CHEERS, SWEETIE! Glow-up Your Bar with These Fab Four! Did your summer entertaining leave your home bar in a shambles? This time of year is a great time to give your bar a glow-up! Host of the podcast What R You Drinking? (and longtime GGN contributor) Raquel Richards tells us how:

Every home bar needs to keep up-to-date with the latest trends in beer, wine, liquors, and mix. As we ease into fall it’s time to give your bar a makeover, so you can keep offering cool cocktails to your guests into this new season.

There is no need to spend a lot, but let’s face it, we want to look fancy, don’t we?

Let’s start with a magic mix which can also double as a non-alcoholic cocktail. All you have to do is pour into a cocktail glass and garnish it with a flower or a piece of fruit. No passé lemons or limes though, please!

Ocean Spray Sparkling Drinks

Ocean Spray’s range of sparkling drinks offers a refreshing and flavourful twist on the classic cranberry juice. These bevvys are made with real fruit juice and sparkling water, making them a healthier alternative to sugary sodas.

• Sparkling Cranberry:

This classic flavour is a perfect balance of tart and sweet, with a vibrant cranberry aroma. It’s an excellent choice for any occasion.

To my surprise I really liked this one. Why was it surprising? Because one of my favourite mocktails is cranberry and soda water garnished with either cranberries floating in the glass or a strawberry! This pre-mix tastes just like homemade.

• Sparkling Pink Cranberry:

For those who prefer a sweeter option, Sparkling Pink Cranberry is a great choice. This drink has a delicate pink hue and a slightly sweeter flavour than the original Sparkling Cranberry. It’s perfect as a mocktail, just add a few pieces of dragon fruit into it!

This flavour will please those who love sweet cocktails. (My tastebuds prefer dry or bitter.)

• Sparkling Lite Cranberry:

For those watching their calorie intake, Sparkling Lite Cranberry is a great option. This drink has all the flavour of Sparkling Cranberry but without the added sugar. It’s a refreshing and guilt-free way to enjoy cranberry juice.

I enjoyed this one too, just as much as the Sparkling Cranberry. Serve as a skinny cocktail or mocktail to your guests. 

• Sparkling Cranberry Mango:

This unique flavour combines the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of mangoes. It’s a tropical twist on the classic cranberry juice. 

This is perfect if you or your guest like things on the more unusual side!

Now let’s get to some wonderful new alcohol additions you’ll want to add to your bar. 

Kronenberg 1664 Rosé Beer

Can we just admit rosé is so delicious we want to drink it all year – and do so? Introducing: Kronenberg 1664 Rosé Beer, a light and refreshing beer with a delicate pink hue. It’s brewed with a blend of malted barley, wheat, and hops. The appearance is of fine bubbles, slight cloudy haze, and light foam. The nose has strong fruity hints of berry. It has a balanced flavour of a refreshing raspberry undertone. Fine bitterness, while at the same time being slightly sweet.

This beer is perfect for sipping, and as a refreshing aperitif. I am a Kronenberg drinker and this rose beer pleased my tastebuds. However, due to its sweetness from the berries I can only drink one bottle or can. If you’re a sweetie though, this beer is for you!

It’s an excellent choice for pairing with food, such as grilled salmon or chicken. And I suggest using it for a marinade blend for salmon, chicken, and shrimp.

Chambord

This liquor is a toast to glamorous history. It dates from the late 17th century. The French royalty sipped on a black raspberry liqueur that would eventually become the Chambord we know of today. Fast forward to now, Chambord is considered a liquid gold liquor. It’s still crafted with the same passion and flair, just two hours south of Paris in the Loire Valley. 

The flavour consists of the following: 

• Raspberries and blackberries, Madagascar vanilla for smoothness and Moroccan citrus peel which gives it that zesty zing! Plus honey, which gives it a touch of sweetness, and XO cognac.

For six weeks, the fruits steep to extract maximum flavour. Then, they’re gently pressed to release all the juice. Then the fruit extract gets cozy with cognac, vanilla, and fragrant herbs.

Finally, the Master Blender steps in to ensure every drop is worthy of the Chambord name.

This is where I get excited! Chambord is like the little black dress of the liquor world – it goes with everything. Its versatility makes it a star player in countless cocktails which is why it’s perfect as a glow up for your bar. From classic French Martinis to innovative brunch sippers, Chambord adds that je ne sais quoi to any drink. Perfect for a Real Housewives brunch!

Adobe Organic Wines

These economical wines make a perfect table wine for your bar. Adobe Organic Wines are produced by a family-owned winery in Chile. These wines are made with organic grapes and are certified organic by the USDA.

Adobe Sauvignon Blanc Emiliana:

This Sauvignon Blanc has a bright and citrusy flavour with hints of tropical fruit and herbs. It’s a versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with food, such as seafood or salads.

Adobe Cabernet Sauvignon Emiliana:

This Cabernet Sauvignon has a dark and fruity flavour with hints of black cherry, plum, and spice. It’s a full-bodied wine, but don’t expect it to have that full jammy texture of a California Cabernet Sauvignon. 

I would serve this as a sipper for those who drink red wine and if you’re serving lamb, or a steak salad with tomatoes. 

And there you have it, my favourite add-ons to make your ba shine. A perfect host always has the basics stocked, add these into the mix. And don’t forget to include non-alcoholic and skinny options; many people are opting out of alcohol or interested in low sugar options.

Happy and responsible drinking!

• – Raquel Richards
  Get Raquel’s cocktail recipes over on What R You Drinking?

The post GGN FOOD + DRINK: Give Your Bar A Glow-Up appeared first on TheGayGuideNetwork.com.

GGN Food + Drink :: Forget cream-laden carbonara, this chorizo and wholemeal spaghetti version is nourishing enough for any winter’s night.

INGREDIENTS

• 200g spaghetti
• 1 tbs extra virgin olive oil
• 2 x 100g dried chorizo, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 1 sprig rosemary, finely chopped
• 2/3 cup (50g) grated parmesan
• 2 tsp white vinegar
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley leaves

METHOD

• 1.Bring a large saucepan of water to the boil over high heat.
• 2.Place chorizo and oil in a cold frypan, then place over medium heat. Once it begins to sizzle and the fat starts to render, cook, stirring, for 6 minutes or until crisp.
• 3.Meanwhile add the pasta to the water and cook until al dente.
• 4.Add the garlic and rosemary to the chorizo and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant then remove from the heat.
• 5.Use tongs to remove pasta from the water and place into the pan of chorizo, allowing excess water to follow along with 1/3 cup water.
• 6.Return the water to just below a simmer. Add the vinegar then gently lower in the two eggs using two small bowls. Poach for 2 minutes for very soft eggs.
• 7.Toss the pasta with half the parmesan and a little more water if needed and parsley and divide between bowls. Top with the eggs.
• 8.Sprinkle with extra parmesan, parsley and cracked pepper.

