By: Howie Holben
Submitted: 2010-01-05 02:35:37 | Word Count: 516
Although there is not much of a gay scene throughout Mongolia, its beautiful landscapes and unique culture make it a distinctive travel destination for gay travel. Homosexual acts were declared legal in 2002, but naivet about homosexuality still persists and gay travel to Mongolia is a good idea for your next vacation.
Once led by Genghis Khan, Mongolia is situated between powerhouses Russia and China with Ulaanbaatar serving as a unique capital city. Known as a nation of nomadic people, the country is the least densely populated place and open to visitors looking to explore the lakes, mountains, Gobi desert and bands of wild horses.
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With beautiful landscapes and cultural experiences, Mongolia can be a popular destination for gay travelers despite its not being known for an open gay scene.
It is best to start your journey in Ulaanbaatar, where guesthouses typically serve as travel agencies that can help you plan your trip. It is best to travel into the capital and spend several days planning your countrywide excursions. There is an international airport, but consider taking the train from Beijing in order to view the beautiful countryside.
While staying in Ulaanbaatar, you can expect to pay roughly twenty dollars per night (for double rooms) if staying in a guesthouse.
They can help you to coordinate both longer and shorter stays. If you are planning a shorter vacation, they will likely advise you to visit Kharakorum, Genghis Khan s ancient capital city, as well as the Terelj National Park, which is a good stopover on the way to the Gobi Desert. You may also be interested in doing a family home stay, in which you lodge with local residents and get a feel for everyday life and culture in Mongolia.
Longer stays of a month or longer are ideal for a big loop of the country to include the aforementioned destinations all in one trip.
While in Ulaanbaatar, you will want to see the Natural History Museum and The Culture Show, which include the spectacular talent of Mongolia s National Symphony Orchestra. Also be sure to find traditional Mongolian fare on the cheap at places like Mongol Shabu.
Gay travelers should not feel uncomfortable, despite homosexuality being relatively under the radar countrywide. This is not typically considered a result of conservativeness, but a relative lack of information about gay culture and context.
While visiting the country independently and sorting out an itinerary on your own offers flexibility, there are also travel groups catering to LGBT travelers that provide structured trips.
Typically they served as a way to see the best of the country and highlights include the Gobi Desert, ancient capital of Kharakorum, local camel farms and the Terelj National Park. With various activities like horseback riding along the Mongolian Steppe and cultural activities like traditional Naadam festivals, they appeal to all types of travelers.
These groups often include visits with local LGBT groups and a look at the barely existent gay scene in country. Despite a small gay scene, the country offers beautiful landscapes and unique culture that make it an unforgettable excursion for gay travelers.
Author Resource:-
Howie Holben is the owner of Spirit Journeys, a gay travel organization that focuses on spiritual travel. Spirit Journeys has offered unique gay holidays and tours since 1992. You can learn more about Howie, his work and gay vacations or gay tours at http://www.SpiritJourneys.com
