Post by Ash Jay on Mar 21, 2016 5:25:54 GMT 1
A combination of words that might once have been considered forbidden – and for some still are, as some areas of the Eastern continent are among the most conservative on the planet. Some Asian countries are still very homophobic, punishing homosexuality by imprisonment, torture and even the death penalty.
On the other hand, there are countries like the Philippines, Japan and Thailand, where same-sex sexual activity is legal, and which are definitely less conservative and more open-minded.
So the status of LGBT rights on the continent of Asia need not be an obstacle for any gay traveler who dreams of exploring the exotic beauties and fascinating culture of these countries. As long as you carefully study the legal status of the areas you are planning to visit and, of course, are discreet and careful when needed, you are bound to have a relaxing, memorable and safe holiday.
Here, gay and lesbian travel experts Destsetters select eight amazing destinations in Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam, analyzing the gay aspect of each, highlighting the things you can do during your holiday and suggesting the most beautiful and gay-friendly hotels.
Best for gay-friendly attitudes: Thailand
Destination: Koh Samui
1 Thailand is one of the most liberal Asian countries regarding LGBT rights (at least for tourists), and Koh Samui offers a lot for gay travelers – though less intense and vibrant compared to other popular destinations such as Phuket and Pattaya.
2 Gay nightlife is mainly concentrated in Chaweng, where several gay-friendly and owned bars can be found.
3 Since you’re in Thailand, make sure to get yourself one of the famous Thai massages. Koh Samui is the home of a number of spa centers exclusively for men.
Destination: Bangkok
1 Bangkok is one of the most gay-friendly cities in Thailand–- and, in extension, of Asia, featuring a vibrant, vivid and colorful gay nightlife.
2 If you’re visiting Bangkok for the first time, head to Silom Soi 4 street, where several small and elegant bars and restaurants are located.
3 For a naughtier night out, go to Soi Twilight, a street full of erotic shows and go-go dancers.
Destination: Phuket
1 One of the most popular destinations in the world, Phuket is also a favorable holiday choice for gay and lesbian travelers from all over the world.
2 The crowded beach of Patong Bay is a hot meeting point for gay locals and tourists. Several gay clubs and bars are located in the area, while Phuket Pride takes place here as well.
3 The great variety of gay-friendly hotels and resorts in Phuket will make you feel comfortable and welcome. Enjoy the privacy of your room or suite, relax by your own pool and – in some cases – sunbathe on your own private beach!
Best for luxury retreats: Indonesia
Destination: Bali
1 Bali is generally known as a gay-friendly destination, however, you should always be discreet in public spaces, as the locals are still not ‘open’ to public displays of affection. (Keep in mind, it is still illegal to be gay and Muslim in other parts of Indonesia, namely Aceh and parts of South Sumatra).
2 The hottest place to be in Bali is the area of Seminyak, where lots of gay-friendly and gay-owned businesses like bars, clubs and restaurants are located. An early hours drink or thingytail at the many beachfront bars of the area is definitely a must.
3 The beach of Cantina is the most popular among gay locals and tourists, even though it is not exclusively gay.
Destination: Lombok
1 Lombok is a beautiful place with stunning beaches and amazing landscapes. It is an ideal place for your romantic holidays or honeymoon trip. Keep in mind, however, to always be discreet, as Lombok, a largely Muslim island, is not ranked among the most tolerate destinations for gay travelers.
2 The nearby, paradise-like small islands of Gili are magical. Still undiscovered by the majority of the tourists, they provide an excellent opportunity for enjoying the exotic nature of Indonesia.
3 You may be surprised by the level of service and facilities offered at the numerous hotels and resorts of Lombok. The vast majority offer breathtaking views of the sea, while many feature a private sandy beach as well.
Best for wellness and nature: Vietnam
Destinations: Binh Thuan, Nha Trang, Xuyen Moc
1 Vietnam is one of the few Asian countries where, according to historians, same-sex relationships were never criminalized. However, being LGBTI in Vietnam is still taboo, so make sure that you are always discreet in public spaces.
2 The alternative regions of Binh Thuan, Nha Trang and Xuyen Moc are perfect for relaxation and romantic getaways. No organized gay life at all, however, the exotic beauty of the destination in combination with the high level of the hotels and resorts located in the areas will make you fall in love with this small Asian country right away!
