May 08 - G3 Magazine

106
travel
know it. We were constantly harassed
by men on the street, whistling, asking
us out and even once or twice trying to
cop a feel. The myth that Western women
are always up for a good time and a
quickie behind the banana tree prevails.
Although my partner and I were really
careful and never showed each other
any affection in public, we were always
afraid that something would give us
away. Whilst we were staying in
Stonetown, this crazy street vagrant
started asking us if we were sisters, and
then, without any prompting from us,
began screaming out “lesbians” for the
whole street to hear.
I recommend that before choosing
such destinations, you decide if you’re
willing to hide who you are. Forget
having a romantic holiday, it can
really kill the passion, and it is often
awkward asking for a double bed
rather than a twin. Most
importantly, always do the
necessary research on the
destination and the specifi c resort
you’re going to stay in. Make sure
your accommodation is safe
and private. And lastly don’t
panic, there’s always Canada.
top destinations to avoid
most of asia/
There is no word for lesbian in
Chinese, and in most countries
in Asia, if homosexuality is not
illegal, it is heavily frowned upon
and the police will fi nd ways
around the law to punish
behaviour they deem immoral.
africa/
Homosexuality is outlawed in
almost every African country
(South Africa being an
honourable exception), but
homophobia is especially rife in
Zimbabwe, where President
Mugabe has the habit of
referring to gay people as
“dogs and pigs”. Nice.
jamaica/
Don’t let the chilled out, weed
smoking culture fool you.
The place is notorious for
gay-bashing and homophobic
music lyrics. It is rated the most
homophobic country by the
US Human Rights Watch.