The Gazi (the name of the trendiest area of town) is the centre of gay nightlife in Athens. We visited this European ‘hot spot’ several times during our stay in the city of the Greek Gods. Formerly the old Athens gasworks area, the Gazi is well known for nightlife with dozens of bars, straight and gay (who knows which is which in this city). You will also find restaurants and cafés of every price range in abundance.
It has taken us twenty five years to return to Honolulu, the tropical Hawaiian capital located on the island of Oahu. There have been some big changes, but it is surprisingly familiar and the welcoming ‘Aloha’ charm never changes. Here are some of our impressions for the second time round.
Black volcanic lava covered the landscape as we flew into Kona, the largest and newest of the Hawaiian islands. Kona is so young in geological terms that very little of the lava has weathered and the landscape is stark, black, barren and unforgiving. Whether its beaches, water sports, marvelling at the volcano or dining watching a magical Kona sunset the Big Island of Hawaii is packed with things to do. Ironically, this severe, rugged wilderness protects some of the most precious, enigmatic jewels of the Hawaiian islands and keeps us yearning to return and discover more.
Flying into Maui from the Big Island on a ten seater, single engine Mokulele Airlines plane was a little bumpy and scary at times. However, the views were magnificent and blissfully distracting as we flew low and closely hugged the coast, leaving behind the Big Island with its turquoise waters and rugged black volcanic landscapes. As we neared the island of Maui the lush, emerald green, mountainous terrain appeared rimmed with small tourist towns clinging to its radiant coastline.
Brisbane Pride’s gala LGBTIQ event, the Queen's Ball, was held again this year in Brisbane’s iconic City Hall, with the totally on-trend theme of ‘Going to the Chapel’. Four hundred plus patrons dressed to impress in their most glamorous clobber, some in snug fitting suits, sparkling dresses and even the obligatory white wedding gowns. However, it was the drag queens who stole the show with their amazing frocks, dazzling make-up and brilliantly styled hair.
Royale Nam Tok Restaurant in Phuket, Thailand is a class act from start to finish. The sumptuous dining space, the superb service by host Corry and the culinary art by Chef Marc are a combination usually only found in a Michelin Star restaurant. We arrived at 8:00pm at their exquisite home by day and exclusive restaurant by night. With only six tables set with fine French napery, antique silver cutlery and elaborate glassware, this place is a touch of pure opulence.