Click

The nightlife competition is being turned up a notch. With Esedeku having a succesful "re-inauguration" with more space and a new terrace, now comes word of Click's weekly lineup. I have also been getting a lot of information about how many gay nightlife options are available in Santiago. Let me get some information and pass it on. Good luck to everyone!

Esedeku

Esedeku, which is a great colonial zone bar, is having a "re-inauguration" to celebrate a new phase for their business.

Colin O'Neal's Santo Domingo

New gay porno movie featuring Dominicans.

Gay or Ex-Gay?

I have said many times, there are no famous "out" people in the Dominican Republic. It is amazing, because I feel extremely comfortable here being Gay, but I know many Dominicans who are not. It is still taboo and many, many Gays here lead double-life. They just don't call it the "down low."

While catching up on some reading, I checked out the blog Blabbeando, where there is an interesting story of Jari Ramirez. He is a very popular host on television here. As I have written before, many men hosting the "pop culture" shows, seem to be effeminate. What can I tell 'ya, at least to me. Well Blabbeando has the full story, about his coming out, then several months later, giving the "lifestyle" up.

Coming out is very personal and can be difficult.

I wish Jari Ramirez the best.

Que lo Que?

Flyer: Sessions Designs

We here at the Monaga Blog want to help improve the nightlife opportunities for gay travelers to Santo Domingo. To that end, we are teaming up with Jay-Dee's to put on a little soiree, Sunday, September 2, 2007. I am now scouring the island looking for the best entertainment the DR can offer.

Will I see you Labor Day weekend? Remember, Spirit Airlines is having a sale, which ends at midnight, July 24, 2007.

Latest

People are still buzzing about the great opening for Cha. Let's hope they can continue the momentum. Jay-Dee's doesn't seem like it missed it a beat at all this past weekend. Very nice crowds on both Friday and Saturday. I have not heard how Arena did this past weekend. Sunday @ Cha's was quite busy I here. What with the RD$50 peso Presidente's from 4-8pm, I can see why. It probably doesn't hurt that it is free to get in before 8pm on Sunday. Let's see what Arena is going to do to counter this?

Some time ago I wrote about a new "gay Dominican magazine" that was making its debut. It was/is called Vida Fabulosa. After the premier issue it has disappeared. The issue was quite a letdown. After all the buildup and talk, I was expecting something different. Don't get me wrong, I think a magazine is a great idea. Unfortunately, what was finally put out was not very good and all the promises of "major" advertisers, and a grand party for the launch, among many other promises, never materialized. No one knows what is going on. I have been advised that emails and phone calls are not being returned. Shame.

Last week, I went to La Casa Rosada. It was great to go back and see the kids again. I went with someone who had sent down lots of toys for Christmas, but had never been to the facility. As always, the staff were gracious and kind, and took my friend around on a personal tour. We were told that none of the children living at the facility have died in the last 2 years. The only deaths were children who were brought to the facility who were already gravely ill. Also found out that several of the children have been adopted. What a great blessing. Their most pressing need, as always, is food. Great visit.

Where as in the U.S. MySpace is very popular, here amongst the Dominicans, it is Hi5. There are thousands of Dominicans (U.S. & D.R.) listed and you can meet some really great people. Go sign up and check it out.

Over the last couple of months the country of Panama keeps coming up. Several people I know have been for a visit. It seems that more people I know are going to Panama, and quite a few are liking what they see. One thing for sure, they know how to cultivate people to come and live there. If you checkout the website they do everything to make it easy for you to come there and purchase property without all the drama. Oh yeah, the currency is in U.S. dollars, which for us Americanos is a good thing. You can also drive to Costa Rica & Colombia, which is another place I have been getting some good info on. Have any of you visited Panama? If so, what did you think about the place? Do tell ...

Okay, that's all I can think of right now.

As ever,
Monaga Blogger

Cha

Hola

The weather has rainy and cool for the last 10 days or so. This is supposed to be the dry season. Peaks of sun every now and again. But, very blah, to be sure.

I was in Ocho Puertas (8 Doors) the other evening, and spoke with the owner, Dana. He informed me that he would be closing the doors for good on Monday, January 15, 2007. He said that with the curfew, along with the current business climate, it just isn't feasible to continue. It was very sad to hear. If you have been to the bar, then you know just how beautiful and great a space it is. Let's hope that someone opens up something else soon, or maybe someone else can takeover the Ocho Puertas space. Anyway, good luck to Dana.

