The Gay Traveler

[antiochian]

I'm going to Ireland in two weeks. Booked flight and hotel last month. Gonna meet a friend there, hang out, see the sights. I might add I've never traveled internationally before. I do get to keep my gay card having said that, right???

First of all, considering how Catholic Ireland is, I assume I can't expect to be greeted with open arms by all if I'm very open, say were I to camp it up or show affection towards my friend... I'll be staying near Shannon, so I assume that as is the case here, smaller towns are more conservative than cities.

I'm also interested in any other travel tips you good folks may care to share, in general or specifically regarding Ireland. I was told to keep my money ON MY BODY, but not having a bra in which to tuck the Euros, I'm trying to figure that one out.

Um, so, yeah. Travel tips, anyone? I thank you in advance for helping make my experience smoother and more enjoyable. :)

[Zerbie]

Hey there! Great! Lucky you -- Ireland! Having just come home from Scottland (and Europe) I really wish we would have visited Ireland. . . someday.

Travel tips, oh sure!
Re: keeping money on your person, you can get a little pouch, like a passport sized money pouch, with a drawstring and wear it around your neck like a pendant, keeping the cash and passport over your chest and under your shirt. One of my family members did that during our recent trip. When he needed cash, he just undid the top button. :p

I don't know how much of an issue there is with pickpocketing in Ireland. To be safe, you might want to try the pouch idea.

I also have NO idea the cultural climate of Ireland. Maybe someone else here does. Best yet, ask your friend.

General travel tips: pack light. Bring fewer clothes than you want. Wash them in your sink. You'll be glad to carry a small suitcase. Don't bring an oversized monster, especially if you plan to be riding any trains, busses, or subways.

[scott snedeker]

Pick pocketting is rampant in Spain. I use a linen money belt and keep a dummy wallet. make copies of your passport so if it is stolen you will have no trouble indentifying yourself at the american embassy.

If you sense anti-American sentiment, lie and tell them you are Canadian.:lol:

Act appropriate to the circumstances. While it is expected to get nekked at a a bathhouse you should probably wear something more formal to a restuarant.

Lube and condoms are a must!! Bring you own. Even if you maintain right now that you won't do a pick-up, The mood, the beer and the sexy bloke feeling you up can be a Delila to your Sampson. and before you proceed at least ask: "Are you positive or negative?";)

But be yourself. Don't put on any act. If someone wants a new friend they want the real you. :cool:
If someone who is possibly homophobic starts acting aggressive get away with your friend before the situation gets rough.:eek:

If someone is doing something illegal: Drugs, etc. you don't even want to be there. Their justice system may be different and you may not know how to navigate it.:mad:

Enough admonishment from your Faerie Godmother.:rolleyes:

Focus on the excitement of the moment and the discovery of Ireland!!!

[antiochian]

Thanks, Zerbie & Ash! I think I'm pretty much ready, except for packing and doing one or two minor things to prepare. I leave a week from today. :cool: