Gay Life - Blog

Baby Got Bach: A Classical Music Festival

Daniel — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 21:01:10 GMT

This blog is about gay life in Montréal. So you're probably wondering - what's so gay about Bach? Well the dude certainly wore a lot of wigs and played a mean organ.

If you are in Montréal between November 24 to December 5, you might want to balance your strip club visits with some classical music. You know, maintain equilibrium in the universe.

Click "more" for all the details...

(PS: According to Wikipedia, Bach fathered 20 children, so I'm guessing he had at least one straight bone in his body! Badum-ching!)

5 Cafés to Caffeinate your (Free) Wireless Craving

Daniel — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:13:59 GMT

When I take a trip, it is rare that my itinerary is strictly “business” or strictly “pleasure.” That’s right folks, I often mix business with pleasure. But enough about my fashionista mullet!

In an age of the 60-hour workweek, chances are that you might need to reserve a couple of hours of your weekend to bounce those tedious expense reports back to your mulish boss. Or you might just be a Facebook junkie looking to satiate your social media addiction.

Whatever your reason for needing free wireless Internet, here are five Montréal cafés where the locals love to get (and stay) connected…

The Winner of the Photo Contest!

Daniel — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:35:10 GMT

When I announced a few weeks ago that Tourisme Montréal had approved my request to host a photo contest (where the top entry would win a weekend getaway to Montréal!) I was a bit nervous as to what would happen. What if no one submitted a photo?

Well my worry was unnecessary because I received a couple dozen fabulous pics from all corners of North America.

But in the end, only one could win...

This is the story of that winning photo.

Chez Menick: The Sportsmen’s Barber

Daniel — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 21:28:23 GMT

Sometimes a fella needs a trim.

If you find yourself in a hairy situation while on your Montréal getaway, I’ve got the perfect place for you to get your coif in order.

Click “more” to see my video with Montréal’s most famous barber (and me, your fearless gay blogger, getting a handlebar mustache). No jokes.

(Oh, and boys, if you’ve wanted the jocks to line up at your door, this is how it’s done…)

Lady Gaga. Montreal. November 27. OMG.

Daniel — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 14:59:27 GMT

Everyone’s favourite pseudo-transsexual is coming to Montreal.

And I am stoked.

Click for all the deets…

Movember: Moustache Month in Montreal

Daniel — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 09:50:00 GMT

Montrealers are changing the face of men’s health. Literally. November is the month of the moustache, and the gents of Mo-town (Montreal) are growing out their scruff for the good of their prostates.

Confused?

Click “more” to find out why!

(And if you have a mustache fetish, I’ve named three Montreal places to find hotties with wicked whiskers… )

Fashion w/ Discount Prices: AU CŒUR DE LA MODE

Daniel — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 13:25:03 GMT

Twice a year Montreal’s Farha Foundation hosts a killer fashion event that features designer garments at 50% off retail prices. The next outlet sale is quickly approaching!

Check out some of the sizzling designer labels…

Win a Free Trip to Montréal: A Reminder!

Daniel — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 11:33:24 GMT

If you haven't heard the exciting news yet, someone is going to be winning a free weekend getaway to Montréal!

Things are heating up with the "Win a Free Trip to Montréal" photo contest.

Remember that you can see all the submissions in two identical public albums: one on Facebook and one on Flickr. Click through to get a bit of inspiration!

Don't delay! Get me your photo before November 9th!

Montreal Gay Village Culinary Tour

Daniel — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:48:28 GMT

Montreal is known for its hot n’ happening gay life, as well as its European approach to delicious dining. So it’s only logical that gayness and deliciousness converge in the Montreal Gay Village. With my friend and colleague in tow, the darling Katerine Rollet, I hopped around the Montreal gayborhood to highlight some of the best spots to exercise your “epi-queer-ean” fantasies.

Click ‘more’ for details on the places that we visit…

The Montreal Gay List: November

Daniel — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 13:46:43 GMT

Here are my 5 travel recommendations for what's hot and gay in Montreal for the month of November...

Montreal Makes People Gay!

Daniel — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:00:18 GMT

I just finished watching youtube, and boy oh boy, there sure are a ton of people filming their cats. Did you know that there is a cat that plays piano better than I do? How does this video have more views than my Drag Queen Makeover? Life is just so unjust.

But I digress...

In my wanderings, I stumbled across a video that is clear scientific evidence that, not only is Montreal gay friendly, but this city actually makes people gay.

What we see in the beginning of the clip is a group of clearly heterosexual individuals who happen upon the Gay Village during a guided tour. What progresses is a "joie-de-vivre-sexual-awakening" that leaves our protagonist in a heated embrace.

Perhaps Montreal is the gayest place on earth?

BENT: An Opportunity for Historic Queer Theatre

Daniel — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:44:44 GMT

"I love you. What’s wrong with that?”

– Max (the lead character in BENT)

Sherman Miller’s critically acclaimed (and controversial) 1979 play, BENT, will be presented in Montreal from November 5 – 15, 2009.

I am highly anticipating this performance.

Find out how you can get tickets…

Le Saloon: Delicious Martinis (and Tasty Servers)

Daniel — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 10:23:38 GMT

Whether you are a visitor searching for a stylish parlor or you’re a local queer with an appetite for ambience, Le Saloon is often the first choice for dining and drinks in Montreal’s gay village.

But which martini should moisten your mouth?