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WINTER VOREX :: Soup’s on! Taste-tested in the GGN kitchen, this super-simple, uber-delicious broccoli coconut soup also freezes well. Lemon grass and coconut milk help create a healthy soup that is atypical for fall/winter. We also taste tested what we think is The Perfect Sunday Breakfast (One-Pan Mexican Eggs), and then turned to Rob Bragagnolo, Executive Chef of Toronto’s Marben restaurant, who shared with us his recipe for a Perfect Sunday Dinner (Squash & Sage Risotto with Wild Mushrooms).

Related :: Read what Iron Chef Rob Feenie has learned in the kitchen here – and learn the secrets of Canada’s top new restaurants, here.

Broccoli and Coconut Autumn Adore

Broccoli is beautiful and nutritious food. This soup can be a meal in itself and consumed at any time – even as a snack. However, if you feel you need it to be a bit more substantial (protein richer), try adding some chopped spicy lamb sausage. Alternatively, grilled salmon works really well. If you don’t enjoy meat, add tofu or fried pieces of broccoli florets, or any other veggies (spinach is great).

Ingredients:

Broccoli – broken into chunks
1-2 fresh lemon grass sticks, finely chopped
Garlic, finely chopped – generous amount, yet according to one’s taste
1 large red onion, a couple of shallots or 1 small leek (or all three chopped)
1 tsp Cumin (approximately)
Pinch of Cayenne pepper OR spicy smoked Paprika
Black pepper/Olive oil/Coconut milk/water/sesame seeds to garnish

1. Heat up a generous amount of Olive oil in a deep pot.
2. Add garlic, lemon grass, red onion (and shallots and leek if you are using them)
3. Gently fry for a few minutes until they start to get lightly brown and add cumin. Sautee for a few minutes, making sure that the ingredients are not sticking to the pot or burning.
4. Add the broccoli and stir for another minute.
5. While it’s all sizzling nicely, pour the coconut milk in and simmer for a minute or two.
6. Add a bit of water, so that the broccoli is almost covered.
7. Cover the pot and let it all simmer on medium to high heat for five to ten minutes until broccoli is soft. Keep checking to see if there is enough water
8. Remove from the heat to let it cool.
9. Add Cayenne pepper or smoked hot paprika (according to taste) and black pepper.
10. Blend until smooth. Add more water if a thinner soup is desired. Serve garnished with a generous portion of sesame seeds and any fresh herbs, or even edible flowers (these look gorgeous on top!)

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GGN Summer Weekends Approved!

What’s gayer and more fabulous than a summer BBQ? A gathering of Big-Bold-Queers? We all know BBQ is short for “bar-b-que”, but why can’t we have both – and at the same time?

This week, we offer you a selection of delicious (and dare-I-say) healthy GGN approved BBQ delights that are a recipe for your Gay Guide to the Good Life. Many thanks to the lovely Janet Perry, C.H.N.C., CSNC, and Certified Holistic Nutritional Consultant, who created the recipes below.

Serrano Honey Grilled Chicken

With the long weekend quickly approaching, we’ve got grilling on our minds here at Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar. This recipe is one of our favourites, it’s simple yet its flavours are complex. The sweet and spicy flavours from the Serrano honey vinegar blend brilliantly with the garlic olive oil and Dijon mustard to create the perfect marinade. If you’re vegetarian, this marinade will work nicely with cauliflower or tofu steaks. You can easily double the recipe for a larger group. Serves 4

Ingredients

• 4 Chicken Breasts, boneless & skinless
• ¼ Cup Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar Serrano Honey Vinegar
• 2 Tbsp. Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar Garlic Olive Oil
• 2 Tbsp. Dijon Mustard
• 1 Tsp. Dried Oregano
• 1 Tsp. Smoky Paprika
• ½ Tsp. Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar Pink Himalayan Sea Salt

Method

1. In a small bowl mix together the vinegar, olive oil, Dijon, oregano, paprika, and salt.
2. Place chicken breasts in a stainless steel or glass bowl, pour marinade over top. Stir to make sure all of the breasts are evenly coated.
3. Cover and place in refrigerator for 2 – 4 hours, or overnight.
4. Preheat grill for a medium high and lightly oil the grate.
5. Remove chicken breasts from the bowl and discard unused marinade.
6. Cook chicken on the preheated grill until no longer pink when pierced with a fork and the juices run clear, 7 to 8 minutes per side.
7. Enjoy warm.

Corn and Avocado Salad

This salad is the perfect accompaniment to our Serrano Honey Grilled Chicken. The sweetness of the Pineapple White Balsamic neutralizes the heat from the Chipotle Olive Oil, creating a delicate sweet and smoky taste. This healthy and easy to prepare recipe is high in fibre, and loaded with vitamins and minerals. Serves 4

Ingredients

• 2 Cups Corn Niblets
• 2 Avocados, pit removed and diced
• 2 Roma Tomatoes, diced
• 1/2 English Cucumber, sliced
• 1 Red Pepper, seeded and diced
• Fresh Parsley, optional

Chipotle-Pineapple Dressing

• 1/4 Cup Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar Chipotle Olive Oil
• 2 Tbsp. Fresh Lime Juice
• 2 Tbsp. Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar Pineapple White Balsamic
• 1/2 Tsp. Ground Cumin
• 1/2 Tsp. Dried Oregano
• Pinch Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar Pink Himalayan Sea Salt – optional
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper to taste – optional

Method

1. To a serving bowl, add the corn niblets, avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, and red pepper.
2. In a small dish whisk the dressing ingredients together.
3. Toss the dressing with the vegetables.
4. Season with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh parsley, if using.
5. Enjoy immediately.

Grilled Asparagus

Asparagus is one of my favourite vegetables and this incredibly easy side dish is packed with flavour and nutrients. Asparagus is a very good source of fibre, as well as the antioxidant rich vitamins A, C, and E. Our Butter Infused Olive Oil is vegan and gets its creamy buttery taste from organic botanical ingredients. Asparagus adds beautiful colour and flavour to any meal. Serves 4

Ingredients

• 1 ½ Lbs. Asparagus
• 1 Tbsp. Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar Butter Olive Oil
• Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar Pink Himalayan Sea Salt
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper
• Aluminum Foil
• Lemon wedge – optional

Method

1. Wash and trim the asparagus spears.
2. Cut a piece of aluminum foil large enough to allow the asparagus to fit in a single or double layer. Clumping the asparagus together makes it more difficult to cook it evenly.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the asparagus, stir the spears around to ensure each one is lightly covered in oil.
4. Season with the sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
5. Fold over the foil and seal the asparagus inside so the foil doesn’t come open. Grill the asparagus for about 10 minutes turning the packet over halfway through grilling. Carefully open the foil packet to check if the asparagus is cooked to your liking. Re-seal and place back on grill for a few more minutes if it requires more time.
6. Open the packet and transfer asparagus to a serving plate. Squeeze some fresh lemon over, if using, and enjoy immediately.

