Okay, I cannot be the only one who walks into the Starbucks on 26th street in Wilton Manors and feels like I walked in to my high school cafeteria…but, ya know, in a good way.

Seriously, we have the athletes in one corner, the intellects in another, the token artist drawing in a booth and the overly tanned girls waiting for their drinks at the counter.  Typical.

But in all seriousness, this is probably my favorite place to be during the day.  The staff is super nice and SO perky.  You might walk in having an off day, but you’ll more than likely leave with a reason to smile.

You really can’t beat the entertainment factor either.  In, like, the 20 minutes that I’ve been sitting here writing this blog I’ve overheard a discussion about feet, Grindr, and the ability to be rude without being rude (whatever that really means).  And I love the guy in the corner of the bar pretending to read a powerpoint print-out.  I say pretending because every time I look up his eyes are peeking over the paper at the super cute guy about 2 feet away from me.  Again, typical.

Such is Starbucks in Wilton Manors.

This Starbucks is located near The Cabanas Guesthouse and Spa.

Join Scandals for this Jack Daniel’s sponsored event on April 8, 9, and 10.  Hang out at the “VIP Ranch” and enjoy happy hour pricing on all liquor, all beer, ALL WEEKEND.  There’s even a free buffet Friday and Saturday.

For more information visit www.scandalsfla.com

This is awesome!  After over 150,000 people signed the petition at Change.org and intense media coverage worldwide, Apple has pulled the iPhone application launched by Exodus International that claimed gay people could be “cured.”

This is an epic win for the gay community especially with the dangerous myth circulating that young gay people can be “turned straight.”  It’s these falsehoods that are perpetuating depression and suicides among children and young adults.

Truth Wins Out, the organization that started the petition on Change.org, is thrilled.

Apple did the right thing because an incredible 151,125 Change.org members stood together to demand it.

For a decade now, The Miami-Dade Gay & Lesbian Chamber Of Commerce (MDGLCC) has hosted an annual gala awards celebration to honor corporate and individual supporters of the Miami-Dade LGBT community. Honorees are chosen for their long-term commitment to fostering diversity, as well as for their efforts in contributing to the overall well being and quality of life in South Florida.  This event will take place on Saturday, March 26 at 6 p.m., at the Hilton Miami Downtown Hotel, 1601 Biscayne Blvd.in Miami.

“As the voice of the LGBT business community, the Chamber is especially proud to have such an exemplary group to recognize this year,” said Steve Adkins, MDGLCC president. “We’re anticipating one of the largest turnouts in our decade-long history. This year’s gala will be particularly significant in light of the Chamber’s achievements in growth and influence, especially with the opening of the new LGBT Visitor Center in Miami Beach.”

The first award, The MetLife Business of the Year Award, is being presented to Greater Miami & The Beaches Hotel Association (GMBHA) for its commitment to diversity and inclusion of LGBT and allied community issues. The award will be accepted by Wendy Kallergis, president and CEO of the GMBHA, and Tim Nardi, boardchair.

“The hospitality industry in Miami-Dade employs nearly 10% of the county’s entire LGBT workforce,” Adkins said. “Additionally, the tourism tax revenue further impacts the lives of many LGBT citizens in South Florida both directly and indirectly. The Chamber applauds the effort of the GMBHA to recognize excellence in the industry across all diverse demographics and congratulates them on the ‘MetLife Business of the Year Award’.”

The second award, Hilton Miami Downtown Business Person of the Year Award, is being presented to Naomi Wilzig, World Erotic Art Museum, for embracing diversity in all forms and demonstrating excellent management and leadership skills.

“As founder and president of the World Erotic Art Museum in Miami Beach, Wilzig curates the largest erotic art collection in the world,” Adkins said. “An author of five books on her extensive collection, she is widely regarded as the leading expert in the field. In addition to her numerous charitable contributions, Wilzig is a longtime supporter of the MDGLCC and the South Florida LGBT community.”

Wilzig will accept the award.

The third award, Wachovia (A Wells Fargo Company) Non-Profit Organization of the Year Award, is being presented to Switchboard of Miami, Inc.as a non-profit organization whose philosophy embodies the highest standards of outreach to the LGBT and allied communities. Catherine Penrod, president and CEO, will accept the award.

