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GLBT life in
Israel is dynamic, alive and kicking. With all of the
anti-homosexuality laws (that were left over by the British)
repealed back in 1988, the GLBT community enjoys political freedom
as in no other middle-eastern country. The Aguda (The Israeli GLBT
National organization) has branches throughout the country (Galilee,
Eilat, Beer Sheva, Tel Aviv) , and each branch operates a heavy load
of activities and community services. The Jerusalem Open House (The
Jerusalem GLBT organization) has an impressive number of activities
in the capital city.
The hub of GLBT
life in Israel certainly revolves around Tel Aviv – with its gay
beach, pubs, clubs, restaurants and active nightlife. Thursday and
Friday nights are the big “going out” nights – with huge dance
parties usually held on Friday nights with top DJ’s brought in from
Europe’s and the U.S. best clubs.
The hot spot of
Tel Aviv is of course the Independence Park, located just north of
the Hilton Hotel. It’s the place (day and night) to “meet the
locals.” As opposed to many meeting spots in other countries, the
park is a safe place to just sit in the sun, enjoy the view of the
Mediterranean, and start up a conversation with one of the passerbys.
Just below this park is Tel Aviv’s GLBT beach. Most of the local
newsstands carry the monthly give-away magazine “Zman HaVarod / Pink
Times.” Although the magazine is only in Hebrew, there are ads for
most of the happenings around town. Use the phone listings in the
back of the magazine get up to date information. As in most
European and American cities, June is “pride month” – and the
country is filled with parties, parades and lots to do. The bottom
line – Israel is a very gay friendly destination – enjoy!
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