Day Six: Argentina – or Not? Mission!!!

The table was draped in cloth that had seen better days – and cutlery that had had more mouths wrapped around them than a rent boys appendage…

Jesuit Missionary Ruins were next. Hopped on a coach – 5 hours – dropped at the side of a bare motorway. Where were we? The bus station seemed abandoned except for a few Argentine ladies babysitting traveller’s bags who were visiting the Missionary Ruins. http://www.welcomeargentina.com/posadas/san-ignacio-ruins.html

On walking the red dirt track to the village under unforgiving sunshine baring an unbelievable heat we sought refuge at the first restaurant (also to restore our stomachs). The empty 1970s restaurant was painted pink and the fridge in the corner running from a generator flickered on and off. A 60-something year old man enthusiastically greeted us. [We choose a table near the entrance for a swift exit should someone appear with a bloodstained apron and meat clever.] The table was draped in cloth that had seen better days – and cutlery that had had more mouths wrapped around them than a rent boys appendage.

Day Five: Argentina - A water experience like no other

Home was soon forgotten in favour of believing and living in the here and now – nothing breathed like the present. Within nature – the power, the strength, the personality are one of its own…

British Airways and Pam Ann fly Brighton Pride 2011: Video

British Airways took to the streets for the second UK gay pride of 2011 at Brighton with the infamous air hostess, Pam Ann. Joined by a congregation of largely British Airways gatwick crew the float flight departed from Brighton Pier at 11am and finished at Preston Park by 2pm.

It was certainly one of the best parade's I've ever experienced with huge enthusiasm and support throughout the route. The change to Preston Park and it's celebration certainly didn't deter anyone and appeared much more busier than in previous years.

Brighton Pride, certainly for me, is the ultimate gay event in the UK and an absolute must.

For more information: http://www.brightonpride.org/

Video - Buenos Aires

Stopped in Buenos Aires twice during our trip through North-East of Argentina. A big, noisey and a little rough around the edges the capital of Argentina will keep you busy as a shopper, drinker or culturalist. Find out more vimeo.com/ryanhaynes

Cuba - Resort - Veradero, Accomodation

Veradero is a peninsular approximately 3.5 hours from Havana. This tranquil popular destination on the Florida Straits is lined with all inclusive hotels. For three nights, we stayed in Cuatro Palmas, Mercure Hotel, with its own private swimming pool overlooking the sea with four restaurants (International, Cuban, Italian, Buffet).

Cuba - Gay Havana

There are certainly areas in the Vedado area where you will find a thriving gay community. Calle 23 is the centre of gay life, near the Cine Yara (cinema), this street is frequented by gay people night and day – but don’t expect it to be anything like major cosmopolitan cities. The one gay venue on this street is more like a canteen than a party establishment, though get talking to one of the locals and they will invite you to the official gay party that evening.

Cuba - Sightseeing - Old Havana, Centro, Costa Blanca,

Havana can be covered in two days. Exploring Habana Vieja will take about three hours where you will see the Plaza de la Catedral, Plaza de Armas, Plaza Vieja and may well stumble upon the odd Tourist festival.