Gay Cinema: Getting the Homegrown Experience

Daniel — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 11:29:10 GMT

A couple weeks ago I mentioned that Montreal’s LGBT Film Festival (Image+Nation) was quickly approaching. I gave you the inside scoop on five films playing at the festival… before the program had even been released! I know, you are wondering how I get access to such top-secret gay information.

Well, I have my sources.

But now the full schedule is up, and it’s looking good. Check out some of my recommendations…

Win a Free Trip to Montréal

Daniel — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 14:52:04 GMT

That’s right. We’re giving away a weekend getaway to Montréal – and the contest is open right now! And just when you thought it couldn't get sweeter, there’s more.

I am personally going to guide the lucky visitor around Montréal!

Find out how to win…

7 French Pick Up Lines (That Every Tourist Needs)

Daniel — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 21:13:01 GMT

Gay or straight or anywhere in between, I’ve got 7 French Pick Up Lines that will help you have a truly “authentic” Montreal experience…

How to host a party: MEC PLUS ULTRA

Daniel — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:28:03 GMT

MEC PLUS ULTRA (or MPU) is my pick for “Best out-of-village gay party.” It is a monthly party held in Montreal’s hippest neighborhood, the Plateau where guys gather to have a drink and mingle. The organizers know how to throw a party.

I chatted with one of the event organizers, Julien De Repentigny, about his definition of “MPU”, what’s in store for future events and how to approach your evening crush…

Montreal's hottest (non) Club: I Love NEON

Daniel — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 11:10:00 GMT

When Tiga started a dance party, people came. NEON is a conceptual electro-collective featuring Montreal’s most smokin’ DJs and some hot dancing at SAT, a digital art Mecca.

Check out one of Montreal’s raddest parties.

(And, yes, I just said “raddest”.)

10 Gay Halloween Costumes (and where to rock them)

Daniel — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 14:46:56 GMT

It is my belief that Halloween enables people to act out their inebriated fantasies in somewhat acceptable social spaces. Personally, I’ve never needed Halloween for that…

Yet Halloween is always a special day for us gays; we wait all year to release our inner cracked-out pop star or slutty gay cowboy fantasies.

As you might imagine from our renown liberal culture, Montreal enjoys a good freak-fest.

Check out my snarky costume suggestions, and the Montreal parties where you can release your inner gay ghoul…

Bed-In for Peace: My Kind of Protest

Daniel — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 19:38:22 GMT

In May 26, 1969, after being turned away from the USA and Toronto, John Lennon chose to come to Montreal for his famous "Bed-In for Peace."

It was in his room at The Queen Elizabeth Hotel that he recorded the anthemic peace song, "Give Peace a Chance."

Click "more" to connect with the hotel...

Really Gay Shows in Montreal (Fall 2009)

Daniel — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 12:22:31 GMT

Going to see a spectacle (concert) in a different city can be nothing short of awesome.

You get to see new venues, dance with strangers and listen to a live soundtrack to falling in love… à la Montréal.

Here are 7 Montreal concerts happening this fall to write home about…

The Montreal Gay List: October

Daniel — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:11:46 GMT

Here are my 5 travel recommendations for what's hot and gay in Montreal for the month of October...

How to Find a (Gay) Date in Montreal

Daniel — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 14:42:45 GMT

Looking for a (gay) date on your next trip to Monteal? I’ve got your back. Montreal’s gay community offers a spectrum of diversity, from twinks to bears to leather daddies, etc.

In Montreal, and across the world, inquiring queers have been known to frequently pose this question: “What’s your type?” Usually the question comes from a helpful homo “wingman” who is there to support you in your hunt for fresh romance among hot singles. I am your Montreal wingman.

If you know what you like, I’ll show you where to find it. After all, dating is all the more fun when it’s easy…

Image+Nation: Montreal’s LGBT Film Festival

Daniel — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 10:58:27 GMT

Recently I was surfing the World Wide Web when I stumbled across an article on afterelton.com that listed the 50 Best Gay Movies. In the post, they pose the question, “Why aren’t there more good gay movies?”

It’s true. There is a ton of cinematic queer crap out there.

But thankfully the folks at Image+Nation screen through the mediocre to present the best of LGBT film every autumn in Montreal.

Watch the sexy trailer of the gay film I am most excited to see…

Black & Blue: Tips for Virgins

Daniel — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:59:09 GMT

Black & Blue is one of the year’s biggest parties, gay or otherwise, and not only in Montreal, but all of Canada.

That being said, it can be a bit daunting for the 1st timer.

With helpful tips from some famous Montrealais, I’ve got the tips to help you Black & Blue virgins have the night of your life…

Mount Royal: The Perfect Weekend Walk

Daniel — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:57:53 GMT

When I visit new cities, one of my favourite activities is to get high.

I like to climb to the top of a building or hill to get perspective of my surroundings.

Montreal has a few high-rise options (including the tallest inclined tower in the world), but few can compete with the natural (and free) beauty of “The Mountain.”

Take a photo tour of the iconic Mount Royal Park…

Montreal Wedding Planner

Daniel — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 15:54:52 GMT

Thinking Montreal as a destination to tie the knot?

Check out my interview with Rachel from An English Rose. We chat about why Montreal is a good destination, how "gay" weddings differ from "straight" weddings and how you can make your big event affordable!

Shopping for Gay @ La Maison Simons

Daniel — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:46:07 GMT

In Montreal, gay men have been known to go shopping.

