ethiopia gay tour

LGBT Rights In Ethiopia: Everything You Should Know Before You Visit! 🇪🇹

Posted on Last updated: December 3, 2023

Categories LGBTQ+ Rights , Ethiopia

Cecilia Miller is a lesbian love warrior and educator fighting for queer justice and ensuring every shade of the rainbow shines bright & bold!

LGBT rights in Ethiopia have been a pressing concern for both locals and tourists alike. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals face legal challenges in the country, with both male and female same-sex sexual activity being illegal.

Due to these restrictions, discrimination and abuse against the LGBT community are quite prevalent in Ethiopia. Although the situation remains difficult, it is important for travelers to stay informed, as laws and policies may evolve over time.

While LGBT tourists may face fewer challenges compared to local residents, it is still crucial for them to remain cautious and vigilant when visiting Ethiopia. Staying aware of current laws, social norms, and the regional atmosphere can help ensure a safer experience. Additionally, connecting with local or international LGBT advocacy groups can be beneficial, as they often provide valuable information and support.

One should always keep in mind that the situation in any country can change rapidly, making it essential to seek up-to-date information before traveling. By staying well-informed and prepared, both local LGBT individuals and tourists can navigate the challenges presented by Ethiopia’s current stance on LGBT rights. It is hoped that, over time, progress will be made towards a more inclusive and accepting society for everyone.

History Of LGBT Rights In Ethiopia

LGBT rights in Ethiopia have been a challenging subject throughout history. Despite the country’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, the government and society maintain a conservative approach towards homosexuality. Same-sex sexual activity is still prohibited under the Criminal Code of 2004, which criminalizes “homosexual or indecent acts.”

Ethiopia’s laws make a clear distinction between the treatment of its citizens and tourists. While locals continue to face widespread homo- and transphobia, tourists are often shielded from these harsh realities. However, even as a tourist, caution must always be exercised, as the situation can change rapidly, and bad actors may be present in any country. It is essential to remain vigilant and seek current advice before traveling.

In recent years, a few organizations have surfaced to advocate for LGBT rights and support the community in Ethiopia. These groups have been working tirelessly to create awareness, lobby for policy changes, and provide safe spaces for the community.

In terms of protection for the LGBT community, it would be beneficial to see the introduction of anti-discrimination laws and public education campaigns. This would not only help local Ethiopians but also any LGBTQ+ tourists who may be visiting the country.

As you navigate this exciting, beautiful country, remember that the situation regarding LGBT rights can change fast, and information may be outdated. We urge you to stay informed and actively engage with the leading advocacy groups in Ethiopia. They are diligently committed to improving the lives of their fellow citizens and making Ethiopia a more inclusive and equal place for everyone.

The LGBT Legal Situation In Ethiopia

LGBT rights in Ethiopia face significant challenges. Both male and female same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the country, and there are reports of high levels of discrimination and abuse against LGBT people. Unfortunately, this affects both local residents and international tourists.

It is essential for visitors to understand that homosexuality is punishable by imprisonment in Ethiopia. Although there may not be many convictions, societal stigma and inaccessibility of court documents could lead to underreporting. The LGBT community must remain vigilant and cautious, as situations can change quickly, and information might become outdated.

While in Ethiopia, LGBT individuals should take the necessary steps to protect themselves. This includes staying discreet about their sexual orientation and gender identity and avoiding public displays of affection. It would be wise to seek current advice before traveling to ensure that they have the most up-to-date information on the local LGBT rights situation.

Many LGBT advocacy groups are working to improve the situation and provide resources for the community in Ethiopia. These organizations can be helpful for both locals and tourists seeking support and guidance.

Remember, situations can change fast, and bad actors exist in every country. Always remain vigilant and stay informed about the legal situation regarding LGBT rights in Ethiopia. Keep this information in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

The LGBT Social Situation In Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, the LGBT community faces significant challenges due to the illegality of homosexuality and lack of protection for their rights. Locals bear the brunt of these restrictions, but tourists visiting the country should also be aware of the laws and societal attitudes they may encounter.

Members of the Ethiopian LGBTQ+ community report experiencing online harassment and physical attacks. Social media platforms, such as TikTok, have been cited as contributors to the incitement of these incidents. While the Constitution guarantees certain human rights for all Ethiopians , there are no specific protections in place for the LGBT community in areas like employment or housing discrimination.

For tourists visiting Ethiopia, it is essential to remain vigilant and cautious, as situations can change rapidly, and there may be bad actors targeting the LGBTQ+ community. Information may be out of date; therefore, seeking current advice before traveling is always recommended. In case of any concern or need for support, it is helpful to connect with local LGBTQ+ advocacy groups that can offer relevant guidance and assistance.

Remember to always err on the side of caution and be aware of your surroundings, as the social situation for the LGBT community in Ethiopia is precarious. By staying informed, proactive, and cautious, you can help contribute to a safer environment for everyone in the country.

Trans Rights In Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, the rights of transgender individuals are quite limited, with the law criminalizing both male and female same-sex activity. Consequently, transgender individuals face discrimination, hostility, and significant legal challenges.

For local transgender residents, accessing healthcare, housing, and employment can be difficult due to the lack of legal protections and widespread social stigma. The consequences of this can be dire, as transgender individuals may face poverty, homelessness, and limited access to education and professional opportunities. It is important to recognize that situations can change rapidly, so it is always a good idea to stay informed and seek current information while residing or traveling in Ethiopia.

As a tourist visiting Ethiopia, it’s essential to be cautious and mindful of the possible risks to your safety. Due to the legal and social environment, it is vital for transgender visitors to avoid drawing attention to their identity. Be discreet and prioritize your personal safety at all times. Remaining vigilant and up-to-date with local news and events can significantly reduce the chances of encountering potentially dangerous situations.

To help build a support network and stay informed, consider connecting with local and international LGBT advocacy groups. These organizations can provide valuable advice and resources tailored to your specific needs. Some examples include The Rainbow-Ethiopia Health and Human Rights Initiative and regional offices of international organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch.

Remember, it’s crucial to err on the side of caution, stay vigilant, and always seek up-to-date advice about local conditions before traveling. By following these guidelines, you can have an enjoyable and safe experience while visiting Ethiopia.

The Future For The Queer Community In Ethiopia

As Ethiopia’s society evolves, there may be shifts in attitudes towards the LGBT community, which could bring changes to the lives of both locals and tourists. LGBT rights in Ethiopia have been a topic of controversy, with the community facing high levels of discrimination and threats of violence. However, there are steps that can be taken to protect individuals and promote a more inclusive atmosphere, both on a local and international level.

One approach to ensuring safety is for locals and tourists alike to network with reliable LGBT advocacy groups within the country. These organizations can provide individuals with up-to-date information and guidance on safe spaces to navigate amidst the current climate. Additionally, maintaining a sense of vigilance and being aware of surroundings is crucial for keeping oneself out of harm’s way.

As in any other country, there are bad actors that may pose dangers; thus, exercising caution is vital. Situations can change rapidly, and it is essential to always seek out the most recent information and advice before embarking on a journey.

In conclusion, while the future of LGBT rights in Ethiopia remains uncertain, there are measures that can be taken to ensure safety and promote inclusiveness for all. By staying informed and cautious, individuals can navigate the challenges presented by the cultural landscape and also find a sense of community and acceptance.

Protect Yourself While Travelling In Gay Ethiopia

When discussing LGBT rights in Ethiopia, it’s important to understand the different experiences of local people and tourists. Homosexuality is illegal in Ethiopia, with imprisonment as the punishment for engaging in same-sex sexual activity. There are no legal protections against discrimination for LGBT individuals in areas such as employment, housing, or adoption.

For tourists visiting Ethiopia, it is advisable to err on the side of caution and remain vigilant, as the situation regarding LGBT rights can change quickly. Additionally, understand that, like in any country, individuals may harbor hostile attitudes towards the LGBT community. It is always best to keep a low profile and avoid public displays of affection.

If you feel it is necessary, there are steps that you can take to protect yourself while in the country. Be cautious when using social media, particularly apps like TikTok, where members of the Ethiopian LGBTQ+ community have reported experiencing harassment and calls for violence against them.

