How to Plan a Gay-Friendly Trip to Paris

Whether you fall in love with Pierre or Paris, the "City of Light" truly fulfills its reputation as one of the most romantic, beautiful and civilized cities in the world.

Things You'll Need

• Guide books

Instructions

1. Plan your trip to Paris well in advance. Make a list of the types of transportation, accommodations and activities you desire or need.

2. Research Paris via books or the Internet. Look for the abundant hot travel deals offered on Web travel/auction sites.

3. Determine your budget in advance since Parisian accommodations can quickly deplete your dollars (however, the dollar is strong against the franc now, so Paris will seem much cheaper than London or Geneva).

4. Schedule your trip during April if possible to witness the magic of springtime in Paris. Visit Paris at Christmas for fabulous holiday shopping along les Champs Elysées.

5. Focus your attention upon Paris' two gay districts - le Marais (4th arrondissement) and les Halles (1st arrondissement) - which boast more than 200 gay bars, restaurants, hotels and shops. Adopt the Parisian joie de vivre and dance the night away at two of many hot discos: le Central and le Queen.

6. Choose among Paris' many notable tourist destinations worthy of your attention, including la Tour Eiffel, Notre Dame (cathedral), la Musée d'Orsay (Impressionist art museum), le Louvre (art museum), les Tuileries (gardens), Versailles (castle), Montmartre (cathedral) and a Bateau Mouche ride along the Seine.

Tips & Warnings

• Several books and Web sites provide information for travelers with HIV or AIDS (necessary vaccines, foods to eat and not to eat, where drinking the water is safe and so on).

• Avoid Paris in August if possible. Many Parisians make a mass exodus to escape the sultry temperatures and lack of air conditioning.

• Try speaking French if possible. You'll generally receive a much warmer reception.

• Grab copies of Paris' gay rags at the gay/lesbian bookstore Les mots a la Bouche.

• Consult a gay travel agent, and confirm your reservations prior to departure.

• Carry your passport, extra cash, traveler's checks and several credit cards at all times.

• Get a written prescription and doctor's letter if traveling with medications.