This week, we’re proud to present “Namibia: Breaking the Colonial Code,” spotlighting Omar van Reenen, co-founder of Equal Namibia. As one of the country's leading youth organizers, Omar has been at the forefront of the legal and cultural battle to dismantle Namibia’s apartheid-era sodomy laws. Their fight is deeply personal—and deeply rooted in ancestral history, strategic litigation, and the radical act of visibility.

Below is a bonus interview featuring Omar van Reenen, expanding on their journey and the movement that’s reshaping Namibia’s future.

What was it like when the court ruled to strike down Namibia’s sodomy law?

“Yeah, when the ruling came, you know, that feeling is hard to put into words. Growing up, I was told that who I am is illegal, that my love is a crime. But when the ruling came, that weight was lifted. But this ruling doesn’t change a law—it validates our existence.”

How does visibility function as resistance?

“I always share with the community that our greatest weapon against the government’s state-sanctioned homophobia is our community’s visibility. Because the only objective that these laws have, these laws that are passed by politicians coming from a place of hate, is to push us into the margins of society and erase our existence. So one way to fight back against that is to use our visibility as a weapon. Because when we take up space, there’s no way to erase that.”

You’ve said these laws aren’t originally African. What do you mean?

“Our ancestors had their own understandings of gender and sexuality. But both colonialism and apartheid tried to erase that. So this victory is about reclaiming our heritage as much as it is about human rights.”

What kind of resistance did you face while organizing?

“Yeah, we faced opposition at every turn—from legal hurdles to social stigma, even threats to our safety and a rise in hate crimes. But later, when people started joining us at rallies, on social media, I knew change was possible.”

What are your movement’s priorities now?

“Absolutely. So firstly, decriminalization is a significant milestone—getting rid of these colonial and apartheid-era laws. But our work is far from over. Next year, the government will be appealing the decriminalization verdict to the Supreme Court. Beyond that, we’re lobbying to make sure we pass anti-discrimination laws like the hate speech bill, to make sure we have healthcare access for all queer-bodied persons, and yes—marriage equality and legal gender recognition as well. Our goal is to really make sure that queer Namibians live openly and safely in this born-free republic.”

What role has Grindr for Equality played in your fight?

“It has been so great to see a company like Grindr do so much meaningful and intentional work to uplift grassroots organizations like ours. Grindr in Namibia is some of our only safe spaces. It’s where many of us experienced our first opportunities to intimately engage—and also to interact. Especially in rural parts of Namibia, where most of our queer organizing takes place in the capital. For a lot of Namibians, Grindr is that first door to queer intimacy, to queer interactions—and sometimes, to do so safely.”

What’s been the impact of working with the Grindr for Equality team?

“We’ve worked with them to send out notifications to our community—about protests, about court verdicts, about registering to vote. They also helped us launch, for the first time in Africa, the ability to order HIV self-testing kits directly on the app. People can get these delivered for free to their homes and then get connected to a local NGO for PrEP and PEP or other care. That kind of support—healthcare outside of the government's hands—means the world. Grindr didn’t come in with a top-down approach. They showed up to listen, to partner, to help. That’s rare. And it’s been so appreciated.”

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Bangkok, the capital of Thailand and a mecca for queer travelers, is not here to waste your time.

Whether you’re a sweaty traveler on a BTS adventure, a local twink with opinions, or someone who just wants a strong cocktail and a man to show you around, this is your no-nonsense, highly-horny guide to the best of gay Bangkok.

To cut through the tourist fluff, Grindr went straight to the source—asking real Grindr users in Bangkok where they eat, drink, dance, and recover. Take a look below for our curated travel guide:

Favorite Queer-Friendly Restaurant or Food Spot

These are the places you start your night with noodles and end it three negronis deep.

Pride Bar & Circus – Silom Soi 4

Equal parts dinner date, pregame, and runway show. Pride Bar is where you go for Thai street food favorites made fresh, and Circus is its draggy, disco-lit twin next door. Same owners, shared kitchen, and plenty of boys to keep you busy.

📍 Right on Silom Soi 4, a few skips from Sala Daeng BTS

🥢 Order the Pad Thai, flirt with your waiter, then follow the heels to Circus for a drag show and a highball.

Eat Me – Soi Phiphat 2

Sleek, sexy, and always full of people pretending they don’t see the trade from last night at the table across from them. Part luxury restaurant, part art gallery, Eat Me is ideal for when you want to impress someone without looking like you’re trying.

📍 Hidden just off Silom Road near Chong Nonsi BTS

🍮 Go for the sticky date pudding. Stay because Pangina Heals says it’s her favorite. And we listen to our queens.

Fork & Cork by Sphinx – Silom Soi 4

This queer-owned gem offers a menu that ping-pongs between creamy pastas and chili-soaked Thai classics. Think: crab curry and carbonara, gay friends clinking glasses, and the occasional live jazz band.

📍 Between chaos and calm on Soi 4

🥘 Try the green curry or the crab.

Best LGBTQ+ Bar or Nightlife Spot

There’s “out all night,” and then there’s Bangkok. These are your non-negotiables for nightlife.

DJ Station – Silom Soi 2

Three floors. Pop anthems. Thirsty men. A drag show at 11:30 p.m. sharp that always ends with a crowd losing their minds to Whitney. It’s the gay bar that made Silom the gay district it is today — still packed, still loud, still iconic.

📍 Silom Soi 2 — look for the crowd spilling into the street

💃 Arrive early or prepare to queue. Shirtless dancing encouraged.

House of Heals – Renaissance Hotel, Ratchaprasong

Glittering queer sanctuary in the sky. This rooftop stunner is the brainchild of Pangina Heals, with a dress-to-impress door policy and drag queens who can kill a ballad and pour your shot in the same breath.

📍 33rd floor of the Renaissance Hotel (near Chit Lom BTS)

👠 Wear something slutty. Order something fruity. Gasp at the skyline mid-lip-sync.

The Stranger Bar – Silom Soi 4

Tiny, chaotic, and deeply beloved, Stranger is a two-level drag mecca that feels like a gay house party where the host is seven feet tall and lip-syncing to Rihanna.

📍 The loudest spot on Soi 4

🍸 Cheap drinks, big wigs. Get into it.

