This was my 2nd cruise and my partner’s 4th, but for both of us, after really feeling disconnected from the world for some time, this cruise was like a new beginning. Thank you to everyone at @royalcaribbean , @atlantisevents , the djs, the performers (the comedians!), our travel agent @kgaytravel , and all the friends we reconnected with and new ones we made in this experience. The circuit world and Atlantis get a bad rap (sometimes deservedly so) for many issues, diversity being a key one. I’ve been critical of it, and Atlantis especially after some of my experiences on my first cruise in 2019. And I want to say this- it’s not perfect, but from then to now, it’s gotten LEAPS and BOUNDS better. I found myself not only represented but celebrated. Our community is too much defined by and exploited for our pain, and for one amazing week, I was able to share in the joy equally with everyone around me. That is something the NYTimes, gaysovercovid, or any naysayer can never take away from me, and it was special and beautiful. Thank you all of you that we met, and hopefully will meet again soon on the dance floor. Stay in touch on insta @yalemarine and @the2thguy . . . . . . #instagay #gay #gayblack #intergaycial #nycgays #gayveteran #atlantisevents #gayblack #blackmen #gayfit #gaymuscle #muscle #thewayweplay