Washington, D.C.'s, own Mario Sessions, will be throwing his annual birthday party in Santo Domingo, the weekend of March 9, 2007. For more information on the festivities to www.santodomingodirect.com.

There were some murmurs about a "gay wedding" that took place in Santo Domingo, during the Christmas holidays. Being an eternal skeptic, I didn't pay it much attention. Then I run into someone I know that works at the Hilton Hotel, and he asks me did I hear about the wedding. Still didn't think much about it. Then I get an email, and find out it is all true. It was a commitment ceremony, that by all accounts was done in a elegant, grand style. No expense was spared and it has gotten many of the locals who witnessed it talking. I have been talking with one of the participants to see if he will allow me to show some of the photos and share their story. Some of the local media have gotten wind of the affair, and want to do a story themselves. He knows that more than likely it will be held up to ridicule and that is the last thing he (or I) wants. I have told him that I will give him total control over what is written, and what pictures are shown. Also, no names have to be divulged. But, I would understand if he would prefer to not publicize it. We'll see ...

While sitting here writing this blog entry, I hear all this commotion outside in the street. When I open the door to see what is going on, I notice that everyone is staring at a woman on the corner is naked. The word spread like wildfire, and people are starting to come from everywhere. It is obvious (I think) that she is mentally unbalanced. But, then aren't we all, sometimes.

Don't forget, if you are in Santo Domingo, this week to stop by Jay-Dee's on Thursday, January 18, 2007. Eddie and Samuel will be celebrating their 6th anniversary together. Last year, I wrote about their 5th-year celebration at Bar Friends.

I mentioned in a couple of posts ago that I wanted to see Dreamgirls desperately. And thanks to Chris from D.C., I have! Let me just say the power of the internet is amazing. Then I find out that they are going to be showing it here in the next couple of weeks. Posters are starting to appear. Can't wait, because there is nothing like seeing a great musical on the big screen.

For those in NYC, or who will be visiting, checkout the musical In the Heights. Go to the website for more information.

I think that is it.

Until soon,
Monaga Blogger

Happy Birthday!

This past Sunday was my 42nd birthday. I started celebrating on Friday night. Friday night seemed like there was electricity in the air. It was a payday, and most people got their extra holiday pay, which is mandated by the government. Started out at Jay-Dee's and then went to Arena, where they had a really nice show. Saturday night I went to Jay-Dee's to see the strippers, it was great! Sunday, a friend with a beautiful apartment in the Colonial Zone, Mark, threw a little dinner party at his place. The menu was simple and elegant, Spiced Meat Cornmeal & Cheddar Cobbler, Ambrosia, and a fresh green salad. For dessert there was a beautiful chocolate cake with vanilla frosting and dulce de leche filling, along with some French Vanilla ice cream. Everyone was greeted with Peppermint Vodka Martinis. Just yummy!! No one wanted their photos on the blog (except for David), so I just took some photos of the food and decor.

Last night, Joan Guzman, the WBO World lightweight champion fought against Antonio Davis last night @ the Sports Palace. As expected, Joan won. It seemed like the whole country was watching and cheering Joan on to victory. Oscar de la Hoya was at the fight looking very dapper. Tonight, Shakira is at the Sports Palace gyrating and doing her thing. The weather is in the 70's and there is NO humidity, so it is a great night for a concert.

I received an email about a party that is taking place this weekend on the 22nd of December. It is a private party where you need to RSVP to attend. This is the kind of party where there will be a more refined Gay Dominican. So, if you want to attend, leave the "boyfriend" at home. Know what I mean? (copy of the flyer below)

Okay, I know many of you are probably tired of hearing about Dreamgirls, BUT I'M NOT! I don't know when, if ever, they are going to show it here in the DR, but I have got to see this movie. Anyone coming down and you just happen to have a "copy" of the movie, CALL ME!

Okay, more later.
Monaga Blogger

Las Terrenas

I have written many times about the joys of visiting the Samana region. From January to March whales come to spawn in Samana bay. There are national parks, waterfalls, beautiful mountains, and for my money, the best secluded beaches in the Dominican Republic. Don't take my word for it, go see for yourself. It takes a little over 4 hours to get there, but some friends of mine tried another option this past weekend. I told them that there are flights that leave from La Isabela airport (small regional airport north of Santo Domingo) and they decided to give it a try. Below are some photos from their journey. Not for the faint of heart, but, if you like to be in Samana in 30 minutes (only $70 each-way!), then it is the way to go.

