Places in the Canary Islands and southern Israel that can guarantee winter sunbathing. An introduction to gay cruises, tours and holidays - from huge Atlantis cruises to more intimate trips. Save time and money, and get a better holiday experience, by booking through a gay tour operator or travel agent.
Browse our growing catalogue of guides to Europe's favorite cities, beach towns and regions - each giving you great tips on what to do, see and where to eat. Go to our Events Home Page to view all events in Europe coming up over the next 12 months. Built on the proceeds of trade and finance, Amsterdam is both a royal capital and a testament to the style and affluence of its merchants who, in the 17th century, made Amsterdam the wealthiest city in the world. It's still one of the world's most wealthy and cosmopolitain cities, and Gay Amsterdam can claim to be one of Europe's big 5 gay cities - along with London, Barcelona, Madrid and Paris.
Breaking free from Spanish rule, the newly-formed Dutch Republic was a beacon of religious, economic and intellectual tolerance. Such tolerance has continued to this day - when it comes to being gay Amsterdam is probably Europe's most liberal city. Amsterdam's merchant ships sailed the world, its financiers established the first stock exchange, and its builders created a stunning network of canals, bridges and houses that today makes it such a unique city.
Amsterdam is now the seat of the royal family, although not of government which presides in The Hague, with the resultant royal palaces and state buildings adding to the architectural and cultural mix.
If it is your first trip to Europe, make sure to include Gay Amsterdam on your itinerary. Any self-respecting gay capital needs to offer superb shops - and Gay Amsterdam doesn't disappoint. Nieuwendijk and Haarlemstraat, close to Central Station, offers the finest food stores in town. The gay district in Amsterdam also has some fun gay shops - selling sex toys, clothing, DVDs and books.
