Category Archive » LGBTQ

3 Israelis movies on the schedule @ this year’s Inside Out LGBTQ film festival in Toronto… buy your tickets and check them out!

more via Insideout.ca

FILM: ADAM

Indonesia, Israel, USA

Adam is a sensitive 17-year-old who is secretly in love with Jonathan, the most popular guy at school. One day, Adam decides to make his true feelings known but the result is not what Adam was hoping for.

Wednesday, May 29th @ 5:15

@TIFF BELL LIGHTBOX

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FILM: LITTLE MAN

Israel, UK

Elliot is unable to form a long-lasting relationship but he never gives up, moving on to the next available man. One particular weekend, Elliot becomes obsessed with a very odd neighbour who is making too many loud noises. Reaching his limit, Elliot is out to kill whatever is eating him up.

Wednesday, May 29th @ 9:30

@TIFF BELL LIGHTBOX

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FILM: Out in the Dark

Israel, USA, Palestinian Territories

The romance between Nimr, a Palestinian grad student, and Roy, an Israeli lawyer, must withstand the forces that are trying to drive them apart, in this sensual and gripping drama.

When Nimr and Roy first meet, their attraction is mutual and they begin falling for each other. But complications soon arise. Roy’s family tries to sow seeds of doubt about Nimr’s intentions, while Nimr must struggle with the fear of rejection or, worse, of having his family find out that he’s gay. Meanwhile, Israeli Security Forces threaten to revoke Nimr’s permit to study in Tel Aviv if he doesn’t provide information about his older brother’s increasingly violent activism. Faced with these obstacles, can Nimr and Roy’s relationship survive?

Sparked by electric chemistry between its handsome leading men and imbued with assured cinematography that conveys the film’s intimacy and urgency, Out in the Dark is a sensitive, compellingstory about love, family and loyalty, set in a politically charged reality.

Thursday, May 30th @ 7:15

@TIFF BELL LIGHTBOX

Tel Aviv Pride

Pack your rainbow flag, glitter, and sunscreen because there’s a whole lot of celebrating going on in these pride-ful cities.

Click here for full list

If you’re planning on going to Tel Aviv for pride, or you’re thinking about it…. this guide will seal the deal.

The latest guide by F/O/D to Tel Aviv’s 2013 Pride Celebrations, the events, the parties, the 10 MUST DOS… and of course, a conversation guide! You’re set!

DOWNLOAD HERE

Illustration Photo: Benny Deutsch

Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein rules courts can recognize non-biological father’s parenthood without adoption process

Attorney General Yehuda Weinstein announced that spouses of parents to children conceived through a surrogacy process overseas will be accorded parenthood status without the previous need for a lengthy and complex adoption process.

Instead, a court order will suffice.

The AG’s statement followed several petitions to the Supreme Court by homosexual couples who demanded both fathers be registered as parents, though only one of them is the biological father through surrogate conception.

The new move by the AG is based on the Mor-Yosef Committee’s recommendations, which examined whether single men or same-sex couples should be allowed to conceive via a surrogate mother.

Weinstein ruled that pending the finalization of proper legislation, family courts will be able to issue a court order recognizing the spouse’s parenthood following a genetic test proving the parenthood of the biological father and other conditions to be further elaborated in future legislation.

Source: Ynetnews.com

Is there a better place in the world to get together and begin working on a new, innovative online venture than Tel Aviv… probably not. 12 gay leaders from across the globe got together to start working on a little something, involving Israeli youtube sensation, Idan matalon. Even though the project is still on the hush hush… we wanted to know their thoughts about the start up nation.. so we spoke to 4 of them!

1. Stijn Bourlet

From: The Netherlands

Was this your first time in Israel ? If so, was it was you expected?

It was the first time I visited Israel. I heard so many good things about the country and especially about Tel Aviv. A lot of my friends visited the city and really enjoyed it. You can imagine I was very excited finally going there.

What was your favourite spot ?

My favourite spot for breakfast was definitely Benedict. Lovely staff, tasty food and a nice atmosphere. Another place which I really enjoyed was Gordon Beach.

Did the Tel Aviv nightlife live up to its reputation?