Cascadian Wild Raspberry White Balsamic Shrub

This cool and refreshing drink is an excellent beverage to enjoy on a hot day. The White Raspberry Balsamic adds a subtle sweetness without adding any refined sugar. If you would like to make this into an adult drink, you can add an ounce of vodka. This drink without the vodka, has only 10 calories. You can’t go wrong! Serves 1

Ingredients

• Ice to fill a glass
• 1 Tbsp. Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar Cascadian Wild Raspberry Balsamic
• 12 – 16 oz. Chilled Sparkling Water
• Few Sprigs Fresh Mint (optional)
• Couple of Raspberries (optional)

Method

1. Fill a tall glass with ice, pour raspberry balsamic over the ice cubes.
2. Add the sparkling water, stir.
3. Garnish with fresh mint and raspberries, if using.
4. Enjoy immediately.

Note from the Editor At GGN we do like our ‘Adult Drinks’. Besides vodka, why not try adding a fine Canadian gin! Cheers to a safe and fun long weekend. 

At Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar we're a team of passionate foodies who believe you deserve the highest quality products to turn a simple meal into a gourmet culinary adventure in your own kitchen. We want our clients to not only enjoy fresh quality Non-GMO Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegars, but to experience the health benefits, uses, recipes and education within the beautiful surroundings of our spa-like store.Visit our website at Eau Claire Oil & Vinegar Bar.

The post Fabulous and Delicious BBQ Summer Recipes appeared first on TheGayGuideNetwork.com.

Try something different for Pride this year: out-of-the-ordinary cocktails to raise your spirits – enjoy!

Michael Fortier is the National Brand Ambassador for El Jimador tequila and Herradura Tequila. He shares with GGN a fresh tequila cocktail recipe:

Horseshoe Margarita 

• 2 oz. Herradura Reposado 
• 1 oz. Fresh Lime Juice 
• ½ oz. Agave Nectar 

Shake all ingredients together then strain over fresh ice in a rocks glass with a half salt rim. 

Billy Killin, bar manager at Viaggio Restaurant in Toronto, shares some recipes for light, summery cocktails – just in time for Pride!

‘Mojito de Sauco’ 

• 5 mint leaves
• 1.5 oz. Flor de Caña 7
• ½ oz. Elderflower Liquer
• ¾ oz. Lime Juice
• ½ oz. Simple Syrup
• Schweppes Zero Grapefruit or Blood Orange.

Shake, pour on ice, and top with the Schweppes Zero flavour of your choice and mint leaves. 

Caesar Proud

• 2 oz. El Jimador Tequila
• ½ oz. Red Wine
• 4 dashes Worcestershire 
• 2 dashes Sriracha 
• 1/5 tsp. Horseradish 

Top with Mott’s Clamato.

‘Violet Chachki’

• 1 oz. Crystal Head Vodka
• 1 oz. Dry Vermouth
• ½ oz. Lemon
• ½ oz. Simple Syrup

Infuse the first three ingredients with a bag of butterfly pea flower tea (turns the drink bright purple and adds tea flavour). Shake and pour on the rocks. Garnish with rainbow candy.

Hiccy Pride – whoopsie, I mean, Happy Pride! ?️‍?

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By Sabrina Pirillo

We all travel for the same reason: to discover what the world has to offer outside our comfort zone. Sometimes it’s to escape and take part in dreams of where we want to go, and knock things off the proverbial bucket list. 

I was lucky enough this past fall to take London, England off my bucket list. To my surprise (which travellers love), I fell madly in love with a little place in England called Brighton. Brighton is filled with cobblestone streets, little cafés and shops, and most importantly a splendid rocky beach with a pier.

Top Things To Do In Brighton

Where to Stay

The Old Ship, a four-star Georgian Hotel, overlooks the seafront and is a short walk to all things Brighton, including the remarkable Brighton Pavilion, Brighton Pier, and the Lanes Shopping Centre. The hotel, dating over 450 years old, is rich in history and Royal connections. The signature rooms emulate the seafront with the light blue pastel colours and a comfortable room setting. Serenity, slow-paced and beautiful, The Old Ship hotel offers the perfect stay just a short tube ride from London.

Where to Eat

I’m not vegetarian, but Terre a Terre came very close to converting me. This vegetarian restaurant has been in business over 23 years and offers fantastic, colourful local foods. From their hallumi, made to resemble fish and chips, to their KFC (Korean Fried Cauliflower), your palette will not be disappointed. To top off your meal add their local Blackdown Silverbirch Gin, distilled seven times over, to add to your experience.

Being of Italian decent, I’m always picky when eating Italian food outside of my family’s home. Edendum lived up to grandma’s Italian culinary experience. Located in The Lanes, this café uses local and organic ingredients offering breakfast, lunch, pizza, pasta, focaccia, sandwiches, panini, pastries and cakes. Don’t forget to end your meal with a fresh tiramisu.

Click Here to Watch Shaun Proulx’s Guide to Brighton.

What To Do

In 1822, gay living started in Brighton when George Wilson got arrested for inviting a man to his room. By 1988, a local newspaper deemed Brighton the gay capital of Britain.

For a detailed history of Brighton, Only in Brighton Piers & Queers walking tour will take you through this rich history, including where Vesta Tilly performed as a man in drag from 1864-1952, and where singer Dusty Springfield – the most popular performer of her era – came out as the first British Queer in 1970 just before David Bowie. In August 1964, Dusty performed alongside another band on the bill, High Numbers, who changed their name two weeks later to The Who, celebrating drummer, Keith Moon’s 17^th birthday!

Landmarks

A trip to Brighton wouldn’t be complete without seeing the newest attraction, British Airways i360, a pod that goes straight up 162 metres above sea level with a stunning aerial view of Brighton. The best part? The bar comes up with you!

The Lanes Shopping Centre is located in the city’s historic quarter in a maze of twisted alleyways. Featuring many independent shops, boutiques, and cafés all fabulously surrounded by cobblestone streets. These shops used to be fisherman’s cottages located away from the English Channel – fisherman didn’t want to have a sea-view once they were finished work for the day.

The Royal Pavillion is where King George IV, also known as Prince Regent, built this spectacular seaside pleasure palace to get away from his wife and meet his mistress.

For all things Brighton & Hove, visit www.visitbrighton.com.

What To Do In London

Where to Stay

Staying in London for a couple of days? Z SOHO is perfectly situated to get around London and close to café’s, bars, and of course, shopping. Featuring a lovely central outdoor courtyard, complimentary wine and cheese from 5-8 pm, and lavish bath products. Rooms are quaint with chic and modern amenities.

What To Do

The obvious answers to someone who’s never been to London are: The London Eye, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, Tower of London, and of course, Buckingham Palace.

Three of the best-kept secrets that I was glad to explore.