Remember, information on the ground can become out of date quickly, so always seek up-to-date advice before traveling or engaging with locals regarding LGBT issues. Reach out to local or international LGBT advocacy groups, as they can provide the most accurate and current information on the situation in Ethiopia.

Some notable organizations that may provide assistance or information include the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission and international groups such as Sida and Equaldex. By staying informed and remaining cautious, you can help protect yourself and contribute to fostering greater understanding and acceptance for the LGBT community in Ethiopia.

Subscribe to our Gay Travel Newsletter here

• Tour Calendar
• Destinations
• Tailor-Made Vacations
• Our Company
• Australia & Oceania
• North America
• South America
• French Polynesia
• New Zealand
• South Africa

Let’s hit the road

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO TRAVEL?

9 Days In Portugal

New 2025 Gay Tours

Over 40 Trips Are Now Live!

Limited Edition Tours

Unique, once-in-a-lifetime LGBTQ+ vacations

Explore our Tours

Where Do You Want To Travel?

Gay Cruises

Small Ship Gay Cruises

Active Tours

Guided expeditions to natural wonders

Cultural Tours

LGBTQ+ tours in over 35 countries

Out Adventures is the world’s premier provider of small-group LGBTQ+ holidays, cultural tours and gay cruises. Choose your preferred Theme, Destination or Trip, and let’s hit the road!

Gay tours by theme, upcoming gay tours, tailor-made vacations, choose your date, choose your destination, tell us what you want to do, travel with us, some from our travellers, amazing experiences.

Amazing experiences – wine tasting, cooking with the Contessa, bridge climb, delicious dinners and food tours.

The Inca trail was an incredible experience.

I had such a great time with the Group and Ale. Group was super friendly and Ale was amazing, funny and such a fantastic guide and person. The Inca trail was an incredible experience. Overall the trip was great and highly recommended. 

Gus & Justin R

Amazing. Our Guide was very fun and knowledgeable. She made the trip seem seamless and was a great resource of information.

This is a must-do adventure!

The Rwanda Gorilla Trek was easily one of the most beautiful, spectacular, exceptional moments in my life! To be so close to these magnificent creatures was incomprehensible and life-changing. The Golden Monkeys were phenomenal as well. This is a must-do adventure!

It exceeded all expectations

This was my first Out Adventures experience, and it exceeded all expectations. The team, the boat we were on, the places we visited, and the other travelers were all just wonderful. I would highly recommend Out Adventures!

Once in a lifetime adventure

Once in a lifetime adventure everyone should experience, surrounded by a great group of people. Outstanding organization and communication from the Out Adventures representatives so there was nothing I had to worry about once the trip was booked.

Christopher R

Everything was excellent and ran smoothly.

The experience, the accommodations, the people, and the food – Everything was excellent and ran smoothly

Epic, amazing, and a trip I'll remember forever.

Epic, amazing, and a trip I’ll remember forever. Loved, loved loved our guides and camping in the middle of the Serengeti was an experience I will never forget.

Featured Posts

Gay europe vacations are so hot right now.

With centuries of art and history to peruse, and nightlife as flamboyant as Lady Gaga’s wardrobe, it’s no wonder travellers are clamoring to get to Europe. Read More

Was Lawrence Of Arabia Gay? Hollywood’s Love Affair With Jordan

Uncover the homoerotic history of archaeologist TE Lawrence who inspired Lawrence Of Arabia, the 1962 movie that put Jordan on the map. Read More

‘Support For The Cuban People’ LGBTQ+ Tours For Americans

Our Support For The Cuban People tour is designed to satisfy the requirements and documentation for Americans to visit legally, as well as provide a comprehensive perspective on Cuban art, cuisine, history, and daily life. Read More

Mykonos, Greece: Why You’ll Love This LGBTQ-Friendly Paradise

Greece was one of the first places on Earth to embrace gay stuff way back in the 7th century BCE, and today, it's home to Mykonos, one of the most LGBTQ-friendly islands in the world. Read More

Ooooooookavango Where The Wind Comes Sweeping Down The Delta

We're flexing our musical muscles, (sometimes terribly) and defying gravity to visit 525,600 creatures on a sassy safari sojourn to Botswana's Okavango Delta. If you're a fan of broadway, this blog's for you! Read More

Forest Bathing Is A Surging Trend, But What Is It?

People are going out to forests and doing... what?! This new hobby is making a splash with nature lovers worldwide. Read More

99% Of People Have Never Travelled To This Hidden Kingdom

It’s relatively small, landlocked, filled to the brim with tradition and veiled in an aura of mystery and spirituality. Read More

Gay Cruises 2025: A Definitive Guide

This handy (and sassy) guide will help you decide which gay cruise to embark on in 2025. Read More

7 Highlights Of Our Gay River Cruise Down The Mekong

From the temples of Angkor to palatial residences and gondola boat rides, our 13-day Mekong Gay River Cruise is the ultimate sampler of Southeast Asian culture! Read More

Stays That Slay: Namibia

Namibia is a land of unbridled beauty, and we've handpicked the most exquisite hotels and game lodges for our Skeleton Coast Expedition. Read More

Tired Of Bear Runs? These Bear-friendly Trips Don’t Involve Running

From the northern lights to the southern hemisphere, these guided gay tours are the bear run alternatives you never knew existed! Read More

Are You A Travel Top? You May Be Missing Out.

If you've ever organized a trip, you know how much of a hassle it can be to deal with messy travel logistics. There's a better way to travel that you may be missing out on. Read More

Costa Rica is a Down-low Hotspot for Gay Tourism

Costa Rica gay tourism might be the best-kept secret; dazzling nightlife, lush jungles, pristine beaches and a volcano! Read More

Why New Zealand is the gayest place on Earth

Small but mighty, little gay NZ punches above its weight in regards to LGBTQ+ rights and happiness. Read More

9 Reasons to Join Our Gay Greenland Cruise

Explore the world’s largest island on the newly built, cutting-edge Ultramarine – with an LGBTQ+ group! Read More

Homosexuality In Japan: A Surprisingly Colourful History

Japan has a fascinating homosexual history, from open-minded Buddhists to promiscuity, alleged sex cults, and even Gay Samurai. Read More

New Zealand North or South Island? A common quandary.

Having trouble deciding which island is right for you? These highlights and hidden gems are sure to be helpful. Or pair these tours back-to-back and see it all! Read More

The World’s 10 Greatest LGBTQ-Friendly Countries for Travellers

Our fearless leader Rob offers his list of the most gay friendly countries in the world. Do you agree with his list? Read More

5 Tantalizing Reasons To Join Our Gay Tanzania Safari

An African safari is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure for many. And we've perfected the experience with a gay twist that ensures you relish all the rugged luxury, wild animals, and beautiful landscapes with a great group of guys. Read on to find out what makes it so special. Read More

7 Reasons to Join an Antarctica Gay Expedition

We offer LGBTQ+ travellers 7 reasons to visit the 7th continent, Antarctica! Read More

Stays That Slay: Ultramarine

Out Adventures returns to Antarctica aboard an all-new ship – The Ultramarine – in 2024. Read More

To invite friends or fly solo? An Out Adventurer on the pros and cons of both.

Breaking down common anxieties and concerns many solo travellers feel joining a gay group tour. Read More

Stays That Slay: Mexico

Our back-to-back Mexican escapes are two great reasons to sleep around...at nice hotels. Read on to see the LGBTQ-welcoming hotels where you could lay your head if you join us in Mexico. Read More

Five Hot New Reasons to visit one of The World’s Oldest Civilizations

Egypt is home to some of the oldest chapters in human history, lending it natural appeal to history buffs and travel lovers. Here's why we're so excited about a visit to the land of Pharaohs and pyramids. Read More

Stays that Slay: Kenya

The lions and tigers may epitomize a safari, but it's the luxurious accommodations and glamping that'll make or break it. Here's a preview of the accommodations we'll enjoy on our gay Kenya safari. Read More

Stays That Slay: Costa Rica Eco-Adventure

Read on to see where you'll rest your head on our Gay Costa Rica Eco Adventure. Read More

9 Tantalizing Reasons to Join Us For Sydney Mardi Gras

The campiest, brightest, over-the-top Pride festivity on Earth: Mardi Gras! This really is a party like no other. Read More

Stays That Slay: Southern New Zealand

Despite being one of the smallest nations we visit, New Zealand has so much to offer we created back-to-back trips that focus on the North and South islands. This post dives into the accommodations on our Active South Island Expedition, including a night aboard a boat. Read More

Stays That Slay: Northern New Zealand

New Zealand is rugged, unpretentious, and sparsely populated. However we still found some of the most accommodating places to welcome you to the Land of Middle Earth. Read on to check out where we'll be checking in. Read More

Dance of the 41: The Drag Ball That Shook Mexico City.