Must-Visit Cultural or Artistic Spot

Because even gay tourists need a break from sweating through their mesh tanks. Take a break and get cultured with these must-see spots.

Bangkok Art and Culture Centre (BACC)

Modern art museum. Quiet atrium. Occasional LGBTQ+ exhibits. A perfect cool-down between bar crawls, BACC has rotating contemporary art shows, gift shops by indie Thai designers, and air-con that feels like a religious experience.

📍 BTS: National Stadium — directly connected

🖼️ Pop in for the art, stay for the coffee, recover from the night before.

Kamavijitra Erotic Art Museum

If the Louvre had a horny cousin, it would be this. Kamavijitra is Thailand’s first erotic art museum, with four floors of sculpture, sex-positive history, and ancient pottery that somehow makes you feel things.

📍 Sukhumvit (location sometimes rotates — check social)

🍆 Adults only (18+). Open your mind… and maybe Grindr.

Wat Phra Sri Maha Uma Devi (Wat Khaek)

A riot of color in the middle of Silom’s skyscrapers. This Hindu temple, built by Tamil immigrants, is stunning year-round, but truly goes off during October’s Navaratri festival — think flower garlands and street processions.

📍 Silom Road, near Sala Daeng BTS and Bang Rak

🕉️ Modest dress required. Spiritual fulfillment not guaranteed, but the photo ops? Heavenly.

Favorite Queer-Friendly Gym or Workout Spot

Get sweaty now, so you don’t have to turn the lights off later.

Lumphini Park – Silom/Bang Rak

Your morning-after salvation. Bangkok’s version of Central Park has a free outdoor gym, tai chi at sunrise, shirtless joggers by sunset, and enough greenery to make you forget last night’s tequila.

📍 Between BTS Sala Daeng & MRT Lumphini

🦎 Come for the run, stay for the monitor lizards. (Yes, really.)

Virgin Active – Empire Tower, Sathorn

The luxury gym experience. Heated pools, Himalayan salt rooms, rooftop treadmills, and the occasional hot expat doing burpees.

📍 Empire Tower near Chong Nonsi BTS

🏋️ Day passes available. Bring your water bottle and your thirst.

Fitness First Platinum – Siam Paragon & Q House Lumpini

Two popular locations with gay locals and travelers alike. One’s in a shopping mall, the other’s near Lumphini. Both offer saunas, group classes, and just enough eye candy to get through leg day.

📍 Siam Paragon & Q House Lumpini (BTS Siam or MRT Lumphini)

🔥 Not a gay bathhouse, but the glances in the mirror say otherwise.

Hidden Gem or Lesser-Known Spot You Need to Check Out

Here’s where the real stories begin. Off-map, under-lit, and full of strange magic.

Saladrank Cafe – Sala Daeng Soi 1

By day: café. By night: post-bar hideout for bartenders, drag queens, and people who are somehow still vertical at 4 a.m. It’s like Cheers, but queerer and messier.

📍 Down a side soi near Soi 4 — check Google Maps

🍸 Order something random. Sit near the DJ.

White Rabbit Lounge – Silom Road

Part bar, part fantasyland, part fever dream. This multi-level wonderland serves cocktails, vintage vibes, and theme nights where anything goes.

📍 Between Sala Daeng & Silom stations (MRT/BTS)

🐇 Follow the rabbit. Take a selfie. Fall in love with someone playing Britney on vinyl.

Pickle BKK – Pan Road, Bang Rak

A listening bar for people who like their flirting set to lo-fi 90s R&B. Chill, queer-friendly, and full of soft lighting and strong drinks, Pickle feels like drinking in someone’s living room — someone hot.

📍 Pan Road, near Sri Maha Mariamman Temple

🥒 Try the pickleback. Stay for the soundtrack. Leave with a story.

Best Place for a Cruisy or Flirty Moment

You’re not here to play games… unless they involve eye contact and poor decisions.

Silom Soi 4 Sidewalk Tables

Just sit. Order a drink. Look around. Someone will flirt with you. That’s how this works. From Banana Bar to Balcony, this is the flirtiest 50 meters in Bangkok.

📍 Silom Soi 4 (you can’t miss it)

🥂 Be bold. Smile. Then let the street do the rest.

Gay Saunas – R3, Chakran, 39 Underground

R3: Silom’s towel-clad party. Chakran: Ari’s multi-story onsen maze. 39 Underground: cosplay, roleplay, choose-your-own-adventure gay sauna. Bangkok has options. And dark rooms.

📍 Silom, Ari, and Sathorn (depending on your flavor)

🧖‍♂️ Check their theme nights. Bring ID. Be polite. And hydrated.

Patpong Go-Go Bars – Surawong / Patpong Soi 2

The neon-lit heart of Bangkok’s red-light district. Expect shirtless boys, choreographed striptease, and some very persuasive performers.

📍 Patpong Soi 2, off Surawong

💸 Tip well. Smile often. And remember: what happens in Patpong…

Final Thoughts

Bangkok is truly in a world of its own. A place where you can sip street cocktails on Soi 4, dance until sunrise at a gay club, tour a buddhist temple in a crop top, and somehow end up at a rooftop pool by noon.

So pack light. Hydrate heavily. Say hi to the drag queen in the elevator. And remember: in Thailand, everyone’s welcome.

Grindr has teamed up with Preparation H and the National LGBT Cancer Network to launch Between the Cheeks—a new digital content hub dedicated to anal health education for gay, bi, and trans people.

It’s exactly what it sounds like: a fun and informative content hub that tells the truth about your behind. Hemorrhoids? Covered. Colorectal cancer screenings? Absolutely. Where to find a doctor who won’t flinch when you say, “I’ve got some discomfort down there”? We’ve got that too.

What is Between the Cheeks?

It’s a centralized resource made for our community by people who get our community. That means:

• Clear, no-BS info about hemorrhoids, itching, pain, and other backdoor dilemmas
• A provider locator tool to help you find LGBTQ+-affirming healthcare pros
• Resources on colorectal cancer screening and what to expect
• Honest, sex-positive education—with zero shame and zero fluff

Why This? Why Now?

Because we deserve to talk about our bodies—including the parts we sit on—without embarrassment. Because health systems aren’t always built for us. And because being proactive about your butt doesn’t mean you have to stop being a power bottom.

Who’s Behind It?