Pick your jaw up off the floor and click below to learn about “Simons” (as we call it in Montreal), the premiere destination for homos of all fashion sensibilities and salaries…

Gay Radio: QueerCorps

Daniel — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 17:19:49 GMT

Between television and magazines and that “interweb” thingy, there are many ways to get information about travel and LGBT communities. Media has never been such a smorgasbord of choice.

However, there is something special about radio (images of winter evenings curled up with hot tea).

Discover the Montreal radio program that will help you get the “local experience”…

The Black & Blue Festival

Daniel — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 08:09:33 GMT

Call it a circuit party. Call it a rave. Call it a festival. Call it a great reason to shake your booty and visit your fave French Canadian city.

Call it what you want, but Montreal’s Black & Blue is nothing short of a social, cultural, sports and party event that lasts for a big gay week (October 7-13, 2009).

Find out who will be spinning at this year’s main event…

Gay Marriage: The One Detail you CAN’T Forget

Daniel — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:15:55 GMT

You’re in love. You’ve found that one true soul mate (or at least someone who puts up with you). You’re ready to tie the knot. You’re dreaming of a romantic Montreal marriage…

Before you take another step, there is one vital detail about getting married in Montreal that CANNOT be overlooked!

Keep reading to avoid an important matrimonial roadblock…

Chattin' with Shaun & Patrick from PROUD FM

Daniel — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 14:49:06 GMT

I spent the weekend in Toronto, chatting about the joy that is Montreal. I also handed out 9000 Montreal bagels to the hungry people. They seemed quite "receptive."

While I was in "Queen City," I popped by the PROUD FM studios to chat with Shaun and Patrick, two of the fab DJs that ensure that gay air waves reach the heart of the masses.

Watch our little interview and find out what these boys love about Montreal.. and why I won't share it with them!

(Also, click "more" below to watch the video of the bagel distribution!)

NLGJA Convention: Welcome Queer Journalists!

Daniel — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 21:48:59 GMT

Montreal will welcome the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association Convention from September 10-12, 2009.

I got excited and decided to play host to these journalists, media professionals, educators and students. Check out all my Montreal weekend recommendations…

The Montreal Gay List: September

Daniel — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:33:14 GMT

Here are my 5 travel recommendations for what's hot, happening and homolicious in Montreal for the month of September...

Free Stuff in Toronto!

Daniel — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 11:28:41 GMT

Hello my Toronto Lovers!*

(*by lovers I mean “people I love in Toronto”, not people who love Toronto. But, by all means, feel free to love Toronto.)

On Thursday, September 3rd, I’m going to be giving free ___________ in Toronto.

Find out where you can get yours…

GAY CAM does the Montreal Gay Pride Parade!

Daniel — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 11:41:28 GMT

Pride was a blast here in Montreal. The weather was hot, the parade was energetic and the people on the floats were drool-inducing.

I decided to bring back my patented Gay Gam to give you the insider view of the parade.

And if you want even more sexy images, including some fine Montreal bums, check out my Gay Pride Facebook Album.

Enjoy!

Out at La Ronde: Gay Amusement

Daniel — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 10:20:27 GMT

Kick your heels back and start screaming… in public.

It's gay-day at Montreal's infamous amusement park, La Ronde.

You are going to be here for the action, right?

Check out the date (along with a cute little video from the organizers)...

Montreal Gay Pride Goes On Strong in Autumn

Daniel — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 16:19:47 GMT

Gay life in Montreal is hot year-round. While another summer of fabulous festivals is slowly drawing to a close, there’s a cornucopia of fall events – from festivals to sports to parties and clubbing action – in Montreal to keep you sizzling as the mercury drops over the coming months.

In honour of the upcoming seasonal change, I thought I’d give you a sneak peek of what autumn has in store, and take a quick look back at the best of the summer.

Oy Vey! My Son is Gay! @ The World Film Festival

Daniel — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 13:17:58 GMT

Into its 33rd edition, the Montreal World Film Festival is the perfect way to round out a summer of stellar Montreal festivals.

This year’s festival features a film with homosexual and Jewish tendencies…

Gay Bed and Breakfast

Daniel — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:06:47 GMT

Bed and Breakfasts are a great accommodation option no matter where you travel. With access to hosts who know the city, you get more of a local experience, while the modest size of most establishments increases your chances of meeting fellow travelers.

In Montreal, B&Bs tend to be affordable, with locations throughout the city.

And here are eight B&Bs located in the Montreal Gay Village…

A Few of My Favourite Things

Daniel — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 09:55:33 GMT

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens.

Um, no thanks.

Bright copper kettles and warm woolen mittens.

I’ll pass.

From Chocolate Shop to Yoga Studio, here is a quick list of my actual favourite Montreal things…

Montreal Lounge: Gotha Salon Bar

Daniel — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 08:33:44 GMT

Gotha Salon Bar is one of my favourite places in Montreal to lounge with a martini and share tales of last night’s adventures.

I’ll tell you where it is… and what you should be drinking.

Gay Marriage in Montreal: How it all began

Daniel — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 12:35:10 GMT

Gay marriage is a popular reason for travelers to choose Montreal. Why? Because not only is same-sex marriage legal in Canada, but Montreal provides an ideal romantic backdrop for the occasion.

But it didn’t always used to be this way. I recently sat down with Michael Hendricks and spoke to him about the journey towards marriage equity.

