Vietnam has begun drawing the world’s attention since the success in the fight against America to gain the complete independence after being under the control of Chinese Empire, French Colonialization, Japanese occupation in centuries. From a communist country with the high conservatism, Vietnam has gradually morphed into a popular holiday destination on the world’s travel map. However, LGBT travelers might be afraid of traveling to Vietnam and have so many questions in their mind like: Is Vietnam gay or lesbian – friendly?

There’s no doubt to state that Vietnam is a hassle-free place for LGBT travelers. Although you are not expected to have the glitter-bomb gay utopias like the neighbors like Thailand or Taiwan or see the rainbow flags on the streets, it’s not overtly homophobic. The clearest proof is that Vietnamese law doesn’t prohibit the same-sex relationship or even marriages, which is considered as one of the most progressive countries in Southeast Asia.

Nonetheless, queer culture in Vietnam is still limited due to the conservative society, especially to the middle-aged and older people. You can easily find out the gay-friendly places like hotels, bars & clubs, sauna & massages in some cosmopolitan cities, particularly Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City in other words.

Here are some bars or club that you can chill out:

• In HANOI:

1. Golden Cock Bar

Address: No. 5 Bao Khanh Street, Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi 

2. Savage

Address: No. 112 Xuan Dieu Street, Tu Lien, Tay Ho, Hanoi 

3. Sidewalk Bar & Grill

Address: No. 231 Au Co Street, Quang An, Tay Ho, Hanoi

4. Bird Cage Bar & Lounge

Address: Alley 264 Au Co Street, Quang An, Tay Ho, Hanoi

5. The Grove

Address: No. 9 Dang Thai Mai, Tay Ho, Hanoi

• In HO CHI MINH CITY:

1. Republic Lounge

Address: 63/ 201 Dong Du Street, District 1, HCMC

2. THI Bar & Live Music

Address: 224 De Tham Street, District 1, HCMC

3. Papa Café

Address: 6B Cong Truong Quoc Te, District 3, HCMC

4. Whiskey & Wares

Address: 196 De Tham Street, District 1, HCMC

5. Le PUB

Address: 175/22 Pham Ngu Lao Street, District 1, HCMC

Some tips that you need to pay attention to have the enjoyable trip in Vietnam:

• Vietnam is still a conservative country, especially in the North; hence, don’t show the deep affection in public places (the same situation as a straight couple)
• You can enjoy the dynamic nightlife scene in a series of bars and clubs at cosmopolitan cities like Saigon, Hanoi or Nha Trang.
• Take a quick look at some videos on Youtube of local vloggers to understand the life of LGBT community.

If you are big fan of dance-to-dawn parties, Vietnam might not be your taste. Although gay or lesbian couples are not widely acknowledged under Vietnamese law, this is really a hospitable and welcoming destination with LGBT community.

Don’t hesitate to contact us to have the relaxing moments together in Vietnam!