GayTravel.com offers inside scoop on the latest and greatest LGBT-friendly accommodations in the hottest destinations around the world! Check out this GayTravel.com exclusive interview with Joanie Clapper about the beautiful DoubleTree San Diego Downtown.

GT: What makes San Diego such a great LGBT destination?

JC: San Diego celebrates diversity year-round. We are a city where people from all walks of life come together to meet, shop, dine and enjoy the city’s culture. LGTB guests who come to San Diego will be eased by our openness and the hospitality that we have to offer.

GT: What are some hotspots gay and lesbian travelers should check out when they are in San Diego?

JC: Hillcrest- home to San Diego's Gay and lesbian community is known for its tolerance and acceptance as well as its restaurants and nightlife. Hillcrest is a very hip and happening place with many locally owned restaurants offering something for everyone’s palate. It is also home to many of our gay bars and nightclubs.

Diversionary Theatre- It is one of the oldest Gay and Lesbian Theatres in the Nation. It was founded in 1986 to provide quality theatre catering to the LGTB community. Diversionary Theatre is recognized as one of San Diego's best theaters.

Beaches- San Diego has miles and miles of sandy beaches. We have everything from calm quiet beaches in Coronado to our boardwalk in Mission Beach, featuring our Giant Dipper wooden coaster, to clothing optional, Blacks Beach in La Jolla.

GT: What are the top five reasons for gay travelers to visit?

Reason One: Mild temperatures year-round allow visitors to enjoy our extensive beaches whenever.

Reason Two: Amusement Parks- San Diego is home to Sea World, The World Famous San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, Legoland, and local favorite Belmont Park

Reason Three: LGTB Pride events- throughout the year San Diego LGTBs community hosts some of the biggest and best LGTB events around. Our biggest annual Pride festival is held over 3 days in July and is attended by people from all walks of life. Tourists and locals both take part in the festivities. There are many more events done throughout the year so no matter what time you come to San Diego there is surely something going on.

Reason Four: The People- San Diego is a big city with a small town charm. People of San Diego have open minds and the progressive attitude of a big city but we are also very hospitable and welcoming like any small town USA.

Reason Five: Craft Beers- In the recent years San Diego has become one of the top Craft Brewing places in the world.  We have many craft breweries popping up all over the city and are Home the Hillcrest Brewing Co. the worlds 1st "Out and Proud LGTB brewery"

GT: Tell our readers why they should visit DoubleTree San Diego.

JC: San Diego welcomes gay and lesbian travelers with a vast array of activities, including six popular annual Pride festivities, and a vibrant gay and lesbian community. Visit once and get hooked on the sunshine and spirit of a city where people from all walks of life come together to meet, shop, dine and enjoy the area’s arts, culture and nightlife  Our hotel being next to Little Italy will also give our visitors another opportunity to visit us.

GT: Why should gay travelers book at DoubleTree San Diego instead of other properties in the area?

JC: We show our Gay and lesbian travelers an experience that no other hotel in San Diego can.  From our housekeeping staff to the front desk.  From the bartenders to the wait staff in the restaurant.  You can expect superior service and understanding that no other hotel in san Diego can.

GT: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

JC: We're The BEST…….so ignore the REST………..!