Watch the interview…

Hot Lesbian (Dancefloor) Action ::: BYOL

Daniel — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 09:11:41 GMT

Gay Pride weekend in Montreal provides many options for celebrating, from the Pride Parade to Omegadom to the Tropical Zone. But sometimes you want a space that optimizes "potential".

I’ve got the hippest recommendation for lesbians, dykes, gouines, bisexual women, muff-divers and butches.

Find out where the girls are at…

Gay Pride :: The Inside Scoop

Daniel — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 10:47:40 GMT

Forty years after the gay pride movement began, Canada has become world-renown for its acceptance and celebration of sexual diversity. And this year, Montreal’s Pride Parade promises to be bigger than ever!

Click below for the story...

Lesbian Heaven ::: Montreal Rollerderby

Daniel — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 10:10:19 GMT

I love this sport. Tough girls zipping around a ring on roller-skates. The wipe-outs are cringe-inducing, the energy is intense and the crowd is rowdy.

And the beer flow-eth cheaply.

You have one last chance to catch a game this year.

Check out the deets…

Montreal... The Poor Gay’s Europe

Daniel — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 11:06:38 GMT

Last week the Bank of Canada declared that the recession was over.

"We are on track for the recovery both in Canada and globally," said Bank of Canada governor Mark Carney.

“Wonderful!” I said.

But, if you are like me, the bulge in your pants is certainly not because your pockets are suddenly lined with more cash. It’s going to take a while to actually feel the financial change of seasons.

In the meantime, there are ways to satiate your wanderlust (or lust for Canadian bacon) in economically challenging times.

Here are 6 great reasons why Montreal might be the perfect choice for you…

Fullum Pool: Montreal’s Gayest Outdoor Pool

Daniel — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:07:33 GMT

It’s late summer and you’ve already blown the vacation budget. But you are still craving one last weekend getaway before the shackles of work and winter tie you down. Montreal is calling you. And she can be cheap… really cheap.

I’ve got a fun insider tip for you that involves some of your fave things: Speedos, sunscreen and swan dives.

It’s wet. It’s gay. And best of all… it’s free.

The Montreal Gay List ::: August

Daniel — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 10:16:11 GMT

Here are my 5 travel recommendations for what's hot and gay in Montreal for the month of August...

Mado, The Queen of Montreal’s Gay Village

Daniel — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 11:01:26 GMT

Who is Mado?

Mado is irreverent.
Mado is charming.
Mado is bitchy.
Mado is Montreal.

Last week, after a hilarious Drag Queen Makeover , I sat down with Montreal’s infamous Drag Queen, Mado, to chat about what it takes to run Montreal’s fab-est Cabaret and what travelers should do when they visit our city.

What resulted is perhaps my most entertaining and informative video yet.

My favorite moment: when Mado says, “Do I want to be a Drag queen for the rest of my life? Or do I want to work at McDonald’s? You have a choice.”

Oh, and don’t miss our lesbian cat growls… Grrrrrr!

Divers/Cité ::: Cabaret de Minuit

Daniel — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 10:30:07 GMT

A couple of weeks ago, I mentioned that Divers/Cité was coming. Last night the festival began with a romantic, star-lit movie in the park, a charming way to ease into a week of jam-packed entertainment.

New this year to the Divers/Cité programming is Cabaret de Minuit: The New York Series. (Did I mention that I enjoy New York?) The series features three creative and cutting-edge NYC performers over three nights. Out of all the diverse and exciting programming of the festival, these shows have me most excited...

Drag Queen Makeover

Daniel — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 12:18:17 GMT

Let it be known: Being Montreal’s Gay Life insider is a fun job. My mission is to search Montreal high and low to find the best of gay life and gay-friendly activities in this city and summarize it all for LGBT travelers. My work has numerous requirements: attend sexy Montreal parties, dine in hip bistros, meet fascinating people and even work the streets of NYC (it was “promotion”… really.) I need to be Internet savvy and create content that will pique your attention.

But nothing in my job description ever said anything about eyeliner...

Kink Montreal ::: An Introduction

Daniel — Sat, 25 Jul 2009 15:28:27 GMT

Montreal is a sin city. People travel from across North America because of our laissez-faire cultural attitude that permits (and encourages) all sorts of liberal behaviour.

In Montreal, there are vibrant Kink, BDSM and Fetish communities, and multiple ways to get involved.

I’ll get you started…

Montreal & NYC ::: A (non) Comparison

Daniel — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 13:19:03 GMT

I recently spent a weekend in New York City. It was my first time (which was quite apparent if you were following my tweets). That’s right, I was a NYC virgin, and I just got my cherry popped big time. And it was amazing.

But wait, am I allowed to gush about a different city? I mean, I write a blog about gay life in Montreal; my task is to help you develop a colossal crush on my city. Isn’t this a slight (and by ‘slight’ I mean ‘huge’) conflict of interest? Should I fear for my job?

I’m willing to take that risk…

When is Gay Pride? (A Public Service Announcement)

Daniel — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 11:29:00 GMT

Montréal is home to many summer festivals, such as Jazz Fest, Just For Laughs and the World Film Festival. But perhaps the most lively and colorful festivals are those hosted by and catered to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities.

The two most prominent queer festivals in the summer are Divers/Cité and Célébrations. But what’s the difference? Which one is actually “PRIDE” in Montreal? And which festival will be best for you?

