Mexico’s State Of Nayarit Embraces All With #NAYARITFOREVERONE

This Pride season, the Mexican state of Nayarit is embracing its place as one of the country’s most welcoming destinations for the LGBTQ+ traveler with pride celebrations taking place across the state, including two marches that look to show that Nayarit is for Everyone.

Nayarit has been catching the eyes of LGBTQ travelers for a while now. It was one of the first states in Mexico that recognized same-sex marriage, and as a member of IGLTA and Queer Destinations-certified, it has always been a champion for inclusivity. This year, Pride Celebrations will start on June 12th with Bahia Pride in the Riviera Nayarit jewel of Sayulita. The three-day event will feature performances by national performers with Sayulinda Hotel offering roof-top parties daily. The state capital, Tepic, will host its annual Marcha del Orgullo Nayarit (Nayarit Pride March) on Saturday, June 21 at 4 PM with marches taking over Downtown.

The recipe for a world-class LGBTQ destination is simple. What you need are fabulous hotels, beautiful beaches, exquisite dining, electric nightlife, gorgeous scenery and, of course, an inclusive energy. Enter Mexico’s State of Nayarit, a destination that exceeds in these areas and beyond. It’s a place practically tailor-made for LGBTQ travel.

Nayarit is home to many wonderful cities, beach towns, and small villages, all of which are ready to welcome and host LGBTQ travelers. From the gorgeous beachfront resorts and restaurants of Nuevo Vallarta to the boutique-heavy bohemian beach towns like Sayulita, the luxury hotspots of Punta Mita, and the rugged nature and beautiful wildlife of San Blas, Nayarit has a vibe to fit every style of traveler.

Among the top draws to Nayarit for LGBTQ+ travelers is the lengthy list of luxury hotels, resorts, and villas. Punta Mita is one of the top luxury enclaves within the state of Nayarit, home to five-star resorts like St. Regis Punta Mita, the Four Seasons Punta Mita and the newly opened Susurros del Corazon, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection. Travelers will also find resorts like Conrad Punta Mita and W Punta Mita along the Punta Mita peninsula, as well as one of the most robust villa rental portfolios in the country. To the north, the One&Only Mandarina and the Rosewood Mandarina offer one of a kind seclusion in luxury. More boutique hotel options can be found in between, from the village of Bucerias up through Sayulita and San Pancho.

Nayarit is perfect for the active LGBTQ+ travelers who want to experience more than the beaches — though the beaches along the Riviera Nayarit are among the most pristine in Mexico, particularly for surfers. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot thousands of migratory birds in the seaside village of San Pancho. Islas Marietas National Park is just off the coast of Punta Mita, which is a protected park known for its marine life, as well as its birds. A hidden beach can be found here, too, which is one of the top activities for travelers to Nayarit. Hiking, mountain biking, and yoga are all part of the Nayarit experience.

Visitors can also take their time learning about history and culture. Nayarit has four of Mexico’s famous Pueblos Magicos, or Magic Towns that are recognized for their preserved history, culture, and traditions. Sayulita is arguably the most famous Pueblo Magico in Nayarit (and one of the most famous in Mexico), but Nayarit is also home to Compostela, Jala, and Mexcaltitan. Compostela has splendid churches and gorgeous colonial architecture, as well as one of Mexico’s largest bird sanctuaries. The town of Jala sits in the shadow of the Ceboruco Volcano, which is a beautiful spot for hiking or watching the sunset. Mexcaltitan is an island just a short boat ride away from San Blas. It’s known as the Venice of Mexico, thanks to the canals that form within the streets during the rainy season. The car-free island is splashed with brightly colored houses and features some of the best seafood and ceviche in Mexico.

Access to Nayarit from the U.S. and Canada is incredibly easy. The Bay of Banderas Airport (PVR) as well as the Guadalajara Airport are just a quick drive away. Volaris Airlines will operate direct flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to the Riviera Nayarit International Airport (TPQ) starting July 16th.

The beauty of the state of Nayarit is that it offers a little bit of something for everyone. Every type of traveler, regardless of sexual orientation, has their own style and vibe, and the state of Nayarit has a resort, community, and experience to match.