I like Las Terrenas, but there are many towns to visit and checkout in the Samana region. There is a large French ex-pat community in Las Terrenas, so you can get great wine and french delicacies. You can rent an ATV (all terrain vehicle) and explore the miles and miles of sandy beaches.

Warning: Samana is not a party capital. It is for those seeking relaxation and beaches!

Cool Slideshows

Cool Slideshows

Last Night @ Jay-Dee's

Happy Thanksgiving!

Yesterday was a great Thanksgiving for me here in Santo Domingo. David Lee and I had talked about getting together for Thanksgiving at his house. We originially talked about maybe 5 people and it ended up being over 20 there yesterday. It was all good. David baked the turkey and some chicken, and we had our Dominican version of an American classic Thanksgiving. More importantly, the conversation and fellowship were the most important things.

On January 31, 2007, will be my 3-year anniversary of living in the Dominican Republic. My, how time has flew by. I have learned so much and have sooooo much to be thankful for.

Many, many people are in town for the "unofficial" start to the Winter season. Of course everyone will be congregating at Jay-Dee's tonight for their stripper-thon. I hope they get some beautiful men to work the VIP room. At any rate, I will see you there.

I pray all had a great Thankgsiving!

Cool Slideshows

Miss Me?

It's been a minute since I posted something. I was sick as hell the last couple of days. I guess it was the flu. All I know is that on Sunday I didn't have the strength to pick up the phone. Started feeling much better on Wednesday. I gotta get a flu shot!

Well, let's see, what's been going on?

Last Friday and Saturday nights went with David to hang out in Jay-Dee's to see what the strippers were like. Very nice crowds on both nights. Saturday night had a group (40+) from Chicago in the house and there were at least 6 strippers to whet their (along with everyone else) appetite. Nothing like beautiful young men to get everyone's juices flowing. (For those so inclined, photos are located below.)

The buzz now in the country is that we are going to be on a strike for the next 48 hours. A lot of DRama going on because the President announced that they were going to be reworking the tax laws again and everyone from business leaders, unions, civil servants and just plain folk are worried about how much more they are going to have to pay and for what? It is a mess. The country is building a subway that it can ill-afford, at the same time many parts of the country are experiencing crippling blackouts. Politicians! What can you do? Well, most Dominicans are saying let's shut the country down for 2 days to let the government know how seriously people are fed up with what is going on. Should be interesting.

Note: LP has informed me that they will not be doing Dominican Island Heat this year. With all the drama with the curfew and other projects he and Kenny are working on, they decided to pass this year.

Other News:

Canadian Tourist Killed in D.R.

Dominican Immigrant Killed in Philadelphia

American Airlines Will Start Baggage Restrictions

Thinking About Going to Punta Cana? Here's a Review

Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Award (Sonia Pierre)

Review of the first DR Global Film Festival

Dominican Bodegas in NYC

Saturday Night @ Jay-Dee's

Went out Saturday night to Jay-Dee's and had a really great time. Quite a few tourists in town surveying the scene. The strippers were really hot AND lo-and-behold, the drag performer at the end was really good. Short, sweet, and had the crowd going. Don't know who she is, but mucho kudos. Jay-Dee's is going to have different strippers every Saturday, and this week there will also be a show this Friday (Nov. 10). And where there are strippers, I will be there taking pictures. Hope to see you there.

Here are some photos for your enjoyment:

DR vs. Brazil?

Okay, I have never been to Brazil, but so many people I know go and send me pictures and tell me great stories so I feel like I have been. That coupled with the books/articles that I have read about the country. I even know people who have gone to Brazil and bought home their men, AND, are still together, thank you very much. So, when I start talking about Brazil people just assume that I have been there.

Well, I haven't been. OKAY!

But, I want to go desperately. Especially to visit Salvador de Bahia. I just feel connected to the place, though I have never been. Sorta like I felt about the DR, before I came here for a visit. I would just read about the Dominican Republic and Panama, and say I want to go, I want to go, and eventually I came here, and the rest is history.

One of my closest friends went on the Bahian Heat trip to Brazil, and had a great time. He had been a couple months before, for the first time, and liked it so much he decided to go back to check things out. My friend is not one for long emails, they are always concise and short. The email I got from him on his first trip to Brazil was long and detailed (I like very much). Then there is the great guy that I met (online), Fernando Bingre (there is a great interview with Fernando on the Bahian Heat blog), who is the guide extraordinaire for anyone daring to venture to Bahia for the first time. He speaks several languages, and everyone who has met him in person comments on how sweet he is.

