and style.

RSVP Blue Danube Riverboat Cruise

Blue Danube Discovery Cruise
July 8 – July 15, 2012
Avalon Vista

(Fares from $2270)

Seven day European vacation featuring a fascinating cruise from Budapest to Nuremberg with optional pre and post cruise extensions in Budapest and Prague.

There’s no better way to experience Eastern Europe than on one of our signature vacations, an RSVP riverboat cruise. Discovery, camaraderie, style and comfort all come together for the perfect Danube holiday. Onboard the Vista you’ll savor the luxury of Avalon’s brand new all-suite design and the most spacious staterooms of any river cruise ship sailing Europe’s waterways.

Call or Email us for your personal travel consultant.

Email us: info@GWtravelandcruise.com  Call us: 425-988-3184

RSVP Europe 2012

Exotic Mediterranean Cruise
June 29 – July 6, 2012
Holland America Nieuw Amsterdam
(Fares from $1199)

Free Companion Airfare to RSVP Summer Med Cruise

Make history next summer with the first gay cruise to call in Morocco as RSVP sails our newest ship from Barcelona on an all-new adventure.

Join 2100 gay and lesbian guests from the USA and Europe as we visit Casablanca, Seville, Valencia and stay overnight in Ibiza. Our newest adventure offers more than ever before at incredibly low fares!

Let RSVP take you far away next summer to places you’ve only read or dreamed about. We’ll make the adventure easier than ever with the professional care and friendly crowd that you’d expect on an RSVP cruise.

Call or Email us for your personal travel consultant.

Email us: info@GWtravelandcruise.com  Call us: 425-988-3184

Exotic Mediterranean Cruise Sneak Preview

Gay on a “Straight” cruise is this a new trend?

Norweigan Epic review

NCL Epic

NCL Epic

 

Gay on a “Straight” cruise is this a new trend?

I just got off the new (this year) NCL, EPIC and it was a large ship, the third largest cruise ship in the world, so the name fits!

As an avid cruiser and gay man that was born with the “gene” to decorate and throw great parties, the Epic is a great ship for meeting  new people, over 4,300 to be exact and we had a great time experiencing the ship and the many elements to cruising a Mega ship has to offer.

We have cruised on almost every cruiseline including the RSVP and Atlantis Gay cruises. So a couple years ago for work we started cruising the “straight” cruises.  Our friends kept asking why we would cruise on a straight cruise and our answer was simple; it fits our schedule and we want to relax.  They thought we would he harasses or gay bashed but we have found quite the opposite.  Don’t get me wrong, the parties and comradery on the gay cruises are fantastic but don’t always fit my vacation schedule where as a “straight” cruise can be planned any week of the year.

NCL and several other cruiselines have chosen to embrace the gay market and offer “Friends of Dorothy” (code words for gay group) gatherings on every cruise and publish it in their daily program.  On this cruise we met some great guys at the first Friends of Dorothy cocktail gathering.  We all had a great week haning out and getting to know each other, a mix of couples and singel guys and one great Diva and in fact have already planned our next cruise together.

The Epic offers great cocktail lounges for our daily gatherings and on this cruise, the Hotel Director Sean Wurmhoeringer took our group to the next level and made our experience all the better.  It is management like Sean and his proactive measures that will bring NCL to the forfront of gay mainstream cruising.  On this cruise we had the first gay bowling event, trying our talents on the ships bowling alleys, yes there are two!  They were decorated and themed in the colors of the rainbow with a disco flare.   Gay bowling and great cocktails, now that is an Epic Party!

The First Gay bowling at Sea on the NCL Epic.

Gay Bowling on the NCL Epic

Gay Bowling on the NCL Epic

Who says only the Gay cruises can have a fun White Party!

Epic White Party

Epic White Party

During our week aboard the Epic, no one in our party had any instances of discrimination or other “issues” from either the guests or staff.  We were embraced by most everyone and had other guests join our party.  Dancing at the famous NCL White Party to a romantic dinner, we experienced a great cruise. Being gay or straight did not matter.  We all relaxed, had great meals, fun and entertainment on an Epic scale.

For our future gay friends sailing on the Epic, I strongly recommend booking one of the 75 suites available as this gives you access to a whole private section of the ship that is much more fitting for the Kings and Queens we are.  An alternative to the suite is to make sure you purchase access to an area called the ‘Posh Beach Club’, a private up scale sunbathing area away from the other 4,300 guests.

As a closing note, I encourage all my gay clientele and friends to try a straight cruise and meet some great people.   Let us guide you through the straight- gay friendly cruise options and NCL is definetly one of them.

GW Travel and Cruise is a proud supplier of gay and straight vacation options and who support both gay and straight Non- Profit charites.

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