Guadalajara Convention And Visitors Bureau Shares 2025 PRIDE Events

From parades and live performances to art showcases and cultural festivals, this LGBTQ+ friendly city welcomes the world to experience its inclusive heart

The birthplace of iconic heritage including mariachi, tequila and charrería, Guadalajara is renowned as a premier destination for inclusive travel and home to one of the largest Pride festivals in Latin America. With a dynamic calendar of events slated for June 7 – 14, 2025, the Guadalajara Convention and Visitors Bureau shares some of the city’s most anticipated celebrations that spotlight the Mexican city’s thriving community of LGBTQ+ owned businesses and deep commitment to equality.

Pride Week Events

Guadalajara Pride 2025 will feature two major parades. On Saturday, June 7, the Marcha del Orgullo GDL steps off at 3 p.m. from the statue of La Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom and strategic warfare, and moves through the city under the theme “Breaking Barriers, Building Dreams,” with a focus on accessibility and inclusion for LGBTQ+ individuals with disabilities. The official Guadalajara Pride Parade will take place on Saturday, June 14, starting at 3:00p.m. This special edition of the march will begin at Andador Alcalde in downtown and conclude at the iconic Minerva roundabout around 10:00p.m. For the first time ever, this year’s parade is designed as a sunset celebration and is primed to be one of the most memorable yet. Attendees can look forward to an amazing concert and surprises throughout the route and enjoy the evening at the Pride Fair at the Arcos Minerva parks.

Between both parades, a week of cultural programming takes place across the city, including art exhibitions, film screenings, panel discussions and nightlife. A standout is the Marica Festival, running June 13-14 at the Roxy Room, showcasing live music and performances that bring together the LGBTQ+ community and allies in celebration.

A Leading Destination for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Guadalajara’s emergence as a leading destination for inclusive travel is supported by meaningful policies and national recognition. State-level anti-discrimination protections and marriage equality have helped shape a welcoming environment. In 2018, the state introduced the role of Director of Sexual Diversity to further support LGBTQ+ residents and visitors. With continued backing on national levels and strong community leadership, the city attracts travelers seeking both culture and inclusion.

The city is also home to more than 50 LGBTQ+ businesses, from bars and cafés to boutiques and salons, most of which are in Zona Centro along Avenida Prisciliano Sanchez. In 2023, Guadalajara made international headlines as a co-host of the Gay Games XI, the world’s largest LGBTQ+ sporting and cultural event. The city also maintains membership in the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA), underscoring its commitment to safe and inclusive travel.

“Guadalajara is an international reference point for LGBTQ+ travelers thanks to progressive efforts and authentic partnerships with like-minded organizations that have enhanced the visibility of this vibrant community,” said Gustavo Staufert, CEO of the Guadalajara Convention and Visitors Bureau. “We want travelers of all orientations and all corners of the world to experience our inclusive sporting events, museums, galleries, and nightlife, because Guadalajara is a city that takes great pride in creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed and celebrated.”

Faces and Places Behind Guadalajara’s LGBTQ+ Scene

Guadalajara’s LGBTQ+ culture is driven by local artists and entrepreneurs who have built spaces that reflect the city’s creative energy. Among them is Alex Serratos, an advocate and business owner who helped secure Guadalajara’s role as a co-host of the Gay Games XI. His ventures include Antiturista, a socially focused city guide spotlighting LGBTQ+ owned and friendly businesses and tours, as well as the welcoming restaurants Banda Pizza and Peligro al Fondo, which is especially popular for its weekly drag shows and weekend nightlife.

Guadalajara is also home to a thriving drag scene, with queens like Jenary Bloom and Horacio Potasio, who appeared on Drag Race México, and Cristian Peralta, winner of the show’s first season. Venues such as Xiquito Baresito host standout drag performances, showcasing local talent.

For more information about Guadalajara, please visit https://gotoguadalajara.com/.

Mexico City Has It All For The LGBTQ+ Community

Mexico City, a vibrant and diverse metropolis, welcomes travelers with rich tapestry of neighborhoods, each offering a unique flavor of the city. As visitors plan their stay, it's essential to consider not only the budget and attractions but also the inclusivity and LGBTQ+ offerings. Whether they're drawn to historic charm, stylish ambiance, or the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene, Mexico City has something for everyone.

