Finding the hottest underground lesbian bar in Soho, or a friend to show you around New York, has never been easier.

GayGirlNet.com is an all-female alternative to Facebook that allows lesbians from around the world to stay in contact with friends and make some new ones. Started by Jane Hamilton, a UK woman who was looking for an alternative to the usual dating sites, GayGirlNet.com has taken off at an exponential rate. About 1,500 women have registered in the last three months.

Hamilton says she was surprised by the instant interest but is thrilled to be getting such positive feedback.

"I've been really happy with how fast the site has grown," Hamilton said from her home in Brighton, England.

"The majority of the members are from the UK, Australia, Canada, South Africa and the USA, but in total there are women from around 82 countries using the site. Seven thousand friendships have already been formed and I've even been told about the first romance."

Hamilton's vision for GayGirlNet.com is to see it be utilised for more than just frivolous fun.
"My idea is that between us we will create a worldwide network of friendly gay women, ideal for travel or working in another area. Members will also have the opportunity to arrange to hook up with a friendly face to be an unofficial tour guide, which will be great for going to Pride events around the world.

"I've also received a lot of emails from women who have used the site to help them with the process of coming out. They've said how lovely it's been to have somewhere where they feel safe to talk about their experiences and meet other gay women," Hamilton said.

"All the emails from women saying how much they love the site and how friendly and sociable they find it really are the best reward for all those hours I've spent glued to my laptop."

by ANI LAMONT

Sydney Star Observer www.ssonet.com.au