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Gay travel to Cologne this year is certainly going to be popular. Known as a Mecca for gays, this German city is host to the 2010 Gay Games from 31 July – 7 August. Everything is raring to go for this event that features sporting disciplines, festivals, fairs, parades and other cultural events.

This is the largest sports event for gay athletes, artists, musicians and singers. Competitors with any sexual orientation are more than welcome to compete in any discipline. It was previously called the Gay Olympics when it was first held in San Francisco during 1982. The purpose of the event is to encourage inclusion, participation and personal growth in sports.

In this spirit, participants do not have to qualify. The games are open to everyone, irrespective of their sexual orientation. Because Cologne is such an open-minded city, this year’s event is expected to attract entrants from all over the world, even from countries where same-sex relationships remain illegal.

With this philosophy in mind, no competitor has to qualify for entry. The event is open to anyone, regardless of sexual preference. Cologne is known for its open-mindedness therefore it is anticipated that the occasion will draw participants from many countries, especially those where homosexuality is still taboo.

Bands and singers from everywhere in the world will take part in an instrumental and singing festival. Athletes in the Rainbow Run will carry a flag into the arena at the opening ceremony. The flag will have traveled through each continent in this huge marathon commemorating those who have died of AIDS.

The oldest German city, Cologne lies on the banks of the famous Rhine River. It is always abuzz with tourists who are keen to experience Cologne’s vibrancy and its rich heritage. Local residents are friendly, jovial and helpful. You will find a plethora of gay restaurants, clubs and bars in the city.

There are some exciting events and tourist attractions that cater for gay visitors. These include a hike to castles, a motorcycle tour just for women, and a tour that covers gay history from the 19th Century to 1969. The Rhenish Extravaganza – a famous carnival features a host of attractions, parties, art displays and lectures.

LGBT visitors to Cologne are welcomed with a special Pink WelcomeCard distributed by the Koln Tourismus Service Center. Through the center, you can get free public transport, discounts on river cruises, theater tickets, museum visits, and opera shows. The center also offers discounts for gay clubs, bars, shops and saunas. Gay travel to Cologne is going to be at an all-time high this year.