1) The Berkeley: Serving in Knightsbridge since the 1970s, The Berkeley is known for their legendary afternoon tea with changing delicacies every six months to follow the latest fashion trends. A posh and chic vibe with a plethora of tea and sandwiches to choose from.

My personal favourite is the desert tower that resembled different eras of fashion.

Watch Shaun’s Top Things To See In London

2) WICKED at The Apollo Theatre: For year’s I’ve been dying to see WICKED! I missed it twice in Toronto, New York, and few other cities. But I guess that was the universe’s way of telling me I was destined to see it in London at The Apollo Theatre and it did not disappoint. An incredible experience about the untold story about the Land of Oz, what it’s like to be a green girl, and two different paths taken, two different stories told.

3) The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour: A must see for any Harry Potter Fan! Only 40 minutes from London in Watford Junction, you’ll be whisked away in a HP Bus and your journey begins! The Making of Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour is where all eight Harry Potter films were made. You’ll see every prop, set, and costume design from the films, which are all housed in this studio. You’ll make your grand entrance into The Great Hall, see Dumbledore’s Office, and even stop and buy some Butter Beer! You’ll feel like you’re part of the set.

For more information go to www.visitbritain.com

Follow VisitBritain on social media

@VisitBritain, @LoveGreatBritain #LoveGreatBritain

The post S.Travel :: London Bridge and Brighton Piers appeared first on TheGayGuideNetwork.com.

Coming on board for this Majestic Alaska cruise was beyond extraordinary. The views were stunning, magnificent, incredible, and utterly breath-taking. The mountains disappear into the clouds, snow covered peaks disintegrate into mountain and forest. The tour of Alaska’s Inside Passage, the three cities of Juneau, Sitka, and Ketchikan, is amazing, and Alaskans generally are laid-back and appreciate the beauty that surrounds them.

Your first cruise can be very overwhelming. So many activities and parts of the ship to explore, mandatory safety meetings, and wondering if you should leave breadcrumbs to figure out how to get back to your room.

Not only was this my first cruise, it was my first cruise with Oliva Travel, the lesbian travel company who will be celebrating their 45th Anniversary next year! Their tagline is We bring women together… on vacation!

Whether you want to enjoy the relaxed vibe of an all-inclusive resort, sail the seven seas on a cruise with hundreds of lesbians, or immerse yourself in the culture of a new destination, Olivia has a vacation that’s sure to fit your style. The Olivia Experience is about women having fun together, making friends – and maybe even finding that special someone. With our world-class, just-for-you, entertainment; fabulous singles activities; incredible touring excursions; or even a touching commitment ceremony, you can be sure you’ll have a vacation experience you’ll never forget.

And that’s exactly what they delivered.

Being the straight girl on board, I was asked several times if I felt uncomfortable being on a cruise with almost 2000 lesbians. No, I couldn’t care less. I’m not used to being around that much female energy but I was excited! As a travel writer, Alaska has been on my bucket list for as far back as I could remember, so when the opportunity came up to explore this incredible place (that you forget is the 49^th state of the United States), it didn’t matter who I was sharing a cruise ship with.

I’ve been involved in the LGBT community for a decade now and this was one trip I wasn’t going to miss out on. Yes, I was hit on a few times, I was flattered (who wouldn’t be?), but not once did I feel uncomfortable or unwelcome. I met some incredible ladies that I still keep in touch with.

I engaged in everything from intellectual, meaningful, and even LOL conversations (most of those came with Happy Hour), and had a hoot at the evening shows right up to the White Party dance party. I met some of the most amazing, strong, beautiful women on the cruise who were on the ship so they could be themselves and share this experience with the love of their life, or to look for that special connection. I listened to their stories, their triumphs, to their heartbreaks, and losses of loved ones. I watched them smile and support each other and love and exude strength and humility, and even after finding out I was straight (we had some affectionate fun at my expense, but I always felt accepted). Humility and love and kindness are a universal language.

Helpful Cruise Points

Seeing as though it was my first cruise, I was lucky enough to have my dear friend, Richard Ryder, who has cruised before, give me some helpful tips:

• A good time to explore the ship is while most people are off doing excursions;
• Pay attention to the carpet in the elevators, they will remind you what day it is – two days in, you’ll have no clue what day, time or time zone you’re in;
• Attend the jewelry sale on board where you’ll not only get beautiful pieces at great prices, but pay no tax;
• Hang your clothes up to save space;
• Use a hair clip to keep the curtains closed in your room;
• Beverage packages are important;
• Bring an empty water bottle so you can refill it all week-long without a cost.

Pay attention to key events with on-board perks – e.g. attending a jewelry sale where they offer complimentary sparkling wine or attend a mixology martini sampling for $4. Find out when Happy Hour is where you can purchase your second drink for only $2. If you aren’t buying a beverage package but enjoy a glass of wine (or two) with dinner, purchase a bottle instead of individual glasses.

Food

Hello, diet, exercise? We’re going to have to break up for about a week. It’s not you it’s me, but I think we need a break.

Eating eventually becomes glutinous, well beyond survival purposes. I blame the endless and delicious options from the buffet: giant bowls of salad and pasta; meats, sandwiches, tacos, and burgers; and main dinner delights of fresh fish, venison, escargot, and German schnitzel!

Cruising Life

Every morning the captain greeted us with “Good morning Ladies of Olivia!” The very helpful and accommodating women and volunteers of Olivia spent the week ensuring we are taken care of, along with the folks of Holland America’s Oosterdam (Holland America (HA) originates in Amsterdam, and the ships are named after streets of that city, so Oosterdam means east dam).

There are so many activities planned that there’s something for everyone. People can do as few or as many as they like: play bingo in the morning, take dance lessons in the afternoon, watch a movie in the theatre, play some Wet & Wacky pool games, attend a workshop, meet your fellow passengers at a mixer, and the list (that they leave in your mailbox every evening) goes on!

Coming on board on your own? Well, they’ve created a SOLO schedule specifically for ladies who may come on board single, but not necessarily docking with the same status. Olivia created meet-and-greets, special SOLO breakfasts, activities, and even an area for dining.

A new addition on board was the Literary Adventures at Sea, which featured programming by Sapphire Books Publishing and Curve Magazine; tea and poetry readings by literary legends Dorothy Allison, Jennifer Fulton, Karin Kallmaker, and Lee Lynch. Erika Feinman was the recipient of Olivia’s 2017 Scholartrip program, designed by Olivia to inspire, motivate, and empower the next generation of LBGTQ leaders.

The extraordinary women entertainers featured the likes of comedians Karen Williams and Suzanne Westenhoefer, SUEDE, the smooth singer and one-time opener for Joan Rivers, and the talented Broadway veteran, Natalie Toro. Plus, we danced the nights away with sly DJ’s Wildfire and Lisa Pittman, whose music really saw the ladies let loose – and let me tell you these ladies know how to bust a move!

