It is important for lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI) students to be aware that the way sexual identities are defined and understood will vary by country and culture. In some countries, even modern ones, homosexual sex itself can result in severe state-sanctioned punishment up to and including the death penalty. It is usually not homosexuality that brings about such punishments, but rather the sex act. You might want to consider how a possible threat of discrimination or punishment might affect your experience or activities in your host country. Generally, acceptance and tolerance of LGBT issues is increasing in some parts of the world, but some countries and individuals remain intolerant. Make sure to research the prevailing sentiment toward LGBT issues abroad, as well as the laws related to them. If you don’t want to compromise on your lifestyle or if you are concerned that your sexual orientation may be an issue, then you may have to be selective in where you travel.

Internet resources for further study:

• Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Resource Center (LGBTRC) at UC Davis
• University of California Education Abroad Program (EAP): Sexual Orientation Issues
• New York University: Study Abroad Guide on the Experiences of LGBT Students
• NAFSA Rainbow Special Interest Group
• International Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission
• Global Gays: Worldwide Gay Life, Sights and Insights
• Amnesty International: Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity
• University of Michigan: Study Abroad for GLBT Students
• International Lesbian and Gay Association
• Gay-MART: Gay and Lesbian Travel Resource Guide
• CIEE: Sexual and Gender Expression Abroad
• Behind the Mask: Gay and Lesbian Affairs in Africa
• Michigan State University: Tips for Going Abroad
• Washburn University: GLBT Scholarship Resources
• http://www.gaytravellerguide.com
• http://studyabroad.msu.edu/forms/glbt.html