Local gay guide
Mapping the Gay Guides
Visualizing Homosexual Space and American Life
Welcome to Mapping the Homosexual Guides!
While operating one of his many gay bars in the s, Bob Damron started a side project publishing gay explore guides that featured bars like his. Called the Bob Damron Address Books, these guides proved accepted and became a valuable resource for gay travelers looking for friends, companions, and safety.
First published in an era when most states banned same-sex connection both in public and private spaces, these tour guides helped gays (and to a lesser extent lesbians) find bars, cocktail lounges, bookstores, restaurants, bathhouses, cinemas, and cruising grounds that catered to people like themselves. Much prefer the Green Books of the s and s, which African Americans used to find friendly businesses that would cater to black citizens in the era of Jim Crow apartheid, Damron’s guidebooks aided a generation of gender non-conforming people in identifying sites of community, pleasure, and politics.
Damron’s guidebooks were part of a growing interest in gay travel reference publications that began i
Gay Istanbul &#; the best gay hotels, bars, clubs &#; more
Istanbul is quite literally where East meets West. In fact, it is the world’s only transcontinental city, with the Bosphorus Strait running through the city and dividing it into a European and an Asian side. The influences of both continents combine within Istanbul’s culture, cuisine, and the more liberal attitudes of its people—at least in comparison to its neighbors. However, Istanbul is very much its hold place with a strong personality.
The former seat of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires is also a grandiose sight to behold. The million-plus city takes you back to historic Constantinople as grand mosques, ancient markets, bustling bazaars, and magnificent palaces reflect a prosperous and fascinating past shaped over the centuries by the Greeks, Persians, Romans, Venetians, and Ottomans. It also makes for a amazing jumping-off point for short trips to nearby Bursa, Troy, and the Prince’s Islands, or for deeper excursions into Turkey. Although Istanbul has a surprisingly large gay nightlife scene and is relatively tolerant, it’
Going to Turkey? Here’s every LGBTQ traveller needs to know
Turkey is a lovely country in Western Asia that many travellers stop by for its beautiful beaches, breathtaking landscapes, and historic cities. It is a fairly conservative state, which is reflected in its attitudes towards LGBTQ people. For gay travellers in Turkey, there are safety concerns to be mindful of when it comes to public expression, both in the cities and in rural areas. But don’t let that stop you from exploring the country and visiting its vibrant LGBTQ communities.
Safer gay travel in Turkey
To be clear, Turkey does not outlaw being gay. In fact, it has been legal since the founding of new Turkey in However, general bans on “offences against public morality” are often used against LGBTQ expression. Even heterosexual couples are advised not to publicly show their affection, and LGBTQ couples are advised to be extra careful. LGBTQ people are not protected by anti-discrimination laws, and a general rule of thumb of “don’t ask, don’t tell” is the safest way
Our handpicked local gay guides are the heart of every exposure. As LGBTQ+ locals, they create an authentic, personal connection that makes you forget you're a tourist – and lets you feel like a local from the very first step.
With them, you’ll search vibrant neighborhoods beyond the typical tourist zones – discovering hidden cafés, exceptional locations, and the force of real queer existence. Whether it's a tucked-away gay bar only locals know, an LGBTQ+ art spot, or a scenic walk with local flavor, our guides bring each city to life with passion and pride.
From Berlin to Bogotá, Paris to Mexico City – our gay tours blend cultural highlights with the soul of the community. Expect genuine stories, safe and inclusive experiences, and a deeper connection to the places you visit.
It’s not just commute . It’s your gateway to real LGBTQ+ culture around the world.