To mention a little history about Mexico City’s innovation towards this segment, in December 2009, the Legislative Assembly of the Federal District (ALDF) approved Equal Marriage, and on November 23, 2015, the local government signed a declaration in which Mexico City is recognized as a "Friendly City" with the LGBTQ+ community. Mexico City was also named a Queer Destination by the Mexico City Secretary of Tourism, Nathalie Desplas Puel.

It is a declaration to the national and international community that Mexico City is a welcoming destination; since it has demonstrated that it is a progressive city with clear progress in the recognition of the human rights of all people without distinction.

In a sprawling metropolis like Mexico City, the abundance of accommodation options can be overwhelming. Here's a breakdown of some neighborhoods to help visitors make the right choice:

1. Condesa and Roma Norte: Stylish and Affordable

For those seeking a blend of style and affordability, Condesa and Roma Norte top the list. These neighborhoods boast a plethora of dining and drinking options, along with interesting shops featuring local designers' work. The tree-lined streets and numerous small parks make them ideal for leisurely strolls day or night.

2. Centro Histórico: Immersed in History

Travelers with a penchant for Mexico City's oldest historic attractions should consider staying in the Centro Histórico, the city's historic center. While the area may quiet down after dark, its proximity to significant landmarks adds historical charm to your stay.

3. Polanco: Upscale and Chic

For a truly upscale experience, Polanco is the go-to neighborhood. Dotted with shops showcasing international designer brands and restaurants helmed by award-winning chefs, Polanco caters to those with a taste for the finer things.

4. Zona Rosa: LGBTQ+ Nightlife Hub

If proximity to vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife is a priority, travelers should consider staying in or near the Zona Rosa. This lively neighborhood comes alive after sunset, offering a vibrant array of bars, clubs, and entertainment options.

To reaffirm Mexico City as a friendly destination, for the second consecutive year, it received the LGBTQ+ Travel Awards as “Best LGBTTTIQ+ Urban Destination” from the National Union of LGBT Tourism Entrepreneurs (UNET LGBT+). The winners are selected by voters who vote on different categories to determine the winners.

Recently Mexico City was ranked in the top 8 Best Gay Cities 2023. Gay Cities showcases LGBTQ+ friendly destinations and businesses so travelers can feel secure when booking trips and exploring cities, therefore the winner cities were selected by votes of the visitors to the page, which is ranked #1 on ComScore in the LGBTQ+ Category.

For more information, please visit: mexicocity.cdmx.gob.mx

Mexico’s State Of Nayarit Is One Of The Best Destinations For LGBTQ+ Travel

The recipe for a world-class LGBTQ+ destination is simple: All you need are fabulous hotels, beautiful beaches, exquisite dining, electric nightlife, gorgeous scenery and, of course, an inclusive energy. Enter Mexico’s State of Nayarit, a destination that exceeds in these areas and beyond. It’s a place practically tailor-made for LGBTQ+ travel.

In fact, Nayarit has been catching the eyes of LGBTQ+ travelers for a while now. It is one of the many states in Mexico that recognize same-sex marriage and has always been a champion for inclusivity, including a unique Huichol (indigenous) ceremony, with a Marakame (a person who is an intermediate between the living the spirit world) who “unites the souls”.

In 2022, the state's beaches –also known as the Riviera Nayarit –took home the award for top Beach Destination at the LGBT+ Travel Awards Mexico. The organization recognized Riviera Nayarit for its diversity, inclusion and respect for all.

Nayarit is home to many wonderful cities, beach towns and small villages, all of which are ready to welcome and host LGBTQ+ travelers. From the gorgeous oceanfront resorts and restaurants of Nuevo Nayarit to boutique-heavy bohemian beach towns like Sayulita, the luxury hotspots of Punta Mita, like Thierry Blouet’s Tuna Blanca, and the rugged nature and beautiful wildlife of San Blas, Nayarit has a vibe to fit every style of traveler.

Of course, the LGBTQ+ community is welcome beyond just the beaches in the state of Nayarit. The state capital, Tepic, for example, has a small but active gay scene, with several gay bars, as well as an annual Pride march held every June.