This got me to thinking. With the DR experiencing a lull in gay travelers now, are more and more people going to bypass us here in favor of Brazil? I spoke with several people who travel frequently to both places got mixed reactions.

The one thing that the DR has going for it is that it is a 3.5 hour non-stop flight from NYC. Maybe 6 hours with connecting flights anywhere on the Eastcoast. Brazil is an 8.5 hour flight from Miami, so it makes the possibility of popping down for a long weekend not too enticing. Not to mention how much the tickets cost. Those that I know that go to both places and prefer Brazil, complain that the time it takes to get there is just too long.

Brazil has almost 180 million people, compared to 8.5 million people in the Dominican Republic. Sao Paolo alone has over 40 million people, almost 5 times the population of the DR. The country is huge (land mass) and has so many things it can offer visitors, like the world-renowned Amazon Jungle, world famous beaches, soccer, Afro-Brazilian culture and lots more. It also has the largest population of Japanese people outside of Japan. There are more African-descended people in Brazil than anywhere in the world outside of Africa (including the United States). And the people. Well, they come in every shade from Nicole Kidman pasty white, to African blue-black.

The Gay life in Brazil is much more developed. There are Gay Pride Festivals in the major cities that have hundreds of thousands of participants. There are even Gay Samba Houses that parade for carnival. The one downside is the crime element. Everyone who I have spoken to talks about how it is much more dangerous it is in Brazil vs. the Dominican Republic. I have been told about robberies at gun-point, knockout drugs in drinks, etc. For this reason, most of the gay life (Brazilian and tourists alike) centers around the bathhouses, which from the pictures I've seen are pretty spectacular and house upwards of 50 of the most beautiful men the mind can imagine.

Now, the DR, on the other hand is much smaller. There is crime here, but I have not heard of anyone being heldup at gun-point in the Colonial Zone (though I'm not saying it has never happened). In the DR, it is also much safer to travel around the country and meet people anywhere you go. For a small country, the DR has some of the most beautiful people in the world in all shapes, sizes and colors. As stated before it is much cheaper and quicker to get to. Now, if we could only get rid of the curfew.

Now that I finish reading this item I think, what am I trying to say? I don't know, but I guess my point was that comparing the two is unfair, because of the sheer size of Brazil. But, I would love to hear what others think. I'm curious about those who have been to both Brazil and Dominican Republic think? Which place do you like best, and why?

Here are some photos from a friend's recent trek to Salvador de Bahia, Brazil:

Note: I didn't change the color at the top. Something went wacky.

What's Up?

I haven't written anything in a while, so I thought I would give an update as to what is going on.

Not much really happening here right now. It has been kinda dead, with regard to the nightlife scene. If Rouge is still open (I have not confirmed this) then it is barely hanging on. Last weekend I heard there were less than 20 people in the club. I think that is a shame, as they opened with such big fanfare and tried to bring something different to the club-going public. I like Chachita Rubio a lot, so I hope they are able to turn things around. Arena is the club of the moment. The last couple of weekends have seen very large crowds there. Why? Because they are actively going after the "chilren." Reduced admission, drink specials, shows, strippers, etc.

From what I understand, starting next Saturday, November 4, 2006, Jay-Dee's is going to be featuring the hottest dancers in the Dominican Republic. Can't wait!!!! This weekend there will be many Halloween festivities going on. Jay-Dee's is having a costume contest, along with Arena. This weekend is also the official grand-opening of Ocho Puertas. So there should be something for everyone. Bar Friends is still open, too, though I have not heard of anything special going on this weekend.

There have been two smaller places that have opened and I have heard that they are predominantly Lesbian hangouts. They are right down the street from Arena, but I haven't been able to get accurate information about what is going on. I know a couple of people who have been, who are not Lesbians. I will have to find out exactly what is going on and report back to you.

I have recently talked to several people who come down here often, and stay for long periods of time. They talked about there is something missing, and it has nothing to do with the curfew. I thought it was striking that I talked with everyone separately, and they had the same take on things. They thought that the nightlife was getting boring. These folks are not the Arena crowd and much prefer the Friends to Jay-Dee's axis. Very, very rarely do they venture out of the Colonial Zone, and I think that could also be a part of the problem. I agree, things have definitely changed, but then there hadn't been that many tourists here.