I was lucky because I celebrated Independence Day with thousands of other people in Tel Aviv. Dancing and drinking on the streets, on cars… It was amazing. Actually It felt a bit like Queens day in The Netherlands.

The city offers really good parties in awesome venues. Also international parties are given regularly.

How would you describe the Gay Scene in Israel?

In comparison with Amsterdam the gay scene in Tel Aviv is not that different. I noticed people in the city like to party and It’s possible to go out every night.

The only difference is that gay people most of the time only go out to gay places. In Amsterdam we’re all partying together (straight&gay) and occasionally go out to a gay bar or club.

Are there any similarities between Israel and your home country (or Tel Aviv and your home city)?

The similarities that I noticed during my stay were positive energy, friendly (and sexy!) people, good food and like my own city I really felt save in Tel Aviv.

Do you intend on visiting Israel again soon ?

I would love to go back soon!

2. Lucas Ribeiro Gelslöichter (DJ Flamefly)

From: Madrid, Spain (born in Brazil)

Was this your first time in Israel ? If so, was it was you expected ?

Indeed yes, and I had lots of expectations about the country. The security control drains a little energy from you, but once you start feeling the energy of Tel Aviv, it´s worth every step of the way. Despite of my preconceptions, I always try not to idealize a place because you might get disappointed. There isn’t enough time in a week to explore the city a bit deeper (besides the weather wasn´t as good as mr. Idan told me, but it´s ok) but I think I felt so good because all those people around me. It was a once in a life time experience.

What was your favourite spot ?

I reaaaaally enjoyed going to Jerusalem. I´m not religious at all, yet I do have my beliefs. It´s all about energy, and the faith and passion of the people as we have heard before… Can move mountains !

Did the Tel Aviv nightlife live up to its reputation ? 

I´m a DJ and the nightlife catches my attention. Besides, many people from Israel go to Spain on holidays, so when I went into the Forever Tel Aviv party, I honestly felt like I was in one of those parties in Spain, seeing so many familiar faces. Israeli people definitely know how to party… But after all… They all go to Spain looking for more! Hopefully I´ll be returning to Tel Aviv for a gig soon !

How would you describe the Gay Scene in Israel?

I gather that the gay scene is very strong and present on social basis. I wasn´t expecting the support that we are receiving (despite of the magnitude of our project). I can´t say much more because our leisure time was quite limited.

Are there any similarities between Israel and your home country (or Tel Aviv and your home city) ?

I guess no place is like Israel, and it´s quite complicated to make a comparison, also based on the background. Yet I see happy people on the streets, having fun, enjoying football matches on a bar… That´s very similar to Spain.

Do you intend on visiting Israel again soon ?

Definitely yes, there´s much more to see and explore, I cannot wait for my next trip ! And I wanna go to the Dead Sea !!!

3. Rafael Pezott

From: Paris, France

Was this your first time in Israel ? If so, was it was you expected ?

It was my first time visiting the Holy Land.

I expected a lot more but unfortunately time was pretty short and I haven’t seen much of  Tel-Aviv, but what I saw was amazing enough to make me want to come back. Business talking, it surpassed all my expectations.

What was your favourite spot ?

Jerusalem was the greatest thing i’ve seen in years, it was very touching, walking over so much history.

Did the Tel Aviv nightlife live up to its reputation ? 

I think so, there seems to be a great nightlife with lots of options for everyone. One thing must be said, the MUSIC was amazing everywhere we went.

How would you describe the Gay Scene in Israel?

The gay scene is very well represented by it members, sexy, enthusiastic and very enjoyable. The great energy makes gay life in the city so real and respected.

Are there any similarities between Israel and your home country (or Tel Aviv and your home city) ?

Not at all, in Paris life is a bit slower and quite calm, considering we are a big touristic city with people coming in and out non-stop we don’t have a nightlife like in Tel Aviv.

Do you intend on visiting Israel again soon ? 

Absolutely YES, I’ll be back in August during the summer, to guarantee I’ll have a lot more sun to enjoy the beach and explore Tel-Aviv a bit better.

4. Oriol Pamies

From: Barcelona

Was this your first time in Israel ? If so, was it was you expected ?