Join me as I clarify the difference between Montreal’s two gay summer festivals…

7 Concerts to see in Montreal

Daniel — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 09:18:36 GMT

One of my favorite things to do when I travel is to go to concerts. There is something special about saying, “Oh, Alanis Morissette? Yeah, great show in Auckland back in September of ‘99” or “Pride Toronto was fab, divine Deborah Cox show from the VIP area” (both true stories). Not only do you get to drop the name of a hot artist, but also a sexy destination.

Here are 7 options for you to pair music and destination…

Gay Pride Montreal: “CÉLÉBRATIONS”

Daniel — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 09:43:38 GMT

Gay Pride in Montreal is called "Célébrations". Debuting in 2007, Célébrations is a relatively new Montreal LGBT festival. The organization and event was created by some key community figures to ensure that the traditional elements of Pride (Parade and Community Day) would be offered to both Montrealers and visitors.

Now into its third year, Célébrations has established itself among the many Montreal queer events (Divers/Cité, Black & Blue, Image&Nation) as a “destination” festival. This means that the gays travel specifically to Montreal to partake in the parties, shows and, most definitely, the massive Pride Parade!

Get the inside scoop on this year’s Pride festivities (including my recommendations)…

Divers/Cité is (NOT) Gay Pride

Daniel — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 12:36:31 GMT

Yes, Divers/Cité is a LBGT festival. No, it is not Montréal’s Gay Pride. We’re so gay here in Montreal that we have multiple queer festivals throughout the year.

Divers/Cité (July 26- August 2) is the longest-running free outdoor gay event in the world. It exists to present and promote arts and music illustrating and celebrating the value of diversity in a spirit of sharing, solidarity and openness with the world.

Get the details (including my Top 5 Recommendations of the festival)…

French Kisses ::: 4 Places to Kiss in Montreal

Daniel — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 14:29:54 GMT

kiss (kis) v. The touching of one person's lips to another place, which is used as an expression of affection, respect, greeting, farewell, good luck, romantic affection or sexual desire. The word comes from Old English cyssan, "to kiss", in turn from coss "a kiss."

Find out where the best places are to kiss in Montreal. And get my special invitation…

A Map of Montreal’s Gay Village

Daniel — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 15:41:40 GMT

Let’s face it, it’s a big scary world out there. Sometimes you just need a gay brother to help you out. That’s why I am here, to hold your cyber hand as you dive into the exciting, diverse world that is Gay Montreal.

To get you moving fast past the “newbie tourist” stage, I’ve created a Google map that outlines the where and what of Montreal’s Gay Village.

Check it out, yo…

Festival International Montréal en Arts

Daniel — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 13:25:20 GMT

This weekend the Gay Village will be over taken by artists!

Find out where the BoulevART is happening…

GAY CAM for Google

Daniel — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 09:45:26 GMT

One of the best things about Montreal’s Gay Village is that the street is closed to traffic throughout the summer. This essentially means that St. Catherine’s street is like a pedestrian runway, featuring amazing patio action, jovial street performers and even a volleyball court.

However, I became concerned.

With no car access, how will Google record this portion of Montreal for their Street View feature? Being the problem solvin’ fella that I am, I hit the streets with my BIXI bike to capture the Gay Village.

Watch the fun…

The Montreal Gay List ::: July

Daniel — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 13:55:57 GMT

Here are my 5 travel recommendations for what's hot and gay in Montreal for the month of July...

A Greasy Spoon in the Gay Village

Daniel — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 11:40:41 GMT

It’s 3 o’clock in the morning. You just shut down the bar. But your night is not over. Your stomach is growling. You need a greasy spoon restaurant to intervene on the impending hangover.

I’ll tell you where to go…

Ode to Michael Jackson... à la Montréal

Daniel — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 21:36:52 GMT

The internet is fluttering with news that Michael Jackson has died. Like a fruit fly to a pride parade, scandal seemed to follow the much-loved Jacko. Yet despite the wide ranging opinions of him, it is difficult to argue Michael's immense musical contribution.

In honor of the man and his music, here is a clip of a Montréal busker doing a fricking amazing ONE MAN cover of "Billie Jean".

He was clearly an icon. But was he a gay icon?

Leave a comment. Have your say.

Fireworks in Gay Montréal

Daniel — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 13:26:14 GMT

When you are in Montréal and some hottie leans in to say – Salut mon beau homme, do you see fireworks too? – there is a good chance that there might actually be pyrotechnic detonations in the sky.

Every Saturday from June 13 to August 22 2009 at 10:00 p.m. Montréal will play host to an international fireworks competition.

Find out where to catch the explosive gay fireworks action…

Tam Tams ::: Drums, Dancing and Doobage

Daniel — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 11:51:14 GMT

Every Sunday afternoon, all the peace lovin’ people of Montréal unite: black or white, Anglo or Franco, young or old, gay or straight (and everyone in between). The reason is the “Tam Tams,” a collective drum/circus/dance festival, where the mood is chill and the air is filled with the smell of… hippie lettuce.

I grabbed a Bixi Bike and headed off to the park, where I created my first installation of “Montréal BikeCam.”

Don’t miss my take on one of Montréal’s most peculiar sub-cultures, the “medieval nerf-sword warriors”…

For Gays Who Giggle :: Montréal’s Just For Laughs

Daniel — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 14:20:59 GMT

For all you queens, here’s a big “riddle” for you:

What’s versatile, long, and tickles your funny boner?