This is a three-way partnership (our favorite kind) between:

• Grindr, the Global Gayborhood in Your Pocket
• Preparation H, the #1 Dr. Recommended hemorrhoid brand for relief 
• And the National LGBT Cancer Network, leaders in health equity and cancer prevention for queer folks

Where to Go

You can visit the hub right now: Between the Cheeks

Bookmark it. Share it. Text it to the friend who’s “been sitting weird all week.”

Because our health matters—including anal health. And it’s time we talked about it.

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This week’s episode, “Ending HIV: Science, Stigma, and Solutions”, spotlights amfAR, The Foundation for AIDS Research, which is one of the world’s leading nonprofit organizations dedicated to the support of AIDS research, HIV prevention, treatment education, and advocacy. Since 1985, amfAR has raised nearly $900 million in support of its programs and has awarded more than 3,800 grants to research teams worldwide.

In this episode, we sat down with Kevin Robert Frost, CEO of amfAR, to better understand what it actually means to “cure” HIV, why stem cell breakthroughs aren’t scalable (yet), and what it’ll take to close the gap between what’s scientifically possible and what’s equitably available.

Below is a bonus interview with Kevin that takes you deeper into the conversation.

Why did amfAR decide to focus so heavily on finding a cure?

“About a little more than 15 years ago, we made the decision to put most of our resources behind finding a cure. We believed that the science had developed to the point where this was possible. Of course, if you go back 15 years ago, ‘cure’ at that time was considered a four-letter word in the scientific community. People didn’t use the cure word. But we felt very strongly that if we didn’t talk about where we wanted to go, we’d probably never get there.”

What are the common threads across the seven people we now say have been cured?

“All seven people who were cured had stem cell transplants, but we’re not entirely sure that it’s the transplant itself that cured them. These are very complex cases, and several of the transplants were done in slightly different ways. At least one of the cures was done with a donor who didn’t have the CCR5 mutation, which had been a key factor we thought was required. That opens up a whole new pathway of thinking about what may be possible in the context of cure. We’re now seeing that it might not be the CCR5 mutation—or even the transplant alone—but possibly something like graft-versus-host disease playing a critical role.”

What makes stem cell transplants too risky to scale?

“Stem cell transplants are a very complex and often dangerous procedure that’s mostly intended for people with cancer. For people living with HIV, the risks associated with stem cell transplants often outweigh the potential benefits. You’re talking about significant mortality risks and complications that would be unacceptable for the general population. That’s why we say these aren’t scalable solutions. The goal now is to understand what made those seven cures work and find safer, simpler ways to replicate the outcome.”

So what is amfAR actually funding right now in terms of cure research?

“There are two major schools of thought around curing people with HIV. One is the ‘shock and kill’ approach, where you’re trying to reactivate the virus in reservoirs so it can be destroyed. The other is gene therapy, which is really where our focus is right now. That includes gene editing tools like CRISPR, but also approaches that try to mimic the CCR5 mutation and basically ‘close the door’ that HIV uses to enter cells. We believe gene therapy holds the most promise for a scalable cure—not just for people who happen to have the right genetic match or the right clinical scenario.”

Why is it so difficult to declare someone “cured” of HIV?

“You can’t prove the absence of something. Even in the seven cases widely accepted as cured, we can’t say with 100 percent confidence that they have no HIV left in their bodies. What we do is follow them over time. If there’s no evidence of viral replication and no virus shows up in biopsies after, say, 18 months off treatment, we become more confident. But it’s not like flipping a switch—there’s no biomarker yet that tells us when someone’s definitely cured.”

What’s standing in the way of long-acting injectables like Apretude reaching more people?

“I’m tremendously frustrated at our collective inability to deliver Apretude to the people who need it most. Insurance companies and pharmaceutical companies are standing in the way, and I don’t think we've done a very good job on the rollout. There’s also a tremendous amount of back-office work required at clinics—approvals, testing, regulations—that make it even harder to prescribe. Some clinics have just stopped offering it entirely. I think if you talked to anyone about Apretude, they’d tell you that it's far underperformed what they thought it would do once it became available.”

So what gives you hope?

“I don’t believe you’re ever going to wake up one day and see a headline in The New York Times that says ‘Cure for AIDS Found.’ Research rarely works that way. What I’ve always said is that there will be three phases: first, we cure some of the people some of the time; then, more of the people more of the time; and eventually, most of the people most of the time. That’s how progress happens. It’s incremental, but it’s real.”

How can platforms like Grindr help in this effort?

“A site like Grindr could serve as an early warning system. Let’s say there’s a rise in HIV cases in Tennessee—Grindr could push a targeted message to users there saying, ‘Here’s what we’re seeing, here’s how to protect yourself.’ It doesn’t have to be complicated. It just has to be clear and localized. The power to reach people where they are—that’s what makes platforms like this so important in the fight.”

If you could tell the world one thing about HIV, what would it be?

“It’s just a virus. And what I mean by that is, HIV stigma so often gets wrapped up in the behaviors that lead to infection—especially sex. But who cares? If it was sex, so what? People shouldn’t be stigmatized because they had sex.”

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Trust and authenticity are essential when connecting with others online. At Grindr, we understand how important it is for you to know that the person you’re chatting with is just that—the person you’re chatting with—and that the photos you see are real and recent.

To enhance your experience and peace of mind, we’re excited to introduce “Taken on Grindr,” a new feature that lets you add a watermark and timestamp to photos taken using  Grindr’s in-app camera. This feature instantly shows that a photo was captured through the Grindr app and how recently it was taken, helping give you greater confidence in your connections.

How It Works

When you take a picture using Grindr’s in-app camera and choose to enable the Taken on Grindr feature, the photo will display a small Grindr badge or label along with a timestamp showing when it was taken (for example, “Taken on Grindr – just now” or “Taken on Grindr – 2 days ago”). This badge is visible to anyone who views the photo in your profile or chat.

The best part? You’re in control. Want the watermark on? Turn it on. Prefer to keep it off? That’s your call. Grindr only adds the stamp when you choose to use it.

Key Benefits

By introducing “Taken on Grindr,” we aim to empower you with new tools to connect confidently and authentically:

• On Your Terms: The optional badge and timestamp indicate a photo was taken in-app, letting you share with added clarity.
• Flexible: Turn the watermark off at any time—no strings attached.
• Transparency Without Pressure: Use it to highlight your photos’ freshness or skip it and share as usual.