Choose to Cruise with Olivia

Alaskan cruises happen every other year so make sure to book your spot in 2019. In the mean time, NEXT YEAR IS Olivia’s 45^th Anniversary and you can celebrate with their Caribbean trip happening April 2-9, 2018, plus choose from so many other trips including Mystical Norwegian Fjords, 45^th Anniversary Hard Rock Vallarta and New LGBT Club Med Sandpiper.

The best part about Olivia is that you can set up a more comfortable payment plan for your trip, so you don’t have to pay in one lump sum.  This is a personal travel company that works with you to bring memories of a lifetime on your schedule. And if you book while on board, the savings are greater!

The reason that Ladies of Olivia Travel together is because though they could spend money on a resort to holiday with families and silent strangers, with Olivia, they know who they’re travelling with. Ladies of Olivia can be themselves, enjoy time with family and old and new friends, and know that their money is well spent.

I heard about why these ladies were here, some veterans who have been travelling with Olivia for over 20 years, and some newbies soon to become veterans. It’s like being part of a family, an extended family, who you travel and make memories with. Olivia is its own community and takes the travel industry to a whole new level.

Gratitude

There was so much love and support aboard the Oosterdam.  My fantastic shipmates exuded the definition of be who you are and have, in a way, rubbed off on me to allow myself to accept who I am; my beauty both inside and out. We’re all so hard on ourselves sometimes but these extraordinary, strong, beautiful women are who they are and accept not only the women around them, but themselves. I think sometimes in life we struggle with that. Trying to fit in and hide our true identity for fear of being teased or bullied.

The gratitude from this trip not only comes from the beauty of Alaska that my eyes witnessed, but what my heart got to experience both on and off the ship.  Thank you ladies of Olivia, for giving me the gift of appreciating myself just a little bit more than I did before I left the shore.

By Sabrina Pirillo, editor of S. Travel

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MANGO MARGARITA ICE POPS :: Cazwell‘s 2010 summer hit “Ice Cream Truck” is now a certified queer beach season classic; we have it on repeat around here every summer. But it isn’t just the deliciousness of the sexy, sweaty ice cream boys featured with the singer that makes our mouth water. As we waft through the dog days, this gourmet upgrade on the classic ice pop using our favourite spirit keeps us drooling too.

Mango Margarita Ice Pops

Combine 2 1/2 cups of chopped mango with 1/4 cup of silver tequila (who’s kidding who here!), 1/4 cup of fresh lime juice and 1/4 sugar (we sub in agave nectar) in a blender. Puree until smooth, pour into 6 ice pop molds and freeze until solid, about 4 hours.

Enjoy with this video pairing:

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DON’T POO-POO A CLEANSE :: Doing a detox cleanse, also called detoxing, is becoming increasingly popular, and this time of year is the perfect time to give your body some love before strutting your stuff this spring and summer. GGN spells out the facts about how to cleanse, and offer two cleanses to try. Plus, we took Dr. Oz’s 3-Day re-set cleanse and share how that went.

We asked Calgary-based holistic nutritional consultant Janet Perry, Certified Holistic Nutritionist, (who recently supplied GGN the garlic soup recipe readers went crazy for) to share her how to cleanse expertise and provide advise and sample recipes.

What Is Cleansing? The whole foods used in cleansing remove most sugars, bad fats, chemicals and artifice commonly found in a modern diet, consuming only those for a period of time is termed a ‘detox’ or a ‘cleanse’. Proper cleansing encourages the body to do what it wants to naturally, is gentle and should be tolerable for longer periods of time. A cleanse can take from three days to six weeks. Notes Perry, “A safe cleanse is one which doesn’t make you starve yourself or take fancy pills, potions or expensive drinks.”

Why Cleanse? Our bodies become toxic when our natural method of eliminating metabolic waste from poor diet and environmental pollutants and other factors cannot keep up with the amount of toxic overload. Toxicity can affect every system in the body, making us sick. Common complaints that can help you determine whether you have a toxic overload include:

• Constipation, constant headaches, muscle ache and fatigue
• High consumption of tuna, swordfish and shark
• You have mercury dental fillings and dental amalgams
• Food allergies/sensitivities
• Stubborn weight loss
• Being on a daily medication regime (such as HIV meds)
• Hormonal imbalances (and consistent use of hormone replacement treatments such as birth control)
• Consistent use of
• ibuprofen or acetaminophen, or other over the counter medications
• Skin abnormalities such as acne, rosacea or eczema
• A lifetime of consuming lesser foods

Should I Cleanse? If you’ve experienced:

• fatigue or low energy levels
• sugar cravings or cravings for baked goods
• salt cravings
• having less than one bowel movement per day
• indigestion / acid reflux
• difficulty losing weight
• recurring infections, colds or general malaise
• frequent headaches
• bad breath or excessive body odour
• skin problems, such as acne, eczema, flushing or rashes

you will likely benefit from a dietary cleanse.

What to expect during your cleanse: People can sometimes experience what is known as a healing crisis –  this reaction occurs when the body tries to eliminate toxins at a faster rate than they can be properly disposed of. The more toxic one’s bodily systems are, the more severe the healing crisis. Such reactions are temporary and can occur immediately — or within several days, or even several weeks, of a detox. Symptoms usually pass within 1-3 days. When GGN publisher Shaun Proulx’s husband, Patrick Marano, who had never cleansed before, joined Shaun in attempting the Dr. Oz 3-day re-set cleanse, he was in bed all Day 2 feeling nauseous and suffering from headaches. The healing crisis is the result of every body-system, in concert, working to eliminate waste products through all elimination channels and set the stage for regeneration.

Common symptoms of a healing crisis are:

• diarrhea
• extreme fatigue and/or its opposite, restlessness
• cramps
• headaches
• aches / pains
• insomnia
• nausea
• sinus congestion
• skin eruptions, including: boils, hives, and rashes
• strong emotions: anger, despair, sadness, fear, for example

To ease your way through a healing crisis, drink plenty of fresh water to flush the body of toxins. Try to drink from 2 to 4 litres per day to help flush the toxins out of your system and speed along the detoxification.

It sounds awful. What’s the upside?

Some of the ways a detox can benefit you are:

• improved immune function
• more energy
• clearer complexion
• weight loss
• removal of mucous, congestion, fermentation and inflammation in your digestive tract

A cleanse can also help reform lifestyle addictions for sugar, salt, alcohol, junk foods, nicotine, etc.

Perry created the following basic, 7-day cleanse for GGN readers; Proulx has continued this cleanse for as long as 30-days before, noting, “The longer I stuck to it, the easier it became and the better I felt.”

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DINING :: The Tropicale and Coral Seas Lounge was one of our favourite new finds in Palm Springs – and apparently all of America agrees. The Tropicale was declared one of the top 100 restaurants in the United States by Open Table.