Among the top draws to Nayarit for LGBTQ+travelers is a lengthy list of luxury hotels, resorts and villas.Punta Mita is one of the top luxury enclaves within the state of Nayarit.

It is home to five-star resorts like St. Regis Punta Mita Resort, the newly opened Naviva by Four Seasons Resort PuntaMita, the new adults-only, 15 glamping suites; and the Susurros del Corazon, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection.

Travelers will also find other resorts along northern Punta de Mita, as well as one of the most robust villa rental portfolios in the country.

More boutique hotel options can be found in between, from the village of Bucerias up through Sayulita, San Pancho, Chacala known for its wellness offering, and San Blas for bird watching.

Nayarit is perfect for the active LGBTQ+ travelers who want to experience more than just sun and sand — though the beaches along the Riviera Nayarit are among the most pristine in Mexico, particularly for surfers. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot thousands of migratory birds in the seaside village of San Blas and Islas Marias, San Pancho, Islas Marietas National Park, a protected park known for its marine life, as well as its birds. Hiking, mountain biking and yoga are also all part of the Nayarit experience.

Visitors can also take their time learning about history and culture. Nayarit has four of Mexico's famous Pueblos Magicos, or “Magic Towns,” that are recognized for their preserved history, culture and traditions.

Sayulita is arguably the most famous Pueblo Magico in not only Nayarit but all of Mexico, and the state is also home to Compostela, Jala andMexcaltitan. Compostela boasts splendid churches and gorgeous colonial architecture, as well as one of Mexico's largest bird sanctuaries. The town of Jala sits in the shadow of the Ceboruco volcano, which is a beautiful spot for hiking or watching the sunset. Mexcaltitan is known as the Venice of Mexico, thanks to the canals that form within the streets during the rainy season. The car-free island is splashed with brightly colored houses and features some of the best seafood in Mexico.

The beauty of the state of Nayarit is that it offers a little bit of something for everyone. Every type of traveler, regardless of sexual orientation, has their own style and vibe – and the state of Nayarit has a resort, community and experience to match.

Visit Philly's Latest Overnight Package Includes Tickets To The National Constitution Center, The Museum Of The American Revolution, Hotel Parking & Additional Bonus Perks Valued Up To $214

     

The fall 2019 Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package includes two tickets to the National Constitution Center (left) and two tickets to the Museum of the American Revolution (right), among other perks. 

Credit: A. Ricketts for VISIT PHILADELPHIA® (left) and C. Smyth for VISIT PHILADELPHIA® (right)

PHILADELPHIA, PA – Simple to book, easy to enjoy, the perks-packed Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package, refreshed just in time for the fall season, is perfect for travelers who want to do minimal trip planning. Known for its free and convenient overnight hotel parking, the package also includes museum tickets (Museum of the American Revolution and the National Constitution Center, preeminent institutions for history lovers and anyone interested in how the United States came to be), a restaurant card to use at any of chef Jose Garces’ Philadelphia restaurants and bus passes to get around town (PHLASH^® Downtown Loop). Running from September 12 through November 30, 2019, the Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package is bookable online anytime at visitphilly.com/overnight.

The Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package is available at 44 hotels for one- or two-night stays (available for additional nights at select hotels) and includes perks valued at up to $214:

• Hotel parking (up to a $100 value for a two-night stay at a Center City hotel)
• Two tickets to the National Constitution Center, the one-and-only museum devoted to explaining and exploring the laws that shape the U.S. (a $29 value)
• Two tickets to the Museum of the American Revolution, the world’s first venue to trace independence’s roots through the people who lived through the Revolutionary War (a $50 value)
• $25 restaurant card for Garces Group Philadelphia restaurants (Amada, Distrito, JG Domestic, The Olde Bar, Tinto, Village Whiskey, Volvér. During Restaurant Week, September 15-27, 2019, the card is valid for à la carte dining only.)
• Two all-day passes for the PHLASH Downtown Loop (a $10 value)

“The Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package is easy, convenient and full of great perks,” said Jeff Guaracino, president and CEO, VISIT PHILADELPHIA^®. “Once visitors park their car for free, they have a great base for their trip, thanks to the museum tickets, restaurant card and bus passes. From there, they can easily wander and explore the city’s well-known attractions such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and many surprises along the way.”