Click here to find out…

Gay Travel :: My Top 5 Websites

Daniel — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:26:09 GMT

When it comes to Gay Travel, there is a heap of travel websites out there devoted to stimulate your big gay interests. But how do you know what sites to trust?

Here are my big gay recommendations…

Hot Lesbian (Haircut) Action

Daniel — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:20:36 GMT

We humans are a creative bunch. We like to pair things together; we like duets and combinations.

For instance, Clamato Juice - who ever saw a glass of tomato juice and thought, “Do you know would go good with that? Shellfish!” But it works (and incidentally, I’m starting to crave a Bloody Caesar now). But I digress.

Here in Montréal we have our own bizarre combos, such as poutine (potatoes, cheese curds and gravy) or Nickels restaurant (Celine Dion meets greasy spoon), but few compare to the kick-assness that is “Bikurious” –a bike repair shop and lesbian hair salon.

Join me as I get a Lesbian haircut…

Espace Nomad ::: A Spa for Conscious Queers

Daniel — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 17:15:28 GMT

It’s not easy to be fabulous ALL the time. A gay needs a getaway now and again.

Yet to even choose the best way to rejuvenate oneself can be stressful; the market is loaded with possibilities. When it comes to spa options, sometimes we want to be in steamy sauna with half-naked hotties. But at other points we just want to be pampered without the “cruisy feel” of a gay-establishment.

If you need a break from a hard day (or a hard lay), have I got the place for you…

The Fag Fringe Forecast

Daniel — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 14:13:29 GMT

Montréal goes a bit nutty each June.

I know the Fringe Festival has begun when I look out my living room window onto St-Laurent Boulevard and see a Drag Queen marching up the street playing the bagpipes. (FYI - she’s known as the Drag-Piper.)

The Fringe Fest runs this year from June 11 – 21. It is an uncensored, low cost, liberal, performance art festival – equal parts theatre, dance, music and creative anarchy. There is a little something for everyone.

As stated in this year’s program, “The Fringe is all about discovery.” But choosing from among 100 or so local, national and international companies can be a bit overwhelming. So I’ve put on my “Fag-Filter” and found the good stuff.

Here are 6 recommendations for homolicious Fringe shows and events…

I [tweet] MTL ::: 11 Tweets about Montréal

Daniel — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 11:14:29 GMT

Over the past few weeks I’ve been inviting my friends on Twitter (aka my "Twiends") to tweet me their favorite things about Montréal.

Here are 11 tweets about Montréal...

Chattin’ with Richard Burnett

Daniel — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 07:29:31 GMT

Back when I was a wee lad of just 17 years, I was living in a prairie city where “gay” was… well… pretty queer. Each week I would get my dose of homo culture by picking up the local alt-weekly newspaper. Flipping quickly to the back, I would revel in the words (and rants) of the Three Dollar Bill, Canada’s first syndicated gay column.

Times have changed, and now I live in one of the most diverse and liberal cities in the world where gay is… well… pretty fabulously normal. But despite the changes in time and geography, my respect for the Three Dollar Bill has not diminished.

I recently sat down with the incomparable Richard Burnett (Mr. “Three Dollar Bill” himself) to sip sangria and chat about Montréal.

Watch the 2-minute interview and check out Richard’s Must-not-be-Missed-List.

Amherst Antiques :: Modern Dreaming

Daniel — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 08:57:04 GMT

If you’re anything like me, words such as ‘teak’ or ‘modern’ or ‘Mid-Century Scandinavian Design’ can evoke an aesthetic erection.

Montréal’s Amherst Street is home to half-a-dozen boutiques that specialize in recycling the best furniture and accessories of the past century.

Join me on a video/photo tour as I present some of the dreamy items that you could be nabbing…

Tour busT ::: Come to Montréal, See the World

Daniel — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 11:20:02 GMT

A reliable (if not tedious) way to see a city is to get on a bus and take a guided tour. You’ll cover tons of ground, but might end up falling asleep along the way.

Tour busT, on the other hand, is everything but tedious.

Check out this highly original mixture of road trip and theater in its world premiere…

Tiga's Coming...

Daniel — Thu, 28 May 2009 11:34:30 GMT

Montréal born DJ/Producer Tiga is bringing his beats home.

Come get yer sexy on...

"People Watching"

Daniel — Wed, 27 May 2009 12:35:44 GMT

Tomorrow is May 28th. It's a special day, especially if you like people watching as much as I do.

Find out why...

Montréal in Two Minutes

Daniel — Tue, 26 May 2009 11:37:05 GMT

Take a quick visit of the city that I so dearly love…

Cheap & Classy ::: 5 Free Things to do in Montréal

Daniel — Mon, 25 May 2009 09:58:28 GMT

The newspaper headlines warn us each day of economic calamity. But even in tough times, we still need a bit of exploration to satiate our wanderlust. Besides, a true recessionista knows that a little ‘economical crisis’ shouldn’t stand in the way of adventure!

Travel does not have to break the bank. Here’s how to keep it cheap, yet classy on your trip to Montréal…

Gay Volleyball: Can you dig it?

Daniel — Fri, 22 May 2009 11:31:12 GMT

As you are aware (or not), there is more to gay life than just hot dance parties and online cruising. With Montréal’s thriving gay community, we have many options to meet new folks and participate in a variety of activities. Such as gay volleyball!

Check out what brings all the boys to my court...

(And how you can get some hot gay volleyball action.)

Hey Cupcake!