Expect it to be packed with a glamorous-but-casual crowd, and expect a throwback vibe that’s perfectly modern with just a hint of kitsch (but god how we love their seahorse logo).

And how we love their menu. The Tropicale offers a superior food experience and this is how we know: We went for their popular Sushi Sunday. Sushi. In. The Desert.

And it was sublime, inventive, and as good as if you were by the sea. Tropicale offers a far wider ranging menu than simply sushi – click here to view their creations.

Our high-energy hysterical waiter that night was the son that Lady Bunny and Jack from Will & Grace didn’t know they had, added-value that may not be guaranteed when you go. But just look for the table having the best time, like we were, and ask to be seated in that section.

–  S.Travel Approved*

* S.Travel is our coveted publishing stamp of approval on LGBT travel destinations, accommodations, bars, restaurants, adventures and experiences. Look to S.Travel for the very best LGBT travel the world has to offer. Join us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest in LGBT travel ideas, tips and fun, and sign up to receive our free  S.Travel Newsletter.

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DINING :: Located in Palm Springs’ trendy Uptown Design District, TRIO offers an energetic, desert-casual atmosphere featuring American modern at reasonable prices. It’s where Palm Springs residents eat and drink, always a good sign.

Once a bank, TRIO’s front entrance is a wall safe. The restaurant opened when partners Tony Marchese and Executive Chef / co-owner Mark Van Laanen had a dream to take simple comfort food and add a contemporary twist to it.

Mission successful.

“When you walk in the door it’s all about comfort, the surroundings and the food,” as Marchese himself says. “Our goal has always been to create a restaurant with a unique energy, where anyone can come dine two to three times a week. We are a proud part of the community in which we love, work, eat and play.”

Their extensive menu features a variety of fish, steak, and organic salads, plus seasonal items from local growers and farmers.

We recommend the Soy Ceviche to awaken the taste buds: edamame, tofu, tomato, cucumber, avocado cilantro, sriracha, chilli, and lime. The oven-roasted Australian Sole with Israeli couscous is an excellent main.

New to the family: The Purple Room – Purchased recently by Marchese and Van Laanen, The Purple Room is a Palm Springs favourite, legendary as home to the Rat Pack who used to perform there. The Purple Room offers a classic supper club/lounge feel bringing you right back to Hollywood’s heyday.

–  S.Travel Approved*

* S.Travel is our coveted publishing stamp of approval on LGBT travel destinations, accommodations, bars, restaurants, adventures and experiences. Look to S.Travel for the very best LGBT travel the world has to offer. Join us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest in LGBT travel ideas, tips and fun, and sign up to receive our free  S.Travel Newsletter.

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MUST EXPERIENCES :: It’s not a vast city by any means, but Palm Springs packs a hard punch when it comes to that moment when you decide lying poolside is done. Here are a few of our tried and true favourite things to do in Palm Springs:

To Get Your Bearings: Your first stop is always Oscars’s Cafe & Bar, in the heart of the city. You won’t find a more welcoming, open-hearted environment to refresh, nosh, and make a plan. The staff here are always above-par with their reception of guests, helpful, and happen to serve up the perfect food for when you’ve stepped off a plane, checked into your hotel, and need to energize so your holiday gets off to a good start.

To Get High: True confession: we love to shop. That said, we’ve been to many outlets malls on many continents and the newly expanded Desert Springs Premium Outlet mall beats them all. It’s a very quick drive outside of the heart of the city (no more long drives to savings!), the prices are what we call “real” deals ($50 off isn’t that big an offer!) and best of all, we’ve never seen so many coveted brands under one roof. Honestly, one of us had heart palpitations last time we were there and just needed to go off on his own; he couldn’t speak, just shop.

To Come Down: Smoketree Stables always feels like coming home – and we don’t have horses at home! Yet the atmosphere is immediately soothing, the staff – many real cowboys – are experienced pros ready to assist any rider: new, pro, or nervous as hell. A two-hour ride through the canyon is the tonic every mind/body/soul needs, which is why you’ll return every time we’re in Palm Springs. In this 2011 video, GGN publisher Shaun Proulx and then-fiance Patrick (Eddie) Marano, visit Smoketree for the first time:

To Bust Your Butt: At least once in Palm Springs, you must take their aerial tramway – the world’s largest rotating tram car – just to experience the breathtaking views as you rise over the cliffs of the Chino Canyon. Begin the 10 minute ride at the Valley Station – elevation 2,643 ft. and end at the Mountain Station – elevation 8,516 ft. From there, take a hike and drink in views unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

To Be Classic Queer Palm Springs: Wang’s In The Desert, famous for their happy hours, is a must when you visit Palm Springs. Their award-winning Pan-Asian menu is drool-worthy (we like letting our server pick dishes to try based on telling him our likes / dislikes), Tip: Return to Oscar’s the next morning for their amazing breakfast and brunch. Guaranteed to kill that hangover. Or, if you wake up and you’re still at Wang’s their Dim Sum is fantastic.

–  S.Travel Approved*

* S.Travel is our coveted publishing stamp of approval on LGBT travel destinations, accommodations, bars, restaurants, adventures and experiences. Look to S.Travel for the very best LGBT travel the world has to offer. Join us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest in LGBT travel ideas, tips and fun, and sign up to receive our free  S.Travel Newsletter.

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LGBT TRAVEL :: La Soupe Populaire. 

Featuring minimalist table settings, warm lighting and 1930’s designed porcelain dishes, guests can choose to dine in the Studio House or at the Chef’s Table in the kitchen, an intimate gathering space for friends to watch food creation at its finest.

La Soupe Populaire is also the latest restaurant run by the starred chef Tim Raue. Awarded two Michelin stars for his food’s quality and originality, this is his third restaurant in Berlin. Raue’s menu is part of an overall concept and his creations are inspired by the art being exhibited with four appetizers, four main courses and two desserts and a selection of ten reds and ten white wines to compliment each item on the menu:

S.Travel’s recommendations:

– Fried herring with mustard seed and lamb’s lettuce.

-konigsberger klopse (also known as lamb meatballs) with mashed potatoes and beet root.

-And finally our personal favourite to end a fantastic meal: the restaurant’s infamous Bee Sting Cake

A unique setting where the art is complimented by the food and the atmosphere is warm and inviting, La Soupe Populaire is the perfect place for any diner who’s ready for a different experience.

More on La Soupe Populaire here.

–  S.Travel Approved*

* S.Travel is our coveted publishing stamp of approval on LGBT travel destinations, accommodations, bars, restaurants, adventures and experiences. Look to S.Travel for the very best LGBT travel the world has to offer. Join us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest in LGBT travel ideas, tips and fun, and sign up to receive our free  S.Travel Newsletter.