More Reasons To Book The Package:

Not-to-be-missed exhibitions and events give visitors more reasons to book—and stay a while:

• Hamilton – Lin-Manuel Miranda’s modern Broadway blockbuster debuts in the city of Alexander Hamilton’s greatest roles (Revolutionary War artillery officer, presidential advisor, first national bank founder) and his romantic downfall (Reynolds affair). The performance takes place during the Museum of the American Revolution’s Year of Hamilton and the National Constitution Center exhibit, Hamilton: The Constitutional Clashes that Shaped a Nation. August 27-November 17, 2019. Forrest Theatre, 1114 Walnut Street, (215) 893-1999, kimmelcenter.org
• Fringe Festival – For two weeks, Philly hosts cutting-edge, avant-garde performances, street theater, cabarets and more in an American take on Edinburgh, Scotland’s massive arts festival. September 5-21, 2019. Various locations, (215) 413-9006, fringearts.com
• Hispanic Heritage Month – An entire month of Latinx happenings include Mexican Independence Day at Penn’s Landing (September 15) and the Puerto Rican Day Parade on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway (September 29). September 14-October 17, 2019. phila.gov
• Festival 019 – Opera Philadelphia returns with four elegant, controversial, classic and cutting-edge premieres and concerts that promise to turn the artform of opera on its head. September 18-29, 2019. Various locations, (215) 732-8400, operaphila.org
• In Motion, In Place: Trisha Brown Dance Company in Fairmount Park – The post-modern dance company presents free site-specific works at three outdoor locations: Foray Forêt at the Mount Pleasant Mansion, Raft Piece at The Discovery Center and Roof Piece on rooftops around Logan Circle. September 24-29, 2 (215) 988-9334, myphillypark.org
• Site/Sound: Revealing the Rail Park – For three Saturdays in October, Philadelphia’s emergent Rail Park and its surrounding neighborhood will host multi-sensory art installations, family programs, music and performances that honor the past, present and future of the historic corridor along the famed Reading Railroad. October 2-19, 2019. Various locations, muralarts.org
• Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg – The National Museum of American Jewish History hosts the first East Coast stop for an exhibition about the second woman and first Jewish woman to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. October 4, 2019-January 12, 2020. 101 S. Independence Mall East, (215) 923-3811, nmajh.org
• Very Eric Carle: A Very Hungry, Quiet, Lonely, Clumsy, Busy Exhibit – Please Touch Museum^® presents a larger-than-life exhibit about the work of the prolific children’s author-illustrator of The Very Hungry Caterpillar and dozens more titles. October 5, 2019-January 12, 2020. 4231 Avenue of the Republic, (215) 581-3181, pleasetouchmuseum.org
• Old City Fest – Artists, crafters, designers, techies, entertainers and restaurateurs celebrate the creative spirit of a Historic District neighborhood along several blocks filled with activities, exhibits and programs for both families and the over-21 crowd. October 13, 2019. 3^rd & Arch Streets, (215) 592-7929, oldcitydistrict.org
• OutFest – The world’s largest Coming Out Day party features 10 blocks of drag shows, music, bar crawls, shopping and a high-heel race. October 13, 2019. 13^th & Locust Streets, (215) 875-9288, phillygaypride.org
• 30 Americans – The Barnes Foundation presents seminal works by 30 of the country’s most influential contemporary Black artists, including Jean-Michel Basquiat, Nick Cave, Barkley L. Hendricks, Kerry James Marshall, Kara Walker and Carrie Mae Weems. October 27, 2019-January 12, 2020. 2025 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, (215) 278-7000, barnesfoundation.org

VISIT PHILADELPHIA^® is our name and our mission. As the region’s official tourism marketing agency, we build Greater Philadelphia’s image, drive visitation and boost the economy.

On Greater Philadelphia’s official visitor website and blog, visitphilly.com and uwishunu.com, visitors can explore things to do, upcoming events, themed itineraries and hotel packages. Compelling photography and videos, interactive maps and detailed visitor information make the sites effective trip-planning tools. Along with Visit Philly social media channels, the online platforms communicate directly with consumers. Travelers can also call and stop into the Independence Visitor Center for additional information and tickets.

