Exploding myths, not bombs: Gay travel in Laos

Want to really impress clients with your knowledge of the gay scene in obscure corners of the globe? Here’s a first-person account of gay life in Laos, reportedly the most heavily-bombed nation in the history of the world.

According to the author, gay men have several bars to choose from and trannies are accepted because of their visibility in TV shows from neighborning Thailand. But lesbians in Laos? All but invisible, it turns out.

For same-sex tourists, sharing a bed is accepted even in rural homestay situations, but beware when you open the bedroom door: “Public displays of affection are not common among Lao people of any orientation, so it’s best for tourists to follow suit.”

For U.S. clients wanting to visit Laos, check with IGLTA member tour operators based in Asia. They’ll have the most local knowledge, including gay and lesbian tour guides.