It's sad but true that not everyone is as welcoming of fags and dykes as we'd like them to be. So we thought we'd put up a list of travel places that we know about where people do have a more civilised approach.

We're starting off the list with places where we've stayed but we'd love to hear about other attitude-free places so please send us the details.

Of course we can't guarantee utter bliss at the places we've listed nor can we accept any responsibility for any consequences that might arise from any dealings with them. Please use your common sense at all times.

The Story So Far:

ROME

Latte e Miele offer bed and breakfast and a few short-term (i.e. day-to-day) apartment rentals in Rome. Finding a welcoming B&B in such a strongly Catholic city can be a bit difficult so Latte e Miele found us a nice little apartment in the University district. They also have a few places in Florence too (our favourite city) - although we didn't actually see them.

Email address is [email protected]

SCOTLAND

Duncrub Holidays

During our trip to Scotland we decided to stay somewhere central and then drive everywhere from there. The most central point is around the city of Perth. We found an unusual but very tasteful place to stay - a converted church belltower. As bizarre as it might sound (no Quasimodo jokes please!) the actual experience is very similar to staying in a castle. Beautiful old stone walls, leadlight windows and very nicely furnished.

It recently won a five-star award from the Scottish Tourist Board so it's not budget accommodation. But if you're staying outside the peak season make sure you negotiate over the price.

Check out their Web site on www.duncrub-holidays.com.

PRAGUE

Another one of our favourite cities and, again, we rented an apartment for a few days. Ivan Falta is a sole operator who leases his three Prague apartments exclusively through his Web site. For an extra few dollars he'll also meet you at the airport - worth the money if you're new to the place. The only drawback to not staying in a hotel is that you have to register with the Police within 48 hours of arrival (if you're not a citizen of the European Community). This throwback to the Communist regime is really time consuming - expect to spend at least half a day standing in queues.

Ivan's Web site is www.geocities.com/thetropics/shores/1179

LOS ANGELES

Not exactly our favourite city but we did feel that the people there were incredibly friendly (which is more than can be said for New York). Our stay was made particularly special because we stayed at the Secret Garden B& B - just off Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood.

You couldn't find two nicer and more hospitable hosts than Raymond and Neal. Their Web site is www.secretgardenbnb.com

Their email address is [email protected].