Daniel — Thu, 21 May 2009 10:22:46 GMT

It’s been many years since Carrie Bradshaw brought the cupcake back from its decadent hibernation. And the cupcake craze has been roaring ever since.

Montréal has a few places to indulge in petits gâteaux (aka cupcakes).

This is one of my faves…

Introducing Mado

Daniel — Wed, 20 May 2009 09:42:21 GMT

"I'm not a female impersonator. I'm too ugly. I'm a drag queen."

-Mado Lamotte

Every village has a queen, and every gay village has several, but in Montréal's gay village, there are no queens that can even compare with the iconoclastic Mado...

BIXI :::: Montréal’s Public Bike System

Daniel — Tue, 19 May 2009 08:06:09 GMT

The best way to see most cities is on two wheels. And with Montreal’s intelligent urban planners having created miles and miles of cyclist-only paths, this city is no exception.

Le Ville de Montréal has recently made it even easier for locals and travelers alike to move through Montréal in a pleasant and ecological way.

Enter BIXI…

5 Places to Spot a Hottie

Daniel — Mon, 18 May 2009 08:34:02 GMT

If you’ve been hiding under a rock for the past few decades, you might not have heard about Montréal’s reputation for its attractive people. My friends from Toronto always gush about the eye candy that sweetens the streets, shops and bars of this city. All I can do is shrug my shoulders and say, “Sorry folks. We didn’t ask to be this sexy. It just comes naturally.”

But don’t hate us because we’re beautiful. Instead, come take advantage of us... err... it.

Here are five places around the city to see the hottest of homos…

Parking... No, not your car

Daniel — Fri, 15 May 2009 07:58:55 GMT

Hey fellow gays. If you're like me, you like to go out. You like to have a good time. You’ve been known to even get a little sweaty on the dance floor.

Well have I got good news for you.

One of Montréal’s premiere nightclubs, PARKING, has expanded – bigger, louder, gayer! Okay, so you’ll have to decide for yourself how gay it is, but in the meantime check out the new specs…

(oh yeah, and there’s a video with topless men)

Karaoke Queens

Daniel — Thu, 14 May 2009 09:09:40 GMT

You don't have to be an American Idol to be a singing sensation. All you need is a few friends, a couple of drinks and a karaoke bar. (Okay, the ability to disassociate oneself from all forms of dignity is also helpful.) Karaoke is a tried n' true form of fun; the perfect start to a crazy night.

With a few friends, including a fellow Montréal Insider (the darling Tamy Emma Pepin), I hit up a local Karaoke Lounge and belted out some pop standards.

Check out these mad skills...

DIVERS/CITÉ vs CÉLÉBRATIONS

Daniel — Wed, 13 May 2009 10:16:57 GMT

Montréal is a city of festivals. We are world renown for our Jazz Fest and our Comedy Fest (Just For Laughs), as well as many food, music and film festivals. We are constantly being spoiled.

There are two LGBT festivals during the summer months. Both offering up some exciting events.

But which one will be right for you?

I help by explaining the differences...

Let's Go Outside! 4 Hot nights beyond the Village

Daniel — Tue, 12 May 2009 07:40:32 GMT

The Gay Village is an obvious spot for all the homos, lezzies and queers to congregate. But “Gay Montréal” does not respect geographical borders. There are regular debaucherous parties that you need to know about!

Here are four monthly parties beyond the Village that transcend the straight & narrow…

Avenue Mont Royal :::: A Photo Tour

Daniel — Mon, 11 May 2009 11:48:42 GMT

Many years ago, when I first visited Montréal, I stumbled out of Mont Royal metro station and found paradise – a neighbourhood called “The Plateau.”

Join me on a photo tour…

Gaykus :::: Haikus à la Gay Montréal

Daniel — Fri, 08 May 2009 07:22:52 GMT

After a Sunday afternoon stroll through my beautiful city, I became inspired. I sat down and expressed myself through perhaps the most delicate of artistic forms, the haiku.

Et voilà, the Gayku was born.

You’re gunna wanna to see these…

Daniel Does Dave

Daniel — Thu, 07 May 2009 07:51:42 GMT

If you’ve ever sat with clammy hands in the waiting room of your local health clinic, you know that viral is rarely a good thing.

But in the world of social media and cyber celebrity-ism, one dreams of mass (infectious) popularity. We all want the kind of virus that Susan Boyle caught.

Last year, a little video clip featuring Mr. Dave-the-Dreamboat was created to demystify the reputation of Montréal. It was entitled "Dave does Montréal" and it spread like herpes at a whorehouse.

Here it is…

Bring it! (Your wine, that is)

Daniel — Wed, 06 May 2009 15:05:16 GMT

All this talk of ‘recession’ can make a queer feel economically oppressed.

Thankfully Montréal is a great city for eating-out on the cheap. There is a wonderful thing called “Apportez Votre Vin” (Translation: Bring Your Own Wine). Yes, you can actually bring a bottle of your favourite grape beverage to certain restaurants. This means that you don’t have to break the bank for a good meal.

Here are four restaurants (two in the Gay Village, two outside the Gay Village) that are reliable favourites…

Daniel Answers Your Burning Questions

Daniel — Tue, 05 May 2009 07:48:39 GMT

The Tourisme Montréal blogs have been up and running for a couple of weeks now. My fellow Insiders and I are having a blast keeping you up to speed with the comings and goings of this city.

I thought I’d take the opportunity to address some of the questions and comments that you’ve been sharing through Facebook and Twitter.