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Featuring the green tiled fireplace, The Mani offers warm tones and a welcoming atmosphere. Whether you decide to head there for after dinner drinks or sit down for some starters served in the center of the table-like tapas style (which is the way S.Travel recommends doing; you can see the vast array of sumptuous food offered). With an extensive wine list – offerings from all over the globe – you’ll see why Mani Restaurant is the perfect place to settle in for a long cozy night out with old friends.

Some of S.Travel’s recommendations at Mani (to share) include:

-Beetroot with goat cheese and granola

-Lamb Sausage with fennel choucroute

-Foie Gras Burger with black truffle (a definite must!)

-Roasted Char

-And for dessert (this is the part where you stop sharing): the Chocolate Mousse from Jivara and the Yoghurt Dumplings with nougat, lavender and pomegranate.

Bête ‘Avon!

More on Mani Restaurant.

–  S.Travel Approved*

* S.Travel is our coveted publishing stamp of approval on LGBT travel destinations, accommodations, bars, restaurants, adventures and experiences. Look to S.Travel for the very best LGBT travel the world has to offer. Join us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest in LGBT travel ideas, tips and fun, and sign up to receive our free  S.Travel Newsletter.

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EXPRESS THE LOVE YOU FEEL :: Ask a gay man who has been in a relationship about what can cause a breakdown and it’s likely the word communication will arise. Resolving arguments, expressing anger, under-developed listening skills, and feeling the need to “win” arguments are common challenges in intimate relationships between gay men.

Psychotherapist Dale Curd says that’s because men are taught to communicate in a very specific way.

“Men communicate by fixing things,” says Curd, a leading authority in North America on men’s mental and emotional health. “Recognizing there are more ways to communicate is key.”

Communication is particularly important when it comes to the subjects of love and appreciation, areas in which typically men have difficulty with, Curd says.

“But it’s important to say or show how you feel – today,” advises Patrick Marano, husband of GGN publisher Shaun Proulx. They couple first began dating in 2008. “Your relationship doesn’t have to be in a bad place for you to do something good for it. >Tweet this! We make a point of showing each other our love. We call it “putting on the ritz” and its amazing how a little goes a long way.”

If actions speak louder than words, this past spring, Marano pulled out major ritz to communicate his love – clearly. Married since 2011, the pair still have yet to take a honeymoon. Instead of waiting for that to happen, Marano created a mini-honeymoon that remained top-secret until the day-of. “You’ve never seen someone so thrilled as my husband when I told him to pack a weekend bag on a Friday morning,” he says.

Instead of flying off somewhere, Marano whisked his husband in an SUV to the Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, just blocks from where they reside.

“The hotel is so decadent, we didn’t leave the building for two nights and three days,” Marano says. “It was an incredible way to strengthen our bond.”

He points to the exceptionally high standards of the luxury hotel as example of how-to in expressing appreciation. “They went out of their way to put thought into everything for us,” he says. “The key word being: thought. You have to put thought about the person you are in a relationship with, thought about how you can show them you care.

“When I was working with Ritz-Carlton on this surprise, they excelled at this. They took the time to find out about us. They asked, “How can we make this weekend memorable?” It mattered to them. So take the same approach with the person you love. The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto wanted to know everything about our wedding day, they wanted to see pictures, they wanted to know Shaun’s favourite cocktail. Everyone should appreciate their partner the way Ritz-Carlton Toronto appreciates its guests.”

Marano elaborates, saying that from the moment they arrived until the moment they left, the hotel made them feel like superstars. “Staff knew who we were on sight; everyone had been made aware of how special this weekend was. Whenever we passed a staff member we were wished “Happy Honeymoon!”. We were whisked up to their Club Level and served glasses of champagne while we took care of check-in business. We stayed in a magnificent space called the Simcoe Suite, which is jaw-dropping. It was very easy not to leave a lake view, Italian linens, and an oversized soaking tub for three days and time like that for a relationship is invaluable.

“When you show someone you love that you are paying attention to them, it really means a lot. Ritz-Carlton had set out more champagne on ice for when we first walked into the suite, and tied to the ice bucket was a bouquet of balloons with a design that matched my Tom Ford wedding jacket. That means a staff member saw one of our wedding photos and actually sourced out balloons to match. I was so touched. It’s always the thought means the most; our partners remember how we make them feel. Our room was also filled with black calla lilies – our wedding flower – plus all the wedding photos I sent them to reference ended up in frames, all around the suite, which are now in our home.”

Shaun’s favourite drink – vodka martinis with stuffed olives – was duly noted and served in the relaxation lounge between their My Blend by Clarins facial and deep-tissue massage in the hotel’s #1 ranking spa. After a dinner at the hotel’s tribute to Toronto, TOCA, (where even 2-star Michelin Chef Oliver Glowig came by to offer the duo his warm wishes) the couple returned to their suite to find min version of their wedding cake.

“It was better than the original,” Marano says. “And yes, it was an incredible experience to be treated like kings this way, but it made me realize: isn’t that what we all want for our relationships? For them to be an incredible experience?”

If putting on the ritz means serving up The Ritz-Carlton royal treatment, it doesn’t mean  you need to express your love and appreciation with a gesture as grand as the one Marano orchestrated. However, you should be prepared to commit to a high level of communication maintenance, say Curd, who offers his clients “The Rule of 3” to help them in becoming strong communicators of their feelings:

1. Incorporate 3 acknowledgments every day between each person, making heart-felt acknowledgements, such as, “I really appreciate what a great listener you are.”
2. Ensure 3 non-sexual physical connections per week. Hold hands on a walk, cuddle while watching TV, or greet each other with a hug at the end of a day.
3. Create 3 relationship-building activities each month. Focus on figuring out how you want to spend your time together.

Advises Curd, “Explore something your partner loves:  Spend a day exploring something your partner loves to experience which may be unknown to you-or, not something you necessary would choose to do. Or spend a day consciously choosing to hold each other’s hands as often as you can. Walk, talk, dine, etc while holding hands.  Next to a kiss, it is the most intimate, non-sexual action we can enjoy.”

Follow Dale Curd on Twitter.

Tour the Ritz-Carlton:

– With reporting by Vance Hedman.

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LGBT TRAVEL  :: Eveleigh Restaurant located on West Hollywood’s infamous Sunset Blvd., the Eveleigh (pronounced ever-ly) is a favourite restaurant of celebrities and the local general public. Turning four years old this November, the Eveleigh is ageing well in such a “here today, gone tomorrow” environment. Part of the key to Eveleigh’s success: an on-trend local, farm-to-table and market inspired menu with hand crafted, seasonal cocktails, market fresh herbs and fruits.

Named after an inner-city suburb in Sydney, Australia, the home of the award-winning Eveleigh Farmer’s and Artisan’s Markets features a spacious, true-LA outdoor patio, packed with decorative pieces from antique fairs across the US.

Eveleigh is where you go to share with friends – just one look at the menu, and you’ll want to try one of everything. Here, you can. S.Travel’s personal recommendations for sharing: French fries enhanced with truffled aioli, patatas bravas, black quinoa & baby radishes, and the lamb meatballs should get you started.

