Middle East Gay and Lesbian Travel Guide

Don’t mistake same-sex affection for homosexuality. Especially in Islamic countries where the sexes are segregated before marriage, heterosexual males may be seen walking hand in hand or embracing.
Be discreet. Even though some cultures in the region may seem open to gays, public displays of affection still may get you into trouble.
Join a gay travel group for your first taste of the region. Traveling on your own in Africa and the Middle East can be trying for the uninitiated, and meeting gay people on your own can be a challenge as well.
Don’t be put off by gift-giving. In most cultures in the region, it's customary to give small cash gifts (a dollar or two usually) to people who help you along the way—be they hospitality workers, guides, or friendly strangers. Think of it as tipping for unexpected services.
Prices in French-speaking Africa are highest. The African franc (CFA, pronounced "seefa") is a common currency used in nearly all the former French colonies in Africa, where prices can be considerably more than in non-French speaking countries.

Gay and Lesbian Travel Overview: Africa and the Middle East

From camel treks to wildlife safaris to jungle lodges, for a true gay travel adventure, Africa and the Middle East can’t be beat. Africa is the last frontier of modern travel, and the vast continent has incredibly varied geography and cultures. Northern Africa is sandwiched between Mediterranean history and the arid Sahara. The western part of the continent is filled with rich tribal arts and cultures, while eastern Africa boasts the great herds of the Serengeti and a hybrid Arab-African history. Read More

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Middle East Gay and Lesbian Travel Guide