“Switchboard’s telephone counselors provide comprehensive crisis counseling, suicide prevention, information, and referral services 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year,” Adkins said. “Through an extensive partnership with community agencies and service providers, Switchboard counselors can access an extensive database of more than 3,000 service programs — including counseling centers and agencies that provide services related to the issues affecting the LGBTQ community.  In addition, Switchboard services include faith-based help centers, Baker Act information, bereavement programs, substance abuse treatment, support groups, in-home counseling, sex and love addiction support, and youth-oriented programs.”

And the fourth award, AT&T 10th Anniversary Special Recognition Award, will be presented to Grey Goose Vodka, a Bacardi Brand for embracing diversity in all forms and demonstrating continued dedication to the betterment of the community through actions and leadership. Michelle Beauchamp, marketing director, and Erin Mitchell, brand manager, will accept the award.

“The LGBT market in Miami-Dade is known all over the world for its distinctive and well-supported fundraising activities and Grey Goose Vodka and Bacardi brands are, more often than not, standing tall behind the bars,” Adkins said. “They have contributed tremendously to many LGBT organizations’ successes during the past 10 years and in addition to their event support, their overall embrace of the LGBT community and the company’s open and accepting employment policies, make them a worthy honoree for this award.”

The 10th Anniversary Gala Awards Celebration will feature a VIP champagne reception and silent auction beginning at 6 p.m., followed by dinner at 7:30 p.m., the awards ceremony at 9 p.m., and then a DJ and dancing beginning at 10 p.m..

For the past several years, MDGLCC has selected a different color of the rainbow flag for its Gala theme and the theme for this year’s event is “A Royal Affair” featuring the color purple which represents royalty and loyalty. Gala attendees are encouraged to wear something purple.  This annual event is MDGLCC’s principal fundraising effort and helps sustain operations and the ever-increasing demand to expand programming.

Tickets are $1,750 for VIP tables of 10, $175 for individual VIP tickets and $95 for open seating.

Location: Hilton Miami, Downtown Hotel – 1601 Biscayne Boulevard, Miami
Contact: 305-673-4440

Source: www.hotspotsmagazine.com

On Sunday February 27^th, in conjunction with the nationally televised Oscars, The Manors Entertainment Complex hosted the 2^nd Annual Besties Awards, a ceremony recognizing the best of the best local businesses that cater to the gay consumer.

The awards, which are broken down into categories (like The Oscars), offer not only bragging rights for the winners, but a genuine claim to the exceptionally high standards of service that are provided by their businesses.

Over the past five years alone, the continual investments into The Cabanas amenities and services have generated quite a following within the global gay community, resulting in over 70% of their bookings coming from return guests, year after year.  Even through the harsh and extensive economic downfall, The Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa has maintained their growth by providing a truly remarkable experience coupled with unprecedented customer service.

Other nominees within the “Best Guesthouse” category included Aragon Inn, Ed Lugo Resort, Orton Terrace, Pineapple Point, The Royal Palms, and The Worthington.

Hosted by Joe Posa (in drag as Joan Rivers) and his equally interesting sidekick, Mikey Verdugo, the ceremony drew in a packed house. The Oscars were displayed live on numerous oversized screens for those in attendance, while The Besties Awards were presented during each commercial break. The classy, red carpet atmosphere, along with the issuance of awards made for a genuinely exciting and equally entertaining evening.

Upon acceptance of their award, John Dorry and Bill Barnish (owners of The Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa) thanked the community, their loyal and ever-expanding customer base, and Lary Arnett of Times Ten Creative Marketing Solutions for his outstanding work which has helped them achieve the status of “The Best Guesthouse in Fort Lauderdale.”

“On behalf of Bill, myself and the entire staff at The Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa are very grateful and thankful for all of the support we have received over the past 10 years and happily look forward to many more years of offering our guests a joyful and memorable experience at our Guesthouse & Spa”.

For more information, a virtual tour, or to book reservations at the multiple-award-winning Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa, visit them online at www.TheCabanasGuesthouse.com today.  To book by phone or to inquire about special requests, contact The Cabanas by phone at 954.564.7764 or 866.564.7764 (toll-free).  As the Besties Award implies, there isn’t a finer place to stay during your next visit to Gay Fort Lauderdale.

Fort Lauderdale, FL, is one of the world’s top destination for gay travelers, and  The Cabanas Guesthouse and Spa frequently offers last minute travel specials. Check here frequently for up-to-the-minute specials.

Here are the current special room rates available Jan 5 through Jan 12:

Queen Room Special: Reg: $169 per night   Book Now: $129 per night

King Standard Special: Reg: $179 per  night Book Now: $139 per night

King Premium Water Front: Reg $229 per night Book Now: $169 per night

To Book at these special rates you must call direct at either  866 564 7764  or 954 564 7764.  Please note that rooms and rates are based on availability and some restrictions may apply. Cannot be combined with any other special or previously made reservations. 