How to Use It

Using “Taken on Grindr” is quick and easy. Here’s how to use it:

1. Update Your App: Ensure you have the latest version of Grindr installed, where “Taken on Grindr” is available.
2. Open the In-App Camera: Launch Grindr and go to a chat conversation (or your profile editing screen if you want to add a new profile photo). Tap the camera icon to open Grindr’s built-in camera.
3. Take Your Photo: With the in-app camera open, capture your photo as you normally would. Try to keep it clear and well-lit, just like any photo you’d want to share.
4. Enable the Watermark (Optional): In the camera screen, you’ll see an option to turn on the “Taken on Grindr” watermark and timestamp. Make sure this option is enabled if you wish to use it.
5. Send or Save the Photo: If you’re in a chat, hit send to share the photo with your conversation partner. If you’re updating your profile, save the photo to your profile. The image will automatically display the “Taken on Grindr” badge and the time it was taken.
6. Verify at a Glance: Once sent or posted, your photo will appear with the watermark and timestamp visible. Anyone viewing it can immediately see that it was taken in-app and learn how recently it was taken, confirming its authenticity.

‍Try “Taken on Grindr” Today

“Taken on Grindr” is available now, and we encourage you to take advantage of it to support a safe, authentic Grindr experience. We’re confident that “Taken on Grindr” will make it easier for you to connect with others.

Ready to get started? Update your Grindr app to the latest version and give “Taken on Grindr” a try today.

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Rejection remains a tricky little thing. Yes, age softens its sting, and sure, you’ve learned to manage it—maybe even appreciate how it nudges you toward the right partner. You’ve done the therapy, the journaling, The Work. But then, one day, the guy you were seeing decides you’re not for him. And just like that, you’re 19 again, ripped open and hollowed out, convinced you’ll die unchosen because this one boy doesn’t like you back.

You think to yourself: how will I ever get over this?

Don’t Hide… Get On the Grid

So what’s the first step toward healing? Open Grindr, hon. Yes, it might feel horrific to imagine talking to—or touching—another boy right now, but trust me: tapping that little gold mask is exactly what you need to remind yourself there’s a bigger world beyond your heartache.

Sure, you might still be in fetal position, numb, wondering how you’ll ever heal. That’s okay; start small. Simply open the app and take it in, babe. Observe what’s changed: maybe your upstairs neighbor’s been hitting the gym, your former FWB frosted their tips (we’ll look past it), or your gym crush is suddenly a published author.

Every little update affirms that our queer landscape is constantly evolving, which means you can evolve right along with it. Isolation and hopelessness start to crack the second you see proof of life—new photos, style choices, career pivots. Change is what? A constant.

Start Small (Or Big! Size–At Last–Doesn’t Matter!)

Keep scrolling until—oh. You spot him: one half of that “perfect” couple you’ve always envied. Did they…? You check the profile: single. They did! You’re not exactly friends, but you’ve known each other socially for years, so you reach out. Before long, you’re commiserating the house down.

Suddenly, your own rejection feels less catastrophic. After chatting with someone who’s right there in the void with you, you sense your perspective shifting, and the weight on your chest eases. Heartbreak is everywhere—and that helps.

You do this for a few days, a few weeks, maybe even a few months. Sometimes it’s fulfilling, sometimes it’s not. Then one afternoon, you pause, suddenly aware that you’ve stood up from bed—perhaps even gone on a quick walk—without the familiar weight of his rejection dragging you down.

While everyone’s Grindr experience looks different, these small moments of connection add up. Each connection has the potential to tease you out of heartbreak purgatory and remind you there’s an entire world of people ready to welcome you back.

All of this, whether quickly or cumulatively, starts to dismantle any “I’ve gone through the entire dating pool already” nonsense. Seeing new faces reframes your ex from “the only good option left on Earth” to “one among many.” Because trust: they really are just one among many.

A New Diva Enters the Grid

One day, a picture stops your scroll: six-foot, dark curls flopping about, a baby face peeking out from a cropped rugby. His bio? “I’m not like the other girls…” You’re smitten, but your thumb hovers a second too long over that chat button, bracing for the sting of an unanswered “Hey.” Maybe you star his profile, deciding to mull it over—and then, buzz buzz. That’s right, diva: he messaged you first.

Suddenly your best quips flow—effortless, uncensored, that special brand of humor only raw emotional exhaustion can bring. And then, there it is: “What are you up to on Sunday?”

Sure, it may feel like you’re jumping in too fast, especially if your wounds are still fresh. But guess what: you two just kept up a stupid bit about Enron for a dozen messages, so you’ve just proven that there is another boy out there capable of matching your freak.

Even if you discover you’re not exactly ready to dive headlong into something new, simply sitting across from someone who isn’t the man who hurt you can do wonders for that battered heart. And hey, science more or less confirms it: new connections—no matter how casual—nudge your brain away from its old, heartache-soaked patterns.

Wait… Am I… Healing?

Look at you now—scrolling, chatting, possibly setting a Sunday lunch date! Even if this journey looks different for everyone (note: it usually does), it proves the point: healing can start right here, via the glass and aluminum brick in your hand.

Community, in all its forms, is what pulls you out of the abyss of heartbreak. It can—and will—piece you back together, one shared experience or new spark at a time. To heal is to remember that you are still part of something bigger than your grief – so go on, get on the grid, and let the world remind you that you’re still here, still seen, and still capable of beginning again.

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When the snow starts falling and the harnesses come out, there’s only one place in the Swiss Alps where the ski pass doubles as a flirtation strategy: Arosa. Every January, this resort town turns into a powder-covered playground for Arosa Gay Ski Week, drawing thousands of queer travelers for seven days of ski, sweat, and everything in between.

To cut through the tourist fluff, Grindr went straight to the source—asking real Grindr users in Arosa where they eat, drink, dance, and recover. The result? A hyper-local, highly-horny travel guide built for gay, lesbian, and queer folks who don’t just want inclusive—they want explicitly welcoming.

Watch the Episode

Grindr hit the slopes (and the saunas) for a full episode of Grindr Presents: Host or Travel? filmed during Arosa Gay Ski Week. Get the receipts on who’s hosting, who’s traveling, and which hotel has the best views—inside and out.

