Chalk it up to the black ice still lining the sidewalks in New York, but we’ve been longing for a long getaway to L.A.  There’s always been that East Cost/West Cost rivalry, but these days we find it hard to argue against consistently sunny weather, pleasant outdoor cafés and West Hollywood.

New Yorkers might have Chelsea and the summer weekend on Fire Island, but in Los Angeles, you have summer all year long (more or less) and the gay mainstay: The Abbey.  The Abbey is the mecca of the gay world and a pilgrimage should be made—at very least—once in your life.  LOGO TV called it “The best gay bar in the world” and every time you pass it, there’s bound to be a flood of well-toned and well-tanned people filling its space courtyard.  Sounds pretty good right about now, doesn’t it?  Where do you lay your allegiance?  Do you have East Coast envy or pine for the Pacific?

There’s a lot for an American to like about Canada: the healthcare system, legal gay marriage, the endearing way Canadians pronounce “about.” When it comes to gay-friendly countries, nothing tops our friendly neighbor to the North.  Canada is basically a treasure trove of camp—and your dollar goes further there!

You can get your fill of French culture without even having to cross the Atlantic by visiting quaint Québec City (which would be oh-so-romantique right now) or heading for the cosmopolitan Montréal for shopping, fine dining and a gay scene that rivals Chelsea or West Hollywood.  Lined along Rue Ste. Catherine Est is a parade of gay bars and nightclubs filled with vibrant, accented locals.

And for those whose idea of camp involves pitching a tent, the prairie land around the River Saskatchewan is full of picturesque scenery combined with a small-town pleasantness.

Interested in a complete spa rejuvenation far from the worries of home?  The village of Banff in Alberta has a hot springs pool where you can wash away your stress and still go out dancing at night—all with the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.  Our very own Roaming Gnome just got back!

Check out this resource for all things gay travel related in Canada: http://gay.canada.travel/au/index.php and book your trip w/ code GL75 for $75 off!