As most of you know, South Florida is a huge destination among the gay population of the United States. Whether it’s a tropical vacation getaway, a new place to call home or a winter destination for retired snowbirds, greater South Florida is known as a gay mecca that ranks second only in comparison to San Francisco.  So what is it about the area that attracts so much of the gay population into one concentrated area?

1.) The Weather – as this could be said for people of any sexuality, the sub-tropical climate of South Florida offers temperatures and scenery unlike anywhere in the continental US. While we may occasionally endure some extra humidity throughout the summer, the constant ocean breeze makes it pleasant.  However, our peak fall and winter season can only be described as a gay tropical paradise, especially with the early frigid temperatures already encroaching on the north.  Let’s face it – nobody likes shoveling 2 feet of snow in our designer shoes to make it out of the driveway.

2.) The Beach – the beach is an obvious factor that contributes to the higher gay population.  Where else (besides the Ramrod Bar) can we show off our muscle-bound bodies and reminisce over last weeks’ gossip with good friends.

3.) The Food – South Florida is truly a melting pot of cultures and offers plenty of options for dining.  From sushi to pasta or from organic to vegetarian, there’s a wide range of cuisine to satisfy the tastes of even the pickiest eaters. Keep in mind after eating all that delicious food, there are plenty of gyms to work it off.

4.) Where the Boys Are:  There is a movie with that title that premiered here 50 years ago. The title has had the same passion but taken on a new meaning.  Making Fort Lauderdale their destination, the boys are definitely here and it’s hotter than ever.
5.) Shopping – From Boca to Wilton Drive to Miami’s Lincoln road and practically everywhere between, there’s more than enough places to spend gay shop in South Florida.  And smart deals for fashion conscious gays can be found everywhere when the economy is soft.  Even the boutiques on Worth Avenue are giving away their Pradas.  (Well, sort of )

6.) Sunglasses – OK, this is still shopping but they deserve to be mentioned because they’re a must. They look cool, sexy, sophisticated and there’s no better way to hide the bags under your eyes after a long weekend of partying. Being the Sunshine State, nobody will ever know your motive. Additionally, you can stare at things with your head slightly turned in the opposite direction, as to avoid looking like a creep.

7.) The Clubs – Of course all cities have their fair share of clubs, but South Florida is a hedonistic  heaven with an extensive variety of gay  venues that range from dancing all night, to cruising all not, to sexing all night (yes, there are plenty of those types of clubs). From mild to wild, formal to abnormal, there’s isn’t a better area to get your drink on. However, we’re still curious (and nobody knows for sure) if tran-sexuals qualify for free drinks on ladies night…..?

8.) Entertainment:  Big names like Kathy Griffin, Margaret Cho and Joan Rivers all love their gays and perform here regularly.  On the local scene you can find everything from Drag Dining and Cabaret clubs that even includes a Drag Gospel Sunday Brunch to, of course, male strip clubs that cater to your every whim.  But if you’re looking for the best entertainment into town, it can be found just strolling up and down Wilton Drive and people watching.

Wow! So there it is.. The facts behind what makes South Florida so popular with the gay population. Of course not all gays will fall into the above stereotypes or agree with the reasoning behind it, but hey at least we all can agree on one thing – Lady Gaga’s new song is hawwwwwwt!

Wilton Manors, Florida. The Cabanas, Wilton Manor’s only guesthouse and spa, is celebrating its tenth anniversary.  What started out as a derelict, transient, weekly rental motel called Sante Fe Landings, is now a sprawling and luxurious all male retreat.  Over the ten years, owners John Dorry and Bill Barnish have transformed the property into an oasis for gay men visiting Wilton Manors, the heart of gay Fort Lauderdale.

As soon as guests enter the property, they are immediately immersed in a lush, tropical setting.  Like walking into a modern day Garden of Eden, Palm trees of every variety, ferns and tropical flowers line the walkway.  The rooms are sleek and well appointed, complete with flat screen TV’s and modern bathrooms.  The tranquil sounds of waves from the intracoastal and the two pools join in orchestra to create a serene environment.  The Cabanas is clothing optional but for those who choose to remain clothed, the atmosphere is still inviting and non-intrusive.

As the only guesthouse that’s located on the water, guests can take advantage of the complimentary kayaks and explore the picturesque intracoastal waterways up close.  Complimentary bicycles are also available for those who want a two-wheeled tour of the city.