Yes, it was my first time in Israel, and now that i’m back I keep on asking myself.. Why I haven’t been sooner!
It was absolutely unexpected, Freedom, open-minded, happy, electric and crazy. I really fell in love with the country..

What was your favourite spot ?

I have two favourite spots.

The first: Evita Bar. Really nice place, people were so nice, music was fantastic, the shows were so funny/amazing… Perfect atmosphere. Special thanks to Igal Raanan who was so friendly and made us feel like home
Second: The “Forever Tel Aviv” party. AMAZING. After the party, when all the ambassadors arrived at the Villa, everyone was like WOW, WTF WAS THAT? Perfect music, beautiful people, hard party. Just loved it, can’t wait to go back.
Special thanks to Ohad Heim; Amazing host!

Did the Tel Aviv nightlife live up to its reputation ?

Of course! After those crazy nights in Tel Aviv, I’m just recommending the city to everyone!
People really have to head to the city. I think that I’m not the best PR person for the city in Spain!

How would you describe the Gay Scene in Israel?

Very united. Really friendly and open to the tourism. Serious in terms of organization, and fucking crazy at party time. A positive balance with an awesome energy. An example to follow for the other countries on the Middle East.

Are there any similarities between Israel and your home country (or Tel Aviv and your home city) ?

Before coming to Tel Aviv I was told that it was  similar to Barcelona. IT’S TRUE!
We both have nice beaches, amazing history and monuments, crazy nightlife, hot guys.. etc.
Maybe that’s why I felt like home and why I connected with people here! ^_^

Do you intend on visiting Israel again soon ?

Are you kidding me? In the next few days I’ll be booking a flight to Tel Aviv for the Gay Pride! So I hope to see you guys  during one of the craziest Prides in the world. I’m sure I won’t be disappointed.
Tel Aviv, here I come again!

Fabulous Israel brings the best of boutique travel to gay men and lesbian women looking to explore Israel.

From personal experience we know that vacationing is complex: cultural experiences, gorgeous men, sunny and serene beaches, a thriving night-life. Most importantly, travelling means comfort, pampering, and someone caring for your every need so you can soak up the sounds, sites, and smells of your destination. Fabulous Israel offers this unique service for the gay traveler who wishes to have only the most boutique and sophisticated stay. As native Israelis, our intimate knowledge of the gay community and Israel’s most distinctive cultural and historical sites makes us perfectly suited to place you in the center of the action. Whether you are looking for the trendiest places to eat, the most culturally authentic spots, or to learn more about the history of this unique country, we can provide it all in the most convenient and fun atmosphere. Our group packages offer unparalleled opportunities to develop friendships and international networks, while our tailor-made individual packages create the perfect getaway for you, your friends, and your family. With years of hosting and planning events, we know just what you’ll want to make your trip unforgettable!

Voted Out Magazine’s “Gay Capital of the Middle East,” Tel Aviv’s compelling vibes have been a draw for the international gay community for years. With its year-long sunny weather, gorgeous beaches, and even more beautiful men, it is home to one of the most outrageous gay pride events in the world. Coupled with a thriving nightlife, café culture and trendsetting fashion, Tel Aviv is truly a fabulous city. Only an hour away, nestled in the stunning Judean hills, lies one of history’s most important cities, Jerusalem. This multi-faceted city is a melting pot of religions, cultures, aromas, fashions and tastes. One can visit the open-air market and taste fresh hummus and Druze breads to the sounds of merchants selling their wares, or walk down to the modern Mamilla mall and taste gourmet international cuisine in quaint cafes side-by-side high-end boutiques. Yet Israel doesn’t stop there! Travel to the lowest point on Earth, and the world’s most fabulous natural spa, the Dead Sea, or hike through a waterfall amongst the luscious forests of the North. A backbone of civilization since the beginning of time, anything you wish to experience has its place amongst the mosaic of Israeli society.

Fabulous Israel is a one-of-a-kind company which combines decades of experience and a deep understanding of Israel to meet your every need. Whether you’re coming as a group or for a tailor-made individual experience, we know how to give you everything you desire to ensure a truly perfect boutique vacation from the moment you land in Israel.

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