Read all about the 1901 drag ball that shook conservative, Catholic Mexican society to its core. Read More

Stays That Slay: Montenegro & Albania

After hiking Montenegro and Albania's remote forests and mountains, we've reserved some extraordinary hotels to kick back in. Read More

Meet Our Beloved Local Cuba Guide

After some back-and-forth emailing, our local Cuba guide introduces himself, offers a covid update, discusses gay life on the island and shares his favourite Cuban sites and cities. Read More

Tango’s Fascinating And Queer History

Tango can be traced back to Buenos Aires' poorest neighbourhoods where immigrants, former-slaves, pimps and—yes—LGBTQ people popularized it. Read More

Gay Guide: Melbourne

Written by a former Melbournian, this gay guide focuses on where to go, eat and sleep in Australia's second-largest city. Read More

Everything You Need To Know About Our Montenegro & Albania Gay Hiking Tour

To help you prepare for our Montenegro & Albania gay hiking tour, we compiled everything you need to know below. Read on, and then trot on. Read More

Stays That Slay: Australia

For our first gay tour of Australia, we wanted to reserve accommodations as killer as the country's arachnids. Check out a preview of the hotels and lodges we settled on here. Read More

Meet Ancient Egypt’s First Gay Couple. Allegedly.

Among the pyramids we visit on our upcoming Egypt cruise lies the necropolis Sakkara. Herein awaits the tomb of (likely) Egypt's first gay governors! Read More

Flexploration: Which Colombian Excursions Will You Choose?

As a spicy new addition to our roster of Flex tours, Colombia: Bogotá to Cartagena is overflowing with add-ons and excursions. Here's a breakdown of each optional activity and why you'll want to consider booking them. Read More

Beyond Tacos: Mexico’s Best Street Food

Mexico's mighty taco may be its most famous contribution to the culinary world, but it is far from the only. Read on for some of our other favourite Mexican street foods. Read More

Stays That Slay: Egypt

For our first tour of Egypt in nearly a decade, we wanted to find accommodations fit for a pharaoh. Check out the luxe lodgings we settled on here. Read More

• Gay Tailor-Made Vacations
• The Gay Travel Blog
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Booking Conditions
• Newsletter Sign Up
• [email protected]
• Toll-Free (CAN/US): 1-866-360-1152
• International: +1-416-531-8795

By using our website, you agree to the Out Adventures Privacy Policy which includes Out Adventures' practices regarding personal data and cookies.     I AGREE

Be the first to know!

Subscribe to our gay travel newsletter and receive exclusive content including new tour announcements, hot promotions, and the best gay travel information out there!

What type of travel are you interested in?*

Thank you for signing up for our Lesbian Travel E-News!

We need to confirm your email address. To complete the subscription process, please click the link in the email we just sent you, and add [email protected] to your address book so our informative and inspiring newsletters land front and centre in your inbox.

- The Out Adventures Team

• Traveller Login

Gay and Gay-friendly Hotels in Addis Ababa

• Addis Ababa
• Travel Guide
• Gay Local Tips
• Experiences New

With misterb&b, experience a more welcoming world. From private rooms and apartments to LGBTQ-friendly hotels, you have the option to stay in the heart of gay districts as well as other neighborhoods in the places you visit. A loft in Soho , a shared room in Barcelona or in the Castro , a gay-friendly hotel in Le Marais or in Chelsea , experience misterb&b in all gay travel destinations ! Activate the connection option on your profile and connect with other misterb&b travelers at your destination city or hotel! Problems with misterb&b ? Please refer to our Help Center. misterb&b is not affiliated, endorsed, or otherwise associated with Airbnb .

• TESTIMONIALS

ADDIS ABABA

• MAASAI MARA
• JOHANNESBURG
• DAR ES SALAAM
• SANTO DOMINGO
• PORT-AU-PRINCE
• MANUEL ANTONIO
• GUADALAJARA
• MEXICO CITY
• PUERTO VALLARTA
• SAN CRISTOBAL DE LAS CASAS
• PANAMA CITY
• BUENOS AIRES
• JOAO PESSOA
• RIO DE JANEIRO
• LUANG PRABANG
• KUALA LUMPUR
• ULAANBAATAR
• GILGIT-BALTISTAN
• HO CHI MINH
• SUNNY BEACH
• VELIKO TARNOVO
• GRAN CANARIA
• BOOKING FORM
• PACKAGE TOUR
• FOR JOB INFORMATION
• ADVERTISE WITH US

ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA

Holiday houseboys, to fully appreciate addis ababa you need to book a holiday houseboy, your personal friendly tour guide. he will be able to show you around like a local. whether you want to see the tourist sites, places off the beaten track or discover new experiences, the holiday houseboy is there to help you. he looks after your safety and welfare at all times., jquery(function() { _initlayerslider( '#layerslider_263_1bn1ba6gn0e1j', {createdwith: '7.2.2', sliderversion: '7.2.3', allowfullscreen: true, skin: 'v6', sliderfadeinduration: 350, usesrcset: true, skinspath: 'https://www.holidayhouseboys.com/wp-content/plugins/layerslider/assets/static/layerslider/skins/', performancemode: true}); });, born in the northern part of ethiopia, mulugeta now lives in addis ababa. he studied political science and tourism. currently he works as a teacher in a high school. mulugeta also works for a travel agency showing tourists the city of addis ababa and beyond. please book mulugeta by clicking on the green button below., mulugeta is 36 years old, does not smoke and speaks english and amharic., total cost for the guide services of mulugeta for one day (8 hours) = a non refundable deposit of usd 45 by paypal or major credit card (visa, mastercard, american express) plus usd 70 in cash to mulugeta after his services. total 115 us dollars., alternatively the cost for the guide services of mulugeta for half a day (4 hours) = a non refundable deposit of usd 25 by paypal or major credit card (visa, mastercard, american express) plus usd 40 in cash to mulugeta after his services. total 65 us dollars., this does not include transport, entrance fees or any food & beverage costs., how to book a holiday houseboy, to book any of our holiday houseboys please go to the enquiry form ., or send an email to [email protected] ., alternatively whatsapp +94-76-630-1069., remember a holiday houseboy is your gay friendly tour guide who looks after your safety and welfare at all times., please note these are guide services and not sexual services., book one or more of these amazing activities to make the most of your stay in addis ababa., highlights of addis ababa.

Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa is the capital of Ethiopia. Its sprawling city is in the Ethiopian Highlands adjacent to the Great Rift Valley. A commercial and cultural hub, it is the place to sell and to play. Its population is over 2.7 million.

