My first Atlantis cruise took me to Egypt and the Greek Islands in 2003. It was my second time in the country and I knew well it was not friendly to the LGBTQ+ community. But we were not denied entry to the country.
In the 20+ years hence, I thought that we were making some progress with Muslim countries. But the headlines tell another story. For the second time, Atlantis Events has been denied entry into a country — this time Egypt. Just like Turkey, who refused the ship earlier this week, our tourism dollars are not welcome because of who we are.
In a Facebook post, passenger Steve May, wrote of the sting he felt not being allowed to dock in Alexandria, ‘a city founded by and named for one of the ancient world’s most well-known homosexuals”. Alexander the Great founded Alexandria in 331 B.C.
He goes on to write about his experience of rejection in the USA. “As with Turkey, we have been sent away not because of what we did, but because of who we said we are. ‘I am what I am’ is too much liberty for some to bear. So it was in the United States as well not long ago, where even I ended up as a convicted homosexual after a military trial in 2001 for saying ‘I am gay.’ This is just a reminder that for all the progress we have made, our freedom is never secure — for any of us, regardless of who or how we love. Back to Europe!”
May is quoted in The Washington Blade
That follows the headlines from The World Cup where both Egypt and Iran objected to having to play in Seattle’s “Pride Match” during their Pride weekend at the end of June. FIFA allowed the Pride flags inside the stadium during the match.
Our friends at Outright International distributed Pride flags in Seattle. Executive Director Maria Sjödin, said, “Visibility matters. Pride is now being celebrated in more than 100 countries, including this weekend in Seattle. For many LGBTIQ people, seeing a Pride flag in public is a reminder that they are not alone, and that their rights and dignity are recognized.”, according to a report in The Washington Blade.
There’s nothing more visible than a cruise ship full of gay men coming into port. And that was a bridge too far for two countries. Will others follow suit? The cruise companies we work with have destinations in the Caribbean and Africa. Those countries could also decide to ban us from visiting.
With 195 countries in the world, Pride is only celebrated in just over half. That’s not a good report card for our planet. But we fight on trying to change hearts and minds through travel.
Understanding cultures vastly different from our own is crucial in finding ways to achieve acceptance. When we’re not even allowed at the table, and our souls are turned away, the world doesn’t become a better place.
Brad Fuhr, your K-Gay Desert Guide
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ALL OUT – A 90s Queer Kickback Summer Dance Party
The Center’s ALL OUT: A 90s Queer Kickback Summer Dance Party lights up Studio 4707 on Saturday, July 11 from 7–10 pm, bringing a full‑on ’90s celebration packed with retro club hits from Flaco the DJ, live dancers, and plenty of queer joy. This annual summer party blends nostalgia with community spirit, inviting guests to relive the era of dance floors, divas, and unforgettable nights out. Attendees enjoy small bites, one drink ticket, and the good feelings of supporting The Center’s programs connecting LGBTQ+ people to resources and one another. More info
Classics at the Palm Springs Cultural Center
The Palm Springs Cultural Center reopens this weekend with two special screenings that invite the community to come together in support of the venue’s ongoing recovery after its temporary closure due to fire. On Saturday, July 11 at 6 pm, the Historic Camelot Theater will screen Jaws, the iconic blockbuster that defined the summer‑movie tradition. Then on Sunday, July 12 at 3 pm it’s a Musical Matinee presentation of The King and I (1956), the beloved Rodgers & Hammerstein classic starring Deborah Kerr and Yul Brynner. Show your support by joining them for these screenings or by making a donation online to help their recovery!
Billy L’Amour and the Love Notes
The cabaret experience Billy L’Amour and the Love Notes takes the stage at Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs on Friday, July 10 from 7–8:30 pm. Doors at the Cascade Lounge open at 6 pm, allowing guests to settle in for a night of vintage-inspired glamour and show-stopping vocals. Celebrated drag performer Billy L’Amour brings live vocals, humor, and a signature mix of old-school Las Vegas and Parisian style. Backed by the rich, dynamic sounds of the live band The Love Notes, this event promises a nostalgic yet fresh take on classic entertainment. More info
Jo Koy – Live
The hilarious comedy show Jo Koy – Live takes place at The Show at Agua Caliente Casino Resort Spa on Friday–Saturday, July 10–11 at 8 pm. Comedian Jo Koy brings his explosive, high-energy performance to the stage for two nights of sharp storytelling and family-fueled humor. His rise from a Las Vegas coffee shop to a standing ovation on The Tonight Show was powered by charisma and a gift for turning everyday life into comedy. Having earned hit specials on both Netflix and Comedy Central, he is currently one of the most in-demand comedians in the industry. More info
Wanderlust Food Truck Festival at Sunrise Park
The Wanderlust Food Truck Festival transforms Sunrise Park into a lively outdoor gathering on Saturday, July 11 from 5–10 pm. With more than twenty rotating food trucks and local vendors, the festival offers gourmet street food, comfort favorites, desserts, and globally inspired dishes. Guests can enjoy lawn games, open seating, and a relaxed community atmosphere designed for lingering and connecting. More info
Making Porn
Theatre lovers can experience Making Porn at Prism Theater, with performances running Thursday–Saturday on a run through August 2. This outrageous hit comedy follows the chaos of a low‑budget gay adult film shoot, where a struggling actor is pulled into a world of eccentric performers, oversized egos, and nonstop backstage mayhem. Packed with rapid‑fire jokes, fearless camp, and surprising heart, the production delivers a bold, R‑rated experience. More info
The Book of Merman
The Prism Theater presents The Book of Merman, a new musical comedy running Saturdays & Sundays through July 26 at Prism Theater. This playful production blends Broadway diva mythology with unexpected visitors, creating a spirited and humorous twist on classic musical tropes, offering audiences a fresh, camp‑infused theatrical experience in an intimate setting. More info