Whether you’re chasing a hookup, a fondue, or just some post-spa eye contact that turns into a second apartment key, here’s where to go, what to order, and why Arosa should be high on your winter list.

Bars & Clubs in Arosa

Arosa isn’t overrun with nightlife—but what it does have is tight, walkable, and reliably full of gay men, lesbian ski crews, and people with stamina. The rule: drink, dance, don’t overthink it.

Panorama Bar @ Kursaal

A daytime café with mountain views, by sundown it becomes a soft-landing for the post-ski crowd. Located in the Kursaal complex (epicenter of Gay Ski Week), Panorama pulls in locals and out-of-towners with après-ski drinks and a prime view of the Weisshorn. Comfy, casual, and openly queer-friendly.

Wunderbar

Equal parts cocktail bar and café, Wunderbar handles the shift from espresso to gin with no awkwardness. The décor walks the line between rustic and sleek. You’ll see skiers still in their gear, flirty expats swapping pass info, and maybe a quiet three-way forming over the G&T menu. Relaxed, but never boring.

Disco Wandelbar

When the only decision left is “top floor or bottom floor,” head to Wandelbar. It’s the only true nightclub in Arosa, and during Gay Ski Week it becomes the gravity well for every party in town. Drag DJs, sweaty dance floors, and fog machines that don’t quit. Doors stay open until 4 AM—so pace yourself, or don’t.

Restaurants in Arosa

Fuel up, make eyes across the table, or just inhale cheese like it’s a kink. These spots hit the cuisine spectrum from fondue-slicked nostalgia to sleek, mountain-sourced indulgence.

aifach

One menu. No choices. Just sit down and let it happen. aifach serves a surprise multi-course dinner each night with local ingredients and zero fuss. Communal tables mean you’re guaranteed company—and probably a new crush before dessert.

Güterschuppen

Set in a former railway depot, this lively tavern balances industrial vibes with alpine comfort food. Char-grilled meats, melted cheese, loud tables. Great for groups, better for post-ski carb loading. Feels like a frat house, smells like a fondue orgy.

Hörnlihütte

A mountain hut perched above town and reachable by lift or long ski descent. During ski week, its terrace becomes a queer sun trap: skiers sprawled on loungers, schnapps in hand, lips sunburned from either weather or making out. They serve rösti, sausages, and other Swiss standards with a side of breathtaking scenery.

Hotels in Arosa

When the lifts stop and the blackout curtains close, you’ll want accommodation that gets it. Arosa delivers—whether you want a luxe spa, a social lobby, or just soundproofing between you and the guy you met at Wandelbar.

Hotel Seehof

Overlooking the lake, Seehof is pure chalet luxury with central location and a flexible attitude about who’s sharing which bed. The restaurant serves hearty Swiss cuisine, and the lounge is perfect for collapsing after a long day on the slopes (or in someone else’s bed).

Hotel Aves

This self-check-in hotel opened in 2022 and immediately became a go-to for younger ski week crowds—it's budget-friendly without screaming hostel. Expect Scandi aesthetics, a lively restaurant, and tech-forward rooms with views. Bonus: plenty of apartments for group stays or long weekends that stretch past your return flight.

Valsana Hotel & Spa

Eco-minded but not smug about it. This hotel features a sleek spa, indoor pool, sauna, and the on-site Twist bar/restaurant for clean eating and dirty martinis. LGBTQ-inclusive, with design-forward rooms and balconies overlooking the alpine landscape. A little wellness, a little filth—just the right ratio.

Tschuggen Grand Hotel

If you’re going full diva, go here. Five stars, private mountain railway, and a spa built into the hillside like a Bond villain’s wet dream. Rooms are all panoramic views, plush linens, and soundproof bliss. During ski week, this is HQ for the high-budget crowd—complete with Champagne breakfasts and invite-only tub sessions.

The Bottom Line

Arosa Gay Ski Week may be the anchor, but Arosa isn’t a one-week wonder. It’s a queer-friendly resort built for pleasure, no matter the season. Between the freeride terrain, drag ski races, snow-capped backdrops, and après-ski shenanigans, there’s no shortage of stimulation.

Visit in January for the full festival lineup, or book off-season for chill vibes, affordable pass deals, and easier hotel availability. Just don’t come expecting discretion—Arosa doesn’t do half-hearted. It’s sex-positive, slope-ready, and fully loaded with gay energy.

Pack your harness and your SPF. This Swiss resort knows how to host a party—and it’s not waiting for you to catch up.

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Some people say there’s no overlap between teaching high school English and safeguarding user privacy, but Kelly Peterson's career proves otherwise. After nearly a decade in the classroom—teaching advanced placement English, serving as department chair, and juggling basketball and tennis coaching—she stepped out of education and right into the world of privacy and compliance.

We caught up with Kelly, Grindr's Chief Privacy Officer, to talk about how she went from wrangling high schoolers to collaborating with engineers, product managers, marketers, and everyone in between, all to ensure your data is protected while you connect.

How did your journey to Grindr begin?

"I actually started my career as a high school English teacher and taught for nine years. Teaching is, hands down, the hardest job I’ve ever had. You have to take dense material, break it down, and make it engaging—especially for students who might not have any inherent interest in the topic.

Eventually, I got burned out. Like many educators, I wanted a change but still cared deeply about using my skills in a meaningful way. That role led me straight into privacy work. It felt like the perfect fit—I love the ethics and user advocacy side of it.

When the chance to join Grindr first came along, I was intrigued—especially as a bisexual woman from the Midwest. Once you’ve experienced a place where you can be your full authentic self, it’s hard to find that elsewhere. So here I am!"

How does being a former teacher shape your approach to privacy?

"Teaching is all about empathy and what we now call “user-centric” thinking. In education, you have to consider every student’s background, learning style, or even whether they’ve had breakfast that day.

It’s the same with privacy. If I’m drafting a privacy policy or designing consent flows, I’m asking: “How will our users interpret this? Does it speak to different levels of tech-savviness? Are we meeting them where they are?” Regulatory language can be dense—just like Shakespeare to a reluctant high schooler. My job is to take that dryness and make it click for our users, stakeholders, and the rest of the company."

Walk us through a “typical” day in your role.