Venture Off The Beaten Path In Puerto Vallarta

Get off the #PuertoVallarta #touristtrail for #offthebeatenpath adventures. Photo: @PuertoVallarta

Mexico is known for its outstanding beach towns, which pull hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. But just because a destination is popular with tourists does not mean that there are no local, under-the-radar secrets to be discovered. Puerto Vallarta, Mexico's west coast beach capital, is a destination that is very much on the tourist trail, yet still provides adventures off the beaten path for those who are willing to look. Puerto Vallarta is the jewel of Mexico’s west coast, strategically located on the Bay of Banderas. The city itself has a fabulous marina, hotel zone, and historic downtown, and is also within driving distance from some of the smaller beach communities that sit along the bay. It is a haven for luxury, fine dining, all-inclusive resorts, local culture, art, history, adventure travel, and more. Of course there is plenty to see and do in the resort areas and on tours, but travelers looking to venture off the beaten path will find so much to discover. Adventure enthusiasts will love the many hiking opportunities available in and around Puerto Vallarta. One of the best is a coast-hugging hike that runs from the small village of Boca de Tomatlan to Las Animas beach. The hike is relatively unknown to tourists and is mostly a local activity, but those who make the journey are rewarded with dramatic views over turquoise-colored water, private beaches and coves, and even a secret beach club that acts like a private party hideaway on its own stretch of sand. To access the hike, hire a taxi or take a local bus south to Boca de Tomatlan to find the trailhead. To return travelers can hire a water taxi back from Las Animas to Boca de Tomatlan. Speaking of beaches, visitors can discover a small beach community only accessible by boat. The small fishing village of Yelapa is surrounded by jungle-blanketed mountains, offering a quiet beach escape far from the activity of Puerto Vallarta’s more central beaches. A handful of restaurants dot the shore, and there are a few basic hotel accommodations for those who wish to spend the night. One of the best things to do in Yelapa is take the hike back into the jungle to find the beautiful waterfall. Get your cameras ready for one of Puerto Vallarta’s ‘wow’ factors: its sunsets. Epic almost any night of the year, the skies over Puerto Vallarta explode with fiery colors. While most visitors will pick their perches down along the shore, those in the know will be high above the city taking in the sunset and views below from the Mirador Cerro de la Cruz. This hilltop vantage point has sweeping views over the entire city, Zona Romantica, and the bay. It’s beautiful at any time of day, but for those truly Instagrammable photos, sunset is unbeatable. Finally, foodies will delight at the off the beaten path dining that packs the city. While the restaurant gastronomy scene is absolutely worthwhile, it’s the local spots that truly set Puerto Vallarta dining apart. Roam the taco trucks in the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood, or sink your teeth into delicious fish tacos and ceviche at El Solar Beach Club. Tip: Remain at El Solar after sunset for live music and a local party almost every night of the week. From isolated beaches to the next undiscovered taco experience, adventures in nature, and everything in between, Puerto Vallarta might be one of the most popular destinations in Mexico but it offers a world waiting to be experienced off the beaten path. For more information on Puerto Vallarta, please go to www.visitpuertovallarta.com.

