H. W. Y. D. D.

Lisbon battles overtourism by banning cars from city center

courtesy City of Lisbon

Portugal is a tourism hotspot, and the locals in Lisbon have had too much.

After years of complaints about the overabundance of tourists in their city, starting Apri 26 and for the next three months, cars are not allowed to drive through the city's historic center. This includes sections of major roads like Av. 24 de Julho, which runs along the waterfront. If the plan is successful in improving quality of life in the city center, officials will extend the ban.

The goal is to cut down on congestion in the city and push travelers to public transportation, instead of driving cars or using rideshares like Uber. Lisbon has also launched several infrastructure projects, and the restriction against cars will speed up construction.

Lisbon is a somewhat small city, by European standards, and many of the city's tourist sites are within walking distance of the historic center and the cruise port.

Lisbon also stopped issuing licenses for new Airbnbs, due to the sharp increase in housing costs for locals. Building owners have converted large numbers of housing into short term rentals, and the availability of so much cheap lodging has brought in way too many tourists for the city to handle comfortably, and those tourists treating residential areas like hotels have made life frustrating on a daily basis.

Lisbon public transportation runs on an extensive network, including their famous streetcars.

Paris and Amsterdam have also implemented rules that will stop inner city through-traffic.

 

New hotel rooms with views of the Bellagio fountains are coming to Las Vegas

flickr.com/photos/thejas/

Because a visit to Las Vegas wouldn't be complete without watching the dance of the Bellagio fountains, rejoice! There is a new way to soak in the show, without standing on the sidewalk with the rest of the commonfolk.

According to Casino.org, a tower at the newly-rebranded Horseshoe Casino, which was formerly Bally's, is now being converted into part of the Paris casino property that is next door. With that conversion, balconies will be added to those new Paris rooms, with views of the Bellagio fountains.

 

Bye bye, Bally's. flickr.com/photos/vegashotels/

 

The former Bally's tower and Paris casino resort property are separated by a narrow street, Audrie St., so a walkway is will be constructed to bridge over the street and connect the two buildings. And of course this will be convenient for nobody. But Paris rooms are "at a higher price point" (more expensive) than the new Horseshoe, so building those new balconies will increase the price even more. 

It should be noted that the Bally's tower looks nothing like the Paris buildings, but the rooms will be tricked out like the Paris rooms so it will all match inside. Casino hotels in Las Vegas rarely match their intended themes anymore. (Planet Hollywood used to be The Aladdin, and still features the pointed arch windows of the original design, which have nothing to do with the Planet Hollywood brand.)

Did you know: Bally's used to be the MGM Grand, until Bally's bought it and rebranded it as Bally's in 1986. Back in 1981, that MGM Grand was the site of the worst disaster in Nevada history. Fire erupted in a restaurant, and wasn't contained because parts of the building didn't have fire sprinklers installed. A ball of fire literally blew out of the front doors, onto the Las Vegas Strip. 85 people died. But fortunately over 1,000 people were rescued by helicopter from the roof.

Anyway--enjoy the view of the Bellagio fountains. They're lovely.

 

 

Everything you need to know about Brett Goldstein's appearance in San Francisco

Brett Goldstein, known for his role as the uber-grouchy Roy Kent in the Apple TV+ series "Ted Lasso,” will perform his latest one-man comedy show to San Francisco, at the Orpheum Theatre.

"Brett Goldstein Live" will be a show of stand-up comedy and storytelling, which Goldstein has said in interviews is his favorite style of performing. He has created four one-man shows in the past, including "Brett Goldstein Grew Up In A Strip Club," which was based on the true story of his former job running a strip club with his divorced father. Hopefully some of those stories will be included in the Orpheum show.

Here's a clip of him performing at a comedy club in London many years ago:

 

Some Fast Facts about seeing "Brett Goldstein Live":

 - The show will be May 16 and 17. Buy tickets here: Brett Goldstein Live

 - The Orpheum Theatre is in San Francisco's theater district, near the Civic Center.  Bay Area Rapid Transit has a Civic Center Stop, and the Market Street streetcar runs in front of the theater. Although taxis/rideshares are a really good idea. There has been a significant increase in crime increase around the Civic Center. If you drive, there are parking garages 3 or 4 blocks away, but God help you if you park your car on the street.

