One of the best things I remember as a kid was being told we’re going on a road trip. It didn’t matter where we were going – just getting out of the house was exciting enough.  It could’ve been to a state park for the day, or driving to South Carolina to visit my grandfather for the week.  Times haven’t changed that much since then.  Thursday night rolls around; the weather looks promising and sinking your toes into smooth white sand, waves crashing on shore and a beverage in your hand sounds like a fantastic way to spend a few days. Don’t let the cost of gas, the endless traffic, or the screaming kids get in your way of reliving those fond memories of summer road trips. Whether it’s alone, with friends, family, a partner – head out on that last minute road trip. You’ll be amazed at what you might see around you and you might also discover that deep inside, you’re still that kid that loves a road trip. Need some ideas? Check out these road trips from FunMaps and then book your TAG approved hotel on www.gaytravelocity.com so that you and your mates could relax and be yourselves.

Let’s face it, seeing the family for the holidays is nice, but whether you can really call it a vacation certainly depends on whom you ask.  If you can cash in some saved vacation days, taking another trip post mistletoe and eggnog can be the best strategy for actually getting some R&R—and on the cheap.  Prices generally drop back down after the bottleneck of holiday travel and deals are to be had everywhere.

If your family doesn’t already reside in the tropics, you probably can’t count on much sun so a trip to Mexico could be in order. Away from the tourist spots like Cancun, you can find amazing deals like $120 per night in an all-inclusive resort in Playa del Carmen.  Plus, stay five nights or more and Travelocity will shave $150 off your bill.  Family’s great but there’s really no replacement for frozen margaritas and parading beach bodies!

Everyone knows sand isn’t necessarily conducive to romance.  Sure there’s nothing like escaping the winter tundra to sunbathe on a warm tropical beach, sipping Mai Tais and downing tequila shots (actually that sounds divine right now), but when it comes to love, that’s a heady drink better served on the rocks.

If you’re spoken for, there is really nothing better than a ski trip where you can warm up in front of a crackling chalet fireplace after a day on the slopes.  Despite its stuffy reputation, Aspen is actually a very gay friendly destination with its own “Gay and Lesbian Ski Week” that annually draws about 5,000 visitors to its mountaintops.   This year’s event is taking place from January 17-24 and don’t worry if you haven’t gained your ski legs—there are also boutique nights, pool parties and boys in abundance.