Overlooking addis ababa is mount entoto. entoto, the city of the same name, was built as the capital. mainly because of its strategic importance by menelik ii in 1884. however due to the cold climate, lack of firewood and water, the capital was moved to addis ababa in 1889., addis ababa also goes by the name “finfinne” in reference to its hot springs. indeed in the late 19th century, empress taytu betul and members of her shewan royal court enjoyed taking mineral baths here. the original house of the empress was extended to convert it into an imperial palace in 1887. interestingly it remains the seat of government even today., as commerce increased, this brought in many tradesmen and workers for various projects such as the ethio-djibouti railways. from the outset no housing plan was made and people built traditional houses of mud and straw wherever possible. european stone and furnishings started to arrive in 1920s. thereafter the middle class began to make stone buildings a reality., then the italians arrived, ---> the italians arrived in 1936. the capital was lucky in that it escaped aerial deployments of mustard gas unlike other ethiopian cities. the italians merged somalia, eritrea and ethiopia to form italian east africa until 1941., trade routes began linking other ethiopian cities in the north, to kenya in the south west and sudan to the south., meanwhile in addis ababa, the creation of master plans began to change the shape and direction of city planning. large boulevards were popular along with large monuments. all without any say from the ethiopians. therefore designs were along traditional lines of fascism which was peaking at the time. indeed they even invited mussolini to get his approval., emperor haile selassie returned to addis ababa after the italians left in 1941. as a result of neglect to the needs of his citizens, there was a lot of social unrest. protests against famine from the poor were quickly squashed by the authorities. haile selassie was out of touch with reality. finally a group of police officers deposed haile selassie. they called themselves derg, officially the provisional military administration council (pmac). under their rule until 1991, many houses became rental units, thereby easing the city’s accommodation problem., the youth make their mark, now a cosmopolitan thriving city housing addis ababa university, the youth of today of ethiopia create a vibrant arts culture and with the use of new technologies is one the fastest commercial growing entities in the world. fashion too is important to this city. discover what the youth of ethiopia are up to today by booking your holiday houseboy for addis ababa., find hotel deals & discounts in addis ababa, find your cheapest flight.

Latest Blog

Like us on Facebook

Covid cancellation policy.

Even though the deposit you pay is non refundable, during the present challenging times your booking maybe cancelled due to the ever changing covid travel restriction. In this case your deposit can be transferred to a later booking at any of our 140+ destinations worldwide for a period of 12 months.

Click HERE to see our full Terms and Conditions

Beach Road, Mount Lavinia, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Contact Us by Email You can also contact us by  WhatsApp on +94-76 630 1069

For the Latest Information on Covid Travel Restrictions

Advertise with Us

© 2016 - 2024 Holiday Houseboys

Opinion: I grew up in a culture that embraced physical touch. Then I came to America

• Show more sharing options
• Copy Link URL Copied!

I knew a monkey once.

She belonged to the woman who owned the hotel across the street from my childhood home in Ethiopia. The monkey spent her days climbing shoulders, playing with children and eating whatever food she was given. She became too difficult to keep when she hit puberty. She screamed a lot and broke things. Her owners tried keeping her on a leash for a while, but that did nothing to stop the nighttime noise.

One afternoon, a group of men drove the monkey to the forest at the edge of town and left her there. The assumption must have been that since she’s originally from a forest, any forest would do. That’s like deporting me to Mexico. The monkey ran after the car as far as she could as if to say: I do not know this place, please do not leave me behind.

I think about that monkey often.

In the small town where I grew up, my classmates at school would put an arm around my shoulder without asking for permission and we would sit like that for the whole duration of recess. On weekends, my cousin or a friend had me sit between her legs to braid my hair. Men held each other’s hands on the streets, rubbed shoulders and touched their friends’ lower backs. There was an unspoken entitlement to each other’s spaces and to varying degrees of touch.

My family kept secrets. ‘Oppenheimer’ drives home how complex those secrets were

My father’s family farmed on the Los Alamos plateau, before the land was seized to develop the first atomic bomb. Their lives there were among the many secrets they wrapped in a shroud of silence.

Aug. 26, 2023

Intense friendships were common. I knew adult women who bragged about how they slept with their best friends: holding each other tightly, face to face. As teenagers, my friends and I used to kiss each other’s faces and necks repeatedly. During sleepovers, we hugged with the sort of passion we felt in our bones, in our hearts.

Yet, even as a child, I couldn’t wait to leave home. I had heard so much about America: its money, food, clothes, cars, running water, freedom. I moved to California at 17. Soon after I arrived, my older sister and I were walking around a strip mall in Westchester, when I put my arm around her shoulders as I used to do back home.

“Please take off your hand,” she said. “People will think we are lesbians.”

It’s been more than two decades since that day, but I remember exactly how I felt. Devastated.

My sister’s words announced the loss of platonic hugs and touches that were so integral to my well-being, my survival. Years later, I would learn that I am indeed a lesbian, so any part of me that was aware of this at the time must have shrunk out of fear.

I struggled to make friends in America and, when I did, none were like the friends I had in Ethiopia, who would touch me without asking and hug me tightly at night.

When someone like me leaves her natural habitat for a place like Los Angeles, where you have to travel miles to see the few people you know, a certain kind of madness begins to build up within. Everything else I was going through, being undocumented and struggling to continue school, was exacerbated by the utter aloneness I felt.

My body changed to accommodate my new reality. When a friend asked if we could cuddle and laid her head on my lap, I contracted and felt cold and wooden. I realized I could now only touch people with ease (beyond the basics, like handshakes) when there was romantic attraction.

I chose to be child free. (The correct response is ‘Congratulations!’)

The pressure to procreate comes from so many directions I’m considering pitching a “Walking Dead” spinoff where the child free are the living and everyone else are zombies trying to turn us.

Aug. 19, 2023

When I was a teenager, before I left Ethiopia, a woman in her 30s confided in me that she could no longer sleep in that romantic way with her married friend because her friend’s husband had told his wife that what the two were doing was “lesbian” and must stop. That was the beginning of something. When I visited Ethiopia in 2018 after 17 years in the U.S., I noticed a drastic drop in hand-holding, touching and hugging between friends on the streets.

Over the last decade and a half, anti-gay hysteria in Ethiopia , mostly spearheaded by a nongovernmental organization with funding from American evangelicals, has popularized gay and lesbian identities and tied them to sexually transmitted diseases and pedophilia. This has given new meaning to activities people once casually engaged in with friends. Passionate same-sex friendships — even those that occasionally slipped into sex — had not been considered homosexual activities that required a rigid identity of gay or lesbian. So, the shades of platonic intimacy that filled the space between friendships and more permanent sexual relationships are vanishing. The edge of romance is now a cliff. In a way, it didn’t matter that I came to America because America would have come for me eventually.

I have wondered what my life would have been like had I stayed in the old Ethiopia where I was able to maintain romantic friendships. I’m not sure I would have needed to call myself a lesbian, or even queer. I know Ethiopian women who are married to men but maintain romantic relationships with women friends. Women who believe that “men are for family, and women for love.” I can imagine my life resembling theirs. Or unmarried, happy in the company of friends who provide me with physical intimacies of varying intensities.

I left L.A. to live in a cabin in the desert. Here’s why I stayed

In Los Angeles, disruptions kept me from my writing. But after a year in a cabin near Joshua Tree, coyotes keep me company and my fearlessness grows.

Aug. 6, 2023

There is irony when a culture that rejects homosexuality because it is seen as Western turns around and throws out friendship traditions because of Western definitions. It is also ironic that the only way to recover the lost shades of friendship is to fully embrace the queerness within all of us, and the queerness that can exist in platonic relationships.

A few weeks after the removal of the monkey from the hotel, we heard that she was living in a village some five kilometers away, where she sat by the roadside begging people for food.

A home is lost twice: first when you leave it and then again when you return.

When I went back to my hometown for the first time in 21 years in March, another sister kept rubbing my arms and shoulders. It felt like an intrusion. Perhaps it is because I have long been unsure of how to receive her attempts to show affection considering that she and other family members have been begging God to cut my queerness out of me. Or maybe it’s just that I have been altered.

The forest is no longer my home, and neither is the hotel.

Mihret Sibhat is the author of “The History of a Difficult Child.”

More to Read

L.A. Affairs: I’m a divorced woman. Was I ready to be naked with a new guy?

April 26, 2024

‘Disability Intimacy’ starts a long-overdue conversation

L.A. Affairs: I was new to Los Angeles. Was driving 70 miles for love worth it?

April 19, 2024

A cure for the common opinion

Get thought-provoking perspectives with our weekly newsletter.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

More From the Los Angeles Times

Op-Comic: How crying is actually good for you

April 27, 2024

Opinion: The Supreme Court just showed us that Trump is not incompetent. He’s a master of corruption

Granderson: Arizona’s indictment of Trump allies follows a sordid, racist history

Opinion: Is planting trees on Arbor Day one way we can all fight climate change? Not so much

• Organisations
• T’s&C’s / Privacy

Ethiopia gay tour cancelled after “gruesome” death threats

The Blue Nile Falls in Ethiopia.