"Honestly, there’s no true typical day at Grindr, which is one of the reasons I love it. I could be working with engineers to build privacy-by-design into a new feature, collaborating with outside counsel on changing regulations, or planning employee trainings so everyone at Grindr stays up to speed.

The constant is cross-functional collaboration. Privacy touches almost every department—product, engineering, marketing, ads, IT, you name it. I joke that we’re like a neural network for the organization. Privacy can’t be this stuffy, backroom function; it has to be embedded in how we build features and engage users. That’s the goal every day."

What’s a recent project or accomplishment you’re especially proud of?

"Our AI consents rollout stands out. Rather than only meeting the bare-minimum legal requirements (like applying certain consent flows only in specific regions), we went global with it. Wherever you are, we made sure you have clear choices around how your data is used for AI-powered features. Sensitive data, for instance, requires an explicit opt-in. We tried to be super transparent, user-friendly, and thoughtful. As a result, our engineering and product teams can now build AI-driven experiences that truly enhance the app—while giving users real control over their data."

How do you handle user feedback—especially when it’s not so positive?

"I think anecdotes are powerful. Sure, you see the loudest complaints on Reddit or X (Twitter), but there’s always some truth in that frustration. The key is to weigh the overall sentiment. If we roll out something new, I’ll dig through the threads to see what’s confusing people, how they interpret it, and whether we can improve communication or design next time.

It’s similar to teaching—if one student is checked out, why didn’t that lesson resonate? How can I adjust? Negative feedback can feel harsh, but it’s a chance to refine what we’re doing. At the same time, I don’t lose sight of the bigger picture: some people do appreciate the updates; they’re just less vocal about it."

You’ve mentioned you actively use Grindr yourself. Can you tell us more?

"Yes, I have a Grindr account for both work and pleasure. That can raise eyebrows, but it’s all about transparency. My profile clearly says I work at Grindr—I’m not here to snoop or do anything shady. It’s actually been a great way to connect with users directly. People DM me about privacy questions or concerns, and I can share blog posts, resources, or just chat about what we’re doing behind the scenes. And because I’m also a user, the privacy policy we create applies to me, too. I’m fully invested in making sure it’s robust and truly respectful of people’s data."

What’s your favorite part of working at Grindr?

"Two main things: the mission and the people. Grindr serves a broad spectrum of the LGBTQ+ community and beyond, and I love that we’re not just a “hookup app”—we’re a connection platform. My work actively supports the safety and well-being of that community.

Secondly, the culture here is incredible. I’ve developed some of my closest friendships at Grindr. Being able to be 100% myself—a bisexual woman from the Midwest, an absolute cookie-baking fiend, and a passionate privacy person—is a kind of freedom I can’t take for granted."

What do you want people to know most about the work you do?

"I want people to know there are real humans behind our privacy features—humans who care deeply about data protection, safety, and user empowerment. All the best elements of Grindr happen because we prioritize privacy, not in spite of it."

Lightning Round

What song are you currently obsessed with?

I know it's not new, but... "Backing It Up by Pardison Fontaine featuring Cardi B. It’s my anthem right now."

If you had to pick a drag name, what would it be?

"Rita Book (homage to my teacher days)."

Office must-have?

"Sticky notes. I’m forever scribbling reminders and ideas."

Hidden talent?

"I’m basically “Suzy Homemaker” with a love for crafts and baking—especially Italian cookies. Over the holidays, my mom and I go into baking overdrive and make 18 to 20 different kinds."

What’s one Grindr feature you love?

"I’m a huge fan of Private Albums. They let you share more selectively and keep things on your own terms."

Most memorable Grindr moment?

"My first day on the job—it was literally the morning after the company Pride pool party. I showed up “fashionably late” and was still the first one there. Nothing beats day-one nerves like go-go dancers and mermaid floats."

Give us a meme describes working here Grindr.

Roast yourself in one sentence.

"I’m completely incapable of talking without using my hands. If you pinned them down, I’d probably lose my ability to speak altogether. It’s the Italian in me—I can’t help it!"

Who’s your “work spouse”?

"I’m in a polycule! My go-tos are Bill Shafton from Legal, Lauren Bade on my team, Matt Shancer, Head of Data Engineering. They’re the first ones I run to with questions and ideas."

Today, March 31st, is officially Eiffel Tower Day. While Parisians use this day to celebrate the anniversary of the monument's construction, many queers celebrate the day a little bit more actively, if you catch my drift.

In case you’ve been stuck in outer space for the past decade, the Eiffel Tower is a threesome position where one lucky bottom gets plowed from behind while simultaneously blowing the person in front of them. The two “tops” then meet with their hands in the middle, over the bent-over bottom, mainly for comedic effect. When the hands are met in the middle, it creates a triangle that (vaguely) looks like the Eiffel Tower.

I have been in every position of the Eiffel Tower, and I prefer to be smack dab in the middle. It’s fantastic. Orgasmic. Empowering while simultaneously slightly degrading (in a hot way). But it wasn’t the first time I had an Eiffel Tower or a threesome with two other men, more broadly. I was a jealous, insecure mess. (I was a baby queer, barely 24 years old. I knew so little!) 

Here’s the thing about threesomes: Everyone thinks it’s their fantasy being fulfilled, and unless you’ve made that abundantly clear, wires get crossed, someone feels left out, and/or a partner gets jealous.

But, my sweet angel baby queers (or recently emerging sex-positive horndogs), it doesn’t have to be a crummy first experience. You just have to do two things. The first is to communicate (and I know this word is nebulous and overused by Instagram therapists, so I will break down what communication looks like momentarily). The second is to read the room. 

Let’s start with communication. Especially if you’re new to threesomes, there shouldn’t be anything unplanned. (Spontaneity can come later, when you’re more experienced.) You should know who is topping, bottoming, sucking, spanking, flipping, etc. Luckily, you can convey this simply on Grindr, messaging, “I'm a bottom looking for two tops to Eiffel Tower me,” or “My partner and I are both vers and love to flip. We’re looking for another vers dude who’d be down to flip.” 

One of the things I love about Grindr is that you can be so direct in a way that potentially feels uncomfortable IRL. It’s often considered “aggressive” to ask a dude you just met if he’s trying to get plowed (depending on the venue), but on Grindr, that can be one of the first things you ask.

