Laos

Homosexuality is not forbidden, but sexual activity is considered to be a violation of the traditional way of life, and as a result is not officially recognized. Laotian gays live discreetly without any real trouble or discrimination, even in steady relationships. Many of these relationships end abruptly after years together, as a result of family pressure to force people into traditional heterosexual relationships. Prostitution and drug use is strongly forbidden in Laos and can result in immediate imprisonment for everyone involved. Even the most minor contact between foreigners and Laotians is seen as prostitution, and talking about it with the all-powerful and completely corrupt police force is pointless. Shared accommodation in hotels for same sex couples is generally trouble-free, especially if both parties are foreigners. Also full-on sex between men is often not linked with homosexuality, as gays are generally only identified as being effeminate. The country with the Mekong running through it, and high country covered in rainforests is a year round travel destination, both beautiful and interesting, with less rain in the months of July and August. Throughout the country the local population is very friendly, and they are mostly easy-going towards foreigners. Discreet gay holiday-makers may get to have a number of unexpected insights into local daily life.