Saigon recently has seen a jarring turn for a society considered embracing and open as the citizens are growing more tolerant of gay and lesbian individuals. Check out our post for gay and lesbian in Saigon to pay a wonderful trip to this genial city.
The Scene of Gay and Lesbian in Saigon
Overall, Saigon is incredibly welcoming towards international visitors regardless of the sexual orientations, but the Vietnamese society in general still remains a conservative attitude towards homosexuality.
According to The Guardian, verbal harassment of gay and lesbian in day-to-day life is fairly common in Vietnam. Some teachers even consider “being LGBT as a disease.”
However, Vietnam has never conducted any homosexuality-anti law, turning the country and Saigon into one of the most LGBT-friendly travel destinations around Asia. Despite certain discrimination, the community of gay and lesbian in Saigon has been taking a stronger step for their rights.
The past 2019 Saigon VietPride, an annual event for LGBT ceremony, attracted a thousand marchers and became an exuberant affair for gay and lesbian in the city. Furthermore, media and public attention have witnessed forward-looking movement on encouraging the right of gay and lesbian, implied by the frequent appearance of television broadcasts.
On the whole, the city is relatively hassle-free for gay and lesbian travelers, and one can say Saigon is among the most LGBT-friendly cities in Vietnam. Feel free to explore the amazing attractions and dynamic energy that the city has to offer.
Some Notes to Travel as Gay and Lesbian in Saigon
The traditional Vietnamese perception is not very open to public affection, even for heterosexual couples. Therefore, remember to tone down the PDA when traveling in Vietnam.
Check out these Facebook groups for traveling and living in Vietnam as LGBT.
1. VietPride: Follow this page to see when the next Viet Pride will take place so you can join in the exuberant fun with the locals
2. FTM Organization: FTM is a non-profit organization with the main focus on transgender in Ho Chi Minh city and Vietnam. FTM is founded based on an aim to create a better community for not only transgender but also the LGBT as a whole. The organization also has many meaningful community projects (LGBT free movie screenings, workshops on LGBT rights, etc.), open to everyone to join.
Note: The content of these two Facebook groups/ pages is entirely in Vietnamese. However, language is not a barrier as the admins can freely communicate with you in English.
Shopping for LGBTQ+ products may not be easy as homosexuality is still considered taboo for the most part in Vietnam. Consider shopping online for LGBTQ+ friendly products.
Check out our travel guides
First Time in Saigon: overview about traveling in the biggest metropolitan in Vietnam and what to prepare
Learn about all of the famous attractions in Saigon (In picture: War Remnants Museum)
Places to Eat and Drink in Saigon: explore Saigon to the fullest with our suggestions of the best local spots to eat authentic local dishes
Taste the iconic Banh mi
and other local cuisines of Saigon
Saigon City Private Tours: Wanting tailored services for you and your significant other? Travel stress-free with local insights? Book a private motorbike tour in Saigon to see the city at a different angle
Join a private motorbike tour for personalized services and insightful experiences
Travel Destinations for Gay and Lesbian in Saigon
The city is now identified as one of the highest LGBT population cities among Vietnam with increasing must-visit attractions for gay and lesbian travelers. Here are the best LGBT-friendly places in Saigon.
Thai Cong Interior Design and Restaurant
Address: 215 A1 Nguyen Van Huong Street, Thao Dien, District 2
Opening time:
Sunday – Friday: 8 AM – 7 PM
Saturday: 8 AM -11 PM
The fancy interior design of the restaurant
Thi Bar
Address: 224 De Tham Street, Pham Ngu Lao, District 1
Opening time:
Sunday – Tuesday: 5 PM – 1 AM
Wednesday – Thursday: 5 PM – 1:30 AM
Friday – Saturday: 5 PM – 2:30 AM
The bar always gets crowded every night show
Lo To Sai Gon Tan Thoi
During the performance, Sai Gon Tan Thoi’s crew, who are all from the LGBT community, dress up in the stunning traditional costume of Vietnam – Ao Dai and will announce the numbers of the Lotto game by singing a song.
As the show is entirely in Vietnamese, it is highly recommended to have a local friend with you for the best interpretation.
Lo To Tan Thoi’s Lo To performers in Ao Dai
Gender Funk
Gender Funk is appreciated as one of the most dynamic gay scenes in Saigon, carrying out many drag shows every month.
One of the glamorous drag queens at VietPride
See more Top-rated Bars in Saigon
Concluding Thoughts on Gay and Lesbian in Saigon
Although Saigon is considered as a safe and open destination for gay and lesbian tourists, there are some limitations of public displays of affection from same-sex couples in public as it is not culturally acceptable. Nevertheless, your sexual orientation shouldn’t hinder your adventure in Saigon in any way.
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