From its breathtaking coral reefs to the lively outdoor markets, Mauritius is your next must-see destination.

WORDS BY PHEBE BARNUM-BOBB
SPECIAL THANKS TO CHRISTOPHER GANNON, FINN PARTNERS AND SUNLIFE

Mauritius, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, is known for its white sand beaches, luxury resorts and vibrant culture. While many visit for its natural beauty, it’s increasingly becoming a haven for queer travellers seeking relaxation.

In October 2023, the Supreme Court of Mauritius ruled that the country’s ban on same-sex intimacy was unconstitutional, marking a significant step forward for LGBTQIA+ rights. This landmark decision highlighted Mauritius as a democratic state, affirming that personal privacy should be respected. Although same-sex marriage is yet to be recognised, queer people are loosely protected from discrimination in areas such as employment and the provision of goods and services.

Mauritius is also one of 96 countries to have signed the “Joint Statement on Ending Acts of Violence Related to Human Rights Violations Based on Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity” at the United Nations, which condemns violence and discrimination against LGBTQIA+ people.

Though safety is undoubtedly a concern for queer travellers, Mauritius proves to be a welcoming destination. From the moment we arrived, soaking in the warmth of the Indian Ocean sun, we felt the island’s inviting and transformative energy – enter Belinda from The White Lotus.

Before our flight, we enjoyed a relaxing stop at Gatwick’s Plaza Premium Lounge, offering unlimited food and drinks, with free entry for children – a perfect pre-flight treat and ideal for the boujee queers!

Upon arrival, we were whisked away to Long Beach Resort, a Sunlife property. While there are plenty of resorts across the island, few match the luxury of this 5-star retreat. Located on the island’s east coast, it offers a mix of modern elegance and peaceful surroundings, making it ideal for queer travellers looking for both comfort and inclusivity.

The stunning contemporary suites are filled with light, vibrant decor, and plenty of space. Each room has its own private outdoor area overlooking either the gardens, pool or the renowned Belle Mare Beach.

There’s an abundance of amenities, too. For dinner, guests can enjoy dining options from one of the resort’s five restaurants, offering everything from world-class Asian cuisine to pure Italian indulgence.

And it doesn’t end there. Sunlife has four splendid resorts on the island, all “full of life and wonderfully one-of-a-kind”. For the luxury lovers and honeymooners, Sugar Beach is the place to be; La Pirogue is perfect for culture vultures; and Ambre caters to the escape chasers. Each has its own unique personality, atmosphere, and picturesque scenery.

If, like many of us, holiday is a time to lean into your type-B self – letting the adventure fall at your feet and not travelling too far – there’s a range of activities you can take part in right on your doorstep. Sunlife’s latest “Come Alive Collection” offers experiences ranging from thrills to relaxation, allowing you to experience the country without even leaving the resort.

Sapphics, forget the playlist for your lover – come home with a sustainable (yes!) handmade souvenir from the Glass Studio. Transform recycled glass bottles from the hotel into a personalised handmade gift – c’mon DIY dykes! Whether it’s a keyring, bracelet, necklace, or ring, connect with your artistic side and take home a one-of-a-kind piece.

Calling all the London Lime bikers – it’s time to take your skills to the other side of the pond! Swap East London for the East Coast of Mauritius on an electric bike adventure. Pick your own path: the Flacq market, gliding through a must-see village with “local charm” on an 18km route, or delve into the island’s heart on a 22km route where you’ll travel through Bras d’Eau National Park until you arrive at the Sagar Shiv Hindu Temple.

Would it be a 5-star resort holiday without a massage? GLOW is Sunlife’s new spa and wellness offering that provides an authentic Mauritian experience. Based on three pillars of wellbeing – elemental energy, nurturing energy and creative energy – GLOW offers guests the opportunity to “rediscover your inner radiance”. Need we say more? If you’re tired of carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders, get an authentic Mauritian massage for a purely indulgent experience.

