Hamburg

For many Hamburg is synonymous with the many waterways, bridges and the architecturally interesting harbour. But cool and trendy Hamburg is also the place to shop and drop. Beautifully presented and displayed, it isn't just products that are sold here but lifestyles, too. Designer shops cater for anything from the latest kitchen gadgets to really sleek interior decorating and design products.

The place to be is the Gay and Lesbian district of St. Georg - others may join a more conventional St.Pauli Discovery tour. Ladies should head for the Ballissima annual autumn ball (mid-november) or the gay lesbian dance courses at the Magnus Hirschfeld Center (named after the famous sexologist and gay right's lawyer), where there's never a dull moment. Listen to the gay choir Schola Cantorosa or visit the café cum bistro: their Sunday brunch has become an institution.

As in Germany's other Gay & Lesbian centres, the Christopher Street Day and other events in Hamburg are by now part of the city's social make-up and everybody joins in. Clubs, bars, discos, party-venues, there is something for all tastes and inclinations in this beautiful city on the Elbe.

For further information take a look at: www.hamburg-tourism.de or their Gay & Lesbian website

For reductions on entry fees and free public transport, purchase a Hamburg Card available at all Hamburg Tourist Information offices,underground & train station ticket machines, in various hotels as well as youth hostels or by calling the HAMBURG-HOTLINE 0049 40 30051300.