Now, if you’ve found a third (or you’re a guest celebrity for some lucky couple), in addition to communicating what you want to do, also communicate what you don’t want to do (i.e., boundaries). Get into the nitty-gritty. “I love it when you spit in my mouth, but I don’t like my hair pulled.” “I like being called a slut but not a faggot.” Things along those lines. 

If you’re indifferent to someone’s desire, be honest yet open. “I’m not the biggest fan of piss, but if you both are, I’d be turned on seeing how turned on you guys get.” (Obviously, don’t say this unless it’s true.) 

Moving on to reading the room. Especially when you’re a couple who’s been fucking each other for a while, you can get really excited about someone new. That’s expected and should be celebrated, but don’t forget about your primary partner—solely focusing on this hot, new third. Otherwise, there’s a decent chance they’ll get jealous or pissed off. 

Similarly, if you’re the third and find yourself more attracted to one of the people, you should still give all parties roughly equal attention. Please note I said, “roughly equal attention.” I get it. It’s impossible to be 50-50, and if you’re overly concerned about being “equal,” you likely won’t be able to get out of your head and enjoy the experience. I guess all I’m saying is—do your best to ensure no one feels undesired. (And if you’re only into one of the guys and not the other, for the love of God, don’t agree to a threesome!)   

Lastly, I’ll add a little bonus reminder: Remember, you can stop having sex at any time. I know people always say this, and it’s much harder in the moment to stop, but here’s where having a canned response is helpful. My go-to is, “Hey guys, I’m feeling a little overwhelmed. Mind if we pause for a second and grab some water?” Then, once you three have “paused,” it’s much easier to call it off completely. “I’m sorry, guys, I’m just not feeling it. I’m going to have to call it.” Sure, they may be disappointed, but they will live. I promise you, it’s so much better to pump the breaks than to continue having sex when you’re not feeling it (for any reason). 

And remember, if you don’t feel it that one time, it doesn’t mean threesomes aren’t right for you (though it might). It may just mean something was off, and you can better address it before the next time you give a threesome a whirl.

Okay, last thing for real! While on Grindr, I’d not only use the threesome tag to indicate you’re looking for a threesome, but I’d also include it in your bio. And if you’re trying to be the slutty little bottom in the Eiffel Tower, state that, too. You will make two tops' dreams cum true!

Profile Hide is a privacy tool that lets you hide your profile from specific users—like exes, coworkers, or neighbors—before any conversation starts. When you hide someone, your profile disappears from their grid, and theirs vanishes from yours. Unlike blocking, which is reserved for addressing safety concerns, Hide is designed to help you avoid unwanted visibility and prevent real-life awkwardness—all discreetly, with no notifications sent.

How It Works:

1. Find a profile you haven’t chatted with. The Hide button appears on profiles where no messages have been exchanged.
2. Tap the Hide icon at the top of their profile photo.
3. Confirm your choice.

Once hidden:

• Their profile vanishes from your grid, Viewed Me, Taps, and all other areas of the app.
• Your profile disappears from their grid and all other areas of the app.
• No notifications are sent. They won’t know you hid them.

Changed your mind?

Go to Settings > Security & Privacy > Unhide Users to restore visibility at any time.

Why Use Profile Hide?

We designed this feature to address your needs:

1. Avoid Awkward Overlaps

Spot a coworker, neighbor, or ex? Hide your profile from them (this also removes their profile from your app) to skip uncomfortable encounters—both on and off the app.

2. Curate Your Feed

Your grid should reflect who you want to see. Hide profiles that aren’t a match to prioritize connections that spark your interest.

3. Use Block for Safety

Blocking remains available for users you’ve chatted with or who’ve messaged you. Use it to stop harassment, spam, or inappropriate behavior.

Profile Hide vs. Blocking: Know the Difference

Profile Hide

• Use to avoid someone you know or to curate your grid.
• For users you haven’t chatted with
• Removes mutual visibility instantly.
• Discreet—does not notify other users.

Blocking

• Use for safety, harassment, or serious issues.
• For users you have chatted with.
• Removes all visibility and deletes chat history.
• Discreet—does not notify other users.

How to Start Using Profile Hide

Profile Hide is now available to all Grindr users. To access it:

1. Update to the latest app version.
2. Tap Hide on any profile you haven’t messaged.

Your Privacy, Your Rules

We know how important it is to feel in control of your experience. Profile Hide isn’t replacing Block—it’s giving you more flexibility to:

• Protect your privacy without escalating to a block.
• Focus on connections that align with your interests.
• Avoid awkwardness with people you’d rather not see.

In 1969, we put a man on the moon. Nearly six decades later, we now have Botox for your butt, and it might just be the best thing that’s ever happened to my hole (and my identity as a vers prince). It’s called anal botox, and if you’ve ever struggled with bottoming because your ass is too tight (pain! blood! tears!), this could be a BIG game changer. (To be clear, I’m not a doctor, just a slut who found success with medical advice—don’t skip your own consult!)

Not to “flex,” but I used to have a tight sphincter, like a really tight sphincter. This wasn’t a hair flip moment; it was actually a problem, particularly when I wanted to bottom. Often, it felt like no amount of lube solved the issue, and even when I dilated prior—using small toys to stretch myself out—I was still never loose enough. So, for years, bottoming often hurt and was frequently accompanied by blood from anal fissures (i.e., a small rectal tear in the lining of my anus).

Understanding Rectal Fissures and Bottoming Pain

Guys on Grindr often got really upset when I told them I couldn’t bottom for them. They’d demand to know why, which, frankly, they shouldn’t have asked. It’s sorta like asking someone why they’re not drinking alcohol. There’s just no reason to do it. Respect people’s choices without being nosy. I already felt guilt and shame for not being able to bottom. I know I shouldn’t have felt that way—if you don’t want to bottom for any reason, I know that’s valid—but still, I felt shame. What can I say? I’m human. 

In truth, I didn’t wanna bottom because it hurt (and I often had anal fissures—my unending fissure—in part because the muscles surrounding my asshole were so tight, and the sphincter skin would tear while bottoming or pooping). And while in “theory” I like the idea of a Dom top destroying my hole, in practice, I’m not trying to be impaled.

