Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Same-sex marriage is legal in California. Although homophobic bigotry exists, wide-
spread tolerance is the norm up and down the California coast, except for some small
towns, where 'don't ask, don't tell' is still the unspoken social policy.
Resources
Advocate
(
www.advocate.com/travel
) Online news, gay travel features and destination
guides.
Damron
(
www.damron.com
)
Classic, advertiser-driven gay travel guides and 'Gay Scout'
mobile app.
Gay & Lesbian National Hotline
(
888-843-4564;
www.glnh.org
;
1-9pm Mon-Fri,
9am-2pm Sat)
For counseling and referrals of any kind.
Gay.net Travel
(
www.gay.net/travel
)
City guides, travel news and pride events.
Out Traveler
(
www.outtraveler.com
)
Free online magazine with travel tips, destination
guides and hotel reviews.
Purple Roofs
(
www.purpleroofs.com
) Online directory of LGBTQ accommodations.
Health
Healthcare & Insurance
Medical treatment in the USA is of the highest caliber, but the expense could kill you.
Many health-care professionals demand payment at the time of service, especially from
out-of-towners or international visitors.
Except for medical emergencies (in which case call 911 or go to the nearest 24-hour hos-
pital emergency room, or ER), phone around to find a doctor or a walk-in clinic or urgent-
care center that will accept your insurance.
Some health-insurance policies require you to get pre-authorization over the phone for
medical treatment before seeking help. Keep all medical receipts and documentation for
billing and insurance claims and reimbursement later.
Insurance
Travel Insurance
Getting travel insurance to cover theft, loss and medical problems is highly recommended.
Some policies do not cover 'risky' activities such as scuba diving, motorcycling and skiing