On the other hand, there are other Americans who are here. Some staying for long periods of time, who are having the times of their lives. They have been scuba diving, whitewater rafting, partying in the clubs outside of the Colonial Zone, taking Spanish classes and hitting the beach every chance they get. So, who do you believe? Both. I have said this before, but I think your time here will depend on what you are looking for and what you are willing to do to make your vacation fun. If you come strictly to hang around the Conde and buggarones, then yes, it gets old VERY quickly. It is what you make it.

The other day the Minister of Tourism was on television, and he confirmed that the curfew was going to be lifted in the tourist areas (Colonial Zone, Puerto Plata/Cabarete, Punta Cana). Unfortunately, he says that he doesn't know when. I have adapted, but the bottom line is that tourists that come want to have a good time and don't want to have go home at 2am on the weekends. Some have said that there are cities in the U.S. where clubs close at 2am. True. But, then you can go to a restaurant or hang out in some gathering spot. Here, once the clubs/bars close it is barely anyone on the street, though it is not against the law.

This past weekend the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States ended their festival in Santo Domingo. It was a resounding success. I have some video of the the fashion shows and some of the performances, but it is too large and I can't figure out how to cut it down. Still working on it and will make sure to get it uploaded real soon. God willing.

In the meantime, here are a few photos from the festival.

Until soon,
The Monaga Blogger

Get Your Own! | View Slideshow

Krash Vogue Club House

On your next visit to Santiago, make sure to stop by the Krash Vogue Club. It is very nice to see that there is a gay place to go up north. I have also heard about a bar in Santiago. Once I can confirm the information I will pass it on.



Interesting Articles: HIV in Dominican Prisons BBC Dominican Republic Timeline Commercial of the DR in the Future (In Spanish)

Is Rouge Closed?

The buzz has been hot and heavy that Rouge has closed. Rumors were all over the place to the reason of its supposed demise. Well, I just got off the phone with Chachita Rubio, the co-owner, and she says that is NOT true. She explained that she is partners with a straight guy who is responsible for setting the prices with regard to entrance fee and drink prices. MANY (!)people had complained bitterly, because the prices for the drinks were extremely high. Also,on Saturday nights it was RD$200 pesos to get in, and you got no drink. They were charging RD140 pesos for a Presidente. All Dominicans know that you can go to the colmado and get a Presidente for RD$35 to RD$40 pesos. If you are going to have any gay business here, you MUST be able to appeal to the gay Dominican clientele to survive. Because of this reason Rouge was empty last weekend. Jay-Dee's and Arena were full. Chachita says she and her partners have heard the message loud and clear and tells me that the price of entry, along with drink prices have been lowered accordingly. She asked me to let people know of the changes. Okay. Now you know. Again, let the club wars begin!

What else ...

There is also mucho buzz about a new magazine that is supposed to launch called Vida Fabulosa (Fabulous Life). I first heard about the magazine when I saw a classified for it on DR1 looking for people to work for the magazine. It said that it would be the most controversial magazine in Dominican history. I had heard that it would be out in August. The classified on DR1 then said it would be out September 18, 2006. One of the people working on the project was out the night before last, discussing the magazine with some Americans who live here. He said that the magazine would be out any day now. He was commenting on how they have ads with Presidente and Orange (cellular company), along with other major advertisers. He also mentioned that one of the gay business owners here had advertised in the magazine. I for one can't wait to see it. They are even discussing it on the DR1 chat board.

Several weeks ago a student was killed after being denied entrance to a famous upscale club here, Praia. The story is still sketchy, but according to the newspapers, the young lady and her friends went to the club and were denied entry. An argument ensued and the young lady, or someone from her group threw some rocks at the door of the club, which is glass, and it shattered. The group runs back to their car and the security guard starts shooting at the car, killing the young woman. The story was frontpage news here. The young woman was a university student who, according to the papers, had been let in the club before. It seems this time her friends were not the sort to be allowed in the club. From the Dominicans I talk to, it meant that they were too dark. This incident has brought up the color problem in Dominican society. The government has come out and said that discrimination is illegal and said it wouldn't be tolerated. I have been to Praia, and it is one of the most beautiful clubs I have ever been to. Done in white and glass, it is like any upscale club anywhere in the world. The night I went (w/a friend here on business) I was the darkest person in the place (my friend is white), excluding the help. It seems the more things change, the more they stay the same.