3 Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi cities are the most gay-popular destinations in Vietnam. Both have small (yet, developing) gay scenes, including bars, clubs, restaurants and saunas.
Source: Gay Star News
On the other hand, there are countries like the Philippines, Japan and Thailand, where same-sex sexual activity is legal, and which are definitely less conservative and more open-minded.
So the status of LGBT rights on the continent of Asia need not be an obstacle for any gay traveler who dreams of exploring the exotic beauties and fascinating culture of these countries. As long as you carefully study the legal status of the areas you are planning to visit and, of course, are discreet and careful when needed, you are bound to have a relaxing, memorable and safe holiday.
Here, gay and lesbian travel experts Destsetters select eight amazing destinations in Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam, analyzing the gay aspect of each, highlighting the things you can do during your holiday and suggesting the most beautiful and gay-friendly hotels.
Best for gay-friendly attitudes: Thailand
Destination: Koh Samui
1 Thailand is one of the most liberal Asian countries regarding LGBT rights (at least for tourists), and Koh Samui offers a lot for gay travelers – though less intense and vibrant compared to other popular destinations such as Phuket and Pattaya.
2 Gay nightlife is mainly concentrated in Chaweng, where several gay-friendly and owned bars can be found.
3 Since you’re in Thailand, make sure to get yourself one of the famous Thai massages. Koh Samui is the home of a number of spa centers exclusively for men.
Destination: Bangkok
1 Bangkok is one of the most gay-friendly cities in Thailand–- and, in extension, of Asia, featuring a vibrant, vivid and colorful gay nightlife.
2 If you’re visiting Bangkok for the first time, head to Silom Soi 4 street, where several small and elegant bars and restaurants are located.
3 For a naughtier night out, go to Soi Twilight, a street full of erotic shows and go-go dancers.
Destination: Phuket
1 One of the most popular destinations in the world, Phuket is also a favorable holiday choice for gay and lesbian travelers from all over the world.
2 The crowded beach of Patong Bay is a hot meeting point for gay locals and tourists. Several gay clubs and bars are located in the area, while Phuket Pride takes place here as well.
3 The great variety of gay-friendly hotels and resorts in Phuket will make you feel comfortable and welcome. Enjoy the privacy of your room or suite, relax by your own pool and – in some cases – sunbathe on your own private beach!
Best for luxury retreats: Indonesia
Destination: Bali
1 Bali is generally known as a gay-friendly destination, however, you should always be discreet in public spaces, as the locals are still not ‘open’ to public displays of affection. (Keep in mind, it is still illegal to be gay and Muslim in other parts of Indonesia, namely Aceh and parts of South Sumatra).
2 The hottest place to be in Bali is the area of Seminyak, where lots of gay-friendly and gay-owned businesses like bars, clubs and restaurants are located. An early hours drink or thingytail at the many beachfront bars of the area is definitely a must.
3 The beach of Cantina is the most popular among gay locals and tourists, even though it is not exclusively gay.
Destination: Lombok
1 Lombok is a beautiful place with stunning beaches and amazing landscapes. It is an ideal place for your romantic holidays or honeymoon trip. Keep in mind, however, to always be discreet, as Lombok, a largely Muslim island, is not ranked among the most tolerate destinations for gay travelers.
2 The nearby, paradise-like small islands of Gili are magical. Still undiscovered by the majority of the tourists, they provide an excellent opportunity for enjoying the exotic nature of Indonesia.
3 You may be surprised by the level of service and facilities offered at the numerous hotels and resorts of Lombok. The vast majority offer breathtaking views of the sea, while many feature a private sandy beach as well.
Best for wellness and nature: Vietnam
Destinations: Binh Thuan, Nha Trang, Xuyen Moc
1 Vietnam is one of the few Asian countries where, according to historians, same-sex relationships were never criminalized. However, being LGBTI in Vietnam is still taboo, so make sure that you are always discreet in public spaces.
2 The alternative regions of Binh Thuan, Nha Trang and Xuyen Moc are perfect for relaxation and romantic getaways. No organized gay life at all, however, the exotic beauty of the destination in combination with the high level of the hotels and resorts located in the areas will make you fall in love with this small Asian country right away!
3 Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi cities are the most gay-popular destinations in Vietnam. Both have small (yet, developing) gay scenes, including bars, clubs, restaurants and saunas.
Source: Gay Star News