GT: What makes the countries you visit such great destinations?
DT: The countries we visit are more than just beautiful places to see, they all offer something incredibly unique for our travelers. From being surrounded by wild animals in our private villa in Costa Rica, to dune-buggying across a stunning Greek island, to snorkeling with bright tropical fish in Thailand, it's the unforgettable experiences that really make our destinations great. Add incredibly friendly local people, rich culture, delicious food, and laid-back lifestyles and you'll see why we're so passionate about our destinations.
GT: What are some hotspots gay and lesbian travelers should check out when they are in the tour cities?
DT: Oh wow, this could be a long list! While much of our travel is done outside of main cities to experience a truly authentic experience, we always allow time in some of the world's best gay hotspots. Our favorite "gay hotspot" in each of our destination counties are:
Mykonos, Greece - 3 nights on this gay island paradise means time for Elia Beach, Paradise Beach, and Jackie O's. But our favorite spot here is Lola's, a hidden jazz bar that's more about great music and genuinely friendly social atmosphere than anything else.
Bangkok, Thailand - It's got a reputation as a sin city for good reason but it's not all about going nuts here. Our travelers love exploring the Silom area of Bangkok which combines the very large gay nightlife area with the best night market in the city. With unusual finds waiting at every stall and little lanes dotted with unique hotspots, this is a gay area like none you've ever seen.
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica - Our favorite hotspot in this paradise is actually right outside our rooms! We stay at Costa Rica's most well-known gay hotel perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. On every trip our groups enjoy meeting new people from around the world while sipping a drink at the infinity pool with the million-dollar view. And it's definitely not uncommon for monkeys to be hopping around the pool too!
GT: What are the top five reasons for gay travelers go on your tour?
Reason One: We believe travel should be a spontaneous experience and not pre-planned with strict itineraries. That's why our trips unfold as they go along, with a trip leader always fully immersed in the group to ensure everyone gets an experience that's unique and incredible.
Reason Two: Value. We love it when our travelers do their research prior to booking with us! We've proven that there's no need for a "gay surcharge" to ensure an incredible group travel experience and we are confident Detours is hands-down the best value out there.
Reason Three: Dozens of past and repeat travelers say it best! Check out their trip reviews at www.detourstravel.com/why-travel-detours/testimonials
Reason Four: No rushing! Our idea of travel doesn't include sitting in a bus each day. Our trips are planned to maximize time spent exploring and experiencing at each destination rather than packing up and rushing from one place to another.
Reason Five: Passion. There's something to be said about companies that are passionate about what they do. We really believe it shows in every aspect of our business from the first contact our travelers have with us until far beyond the end of the trip.
GT: Why specifically should gay travelers book your tour instead of other tours to the same destinations?
DT: We truly respect the work that all of our competitors do in our industry and the experiences they offer for their guests. We always encourage travelers to do their research, compare what each company has to offer, and let each company's values, travel concepts, past experience, and itineraries speak for themselves and dictate the traveler's final decisions.
GT: Is there anything else you’d like to add?
DT: We're quite social, come check us out! Connect with us at www.detourstravel.com, follow us on Facebook at www.fb.me/detourstravel , tweet us @detourstravel or check out our Instagram photos @detourstravel . Oh, and of course thanks gaytravel.com for the interview!
