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Gay Cologne Is Always Busy

Gay travel to Cologne this year is certainly going to be popular. Known as a Mecca for gays, this German city is host to the 2010 Gay Games from 31 July – 7 August. Everything is raring to go for this event that features sporting disciplines, festivals, fairs, parades and other cultural events.

Called the ‘gay Mecca’ in Germany, the city of Cologne is gearing up to host the Gay Games 2010 which take place from July 31 to August 7. Therefore gay travel to Cologne will be at its peak this year. The games obviously focus on sport disciplines; however they also include a number of colorful cultural events, fairs, festivals and parades.

It is the biggest sporting occasion for LGBT athletes, musicians, singers and artists. Any athlete can participate, regardless of his or her sexual orientation. When the first event was held in San Francisco in 1982 it was named the Gay Olympics. The aims and aspirations are to foster participation, sporting success, and inclusion.

With this philosophy in mind, no competitor has to qualify for entry. The event is open to anyone, regardless of sexual preference. Cologne is known for its open-mindedness therefore it is anticipated that the occasion will draw participants from many countries, especially those where homosexuality is still taboo.

Bands and singers from everywhere in the world will take part in an instrumental and singing festival. Athletes in the Rainbow Run will carry a flag into the arena at the opening ceremony. The flag will have traveled through each continent in this huge marathon commemorating those who have died of AIDS.

The oldest German city, Cologne lies on the banks of the famous Rhine River. It is always abuzz with tourists who are keen to experience Cologne’s vibrancy and its rich heritage. Local residents are friendly, jovial and helpful. You will find a plethora of gay restaurants, clubs and bars in the city.

There are lots of exciting tourist attractions and events for gay visitors. You can take a hike to majestic castles, or compete in a women-only motorcycle event. Take a tour that exposes gay history from the 1800s up to 1969. Cologne’s famous carnival, the Rhenish Extravaganza, features many attractions, art displays, lectures and parties.

LGBT visitors to Cologne are welcomed with a special Pink WelcomeCard distributed by the Koln Tourismus Service Center. Through the center, you can get free public transport, discounts on river cruises, theater tickets, museum visits, and opera shows. The center also offers discounts for gay clubs, bars, shops and saunas. Gay travel to Cologne is going to be at an all-time high this year.

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