Actually that's it. Just two Fast Facts this time. Go see the show. It should be fantastic.

Viva Italia! Spend the day in Capri

View from the Giardini di Augusto

Capri, a beautiful island in the Bay of Naples, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy. Known for its stunning natural beauty, high-end shopping, and luxurious resorts, Capri is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Italy.

If you're planning to spend the day in Capri for the day, here are some of the top activities and sights to include in your itinerary.

Start your day with a visit to the Blue Grotto. This sea cave is one of the most iconic attractions on the island, The water inside the cave is a bright, electric blue color. You can take a boat tour to the Blue Grotto from the main harbor, and once you arrive, you'll transfer to a smaller rowboat to enter the cave. It's a bit of a tight squeeze, but it's well worth it for the incredible views.

flickr.com/photos/bradfordcoy/

After your visit to the Blue Grotto, head to the Piazzetta, the main square in Capri town. Here, you'll find a number of high-end shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as some stunning views of the sea. Take a stroll around the square and soak up the atmosphere, or sit down for a coffee or light lunch at one of the cafes. flickr.com/photos/cbrug

 

Of course you have to try limoncello, which was created in Capri. Look for bottles of Limoncello di Capri in bars and cafes, renowned as best brand from the island.

capri.com/en/c/limoncello-di-capri

Take a trip on the Chairlift Anacapri Mount Solaro, for the best views in Capri, of the Gulf of Naples and Mt. Vesuvius. The round trip is only 13 minutes, so it is a quick, exhilarating journey with a beautiful view.

If hanging on a chairlift isn't for you, enjoy the view from Giardini di Augusto (photo top of post). Near the Piazzetta, the gardens overlook the ocean and Via Krupp, which was built in the early 20th century, offers some of the most dramatic views on the island. 

End your day with a visit to one of Capri's stunning beaches. The island is home to a number of beautiful coves and bays, where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters or simply relax on the sand. Some of the most popular beaches include Marina Piccola and Faro di Punta Carena.

 

Best spa towns in Europe

Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, Switzerland

 

Europe is home to many beautiful "spa towns," which offer visitors an opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs, therapeutic pools, and luxurious spa facilities. Each of these spa towns is home to several spas and wellness centers that offer a variety of treatments and facilities. Here are some of the best spas in each of these towns:

 

1. Bath, England:  

Bath is known for its beautiful 18th century Georgian architecture, including the Royal Crescent and the Circus. The Thermae Bath Spa is one of the most popular spas in Bath, featuring indoor and outdoor pools, a rooftop pool with stunning views of the city, and a range of spa treatments. Bath has been a spa town since Roman times, when the hot springs were first discovered and used for their healing properties. The town's Roman Baths are among the best preserved remains of the Roman Empire in the world, dating back as the year 70 AD, and the town's history and stunning architecture have earned the designation of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

2. Karlovy Vary, Czech Republic:

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Medical tourism (translation: plastic surgery) is booming business in Karlovy Vary, but this town has traditionally been known for its beautiful location (photo above), the historic spa buildings, and the many hot springs in the area, the largest shooting 40 feet into the air at 160 degrees F. Spa hotels abound in Karlovy Vary, and the Grandhotel Pupp is one of the most luxurious. Wellness is serious business here--look at this menu of spa services.

 

3. Montecatini Terme, Italy:

This Tuscan town is famous for its beautiful Art Nouveau architecture, tree-lined avenues, and well-manicured gardens.  The Tettuccio Terme (photo above) and the Excelsior Terme are two of the most popular spas in Montecatini Terme, offering a range of treatments and facilities in beautiful Art Nouveau buildings. The Grotta Giusti is another popular spa option, featuring a thermal cave and a range of spa treatments.

 

4. Baden-Baden, Germany:

Baden-Baden's beautiful spa facilities include the Friedrichsbad, a Roman-Irish bath that features stunning mosaics, frescoes, and marble columns, and the Caracalla Spa (photo above), with its stunning pool. The town's location in the Black Forest adds to its natural beauty, with plenty of hiking and outdoor activities nearby.