An American LGBTQ travel company has admitted defeat after receiving extreme death threats ahead of a gay tour of Ethiopia in October.

Toto Tours, from Chicago, came under fire from politicians and religious leaders last month after it started promoting a 16-day ‘Treasures Of Ethiopia’ package.

Despite the potential that the tourists could face violence, Dan Ware, the president of Toto Tours, was initially defiant and insisted the trip would go ahead “with only the greatest respect and humility.”

Following nationwide protests and major religious organisations, as well as the mayor of Addis Ababa, condemning the trip, on June 10 Ware, wrote to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Prime Minister asking for their support. Neither has answered.

He has now conceded that the venture may be too dangerous to go through with. “It seems that most of the country has risen up against us,” he said in a statement.

Ware revealed that he’d received an avalanche of hate mail and death threats describing “a menu of gruesome ways any gay person would be killed if he or she dared to set foot on Ethiopian soil.”

He told NBC Chicago : “We had descriptions of [bring] buried alive, burned alive; I had an ISIS-type video with a guy with a mask on his head, brandishing his sword saying we are going to cut your throat. It was not something to ignore.”

In a statement, Ware wrote: “It is a sad day when people are prevented from meeting and getting to know each other by an irrational hatred that runs counter to the teachings of the very religion they purportedly uphold.”

He considers the connections he’s made with gay Ethiopians in the past month a “silver lining” to the hate he’s faced. One particularly touching appeal asked him “…to please speak on behalf of us. First, tell them so many Ethiopians throughout the country are living this life secretly. … Sadly, tell them we are dying for lack of appropriate healthcare services. Many in our community are committing suicide because of discrimination, stress, hate speech, loneliness, etc.”

Ware commented that the cancellation was one of the most upsetting moments in his company’s almost 30-year travel history but still hopes someday to travel to Ethiopia. “May we recognise our common humanity, and that we have nothing to fear from each other,” he said.

Both male and female homosexuality is illegal in Ethiopia and those found ‘guilty’ face between 7 to 15 years in prison. According to the 2007 Pew Global Attitudes Project, 97% of Ethiopians believe that homosexuality is not acceptable. It is said to be among the countries with the highest anti-gay sentiment in the world.

Get the Mamba Newsletter

• Facebook Messenger

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

LGBT tour operator faces death threats over Ethiopia trip

Religious groups in Ethiopia are urging authorities to ban a trip organised by US-based travel company that caters to gay men and lesbians

An LGBT tour operator has received death threats and hate messages on social media after launching a holiday to Ethiopia. Chicago-based Toto Tours’ 16-day trip to Ethiopia is due to take place at the end of October and includes religious sites such as the Debre Berhan Selassie in Gondar and the ancient cave monasteries in the mountains of Lalibela.

But religious groups in the country are urging the Ethiopian government to ban the company from visiting religious sites, warning that gay travellers could face violence.

Ethiopia has strict anti-gay laws, with homosexual acts punishable by up to 15 years in prison. According to Article 629 of the Ethiopian Criminal Code, this applies to both nationals and foreigners.

Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Dereje Negash, vice chairman of Sileste Mihret United Association, an Ethiopian Orthodox Church organisation, said that gay travellers with Toto Tours, “will be damaged, they could even die”, if they visit Ethiopia. “Toto Tours are wrong to plan to conduct tours in our religious and historical places,” he said.

Tagay Tadele of the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia told news agency AFP , which has seven Islamic and Christian denominations as members, said: “[LGBT] tour programmes and dating programmes that try to use our historical sites and heritage should be immediately stopped by the Ethiopian government.”

Toto Tours, which has been organising trips around the world for LGBT travellers and their friends and families since 1990, describes itself as “dedicated to creating exciting travel opportunities that enable our community to explore the wonders of the world in comfort and safety while having the time of our lives”. It has also run tours to Uganda and Tanzania, both of which currently criminalise homosexual acts.

In an email to AFP, Toto Tours president Dan Ware said the company had been “terribly misunderstood”, and called for protection for the tour group from both the US State Department and the Ethiopian tourism ministry.

“We come with only the greatest respect and humility,” Ware said. “Our company is not aimed at spreading values contrary to local cultures when we travel around the world. We are simply an organisation where like-minded people can travel comfortably together to experience the world’s most precious wonders.

“This is terrible discrimination, and when the word of this spreads internationally, as it is most likely to do, it will have a negative impact on the important tourism industry in Ethiopia.”

John Tanzella, CEO of the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association (IGLTA), said the situation showed how much work there was still to be done to achieve equality, and that the travel industry could play an important role in facilitating change.

Our company is not aimed at spreading values contrary to local cultures when we travel around the world. We are simply an organisation where like-minded people can travel comfortably together to experience the world’s most precious wonders”

“We are believers in the long-term power of tourism as a positive force. IGLTA has member businesses in more than 80 countries, and not all of them are located in places with favourable laws for LGBTQ+ people. Our policy is to support their commitment to providing safe and welcoming LGBTQ+ travel experiences,” he said.

“Where to travel is a personal choice, but the key is to be an informed traveller who understands the laws, culture and associated risks of the places you’ve chosen to visit.”

Anti-gay laws are widespread across Africa, with homosexuality punishable by death in Mauritania, Sudan, northern Nigeria and southern Somalia. Earlier this year it was decriminalised in Angola, joining 21 other African countries ( according to Amnesty International ) including Burkina Faso, Republic of the Congo and Mali, where homosexuality has never been against the law.

• Ethiopia holidays
• LGBTQ+ rights
• Gay and lesbian travel
• Africa holidays

Most viewed

LGBTQ Tour Group Cancels Ethiopia Trip After Death Threats

“it was not something to ignore”, published june 25, 2019 • updated on july 2, 2019 at 12:20 pm.

Death threats force a Chicago-based gay tour group to cancel an upcoming trip to Ethiopia.          

“One of the emails was you cannot come here you are not even human,” expressed Dan Ware, owner of Toto Tours. “You are less than human. So that, it’s like a blow to the heart.”

Ware said he was devastated he had to cancel his upcoming trip because they accused them of promoting a different lifestyle, “of trying to pervert their youth…this being sex tourism,” after publishing the itinerary online.

“We had descriptions of buried alive, burned alive; I had an ISIS-type video with a guy with a mask on his head, brandishing his sword saying we are going to cut your throat," Ware explained. “It was not something to ignore.”

The Rogers Park-based tour company has been serving the LGBTQ community since 1990 and has traveled around the world, including to countries where homosexual activity is illegal.

Despite its reputation, his well-traveled clients had hoped to experience Ethiopia’s rich history but there were even calls for the government to ban the tour, according to the BBC.

“We weren’t going to raise the gay flag at the holy sites, which is what I think they thought we were going to do,” he said.

Chicago police seek man who sexually abused 10-year-old girl at Museum of Science and Industry

Police searching for pregnant 15-year-old last seen in Chicago's Marquette Park neighborhood

A spokeswoman for the U.S. Embassy in Ethiopia said "safety and security of U.S. citizen travelers is of paramount importance." 

"We stand ready to be of assistance as needed and as appropriate," Public Affairs Officer Amanda Jacobsen said in a statement. "Our country specific information for Ethiopia notes the challenges American citizen LGBTI travelers to Ethiopia may face, including the fact that consensual same-sex sexual activity between adults is illegal and punishable by imprisonment. There is no law prohibiting discrimination against LGBTI persons. Ethiopians do not generally identify themselves as LGBTI due to severe societal stigma."

Ware decided to cancel the October trip after unreturned correspondence with government officials and recent killings, but says he hopes the situation brings awareness to the greater cause– acceptance around the world.

“Many people have reached out and said, ‘thank you for raising this to consciousness,’ for getting the world talking about the issue of what’s going on,” Ware said.

The group still hopes to travel to Ethiopia one day but under a name that will perhaps draw less attention and Toto Tours said they would refund customers.

Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best gay cruises for 2024 (+ planning tips).

Dance parties, drag queen performances and fun destinations await on these LGBTQ voyages.

