Gay Guide Laos

There is no specific age of consent mentioned in the law. Homosexuality is not forbidden, but same-sex sexual acts are considered a violation of traditional lifestyles and are therefore not officially recognised. Gays in Laos live inconspicuously and mostly in stable partnerships, which are often terminated abruptly after years due to family pressure to force the partners into traditional heterosexual relationships. The first Pride Event with 100 participants took place in the capital Vientiane in 2012. Guests of honor included the Laotian Minister of Health and the American Ambassador. A parade was waived deliberately in order to prevent any security problems. Prostitution and drug abuse are strictly forbidden in Laos and can result in immediate prison sentences for all involved. In the case of more intimate contacts between Laotians and foreigners, it is quickly assumed to be prostitution. Negotiations with the omnipotent and corrupt police are pointless. It is usually not a problem for same-sex couples to share a hotel room, especially if both partners are from a foreign country. Laos features some astonishing peaks that are covered by rainforest, the Mekong being the largest and longest river. It is an all-year travel destination with the least hours of rain in August and September. The local population is very friendly and especially lenient towards foreigners. Discrete gay travellers can get many unexpected insights into Laotian everyday life.