The Latest Travel News From Israel

www.goisrael.com

FIFTH ANNUAL ISRAELI OPERA FESTIVAL AT MASADA HAPPENING NOW The fifth annual Israeli Opera Festival at Masada is currently going on featuring productions of Giacomo Puccini's Tosca and Carl Orff's Carmina Burana. The Israeli Opera Festival at Masada is the largest cultural and tourism event in Israel. The Festival also extends to Akko from September 10-12 for a weekend of Mozart delights at the Crusaders Courtyard.   Click here to know more. TEL AVIV CELEBRATES SUMMER PRIDE FESTIVAL  The annual Tel Aviv Summer Pride Festival is happening this week and has attracted thousands of international tourists. The focus of this year's festival is the transgender community and the highlight of the week is the Pride Parade, happening on June 12. TERRAOLIVO INTERNATIONAL EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL COMPETITION THROUGH JUNE 14, 2015 Terraolivo is an international extra virgin olive oil competition taking place June 7-14 at the Olive Tree Hotel, Jerusalem. With more than 500 samples to taste from 17 different countries, the competition also offers participants the opportunity to tour the north and south of Israel as well as Jerusalem.   Click here to know more. INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION OF CONTEMPORARY PAPER ART AT OLD JAFFA MUSEUM   "PAPER CRUMPLING | PAPER FOLDING | PAPER CUTTING" Old Jaffa Museum launches a contemporary paper art exhibition, which will run through August 30, 2015. The exhibition brings together 30 world-renowned paper masters and displays some of their works. Workshops are offered to visitors interested in learning three techniques of paper art: paper crumpling, paper folding and paper cutting.    Click here to know more.    THIS PLACE, A LOOK AT ISRAEL AND THE WEST BANK THROUGH THE EYES OF 12 RENOWNED ARTISTS OPENS AT TEL AVIV MUSEUM OF ART THROUGH SEPTEMBER 6, 2015 A new exhibit entitled This Place is now open at the Tel Aviv Museum of Art and will run through September 6, 2015. The exhibit explores the complexity of Israel and the West Bank through the eyes of 12 internationally acclaimed photographers. Each photographer spent approximately six months in Israel, pursuing his or her own artistic interests, and during this time thousands of original artworks were created. The result is a major museum exhibit as well as thepublication of monographs by each artist and a comprehensive catalog.                     Click here to know more. TWO NEW ATTRACTIONS OPEN IN EILAT: ISRAEL'S LARGEST MUSICAL FOUNTAIN AND SKATEPARK Two new attractions recently opened in Eilat's main park - Israel's largest musical fountain and an extreme skatepark. Both attractions are open free of charge to the public. The musical fountain extends over 16,000 square feet and contains a sound system, more than 400 colored LED lights and 350 jets spraying water almost 100 feet into the air. Visitors can cool off in the fountain during the hot daytime hours and witness the fountain shows, which will take place several nights each week. A mobile app is in the works that will allow visitors to control the water jets. The extreme skatepark is complete with stunt tracks for professionals and amateurs and can host international skateboarding competitions.   Click here to see a video of the fountain. BACKSTREET BOYS, ONE REPUBLIC AND ART GARFUNKEL RECENTLY ARRIVED IN ISRAEL The Backstreet Boys, One Republic and Art Garfunkel all arrived in Israel recently to perform in and around Tel Aviv. The Backstreet Boys performed at the Ra'anana Amphitheater May 19, 20 and 21; One Republic performed at Hayarkon Park on May 28; and Art Garfunkel performed at Bloomfield Stadium on June 10. JERUSALEM NIGHT RUN JUNE 18, 2015 The second annual Jerusalem Night Run will be held on June 18, 2015 with a choice of running either the 5km or 10km track. The tracks will work their way around fascinating holy sites illuminating 3,000 years of history and culture in Israel's capital. Last year, more than 5,000 runners participated in the race.         Click here to know more. EPIC ISRAEL MOUNTAIN BIKE RACE OCTOBER 8-10, 2015 Epic Israel is a full-board mountain bike race with more than 500 riders from Israel and abroad expected to participate in the three-day event. The race begins and ends at the Epic village in the Megiddo municipality and offers participants an exciting and challenging route. It passes through Mount Carmel and Zichron Yaakov in northern Israel as well as the Horshan and Alonei Itzhak nature reserves in the south. The route will also include fun single tracks in Mishmar HaEmek Forest. Click here to know more.   TEL AVIV HOSTS TEL AVIV WATER GAMES, OCTOBER 15-19, 2015 Tel Aviv will be hosting the Tel Aviv Water Games 2015, an international LGBT sports and cultural festival, from October 15-19, 2015. This will be the first international sporting event catering specifically to the LGBT community to be held on the beautiful Mediterranean beaches of Tel Aviv. The Games will consist of a beach volleyball tournament, swim races, soccer games, water polo games, sunset yoga and bicycle tours of the city. There will also be celebrations and parties going on late into the night at Tel Aviv's world-famous bars and clubs.  Click here to know more.