Since the era of the jet (and the jet-set), Paris has been the top international tourist destination of the world. The tree-lined boulevards, sidewalk cafés and awe inspiring scenery of this French, Eurpoean and World capital never let visitors down. Plus, the city is a vibrant center of culture, creativity and innovation. With a bit of reflection, could it also be considered as the epicenter of the gay universe? Before protesting with shouts of San Francisco!, Sydney!, London! or New York!, take a closer look and discover the amazing diversity that Paris offers its gay and lesbian visitors.
Undeniably, the city stands out among even the most beautiful and fascinating world capitals. There is an unidentifiable element, or je ne sais quoi, in the ambience and aesthetics of the French capital. Majestic monuments, ornate architecture, and manicured gardens blend together in a mysterious way which never fails to sweep visitors off their feet. Paris is also a city of modern contrasts, where an immense multi-colored glass and metal art museum shares the landscape with a narrow and angular neighborhood which dates to the 17th century . And buried underground in roughly the same area is the largest subway station in the world and the city’s expansive and efficient public transportation system.
Prepare your senses and walk through the streets for a first-hand sample of the idyllic symbols of French life. Fresh morning croissants from the boulangerie, a long afternoon pause in an animated sidewalk café. Good eating and good living are national pastimes and Paris is the center of the (non) activity. And it’s all about French flair and savoir-faire.
After dark, the city transforms into a playground for the imagination. As you’re criss-crossing the city in search of the many sides of Parisian nightlife, catch a glimpse of the symbol international travel itself, the Eiffel Tower. Every hour its calm, watchful glow transforms into an effervescent light show in the night sky, a stunning effect created by the thousands of lights which were attached to the structure to celebrate New Year’s Eve 2000. The beauty and elegance of the spectacle is a true example of French flair and savoir-faire.
If glitter and glamour are not enough to convince you, here are some facts for gay and lesbian visitors. Over the years, Paris has always attracted the most open minds and free spirits. As a result, French culture as a whole is extremely tolerant. “Gay” issues here are almost non-issues.
It was one of the first countries to adopt a comprehensive civil partnership law. The mayor of Paris is openly gay. Et alors? With less division, gay culture here thrives and blends boldly with mainstream trends and everyday life.
Speaking of everyday life- while the language barrier is enough to make some tourists feel like an outsider, gay and lesbian visitors will quickly find that gay Parisians are progressive and internationally minded. The welcome and service in gay owned or gay friendly businesses throughout central Paris reflect this spirit. Whatever you want to see and do while in town, experience Parisian life first hand while you are here. Gay Travel France is the leader of gay accomodations in Paris offers over 100 contemporary, full-service flats throughout the Marais and other central neighborhoods. Gay owned and operated, the company’s friendly staff will also be happy to help Paris meet your great (gay) expectations.
Not convinced yet? Come and see for yourself what Gay and Lesbian Paris is all about. As the world’s other fascinating cities become more and more “gay friendly,” just remember:
Gay Paris has been out all along.
We’re the only one which has been Gay all along.
Here are some tips on how to live like a Parisian the next time you are in Paris with the help of gay owned/operated merchants.
Rent an apartment in the center of gay life. …… plug Gay Travel France
