Like most other Southeast Asian countries, Laos is pretty open towards gay people. However, the situation is not comparable to the Philippines or Thailand, where there are many bars, events, and hotels catering to the LGBTQ+ community. After all, Laos is still a pretty conservative country with traditional values. In this article we want to dig deeper into the realities of gay traveling in Laos.
Legal status of homosexual relations in Laos
Gay marriage isn’t legalized in Laos, but that doesn’t mean being gay is a problem. Homosexuality is not criminalized, and even though there are people that disagree with it, acts of discrimination towards the LGBTQ+ community are pretty rare. When it comes to legal rights, it doesn’t make much of a difference if you’re gay or straight. One big difference compared to most Western countries is that there is no discrimination protection based on sexual orientation, although Prof. Dr. Maifong Maixai, Member of the National Assembly, in March 2025 proposed a draft bill aimed at introducing basic anti-discrimination protections for LGBTQ+ individuals.
How to behave as a gay traveler in Laos
Since Laos is a pretty conservative country, there are some things gay travelers should be mindful of. A little cultural sensitivity can go a long way and prevent unnecessary problems. Just follow these tips:
- Avoid showing too much affection in public
- Be respectful of local values
- Exercise discretion in rural areas
- Choose LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations
- Keep an eye on political developments
As you can see, it really isn’t that complicated. After all, most of the advice also applies to other travelers and not just gay individuals. The best example is temples. All tourists and also locals have to dress appropriately, before they enter these sacred sites.
How to meet other gay people in Laos
You won’t see a lot of openly gay Laotians or even ladyboys, and establishments catering to LGBTQ+ individuals are still pretty rare. That said, it isn’t too hard to connect to other gays. At least in bigger cities or tourist spots, there are always some locals and expats using dating apps. Most of them are excited to meet new people, but the local Laotians, because of cultural taboos, tend to be more discrete in their behavior. A lot of them are just willing to meet around nighttime.
How to find LGBTQ+ friendly accommodations
Due to cultural conservatism in Laos, it’s unlikely to find accommodations that openly advertise LGBTQ+ friendliness. Therefore, it’s better to check reviews before making a reservation. In general, at least at tourist hotspots, inclusivity is rarely an issue. Most hostels, hotels, and guesthouses pay little attention to guests sexual orientation. Just treat everyone respectfully. In almost every case you’ll experience a genuinely warm hospitality. If there should be an issue, we advise you to let it go, leave a bad review and just book a place where you feel more welcome.
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