I might just have the answers you’ve waited all your life to know…

Take My Breath Away :::: The Running Tourist

Daniel — Sun, 03 May 2009 19:07:26 GMT

In the infamous words of pop/gay icon Madonna, “If we took a holiday/Took some time to celebrate/Just one day out of life/It would be, it would be so nice.”

Holidays are a great time to depart from the rigors of the day-to-day… but Madge was clearly not training for a marathon.

The downside of travel is that it can often impede on your work-out routine, while providing calorically-rich, culinary temptations. Whether you are an elite runner or just your average Joe/Jane with a devotion to maintaining abdominal definition, you probably don’t want to let the training program slide. And with Montréal offering up so many delicious patisseries, indulgence is less an option and more a cultural norm.

Thank goodness for the Running Tourist…

The Circuit Comes to Town

Daniel — Fri, 01 May 2009 18:04:44 GMT

May 14-18 brings the annual Hot & Dry party, an all-night event that promises to be hot & sweaty.

Celebrate the arrival of summer with 2000 of your shirtless new best friends…

Made à Montréal :::: BLANK Clothing

Daniel — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 15:02:06 GMT

For me, there is nothing sexier than a man in a basic, slim-cut, cotton T-shirt. The T-shirt is arguably the fashion item of the 21st century, enabling the wearer to share personal expressions and to express excited nipples. We all buy them, and we all want to look hot in them.

Enter BLANK, the Montréal clothing store that is bringing it back to the basics with a well designed T-shirt and an ethical/ecological business model.

I chatted with Martin Delisle, co-founder of BLANK about his “innovative” store.

Check out my interview…

W/ Bated Breath (& a bit of heart)

Daniel — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 10:03:49 GMT

Last week I posted about the world premier of Bryden MacDonald’s With Bated Breath. It's a play about a charismatic gay boy named Willy who leaves Smallville for the temptations of Montréal. We are granted access to the characters most private thoughts… and private bits.

I was impressed by the play (although the private bits were lovely as well) so decided to vlog about it.

Watch my reactions…

Piknic Électronik :::: I Can’t Wait!

Daniel — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 22:41:16 GMT

One of my absolute favourite summer activities has to be soaking up electronic beats and rays of sunshine in Parc Jean-Drapeau. Every Sunday afternoon Montréalers shake their booties at an outdoor dance party. It is called Piknic Électronik.

I wanted to give you a little taste of the excitement, so I made a little dance video – “I Can’t Wait!”

Check it out…

Gay Montreal Clubs :: 5 Places to get your Sexy On

Daniel — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 13:38:29 GMT

Gay Montreal clubs are known throughout the gaylaxy for their hot and sweaty dance floors. When it comes to deciding where to shake your groove thang, there are a few variables to consider, such as clientele, cover charges and type of music. But no matter what your tastes in music, you are guaranteed to find something that tickles your fancy.

Here are my five recommendations to get your sexy on…

space for everyone

Daniel — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 19:40:27 GMT

Montréal is home to a lot of homos. There is a large diversity of men out there. One might say that there are as many options as Ben & Jerry's... or as we say in Montréal "Benoit et Gerald".

Check out my ode to diversity.

Oh yeah, and you'll never guess who I ask to marry me...

With Bated Breath

Daniel — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 12:38:36 GMT

Truth is a good thing. So I’m going to be truthful with you – Montréal is not necessarily the destination you might think of when considering the North American (English) theatre scene. But every once and a while a gem comes along that you don’t want to miss.

A gem has arrived.

Get the explicit details…

Chattin’ with Tewksbury

Daniel — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:40:41 GMT

At the recent Fierté Canada Pride Conference here in Montréal, I caught up with Mark Tewksbury. We chatted about his favourite Montréal haunts.

Mark shares a few of his favourite things about Montréal.

Check out the seven stops on his “Must-not-be-Missed-List”…

Village 101

Daniel — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 13:56:20 GMT

Hey Gays!

Montréal’s Village is home to many fabulous things: restaurants, bars, cafés, boutiques and salons. It is known the world over for the all-night dance parties, for the relaxed atmosphere, and of course, for being hottie-central.

So when you visit Montréal, you are clearly going to be spending some time here...

Spring has sprung in Montréal!

Daniel — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 18:47:55 GMT

To really understand why Spring is so important to us Montréalers, I invite you to move to the city next winter and fully experience what a few months of -30°C (that’s -22°F) with wind and snow feels like. If that’s not possible, then you are going to have to take my word for it - in Montréal, Spring is a massive seasonal and communal orgasm.

My 5 stellar reasons why Montréal is Spring-tastic...

Art with a twist of HOPE

Daniel — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 18:21:54 GMT

We gays like our art. And what’s better than scoring an exclusive piece of art while supporting community-driven initiatives? Nothing.

Check out the details of this art auction.

Gay Marriage: Two Gals say “I do” in Montreal

Daniel — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 11:18:26 GMT

Found that special guy? Met the woman of your dreams? Thinking about professing your love? But wait, maybe Proposition 8 has got you down? Did you know that same-sex marriage has been legally recognized in Canada since July 2005, and within that first year, 12,000 couples were married here?

Meet a couple planning their wedding in Montréal.

Montréal is Easterrific for the Homos!

Daniel — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 10:31:37 GMT

Easter is around the corner, and you’re going to need more than a chocolate bunny to keep you energized. Here’s a taste of the many Montréal homolicious activities happening over the Long weekend.