I was in this frustrating middle ground. I didn’t want to stop bottoming. Bottoming was and still is very important to me. It’s not just about the pleasure. It’s about feeling connected to my queer identity. It’s like, there’s nothing gayer than having a man’s dick in your butt, ya know? Still, I never considered a botulinum toxin injection back then. 

Meeting the Butt Doctor (and Discovering Anal Botox)

So I still bottomed, breathing through the pain—accepting the rectal fissure as my fate, my burden to bear. That was until I met Evan Goldstein, D.O., founder of Bespoke Surgical and author of Butt Seriously: The Definitive Guide to Anal Health, Pleasure, and Everything In Between.

Goldstein is THE butt doctor and a botulinum toxin injection wizard. All the OnlyFans gays you follow who get fisted? Trust me, they have Dr. Goldstein checking out their holes and sphincters. Dr. Goldstein analyzed my behind and informed me I actually had a chronic rectal anal fissure that needed to be surgically removed. Once that bad boy was removed and I was healed (it’s an annoying three-month healing process), he then told me that because my sphincter muscles were so naturally tight, I should try anal botox. He recognized that my fissure needed more than just a quick fix.

What Does Anal Botox Actually Do?

When I first heard the term “anal botox,” I couldn’t help but laugh. It sounded absurd, reminding me of when “perineum sunning” was popular. (Remember when guys would sit in the sun with their legs scrunched behind their heads in a pretzel, getting direct sunlight on their taints?) But this was medical, Dr. Goldstein assured me. It’s not for aesthetics. “Anal Botox (botulinum toxin) allows relaxation of the internal anal sphincter muscles as well as the overlying skin it’s applied to accomplish relaxation,” he said. In fact, it’s why nearly all insurances actually cover administering botox anally. “I’ve seen it change people's lives, so why shouldn’t it be covered?” Goldstein said. “Anal botox helps people with chronic tearing (causing anal fissures), spasms, hemorrhoid prevention, and people who struggle with IBS.”

So, I decided to give it a try. I headed into his office. He had me drop my pants and sit on the examination table with my bare butt over the side. He then injected me four times. I’ll be honest: It’s kind of painful, but they’re also quick shots. Within a minute, he was done injecting me. It takes about a week for the botulinum toxin to take effect fully, but within a few days, I knew my hole had loosened because I was a farting machine—hilariously loud bubbly farts (that luckily didn’t smell foul).

This is to be expected, Goldstein warned. “Within the first few weeks, you may notice more gas than normal.” But don’t worry; you’re not going to have incontinence and shit yourself while walking down the street or anything like that, Goldstein clarified.

Some Caveats for Your Hole

Goldstein also noted that anal botox, by itself, isn’t a panacea for your sex life. For example, in my case, I had to get the anal fissure surgically removed. If I hadn’t and just had the botulinum toxin injection, I’d still be in pain while bottoming.

“There are a lot of medspas who offer facial Botox and think: this is just another part of the body we can inject Botox into,” Goldstein says. “However, anal botulinum toxin injections require proper evaluation to ensure the procedure meets your needs and expectations.” Goldstein goes through a full sexual history and conducts an anoscopic and anorectal examination (using a microscope to assess internal and external sphincters and structures) and an anorectal manometry (to measure anal pressures). These evaluations help Goldstein understand an individual’s anatomy, assess muscle function, and determine the optimal botulinum toxin injection dosing and treatment plan. “As you can tell, this isn’t like getting Botox in the face to address crow’s feet or forehead wrinkles,” Goldstein says.

The first time I bottomed, roughly two weeks after my first round of anal botox, I was shocked by how well it worked. No blood. No pain. And it felt incredible. I could take dick for a solid thirty minutes (before, I used to max out at like five minutes).

Now, I’m on my third round of anal botox (the effects last about three months, so you have to keep going in for botulinum toxin injections). I can confidently say I feel more empowered to take dick than ever before. I am finally able to live out my slutty bottom fantasy, no longer in pain, no longer worried about being too tight, no longer having to explain to nosy gays why I can’t bottom even though I list I’m “vers” on the app. I can just leave my door unlocked and be face down, ass up, waiting for you.

Sometimes, all you have is an hour. Maybe you just finished a sweaty gym session and are feeling the rush, or maybe you’re on your lunch break and are hungry for more than a quick sandwich. All that back-and-forth? Hard pass.

Right Now is Grindr’s new feature designed to get straight to the fun without endless filtering or prolonged chit-chat. After successful pilots in Australia and the greater Washington D.C. area, Right Now is making its debut in fifteen new markets.

Starting today, Right Now is rolling out in New York City, Los Angeles, London, Miami, Philadelphia, Austin, Chicago, Houston, Atlanta, Orlando, Paris, Madrid, Amsterdam, São Paulo, and Milan—with even more markets on the horizon.

What Exactly Is ‘Right Now’?

The magic is that it gives users a new way to indicate their intention to connect "right now.”  Instead of scrolling the grid and guessing who’s down to meet ASAP, you pop into a dedicated new feed where people post exactly what they’re looking for... right now.

Each post stays live for only one hour, so you’ll see who’s currently active and available in that moment. Right Now helps find what you’re craving in real-time.

How It Works

1. Open Grindr.
2. Tap “Right Now.” You’ll see it in the main navigation, sidebar, or as a new button floating on the grid.
3. Browse or Post in the feed. You can choose to share a quick line and (if you’re feeling bold) a photo that lets others know exactly what you’re looking for. If you’re not ready to post, you can always browse the feed to see who is ready to meet. 
4. Connect with people who catch your eye—or reply to chats from others interested in you.

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Made for the Community, by the Community

Right Now didn’t just materialize out of thin air. It was born from your feedback—especially from folks who want immediate, no-nonsense meetups. Grindr users asked. So we built it. And we’re thrilled to see how it’s already making connections simpler, faster, and more immediate.

Coming Soon…

Not in one of the newly added cities? No sweat. We’re already planning the next wave of expansions, with more major cities rolling out in the coming months. So watch this space—or your Grindr app—for updates to be among the first to know when Right Now lands in your city.

Ready to Try It?

Open Grindr, tap the Right Now button and explore your city’s feed. You’ll be amazed how quickly sparks can fly when everyone’s on the same page. Whether you’ve got a short break or a free evening, Right Now offers the connections you’re craving—without the wait.