Many escape to Mauritius for complete relaxation, but of course, exploration is a must!

Mauritius is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches in the world. From the powdery white sands of Belle Mare Beach to the crystal-clear waters of Le Morne, the island offers an idyllic backdrop for any holiday. Few compare to the enchanting views of Île aux Cerfs. Just off the mainland, this untouched island, only reachable by boat or helicopter, boasts glistening white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. For golfing gays (you do exist, right?), there’s an 18-hole championship golf course. And if you simply want to soak in your surroundings, there are three authentic Mauritian restaurants.

If you’re searching for more hustle and bustle, head to the Central Flacq Market for a taste of the culture. It’s the largest outdoor market on the island, located in the northeast. You’ll find fresh produce, an array of spices, freshly cooked street food and a number of stalls offering souvenirs. Don’t forget to grab that extra-special fridge magnet for your mum or the 103rd extra-baggy pyjama top that will inevitably be stolen by that one-night stand.

Now, it’s completely understandable that sending yourself off to a country that doesn’t recognise same-sex marriage might be, well, far from ideal if you’re not straight or cis-passing. Our key takeaway is that Mauritius is a welcoming, inviting and kind country, filled with culture and diversity. If you want to live your The White Lotus fantasy (minus the death, incest, and drama), this could just be the place for you.

The post Mauritius: The queer-friendly paradise island for your next escape appeared first on GAY TIMES.

WorldPride 2025 is set to be one of the biggest celebrations of the LGBTQIA+ community in 2025.

From performers to events and how to get tickets, here’s everything you need to know.

WORDS BY PHEBE BARNUM-BOBB

What is WorldPride?

WorldPride is an annual event that promotes LGBTQIA+ inclusion, awareness and issues on a global scale via parades, festivals, conferences and more.

After debuting in Rome in 2000, the event has since been held in Jerusalem, Israel (2006), London, United Kingdom (2012), Toronto, Canada (2014), Madrid, Spain (2017), New York City, United States (2019), Copenhagen, Denmark and Malmö, Sweden (2021) and Sydney, Australia (2023).

The host cities are determined by the members of InterPride, the International Association of Pride Coordinators.

When and where is it?

This year, the celebrations will take place in Washington D.C. to mark the 50th anniversary of Capital Pride. The three-week celebration is filled with parades, concerts, activism and cultural events to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. Set to be “one of the biggest Pride celebrations ever”, the event will take place from 17 May to 8 June 2025.

What is the theme?

The theme for 2025 is ‘The Fabric of Freedom’, which invites the community to reflect on unity while serving as a “global call to action to LGBTQ+ people and their allies” to celebrate the vibrancy of the community.

As the statement on their official website reads, “Throughout history, people have used fabrics as expressive symbols, to communicate identities, and as forms of resistance. In the face of rising challenges, both in the United States and globally, those seeking division cannot diminish the strength of our shared connection. It’s the fabric of our community — through our rich cultures, diverse identities, and backgrounds — that will guide us forward towards a better future.”

The LGBTQIA+ Progress Pride flag itself serves as a powerful representation of this diversity. Yet, as the statement continues, “It is our shared humanity and unshakable unity that defines our greatest strength. We are people bound by love and acceptance, struggle and resilience, our past and our future, forging an ever-evolving community that together embodies The Fabric of Freedom.”

Who is performing?

Get ready for an epic lineup at WorldPride 2025, featuring some of the biggest names in music! Cynthia Erivo, Tinashe and Kim Petras are confirmed to take the stage, with Troye Sivan and Jennifer Lopez as headliners.

Also joining the stage are Rita Ora, Trisha Paytas, Galantis, Aluna, Zedd, Paris Hilton, Marina, RAYE, and even a DJ set from RuPaul Charles (!!!).

And that’s not all – expect performances from Sasha Colby, Slayyyter, Betty Who, Purple Disco Machine, Leland + Friends, Sofi Tukker, Aluna, and plenty more. WorldPride 2025 is going to be a celebration like no other!