The Best Gay Cruises

Courtesy of The Cruise with La Demence

Embark on an all-gay or LGBTQ-friendly cruise for excellent entertainment, food and excursions.

Whether you are looking to hop aboard a Pride Week cruise with a major line or sail away with a smaller company that specializes in LGBTQ voyages, the following cruise operators promise a fun, safe and memorable vacation.

(Note: While many of these cruise lines sail to LGBTQ-friendly ports of call, travelers should research destinations to learn more about cultures, customs and safety in each location and determine what's right for them.)

Virgin Voyages

Atlantis events, brand g vacations, celebrity cruises, royal caribbean international, the cruise with la demence, source journeys.

Gabriel Goldberg | Courtesy of VACAYA

Founded by avid travelers Randle Roper, Patrick Gunn and John Finen, VACAYA bills itself as the first all-LGBT travel company in the full-ship charter/resort buyout sector of the travel industry to launch in more than 25 years.

"[VACAYA] was sparked by our own vacations, where we all had encountered two very different experiences," says Gunn. "The all-gay cruises were liberating, empowering and fun, but limited to a small spectrum of people. And while everyone loves a good time, there's more to a memorable vacation than just parties. Mainstream vacations offered more activities and destinations, and were accessible to a diverse set of people, but didn't always feel like a friendly, judgment-free environment."

As such, VACAYA set out to bring LGBTQ travelers from across the spectrum together in a welcoming, inclusive setting, while offering varied onboard activities and immersive itinerary options. Cruisers will enjoy traveling to ports around the world, in the Caribbean , the Galápagos, Europe , Antarctica and more. You can participate in shipwide events ranging from themed deck parties to performances by LGBTQ entertainers to rejuvenating yoga classes. Note that VACAYA's cruises are for adults only.

Previous cruisers had abundant praise for VACAYA's voyages, highlighting the company's responsiveness when booking and the kindhearted staff, as well as the genuine connections they made with other passengers on board. Many were also impressed by the events and entertainment options throughout their sailings.

In 2024, VACAYA will offer a number of voyages worldwide. The seven-night Caribbean Cruise on Celebrity Apex in February will sail round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, with several fun-filled days at sea in addition to stops in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Antigua. In August, VACAYA has a 12-night river cruise in Northern Europe on board Advance by Transcend Cruises; this sailing includes the Amsterdam Pride event. The 11-night Antarctica expedition on Atlas Ocean Voyages' World Navigator in December 2024 is sold out, but you can join the waitlist.

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The Virgin brand has long been known for its celebration of the LGBTQ community, and cruise line Virgin Voyages is no different. The strictly adults-only cruise operator aims to provide a unique experience, with onboard tattoo parlors, impressive live entertainment, and dining options that include more than 20 eateries and menus created by Michelin star chefs. This line gets the stamp of approval from previous LGBTQ cruisers, who praise the ships' gender-neutral bathrooms, diverse staff and onboard shows with resident drag queens.

Virgin Voyages offers gay-specific sailings through travel companies like Atlantis Events, but its more mainstream itineraries still offer a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere that attracts LGBTQ cruisers year-round. Virgin hosts a number of events during Pride Month each year, including deck parties and interactive social media campaigns.

"Each June here at Virgin Voyages, we like to go big for Pride Month with larger-than-life events … all monthlong," the cruise line says in a statement on its website. "It's an important time for us – both internally within our crew and for our sailors – to honor and celebrate the LGBTQ community; who for so long has had to continually fight for equality and the right to be seen, heard and included."

Virgin Voyages sails to a variety of LGBTQ-friendly countries, including New Zealand, Greece and Spain. In June 2024, consider a seven-night sailing aboard Scarlet Lady departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille and Cannes in France as well as Spain's Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines for the Money

The world's largest gay and lesbian travel brand, Atlantis Events was founded in 1991 and welcomes more than 20,000 travelers annually on LGBTQ vacations. For its all-gay cruises, Atlantis charters megaships from popular lines like Royal Caribbean International , Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages in addition to smaller vessels with companies like Oceania Cruises so cruisers will have a fully immersive experience.

On board, travelers can enjoy all the perks these ships have to offer (think: pools, hot tubs, sports courts and plenty of dining choices), plus special events like drag performances, motivational speakers, LGBTQ movies on demand in each cabin and high-energy circuit parties across the ship.

"As an LGBTQ cruiser, you're looking for a ship with lots of entertainment, including dance parties and events," says Marcos Martinez, founder of Men Who Brunch, a Black gay lifestyle blog. "One of the best cruise [lines] for gay cruising is Atlantis, since you'll be able to meet hundreds of attractive men and party all day and night on the ship."

Atlantis hosts primarily gay men; women make up about 5% to 10% of bookings, according to the Atlantis website. Previous cruisers said the atmosphere on board was fun, friendly and welcoming, though some noted that the company's customer service could be better, especially when it comes to details about the cruise.

Due to the company's popularity, its three 2024 cruises are already sold out.

Read: The Best Cruise Lines in the Caribbean

Courtesy of Brand G Vacations

Specializing in all-gay river cruises – and now luxury ocean liners – Brand g Vacations was founded in 2011 and explores destinations all over the world. Chartered river cruises typically welcome between 40 and 200 LGBTQ passengers (and their straight allies), which allows cruisers to get to know one another in a smaller setting. Guests tend to skew more mature (think: 40 and older), and the line attracts both men and women.

Onboard entertainment differs slightly from larger ocean voyages: Expect more cabaret-style entertainment than massive all-night dance parties. Cruisers will also enjoy performances by drag queens, gay Broadway stars and more, on top of typical river cruise perks like sightseeing and lavish meals. Past guests recommend choosing Brand g if you're looking for a well-planned, relaxed and luxurious experience over a busier, more party-heavy vacation.

Brand g aims to provide a nearly all-inclusive cruise experience , with Mercedes or small van airport transfers, upscale hotel stays prior to embarkation, and unlimited alcoholic beverages as well as meals included in the fare. As such, prices tend to be on the high end. Plus, cruisers can feel good about their trip knowing that Brand g donates to causes in the U.S. and around the world that assist LGBTQ refugees, AIDS organizations, LGBTQ centers and more.

In 2024, Brand g sails through unique waterways around the world, including the Amazon, the Loire, the Danube, the Mekong, and the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line's small cruise ship charters also take guests to Iceland, Spain, Morocco, Italy, Croatia and other European destinations.

Read: The Top River Cruise Lines

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises sets the scene for an excellent vacation for gay travelers, from its extravagant annual Pride parties to its daily LGBTQ programming throughout the year. The mainstream line has received numerous awards for its inclusivity, receiving accolades from the Cruizie Awards, TTG Travel Awards and Travel Weekly's Magellan Awards for being one of the best cruise lines for LGBTQ passengers.

LGBTQ cruisers can start their vacations off on a high note with a special welcome party on the first night of their voyage to meet other travelers on board. After night one, there are other social events for gay cruisers to party and hang out together. Additionally, Celebrity Cruises was the first cruise line to legally marry a couple at sea in 2018, and it continues to perform same-sex marriages on its ships.

Past cruisers enjoyed their voyages with Celebrity, noting that the line was welcoming, the food was delicious, and there were plenty of areas to hang out as a group with fellow LGBTQ passengers or other companions throughout the ship.

Although all itineraries are gay-friendly, consider booking a sailing during Pride Month in June for an extra special experience. Onboard entertainment during this month includes guest entertainers, a flag raising ceremony, Celebrity's signature Pride Party at Sea and more. The Italian Riviera & France cruise will depart from Barcelona on June 8, 2024, on the new Celebrity Ascent; this 10-night Mediterranean sailing stops at ports in France, Italy and Malta. Private travel companies like VACAYA also charter Celebrity ships for all-gay voyages throughout the year.

Read: Cruise Packing List: The Top Essentials for Any Cruise

Getty Images

Specifically marketed toward lesbians and LGBTQ women, Olivia has hosted more than 350,000 travelers by land and sea over five decades. Cruisers can choose between river voyages or ocean sailings to destinations around the world. On the lesbian cruises, expect a mix of nostalgic decade-themed dance parties, folk singers, writing workshops, karaoke and other activities. Cruisers can also relax poolside, spend some time in the onboard spa or take it easy in one of the ships' lounges.

