Sydney: Where to find Priscilla queen of the desert ?

Meet Peter! Born and raised on Sydney's Northern Beaches, he now lives in the middle of the gay neighbourhood in the inner city. Peter works an an investment advisor, and shares an old 1870's terrace house with Nicolas, a former misterb&b guest who has enjoyed Sydney so much he has now decided to live in this beautiful city indefinitely. 

What makes Sydney a favorite gay destination?

The physical beauty of Sydney, with its harbour and many sandy surf beaches, provides a beautiful canvas for one of the world's biggest gay cities. Good seafood, great local wines, and amazing weather all help to make Sydney one of the most liveable cities in the world.

What is the best gay event that takes place in Sydney?

Easy - this would have to be the famous Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras that finishes with a huge night time gay parade and party on the first weekend of every March. Just as much fun are the smaller events during beforehand, such as the pool party, underwear parties (yes - there's more than one!) and the QueerScreen Film Festival.

What is your favorite gay establishment to grab a bite for lunch? a nice dinner?

The gay scene is so big in Sydney that you're bound to see boys in most establishments in inner Sydney. Sydney has a big Chinatown, and yum-cha on the Sunday is always popular with larger groups - particularly in winter. For dinner I'd recommend Thai Pathong on King Street in Newtown, which is the second gay neighbourhood after Oxford Street - it is very gay friendly, and the Thai food is always amazing. For somewhere classy with white table clothes, sexy waiters and delicious French inspired food then Claire's Kitchen on Oxford Street is a must.

Best gay bar for a cheap beer?

Did you ever watch the movie 'Priscilla Queen of the Desert'? The Priscilla Bar in the Imperial Hotel (a short walk from the Thai Pathong) has drag shows most Fridays and Saturdays, and has a good selection of Australian lagers as well.

Best gay bar for a refreshing cocktail?

Although more gay friendly than gay, my favourite would have to be Pocket Bar. Just off Oxford Street, it is small but undeniably hip, with comfy chesterfield couches, and friendly (and gorgeous) barmen!

Which famous gay person is from Sydney?

Probably the most famous would be Ian Thorpe, the international swimmer who has recently come out as an openly gay man. He has won more Olympic gold medals for Australia than any other sportsman. But Sydney is most famous for its drag queens, and the best of all would have to be Claire de Lune. Having arrived from France 30 years ago with just her suitcase, Claire now run's Claire's Kitchen on Oxford Street.

Ready to go dancing--what is the best gay dance club?

Palms on Oxford. Unpretentious vibe, with a curious tropical theme and the obligitory mirror ball, playing hits from the 80s and 90s. Because it is free, it is always crowded on the Friday or Saturday evening with people dancing like their life depends on it. The hits are oldies but goodies, so you can bust all your special moves and really let loose.

Which gay bar offers the best happy hour on a Wednesday?

Alcohol is highly taxed in Australia, so even during happy hour drink prices are never that cheap. But the best bar on Wednesday is without a doubt 'MaleBox' at Stonewall on Oxford Street. MaleBox is always crowded, particularly with gay college boys who don't have early lectures on Thursdays

Where to start a gay tour in Sydney?

Gay or not, the best place to start is to catch a bus or ferry to Circular Quay. This is where the first convicts from Europe arrived in Australia more than 220 years ago. From here it's an easy stroll to the famous Sydney Opera House, the historic Rocks neighbourhood, and then walk across the Harbour Bridge.

Best place to socialize with the local gay community?

Every Sunday in the early evening the large beer garden at The Beresford is always crammed with local boys celebrating the end of the weekend. Is always crowded, so you're guaranteed to literally bump into someone - always a great way to start a conversation and make a new acquaintance!

Best place to be surrounded by the local gays?

During summer is the beaches popular with the Sydney gay boys, such as North Bondi (especially during the week), Tamarama, or one of the nude beaches located around Sydney Harbour. if it's not beach weather, then any of the Fitness First gyms in the inner east at any time of the day.

How gay-friendly is Sydney?

Sydney has changed so much. 30 years ago, openly gay men were unfortunately often subject to verbal and physical violence. Today Sydney is more than just tolerant - Sydney Siders now really celebrate their large and visible gay community.

A gay place for brunch on weekends?

Any of the cafes in Surry Hills (where I live) or Potts Point are always popular with gays, especially when it's warm when you can sit outside and enjoy the passing parade. My favourite is still my local - SuzieQ, which always has amazing brunch specials.

What is gay life like in Sydney?

For a nation that is still waiting for gay marriage (hopefully in 2017?), gays already enjoy equal rights in nearly all areas including immigration, military service, and adoption. Sydney is Australia's gay capital, and the gay community is very visible - we are very much part of the vibe of the city.

What are your favourite gay venues in Sydney?

My favourite is the Green Park Pub - a great space for both gays and gay-friendly which really hasn't changed that much over the years - on Sunday evenings they also have a DJ playing!