The Cabanas is perfectly located so that guests can enjoy the myriad of shops, restaurants and nightlife Wilton Manors has to offer.  During the day, visitors can stroll down Wilton Drive and shop the clothing stores as well as the upscale and casual boutiques lining the drive.  Numerous eateries offering Thai, Japanese, Italian and Mexican fare stipple both sides of the road.  After a full day of shopping and sightseeing, guests can retire back to their rooms to relax in the salt water heated pool, hot tub or steam room.  Minutes away from Wilton Manors, guest can return to the strip as the nightlife start to sizzle.

Over the ten years, The Cabanas has undergone vast improvements.  The latest being the addition of the full service day spa.  The Cabanas is the only resort in Wilton Manors that offers this luxury.  From massages to hair removal, this European style day spa pampers its guests from head to toe.  It’s a retreat within a retreat.

Sticking to their tried and tested campaign of offering value and outstanding customer service, The Cabanas has been a favorite destination for gay men around the globe.  From a rundown hotel to luxurious get-away, The Cabanas continues to re-invent and redefine the notion of a gay guesthouse.  It’s the reason why they have not only survived, but thrived for the last ten years.

As we roll into the month of August in South Florida, things really begin to get hot – and we’re not just speakng about the weather. There’s so much to do in Fort Lauderdale for tourists and natives alike, regardless of the season, age, or sexual orientation. With August being one of the hotter months, is the ultimate time to take advantage of some of the more unique activities Fort Lauerdale has to offer such as boat rentals/tubing, scuba diving, wave runner rentals, speed boat rides, para-sailing and more.

Within recent years, Fort Lauderdale itself has grown into what may seem to be no less than one giant gay resort. Fort Lauderdale’s gay scene, or as many call it Gay Fort Lauderdale, is flourishing with gay-friendly everything – from bars and nightclubs to shopping, fine dinning and resorts – many specifically tailored to the gay lifestyle. Even those which are not specifically “gay oriented” often boast themelves as “welcoming all lifestyles” as in Fort Lauderdale there seems to be no “norm”.

The neighboring city of Wilton Manors (the gayborhood) is about 2 miles from the beach and loaded with a concentration of LGBT focused businesses and venues. A quick trip through Wilton Manors on any given weekend may leave you with the impression that you’ve slipped into a gay-only fantasy world, often one which may cause you to cringe at the simple thought of leaving, and for good reason. Did you forget to pack swim trunks in your suitcase?? No probem, you can always stop at Gay Mart and pick up another pair. Got munchies after a long night of clubbing at RamRod or other gay bars along the strip? Stop at Humpy’s Pizza at 1:45a.m. for great Pizza & Panini. And the list goes on and on.

It’s quite shocking, not to mention very satisfying to discover a whole culture of LGBT couples and individuals, all gathered into one beautiful area…. Have you died and gone to heaven?? No, you’re just gay in Fort Lauderdale.

Having been informed of a few things that Gay Fort Lauderdale has to offer, let’s talk about where to stay. There’s an abundance of gay hotels and resorts in the Fort Lauderdale area, however none quite as appealing as The Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa. Located just blocks from Wilton Manors on its own privately enclosed paradise rests The Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa. Bordered on 2 sides by a quaint yet refreshing waterway padded with lush tropical landscape, The Cabanas is an award-winning clothing-optional resort and a definite favorite of those who are “in the know”.

Since opening in 2001, The Cabanas excellent scenery, prime location, generous amenities and superior customer service have yielded a loyal following of gay travelers from literally around the world. When you stay at The Cabanas, it’s more than just a hotel room to sleep in – It’s the experience of a lifetime. It’s an opportunnity to meet great people and enjoy great company. It’s the freedom to walk, swim or sun-bathe in the nude. It’s the chance to make lifelong friends with whom you can create memories that will never be forgotten. It’s the luxury of being who YOU want to be, because unlike the other gay resorts, The Cabanas is all about YOU.

Indulge in yourself, indulge in your relationship, indulge in the real gay lifestyle. The ultimate gay vacation begins at The Cabanas Guesthouse & Spa of beautiful Fort Lauderdale/Wilton Manors. Don’t believe the hype??? View our (over 70 and counting) reviews on TripAdvisor.com, one of the most trusted and respected traveler review sites in the world. The words of our loyal and satisfied visitors say it all.

Visit us now at www.thecabanasguesthouse.com for more information on rates, availability and to make reservations. We’ll see you soon!