 

5. Evian-les-Bains, France: 

Located on the shores of Lake Geneva (that's the British name; locals know it as Lac Léman), surrounded by beautiful mountains, this town's boasts ornate Belle Epoque architecture, including the historic Hotel Royal and the Casino d'Evian. The Evian Spa at the Hotel Royal is one of the most luxurious spas in Evian-les-Bains, offering a range of treatments and facilities in a beautiful Art Deco building. The Thermes d'Evian and the Thermes de Thonon are other popular options, featuring natural hot springs. And yes, this area is the source of Evian water, and the water is used for medical treatments.

 

6. Spa, Belgium:

The concept of a "spa" as a place for bathing in mineral waters to promote healing, it's true, the concept began here, in the town of Spa, Belgium. This town's natural beauty comes from its location in the forests of the Ardennes Mountains, and the historic spa facilities, including the Thermes de Spa (photo above) and the Les Bains de Spa, are famous for their healing spring waters for bathing and drinking. Many of the mineral springs produce naturally sparkling water. 

 

7. Székesfehérvár, Hungary:

Hungary is world-famous for its baths, most notably in Budapest of course. While you're there, take a trai  to Székesfehérvár (known as just Fehérvár among the locals, pronounced "fe-HAIR-var"), a historic town in the heart of Hungary, surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. The town's spa facilities, such as the Arpad Bath (above) and Anna Grand Hotel and Spa are known for their thermal waters. 

 

8. Vichy, France:

Vichy is known for its beautiful Art Deco architecture, including the stunning Opera House and the elegant Grand Casino. The Vichy Celestins Spa Hotel is one of the most luxurious spas in Vichy, offering a range of treatments and facilities in a beautiful Art Deco building. The Les Célestins Spa is another popular option, featuring natural hot springs and a range of spa treatments.

 

9. Opatija, Croatia

Opatija has been a popular spa town for over 100 years, drawing visitors to enjoy the mild climate and the gorgeous beaches of the Adriatic Coast. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Opatija became a fashionable resort for the Austro-Hungarian elite, and many grand hotels and villas were built in the town. Thalassotherapy Opatija is one of the largest and most popular spas in Opatija, and has a more medically influenced care model than other spa retreats. The spa in Hotel Bristol offers as traditional spa treatments, and a range of medical treatments of rheumatism, arthritis, and other chronic conditions, using natural healing methods.

 

10. Bad Ragaz, Switzerland:

Located about an hour east of Zurich by train, Bad Ragaz is famous for its thermal waters, which have been known for their healing properties since the Middle Ages. Today, Bad Ragaz is home to the magnificent Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, featuring a historic indoor thermal pool for guests only (photo above), and also the famous Tamina Therme, an indoor-outdoor thermal pool that is popular with local residents (photo, top of this story).

 

Everything you need to know about Jennifer Coolidge's appearance at Vivid Sydney

"The White Lotus" creator Mike White is getting lead billing for his appearance at Vivid Sydney, but he will share the stage with the star of the show's seasons 1 and 2, a.k.a. his good friend and theatrical muse, Jennifer Coolidge. And of course everyone in the audience will really be there to see Jennifer Coolidge. 

"Mike White & Jennifer Coolidge in Conversation" at Vivid Sydney is described as "a deep dive into the power of storytelling, satire and friendship, featuring insightful and hilarious anecdotes from decades working in Hollywood." How fun!

Vivid Sydney features a programs about "creativity, innovation and technology," with live music performances, public art displays, lots of food, and panel discussions about the environment, technology, art, and a few interesting programs about sex. The program with White and Coolidge will be the festival's headline attraction.

Here's some Fast Facts about attending Vivid Sydney, from May 26-June 17:

    1) There are 184 events on the Vivid Sydney schedule, happening in various locations around the city. Tickets for each event are sold separately.

   2) The program "Mike White & Jennifer Coolidge in Conversation" will occur on June 10, at Aware Super Theatre, in the Chinatown neighborhood of Sydney. Tickets are here: Vivid Sydney Mike White and Jennifer Coolidge

    3) Also be sure to watch the Vivid Sydney light show in Darling Harbour. Get an up-close view on a Vivid Sydney light cruise

    4) There are hotels and short-term apartment stays throughout the city center, near the theater and sites of other Vivid Sydney events. Australian travel site Wotif is offering discounts on some lodging when booked through this link: Vivid Sydney hotels, or at least that's what they say...

