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Paul Rubio, Florida native, has just finished The Out Traveler: South Florida and what makes this guide different than other travel books is that it actually caters to the well-rounded gay traveler who wants to know about culture, politics, nature, and gastronomy. It also includes candid and witty reviews of the hottest night spots. As a seasoned traveler, having experienced over 55 countries as well as living abroad for over ten years, he still claims Florida as his home. Paul definitely feels that even long-time Floridians still underestimate our state and actually know little about the treasures that lie within its borders.
Stephen: With all the travel guides already on the market, what is different about this one? Paul: Most mainstream travel guides feature a clinical two page shout out to the gays and throw in a few outdated and often incorrect gay clubs throughout the books. Existing gay guides just talk about nightlife and shady extracurricular activities. The Out Traveler: South Florida caters to the well rounded gay traveler that wants to know about culture, politics, nature and gastronomy while also detailing party hot spots and giving candid reviews. Stephen: After traveling to 55 countries and living abroad for ten years, does Florida still strike you as an appealing destination? Paul: Definitely. Florida is an amazing and often underestimated place. Unfortunately, even local Floridians know little about their own state and the treasures that lie within. In one chapter of the book called Forgotten Florida, I detail ten of the most beautiful places or experiences in the world – all found in Florida. Stephen: Can you tell us one? Paul: Swimming with the largest congregation of wild manatees in the world in Citrus County Florida. It’s one of the coolest things you will ever do! Stephen: As a Florida Native, (which is rare in itself), how has your perception of Florida changed over time? Paul: The only thing I liked about Florida growing up was the nature in the Keys and the Everglades. Living in Kendall was like a mental and cultural punishment and gave me the wrong perception of not only my state but the city of Miami. As an adult, and especially as a gay adult, I realized that Miami was a place of true gay celebrity and that more existed in Central Florida than the Magic Kingdom!
Stephen: Do you find that knowing certain local history helps you form your opinions about the longevity of certain newer establishments in contrast to older more esteemed places in order to help you write this book? Paul: Honestly with the nightlife industry, it’s a crap shoot. It even seems like you guys have to change your website daily to keep up with comings and goings! Stephen: Is there any place that you feel like you ignored and wish you could add in now? Paul: I don’t think I purposely ignored places, but sometimes I did not have time to go everywhere. I did stay in 130 hotels and eat in over 200 restaurants, and I was working nonstop. I had to remind myself sometimes that I am just human! I really wanted to stay at the Victor and Lowe’s in South Beach but did not have time. But there will always be the second edition and then the third to put in new places or those that I may have overlooked. Stephen: So there are plans in the work for a follow-up book for things you missed and new businesses that need to be included? Paul: Of course. There will be multiple editions, and I am happy to hear from readers about places to possibly include in future editions. Stephen: Are there any people you would like to thank personally, that you left out of the book? Paul: Unfortunately, I was not given the opportunity for a dedication or thank you section in the book. There are many people who I want to thank but Stephen Smith from the Monroe County Tourism Development Council deserves special recognition for facilitating my love affair with Key West. Stephen: So tell me about your book tour? Paul: I will be hosting a number of book launch parties and book signings around the country. These will be posted on Mark's List calendars with stops all around Florida, New York City, Washington DC, Chicago, Atlanta, and Los Angeles. The launch parties will be full scale hedonistic blow outs! Stephen: Now that the book is finally done, what are your plans for your life after this book tour? Paul: I am actually working on book tentatively titled “301 Life Changing Experiences after Leaving the Closet,” which details unprecedented must-do life experiences, such as camping in the Amazon, traversing the African plains, being an extra for a Guys go Crazy porn, and Gay Days at Disney. Stephen: Your job sounds like a dream job? Is it? Paul: Great experiences. Crappy pay. I am sure you know the feeling. Stephen: What are two random things people don’t know about you? Paul: I have a pencil stuck in my leg, and I used to have over 100 Madagascar hissing cockroaches as pets. Stephen: That’s definitely random! Can I see the pencil?
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