However, if you’re more like Joey Tribbiani of Friends and don’t share your food (we get it), try the buttermilk quail, tomato aioli, lamb’s quarters, morita chili, and grilled lemon.

More on Eveleigh Restaurant.

–  S.Travel Approved*

* S.Travel is our coveted publishing stamp of approval on LGBT travel destinations, accommodations, bars, restaurants, adventures and experiences. Look to S.Travel for the very best LGBT travel the world has to offer. Join us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest in LGBT travel ideas, tips and fun, and sign up to receive our free  S.Travel Newsletter.

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LGBT TRAVEL :: Tortilla Republic Restaurant in West Hollywood was named the Los Angeles area’s best place to drink by Forbes in 2012; S.Travel had to find out for ourselves if this was the case.

It is. Tortilla Republic is a warm, modern, inventive and comfortable Mexican grill and tequileria in West Hollywood that fills every craving for Mexican you could have – including gluten-free options – without going south of the border. Their margarita cocktail bar is filled with delicious concoctions like their Cucumber Lavender Margarita and goes well with ceviche, enchiladas or carnitas! And if you’re the tequila-loving individual who has woken up many mornings with vague recollection of the previous night’s festivities, you’ll love the bar’s extensive tequila list that includes blancos, anejos, reposados and reservas.

Extra kudos for the hospitality. The staff is very friendly – without being cheesy. Have a seat at the bar, on the patio or inside the stunning main dining room, where warm autumn colours make you feel like you’re sitting in a lavish forest.

More on Tortilla Republic.

–  S.Travel Approved*

* S.Travel is our coveted publishing stamp of approval on LGBT travel destinations, accommodations, bars, restaurants, adventures and experiences. Look to S.Travel for the very best LGBT travel the world has to offer. Join us on Twitter and Facebook for the latest in LGBT travel ideas, tips and fun, and sign up to receive our free  S.Travel Newsletter.

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KITCHEN PREP :: At GGN we are firm believers in many things: no one in Abercrombie after age 28; and asparagus season is agonizingly short, for example. The former we can’t help with, but the latter we’re on, because all too soon melt-in-your-mouth asparagus season will have vanished.

So you can make the most of asparagus season, below are two of our easy favourite dishes courtesy of two of our favourite food experts. Munch using fingers while watching grown gay men in age-inappropriate clothing pass by:

Grilled Asparagus with Shallots, Lemon & Prosciutto

Choose uniform stalks of asparagus of medium thickness for grilling, since puny stalks do not retain texture and juiciness when cooked over the coals. Enjoy as part of an antipasta platter, as a side dish or salad.

2 lbs (1 kg) asparagus, trimmed
3 tbsp + 1 tsp (45 m+5 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
Kosher or sea salt
2 slices prosciutto, cut into slivers
Freshly ground black pepper
1 shallot, finely chopped
1 tsp (5 ml) finely slivered lemon zest
Freshly squeezed lemon juice, to taste

Toss asparagus stalks with 2 tbsp (30 ml) olive oil and season lightly with salt. Grill until tender and nicely charred, turning over the coals every few minutes to cook and brown evenly, 6 to 10 minutes, depending on thickness of the stalks.

In a small skillet, heat 1 tsp (5 ml) olive oil.  Add prosciutto and sauté until lightly browned and crisp, 2 to 3 minutes. Set aside.

Transfer asparagus to a platter and sprinkle with shallot, lemon zest and prosciutto. Drizzle with remaining olive oil and season with pepper and lemon juice to taste. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Variation: Omit prosciutto and add a garnish of shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano. Replace lemon juice with a dash of aged Balsamic vinegar.

Serves 6

– Jane Rodmell

Asparagus Mimosa

A classic dish named for the pretty yellow-and-white flower, perfect for asparagus season. Press a peeled hard-cooked egg through a fine, stainless steel sieve to create the bright and fluffy garnish.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon white-wine vinegar
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon coarse salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large hard-cooked egg
2 pounds steamed asparagus

Whisk together vinegar, mustard, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in olive oil. Push egg through a fine sieve. Spoon vinaigrette over asparagus, and top with grated egg.

– Martha Stewart

Happy Asparagus Season! Celebrate the spear!

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A re-location of the world-famous hotel icon now sees Four Seasons Toronto soar magnificently 55 storeys above Yorkville, the heartbeat of all things chic in the city. Warm and sophisticated, the renown hotel is an immediate home you never want to leave; understated Canadian elegance personified.

D-Bar is the perfect lounge for a tête-à-tête over martinis and casual fare (just be careful: a sexy scene can erupt as evenings wear on), and we’ve enjoyed the loft-like Café Boulud and it’s global-influenced menu so many times now (including Christmas dinner) that we should have an appetizer named after us. Four Seasons’ 30,000 square foot spa is unparalleled (bearing in mind we’re spa babies who know from spas) – the Asian fusion massage remains on our list of Best 5 Massages Ever.

Top reason to stay at Four Seasons Toronto: the staff. Perhaps Four Seasons’ strongest strength – from check-in to wait staff to the gents opening your cab door as you stumble home from the revelry – each make a Four Seasons Toronto guest feel only warmly welcomed at all times.

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A PERFECT COZY SUNDAY :: Our perfect cozy Sunday menu of One-Pan Mexican Eggs, Broccoli and Coconut Soup, and Squash & Sage Risotto with Wild Mushrooms wouldn’t be complete without a killer dessert. We’re still salivating over the Sriracha Chocolate Mousse from Toronto’s Bangkok Garden (which recently received the prestigious Thai Select designation from the Ministry of Commerce, Thailand), and so begged Chef William Thetsombandith for the recipe. He kindly agreed to share with GGN:

Sriracha Chocolate Mousse

Yields 6 servings

1 cup Dark Belgian chocolate chips
1 Egg
1 can (560ml) Coconut milk
1/4 teaspoon Salt
1 tbsp Vanilla Extract
1 tbsp Sriracha sauce (hot sauce)

Method:

Combine coconut milk, salt, vanilla and Sriracha sauce  to a boil on medium heat. Turn off the heat and let the contents rest for five minutes.
Blend the chocolate and the egg together in a blender and then slowly pour in  the coconut milk and continue to mix for a couple minutes until smooth.
Strain the mixed through a fine mesh or fine strainer.
Combine chocolate chips with egg in a blender until smooth, then add the coconut milk mixture and blend until smooth
Strain the mixture through a fine mesh or fine strainer for a smooth and creamy mousse
Portion in six martini glasses and set in the refrigerator for three hours or more depending on the temperature of your refrigerator.
Garnish with a berry and mint leaf or a red chili

Related :: Read what Iron Chef Rob Feenie has learned in the kitchen here – and learn the secrets of Canada’s top new restaurants, here.

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