Houston, USA
Introduction
Houston is the fourth biggest city in America by population, after New York, Los Angeles and Chicago. More than 2,000,000 people live here, which means there’s got to be tons of lesbians. That said, most of Houston’s lesbian community is concentrated around the bars and less around social or cultural groups like you’ll see in many other major urban cities. In fact, there isn’t even a gay and lesbian bookstore in the city. But there is one wonderful thing the local (and international!) lesbian community can enjoy- the fact that their mayor is openly-lesbian Annise Parker.
There are a couple of other things in Houston's favor as a lesbian travel destination, such as the biggest dyke bar in America, Chances (though now they're being challenged for that title by the new Sue Ellen's in Dallas. Yes, they like to do it bigger in Texas!) Houston’s gayborhood is called Montrose, and it’s especially queer-friendly around Montrose Boulevard and Westheimer Road. This is where you’ll find not only the local homo heaven, but also a vibrant artistic and cultural community. The gays have also migrated north of Montrose into the historic Heights neighborhood, with its beautiful homes and cafés.
One thing that is a little weird in Houston though is the fact that the city has absolutely no zoning regulations. Nada. As a result there is no separation between residential and commercial space, so bars and restaurants are nestled in between houses, convenience stores and yes, even churches.
I find this information quite interesting, and almost on point. Being a native of Houston, Texas I will have to admit that it is a travesty we no longer have a queer bookstore (which we use to some years ago, called Lobo's). Being a book lover I am often sadden by that fact. However, there are quite a few queer nights popping around around town, outside of the Gayborhood. Plenty of drag shows and performances to getting into. But yes I am always looking, for years, for more social groups - though they exist, some times they can seem limited to certain types or sectors of the queer community.
Rhae on May 09, 2009
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