    5) Because a significant portion of the audience for any Jennifer Coolidge event will be gay men, it should be noted that the gay district of Oxford Street is a 5 minute drive away, with some of Sydney's busiest bars and nightclubs. Fans of "Priscilla, Queen of the Desert" might enjoy visiting The Imperial Erskinville, which was the pub and bar featured in the opening scenes of the movie, accessible by the double-decker B line bus until 12:30 a.m., or by Uber.

 

 

 

 

 

The case with Alec Baldwin is getting complicated

flickr.com/photos/unfccc

The case of Alec Baldwin, the gun, and the dead movie director is getting complicated.

Criminal charges against Baldwin in the death of movie director Halyna Hutchins have been dropped, according to ABC News.

Baldwin had been charged with involuntary manslaughter after the death of  Hutchins, the director of Baldwin's movie "Rust," who was killed when Baldwin discharged a gun on the movie set. The gun, which Baldwin was using as a prop, had a real bullet in it, and the reason for that is still unknown.

The movie's armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, was also charged with involuntary manslaughter, and she is still charged. The armorer on a movie set is responsible for maintaining weapons used during production, and ensuring their safety before giving them to actors, and she had given the gun to Baldwin and said that it was safe for him to use.

Prosecutors in the case said that charges were dropped against Baldwin because of new evidence was found during their investigation. However, they also said that charges could be re-filed against him, as their investigation continues.

But since "the show must go on," as the saying goes, production of the movie has resumed--with Hutchins' husband now working with Baldwin, as executive director. That must be an awkward movie set.

Meanwhile, Baldwin is still being sued by Hutchins' parents, and the attorney for that lawsuit is Gloria Allred, Hollywood attorney extraordinaire. That's totally on-brand for Allred, who seems to seek out these media circus lawsuits to have her name in the news.

When "Rust" completes production, Baldwin will then jump into filming a new movie, "Hollywood Heist," co-starring Mickey Rourke and Nick Cannon. Both Rourke and Cannon have had plenty of drama on their own, so they probably aren't bothered by Baldwin's current fiasco.

 

Millennial and Gen Z travelers unite for European Pride celebrations

Contiki Pride

Do you want to visit Europe during Pride but you don't want to go alone? Contiki, the global tour operator for travelers ages 18-35 is planning three tours of European destinations during the 2023 Pride celebrations:

Spain Pride in Barcelona and Madrid

Barcelona Pride

European Pride in London, Paris, and Amsterdam

Contiki's tours are specifically designed for Millennial and Gen Z travelers, aged 18-35, which means that all tour members are in a similar age range. The tours utilize a range of accommodation options that are geared towards young adult, including hostels, hotels, and these accommodations are often centrally located and offer a social atmosphere, making it easy for travelers to meet and connect with other people. And the prices are kept much lower than traditional tour companies.

Contiki's tours are designed to be fun and social, with a focus on meeting other travelers and experiencing local cultures. The company places a strong emphasis on sustainable and responsible travel practices, and has implemented a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact and support local communities. 

Best gay bars in Istanbul

https://www.flickr.com/photos/pedrosz/

Let's have an Istanbul moment.

Istanbul is massive--technically it is the largest city in Europe, although London is the largest metropolitan area when all surrounding suburbs are included. And there is much to see.

Of course there are the major tourist attractions like Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar, which are must-sees. Try a visit to a Turkish bath, like the historic and luxurious Cağaloğlu Hamam. Or perhaps a visit to the male only Aquarius Sauna?

But the city really comes alive at night, and the gay nightlife is legendary. The main gay district of Istanbul is the historic area of Taksim, with some other bars located in the artsy neighborhood of Beyoglu.

Despite some societal and political challenges from the Islamic-influenced government--police have forcefully suppressed Pride parades in recent years--same-sex relations is not illegal in Turkey, and Istanbul has a range of gay bars, clubs, and cafes. 

Here are some of the best gay bars in Istanbul.