Travelers who are looking to connect with others who share similar backgrounds can do so in one of Olivia's specialized programs. There are group and solo traveler meetups, as well as programs like Sisters, which is for LGBTQ women of color; Gen-O, for cruisers 40 and younger; Women in Uniform gatherings, for veterans and those currently in the armed forces; and events for OWLs (which stands for "older, wiser lesbians"). Past cruisers on Olivia's voyages report feeling a true sense of community and belonging on board, resulting in a fun, carefree trip.

In June 2024, set sail with Olivia from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Dublin on Windstar Cruises' Star Legend. Or, visit the islands of Tahiti on the line's Star Breeze in September. Other cruise itineraries include Alaska, the Greek Isles, Mexico and the Panama Canal.

Read: The Best Girls Trip Ideas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International provides a welcoming and inclusive experience for LGBTQ travelers. The popular cruise line frequently partners with Atlantis Events to offer all-gay voyages throughout the year, but even the standard sailings earn praise.

Highlights of the sailings are the ships' entertainment options (including the Tony Award-winning musical "Mamma Mia!") and attentive staff, according to past cruisers. Itineraries typically include LGBTQ meetups at the beginning of each cruise for gay travelers to meet like-minded passengers. Outside of the sailing experience, Royal Caribbean has also publicly committed to supporting the LGBTQ community throughout the year, and it was the first cruise line to earn the title "Gay Traveler Approved" from GayTravel in 2016.

In 2024, consider a Royal Caribbean voyage that sails to gay-friendly destinations. "Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, [is] full of gay bars, clubs and gay beaches," says Martinez. Hop aboard Navigator of the Seas in May for a seven-night sailing round-trip from Los Angeles that stops in Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta and Ensenada, Mexico. Navigator of the Seas also hosts a seven-night itinerary throughout the year that calls on Mazatlan, Mexico, as well.

Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of The Cruise With La Demence

According to past cruisers, if you're looking for one of the best party scenes on the open seas, consider an all-gay cruise with La Demence. Powered by a popular gay nightclub in Brussels with the same name, La Demence – French for "the madness" – primarily caters to a European crowd. Most passengers are male, though women are also welcome.

On board, passengers should expect to dance the night away at massive deck parties that last into the wee hours of the morning. The line prides itself on its top-notch DJs, impressive light setup and electric party atmosphere. Previous cruisers had high praise for the itineraries – which exclusively visit gay-friendly locations – as well as the fruity cocktails, themed nights (costumes strongly encouraged) and glamorous entertainment. Enjoy unique events like drag bingo, high heel runs and more.

La Demence sails every summer to European destinations like Greece, Italy and Malta. The 2023 cruise was chartered on Royal Caribbean's Explorer of the Seas. Fares include all food and nonalcoholic beverages, plus access to all parties, shows and the onboard gym.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Source Journeys has been planning luxury vacations for LGBTQ travelers for more than 20 years. The Miami-based company, with the vision of founder and chief executive officer Craig Smith, offers small group land tours and full-charter cruises for like-minded travelers with a focus on giving back to the communities they visit. The company also supports LGBTQ organizations, such as the National Gay & Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign.

Past guests of their tours say their fellow travelers were as fun and interesting as the destinations. They appreciated the excellent personalized planning for the trips by Smith and his life partner, Rafael Rodriguez.

The company's cruises in 2024 include a seven-night Galápagos sailing in late September on a Relais & Chateau luxury yacht: Ecoventura's new ship, Evolve. The intimate ship accommodates just 20 passengers. Source Journeys is also offering a seven-night river cruise through Burgundy and Provence, France, in June on Avalon Waterways' Avalon Poetry II, as well as a seven-night voyage from Venice along the Dalmatian Coast. This ocean cruise scheduled in August is chartered on Star Clippers' masted sailing ship, Royal Clipper.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to gay cruising, gone are the days of discreet "Friends of Dorothy" meetups. The term – a euphemism that dates back to the 1950s – was once used to indicate gay social events on daily cruise line programs, without explicitly calling out members of the community on board. It's a far cry from today's LGBTQ cruising industry, which loudly and proudly celebrates passengers from all walks of life.

According to experts, LGBTQ cruising is a market that will only continue to grow. Travelers can take their pick between cruise operators tailored specifically to queer communities and major cruise lines that offer festive Pride celebrations and inclusive onboard entertainment. As travel on the high seas continues to grow in popularity for vacationers, gay and lesbian travelers should consider setting sail on a fun-filled cruise vacation for their next trip.

When planning a cruise, vacationers should first consider what their ideal sailing looks like.

Gay-friendly vs. all-gay sailings: Cruisers should think about whether they'd like to travel aboard a gay-friendly mainstream line – such as Celebrity Cruises or Virgin Voyages – or opt for an all-gay, full-ship charter with a third-party vacation company.

"Each and every LGBTQIAPK person has a different level of comfortability in their 'outness,' " says Patrick Gunn, co-founder and chief marketing officer of LGBTQ vacation company VACAYA. Of VACAYA's all-gay charters, he adds, "For one magical week, our community gets to be the majority and live life out loud in the blissful utopia VACAYA creates on a gay cruise. That single change from being an always-minority to a sudden majority can have a profoundly positive real-world effect on individuals."

• Travel style: Some cruise operators (think: Atlantis Events and La Demence) are known for their electrifying all-night parties, which may be perfect for gay groups of friends. Meanwhile, other companies like VACAYA and Olivia look to provide a more diverse selection of activities, ranging from tea dances (LGBTQ parties that, historically, included tea service) to philanthropic service activities to immersive onshore experiences.
• Ports of call: Some of the most LGBTQ- and gay-friendly destinations for cruises include: Fort Lauderdale, Florida; Sydney; Barcelona, Spain; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Helsinki; Quebec City; Auckland, New Zealand; Mykonos, Greece; Reykjavik, Iceland; Amsterdam; Tel Aviv, Israel; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and San Francisco. Countries that gay travelers may want to avoid include the Maldives, Jamaica, Morocco, Malaysia and Haiti, as homosexuality is illegal in these destinations.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Top Solo Cruises (No Supplement Fare)
• The Top Themed Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

Many airlines have 'stopover' programs that let travelers tour a city between connecting flights, and some will even pay for a hotel — here's how to book them

• Many people intentionally book flights with long connections so they can explore the layover city.
• Airlines capitalize on this trend with "stopover" programs, some even offering free hotels and food.
• These stopovers benefit travelers, airlines, and the carrier's home country by boosting tourism.

A special segment of adventurous travelers will purposely book itineraries with long connections in layover cities just to leave the airport and explore for a few hours or days between flights.

Airlines have jumped on this growing trend with built-in "stopover" programs, which can come with free or discounted hotels, excursions, transportation, and food at the layover destination.

It's basically a vacation within a vacation.

Although it sounds too good to be true, stopovers benefit everyone involved. Travelers get more choices and don't have to be confined to an airport, airlines gain customers who may have otherwise chosen a nonstop option on a competitor, and the carrier's home country sees a boost in tourism.

Plus, the cheap or complimentary accommodations typically come at a small cost to airlines, thanks to partnerships with local hotels or tour companies.

Not all stopover programs are structured with an emphasis on tourism, though, as some were created simply to offer conveniences during long layovers. Still, they are a way to secure a free hotel and explore an extra city.

Here are 22 global airline stopover programs, each lasting anywhere from hours to months.

Many carriers allow stopovers to be added to a regular cash booking, but some are only available via award tickets . This means the flight was paid for using points/miles or a combination of points/miles and cash.

Air Canada has a stopover option built into its Aeroplan loyalty program. It allows customers booking award flights to add a stop on international journeys and explore practically any city the airline flies to outside the US and Canada.

The add-on costs 5,000 Aeroplan points each way and can only be booked if the stop is at least 24 hours, capping out at 45 days.

Air France/KLM

Air France and Dutch carrier KLM's Flying Blue loyalty program offers a stopover of 24 hours or more in a connecting city on either carrier or their airline partners.

