Halifax, NS | Halifax’s reputation for gay friendly travel will be reaffirmed with the return of R Family Vacations’ cruise with Rosie O’Donnell and guests this July. O’Donnell, along with more than 2000 gays, lesbians, their families and friends will disembark from the Norwegian Dawn in Halifax’s historic port to enjoy the welcoming gay travel destination.

When Rosie O’Donnell and the cruise first came to the city in 2005, Halifax received international recognition as a gay friendly travel destination. O’Donnell strongly praised Canada for its openness and leadership in gay rights. The timing of the 2008 cruise coincides with preparations for Halifax Pride Festival, Atlantic Canada’s biggest Pride Festival, which launches the week after Rosie and crew visit Halifax.

"Everyone at R Family Vacations is excited that our cruise is returning to Halifax again this summer,” says Gregg Kaminsky, founding partner of R Family Vacations. “It is a port that we've known we wanted to visit again.” Kaminsky says that Halifax is a perfect gay family travel destination because of the incredible variety of excursions and sightseeing opportunities. “In our five years, Halifax is certainly one of the most welcoming ports we've ever experienced,” he says.

More and more local Halifax businesses are working to better address the unique preferences of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgendered) community, including gay families. Gay parents want to visit safe destinations, without fear of harassment, says David Paisley of Community Marketing, Inc. “Parents are also looking for gay family travel destinations full of activities and attractions for both adults and children,” he says. “As a gay travel destination, Halifax is a good fit for gay parents.”

The historic harbourfront city has a vibrant LGBT community, diverse culture, natural beauty, and down-home hospitality in a safe environment. Visitors to Halifax’s gay community and those looking for gay summer travel options will love the newly revamped Rainbow Halifax website (www.rainbowhalifax.com), an LGBT Halifax travel resource with useful information such as travel packages, accommodations and gay event listings.