With Martha Chapman
09APR08
Robert Zuzek of Austrian-specialty tour operator Kompas Express with Gabriele Lenger of the Austrian National Tourist Office
Deb Parent of Conxity celebrating with John Kenyon of Pride FM, the world's only commercial radio station geared for gays
Move Over Gay Paree – Here Comes Vienna!
Almost everyone recognizes that gay and lesbian travel is a fast-growing market, but few target it as well as the city of Vienna.
That was the theme of the get-together at the sultry bar Atelier in the heart of Toronto’s King St. West recently, as leading lights of the gay travel community gathered to learn a little more about VIE and its options for the gay and lesbian community.
“Gays and lesbians want to know where they will be welcomed – and safe,” said Deb Parent of Conxity.com. “And Vienna has done a terrific job, with its famous gay balls and gay-friendly restaurants and bars.” Gay men in particular, she added, appreciate good food and good hotels, so when you see a city targeting the gay traveler, even straight folks will receive the benefits of a quality infrastructure.
The city has published a Queer Guide, full of details sure to be of interest to gay clients. Listings include bars, restaurants, clubs, and sports clubs, as well as a schedule of annual events.
The not-to-be-missed event is the annual Life Ball (May 17 this year), billed as “the most spectacular queer party in Europe,” which raises more than a million Euros for HIV projects each year. Have fun while you support a good cause? Viva Vienna!
© Open Jaw