What events will be held?

The WorldPride 2025 celebrations will kick off on 31 May with an opening ceremony featuring performances, speeches from notable figures in the LGBTQ+ community, and a special performance by global sensation Shakira.

Throughout the event, attendees can explore cultural exhibits, including a special display of works by Keith Haring and David Hockney at the National Gallery of Art. The Pride Arts Programme will also feature live performances of all-queer productions at the Kennedy Center, alongside a Pride Film Festival screening both classic and contemporary queer cinema at various theatres, including the AFI Silver Theatre.

On 4 June, the Human Rights Conference will take place at the JW Marriot Pennsylvania Avenue, focusing on topics such as inclusion, accessibility, mental health and the fight for global equality. This conference will include keynote speeches, panels and workshops from renowned speakers.

The WorldPride Parade, held on 7 June, promises to be one of the event’s biggest highlights, with thousands of marchers, rainbow-clad revellers and dozens of floats celebrating LGBTQ+ pride and diversity against the iconic backdrop of the U.S. Capitol.

Finally, on 8 June, the International March on Washington will unite thousands of LGBTQ+ individuals and allies to advocate for equality, justice, and global LGBTQ+ rights, culminating in a rally at the steps of the U.S. Capitol.

How do I get tickets?

For more information, head to https://worldpridedc.org/

The post Here’s everything you need to know about WorldPride 2025 appeared first on GAY TIMES.

Girls Aloud are reportedly set for a comeback and fans are gooped and gagged!

After 11 years away, the British girl group reportedly has a secret single and a potential comeback tour in the works.

Reports say the reunion of the four bandmates, Cheryl, Nicola Roberts, Nadine Coyle and Kimberely Walsh, took place on 7 November, with a source telling The Sun that the group came together to shoot a music video in a North London studio, wearing superhero style costumes.

“This has to be one of the best-kept secrets in pop, but it’s actually happening now,” the Sun’s source said. 

The new track is reported to be in honour of the late bandmate Sarah Harding, who died of breast cancer aged 39 in September 2021.

So with rumours rife, fans have taken to social media to share their excitement.

timeline is full of gays and girls screaming over the girls aloud reunion rumours. bliss.

— lori megan ☽ (@lorimeganxo) November 8, 2023

apologies for the person I’m going to become when this Girls Aloud reunion happens, those women raised me

— ethan 🍂 (@evespanesar) November 7, 2023

Girls Aloud reunion!?? 🚨 pic.twitter.com/7afr5Aluo3

— Dan 🪩 (@bydanram) November 8, 2023

Me after selling my house and taking all my life savings to get front row at the girls aloud reunion tour pic.twitter.com/DQmzlRjgOM

— venus ☁️ (@WE_D0_CAR3) November 7, 2023

I’m not emotionally prepared for the montage of Sarah that’ll be playing when Girls Aloud perform Stand By You on their reunion tour. pic.twitter.com/wwiAJmYK07

— cameron (@camruined) November 8, 2023

The girls aloud reunion will kill me off, I hope you all know how insufferable this era of me will be!!

— char manning 🌟 (@xylottie) November 7, 2023

GIRLS ALOUD REUNION MY DEPRESSION IS CURED!!!!! 😭😭😭😭

— kellyyyy (@ifuseekkelly) November 7, 2023

Girls Aloud reunion?! pic.twitter.com/zJAtr08pgr

— Alex Tyler (@alextylertweets) November 8, 2023

Girls Aloud was first formed in 2002 on the ITV talent show Pop Stars: The Rivals, where they competed for a place in the band.

Across their eleven year span, Girls Aloud achieved a staggering 21 top 10 UK singles, which included four number one songs.

After announcing their split in March 2013, The band members continued to prosper in solo careers. All members remained releasing music, with Cheryl going on to have five number one singles and two number one albums.

The post “Apologies for the person I’m going to become”: Fans react to rumours of a Girls Aloud reunion appeared first on GAY TIMES.