Some may be shocked that I have mentioned those two words in the same sentence let alone debated the idea that those two could co-exist together.
Before I continue there is one question that we have to answer before we move on... What is ‘Gay’, it’s a common theme in all my writings, but I am trying my best not to generalise or lump ‘us’ all into one category. As in any community - the gay one is no exception - there is a vast array of tastes, each one bringing their own flavour to the table. We all have different wants, beliefs, likes, dis-likes etc and that should be remembered. We wouldn’t assume all straight people want the same holidays so why should us folk eh?
So...back to the original point in question... Is San Antonio’s famous West End a viable option for a night out? Well, this is going to sound like a cop-out but Yes and No. Personally I love the West End as I appreciate it for what it is. Would it win awards for class and style? Maybe not! Though to be fair, hats off to all the Stag/Hen/Groups who go the full hog and get properly dressed up for it. I have seen every super hero going, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Ghostbusters, full grown Smurfs, quite graphic genitals, even the Marshmellow Man from Ghostbusters. But for me that sums up the atmosphere of the West End, the majority of people are up for a laugh and don’t give a rip who or what you are. Now, would I go with a boyfriend and kiss him down the street? Probably not, but again don’t let that put you off going just for the experience. There is every bar going down the West End so you should find something that suits your musical tastes.
To be honest I wouldn’t say I am a very camp man so I admit I am not as obvious in my ‘tastes’ as others, but I am hardly Bruce Willis either. Personally I have had some really good banter with groups of lads/girls down the west end about being gay etc, even had a few quick kisses off them (They weren’t bad looking folk either...). If you go down there with the attitude of ‘I’m gay, get over it’ then you might have a different response, who knows? But I promise if you go down there with the intent of throwing all prejudice out of the window (something we ask for...) and having a good time you will have just that. Whilst spending a lot less money than some of the other places out there.
I’m not trying to convert you to be ‘Team West End’ as that isn’t my job and certainly isn’t my intent. Some people may go there and dislike it, but at least you can say you have tried the delicacy. I don’t like Calamari but I didn’t know that until I tasted it, though I did think they were onion rings...Life’s about the ride, now are you going to pop on The West End Express? If so, I might see you there.