The option is free to add to award tickets, and passengers can stay up to a year in the stopover city.

China Southern Airlines

China Southern Airlines offers a free one-night hotel stay for transfer passengers with connection times lasting between six and 30 hours, though there are some time and route restrictions.

Breakfast and transportation are included for eligible travelers.

Copa Airlines

Copa Airlines' Panama stopover program allows customers to spend anywhere from 24 hours to seven days in the nation's capital, Panama City, on their outbound or return trip.

The option is free for the first stopover, but a second stopover can cost up to $250 plus taxes. Copa offers discounted hotels and tours that can be booked via its stopover website.

Emirates allows a stopover in Dubai with the option to add discounted tours or hotel bookings to the itinerary via its website.

The UAE carrier also has a " Dubai Connect " program that gives passengers with layovers between 6 and 26 hours, depending on the cabin, a complimentary hotel, transfers, meals, and any needed visa.

Dubai Connect only triggers if the customer takes the next available flight. Essentially, you can't intentionally book a longer layover to quality for the free stopover hotel.

Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines' transit program gives customers flying via Addis Ababa a free hotel, transit visa, and transfers during layovers lasting between eight and 24 hours.

The hotel on the airline's website is the Ethiopian Skylight In-Terminal Hotel, located inside the airport.

Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways offers a stopover in its Abu Dhabi hub, which comes with an undisclosed discount at select three-star hotels for up to two nights.

Two and four-night stays can be booked at more luxurious four and five-star hotels at a 40% discount. The minimum stay is 24 hours.

Although Etihad's website says it is temporarily unavailable, the airline used to allow eligible travelers to use a so-called Transit Connect Package that provided a free hotel near the airport for layovers lasting 10 to 24 hours. It is unclear when or if the program is returning.

Fiji Airways

Fiji Airways offers a stopover program in Fiji for those traveling to and from Australia, New Zealand, and other South Pacific nations.

Related stories

Hotels and activities like ziplining and beach resorts can be booked through the airline as part of the stopover package.

Finnair allows passengers to book 6, 12, or 24-hour layovers in Helsinki at no additional fare charge and outlines itinerary ideas and information on its website , like transportation, free walking tours, and restaurants.

Customers can book a hotel through the airline and earn Finnair Plus points.

Iberia customers can plan a stopover in Madrid to or from an international destination for one to six nights at no extra cost.

Discounts on hotels, excursions, and transfers in the Spanish capital are available through Iberia.

Icelandair offers a stopover option for one to seven days in its capital city of Reykjavik on transatlantic itineraries for no additional charge.

The airline offers itinerary help and assistance in booking excursions and tours. Hotels need to be booked separately.

Japan Airlines

Japan Airlines considers itself one of the "most stopover -friendly" carriers in the world.

The stopovers, which trigger at 24 hours, are not limited to JAL's hubs in Tokyo but can be enjoyed in places like Osaka and Kyoto using the airline's multi-city booking tool.

Latam Airlines

Latam Airlines offers stopovers for between one and three days on flights that connect in São Paulo, Brasilia, Fortaleza, Recife, Manaus, Curitiba, and Belem. Only international itineraries that connect in São Paulo.

Hotels and amenities can be booked via Latam, but the stopover booking is free.

Oman Air offers customizable stopover packages to give travelers time to explore the country's capital, Muscat, and beyond. An additional fare charge may be applicable, though the airline does not fly to the US.

Packages and a-la-carte options include discounted hotels for up to three nights, as well as organized tours, meals, and transfers.

Australian flag carrier Qantas offers its stopovers in a similar manner to JAL in that multi-city bookings can be manipulated to add extra days between flights in layover cities, like Bangkok, Osaka, or San Francisco.

This comes at no extra cost on eligible Qantas fares and can be used on its Oneworld partner airlines.

Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways' stopover program allows passengers with a minimum layover of 12 hours and up to 24 hours to choose from a list of deeply discounted four and five-star hotels. Certain flight itineraries allow for up to four nights.

Nightly hotel rates start at $14 per person for 1 night at four-star standard hotels, with premium five-star beach hotels starting at $30 per person for one night.

Royal Jordanian Airlines

Royal Jordanian Airlines' transit program gives economy and business-class travelers with at least eight and six-hour layovers, respectively, a free hotel room, meals, and transit, assuming certain fare conditions are met.

However, the connecting flight must be the earliest possible — meaning, similar to Emirates, passengers can't intentionally book a longer layover to be eligible for the complimentary perks.

Swiss International Air Lines

Swiss International Air Lines, or SWISS, has a multi-city stopover booking tool on its website that allows passengers to find itineraries with extra days in Switzerland.

The cost of hotels and other perks is on the customer, though.

Singapore Airlines

Singapore Airlines' stopover program is available via the multi-city tool, similar to other carriers, where travelers can add hotels, transfers, and activities. The stopover can last one to seven days.

Singapore also offers free transit tours to passengers with layover times between five and a half and 24 hours at Singapore's Changi Airport. It's first-come, first-serve and includes sightseeing around Singapore.

TAP Air Portugal

TAP Air Portugal allows customers to add a stopover in Lisbon or Porto between one and 10 days, offering discounts on hotels, food, and activities.

It also offers 25% off a domestic flight to a second Portuguese destination, like the Azores or Madeira islands, to take during the stopover.

Turkish Airlines

Turkish Airlines' stopover program gives economy travelers a one-night free hotel stay and business flyers a two-night free stay if the period between their connecting flights in Istanbul exceeds 20 hours.

Those traveling from the US in economy class can stay up to two nights in a four-star hotel, while those traveling in business can stay up to three nights in a five-star hotel.

Watch: Thousands of bags pile up at US airports after flight cancellations

• Main content

• Organisations
• T’s&C’s / Privacy

Ethiopia gay tour cancelled after “gruesome” death threats

The Blue Nile Falls in Ethiopia.

An American LGBTQ travel company has admitted defeat after receiving extreme death threats ahead of a gay tour of Ethiopia in October.

Toto Tours, from Chicago, came under fire from politicians and religious leaders last month after it started promoting a 16-day ‘Treasures Of Ethiopia’ package.

Despite the potential that the tourists could face violence, Dan Ware, the president of Toto Tours, was initially defiant and insisted the trip would go ahead “with only the greatest respect and humility.”

Following nationwide protests and major religious organisations, as well as the mayor of Addis Ababa, condemning the trip, on June 10 Ware, wrote to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Prime Minister asking for their support. Neither has answered.

He has now conceded that the venture may be too dangerous to go through with. “It seems that most of the country has risen up against us,” he said in a statement.

Ware revealed that he’d received an avalanche of hate mail and death threats describing “a menu of gruesome ways any gay person would be killed if he or she dared to set foot on Ethiopian soil.”

He told NBC Chicago : “We had descriptions of [bring] buried alive, burned alive; I had an ISIS-type video with a guy with a mask on his head, brandishing his sword saying we are going to cut your throat. It was not something to ignore.”

In a statement, Ware wrote: “It is a sad day when people are prevented from meeting and getting to know each other by an irrational hatred that runs counter to the teachings of the very religion they purportedly uphold.”

He considers the connections he’s made with gay Ethiopians in the past month a “silver lining” to the hate he’s faced. One particularly touching appeal asked him “…to please speak on behalf of us. First, tell them so many Ethiopians throughout the country are living this life secretly. … Sadly, tell them we are dying for lack of appropriate healthcare services. Many in our community are committing suicide because of discrimination, stress, hate speech, loneliness, etc.”

Ware commented that the cancellation was one of the most upsetting moments in his company’s almost 30-year travel history but still hopes someday to travel to Ethiopia. “May we recognise our common humanity, and that we have nothing to fear from each other,” he said.

Both male and female homosexuality is illegal in Ethiopia and those found ‘guilty’ face between 7 to 15 years in prison. According to the 2007 Pew Global Attitudes Project, 97% of Ethiopians believe that homosexuality is not acceptable. It is said to be among the countries with the highest anti-gay sentiment in the world.

Get the Mamba Newsletter

• Facebook Messenger

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.