1. Mor Kedi Cafe

Mor Kedi Cafe is a popular LGBTQ+ cafe in Istanbul's Taksim Square, which turns into a gay bar in the evenings. The cafe serves a variety of drinks, snacks, and light meals. Mor Kedi Cafe is particularly popular with the lesbian community in Istanbul, and young men come for early cocktails.

2. Cheeky Club

Cheeky Club is a lively after-hours gay club located in Istanbul's Beyoglu district. Local and international DJs play a range of music genres. and the club has a nice dance floor. Open only on weekends, and don't bother coming before 1 or 2 AM.

3. Super Fabric

Super Fabric Club is a big, European-style nightclub with drag shows, dancers, and DJs playing dance music. Cover charges on Friday and Saturday nights are a little more expensive than the rest of the city's club scene but the crowds don't seem to care, The scene is younger, mixed gay/straight, male/female. And apparently the men look like this:

4. X-Large Club

X-Large Club is one of Istanbul's largest and most popular clubs, although it has become much less gay and more mainstream over the years. Located in the city's Maslak district, the club has multiple dance floors and bars, as well as several VIP areas for private parties. The club hosts regular events and parties, featuring both local and international DJs.

5. Love Dance Point

Love Dance Point is a popular gay club located in Istanbul's Kadikoy district. The club has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere, with a spacious dance floor and plenty of seating areas. Love Dance Point plays a range of music genres, from pop and electronic to Turkish and Arabic music. The club also hosts regular drag shows and performances. It looks like a fun place.

6. Tekyön

Tekyön is a popular gay bar located in Istanbul's Taksim Square. The bar serves a range of drinks, including cocktails, beers, and Turkish raki. The bar also hosts regular karaoke nights. Check out the photos of their dancers.

7. Rocinante Bar

Rocinante Bar is a small and cozy gay bar located in Istanbul's Galata district. The bar has a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, with a rustic decor that gives it a vintage feel. Rocinante Bar serves a range of drinks, including cocktails and beers, and has a small outdoor terrace area. 

8. Stay Club

Stay Club is Istanbul's "Bear Club," and is located in Istanbul's Taksim Square. The bar is crowded on Friday and Saturday nights, across two floors. The dance floor is small but that's why the burly Turkish men like it. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Now is a great time to visit the Cook Islands

The Cook Islands is a stunning archipelago in the South Pacific that is made up of 15 small islands. Located between New Zealand and Hawaii, its closest neighbors are the islands of French Polynesia, including Bora Bora. The islands are known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant Polynesian culture. There is also an absence of major hotel resorts, which tends to keep lodging prices lower than other Polynesian destinations.

Snorkeling and scuba divingare of course major draws for visitors here, and the reefs surrounding the islands are home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, colorful fish, and even humpback whales from July to October. Another popular activity to do is to simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. The weather is cooperative year-round, although the driest and mildest months are April, May, September, and October.

The citizens of the Cook Islands are mostly Maori, a Polynesian culture that is native to New Zealand, and the Cook Islands have strong political connections to New Zealand in matters of international defense. The islands use the New Zealand Dollar for their currency.

Maori people in the Cook Islands are culturally very friendly, and traditional Maori music and dance is thrilling, particularly their drumming. So locals are welcoming to visitors participating in their numerous festivals and performances. The food in the Cook Islands is also a highlight, with a mix of Polynesian and Western influences. Some popular dishes include ika mata (raw fish marinated in coconut cream) and rukau (cooked taro leaves).

One of the best times to visit the Cook Islands is during the annual Te Maeva Nui festival, which celebrates the islands' independence and culture. The festival includes traditional dance and music performances, as well as sporting events and food stalls.

Accommodation options in the Cook Islands range from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. The islands are also easily accessible, with direct flights from major cities in New Zealand, Australia, and the United States. Starting May 20, Hawaiian Airlines begins nonstop flights from Honolulo to Rarotonga, with a flight time of approximately 6 1/2 hours.

Although the culture  is conservative, and Christian missionaries converted the local culture to Prodestantism in the early 1800s, gay relationships between men were decriminalized in April 2023, as Prime Minister Mark Brown said, “it is not the job of government to tell people what their sexuality is.”