Greece - Discretion is advised for LGBTQ+ travelers
Greece is the birthplace of democracy, the Olympic Games, Western Philosophy, and Western theories of tragedy and comedy. It is also ancient, with the capital, Athens, one of the oldest and longest continuously inhabited cities in the world.
As such it has a rich cultural heritage, boasting the largest number of archaeological museums in the world, more than any other country. Greek cuisine is also a testament to its rich history with influences dating back to the Ancient Greek Empire, the Romans, Byzantine, and Ottomans.
Greece has more than 2,000 islands, of which around 170 are populated. The largest is Crete and the most popular are Santorini and Mykonos, particularly with LGBTQ+ travelers in the summer months. As such, there is an abundance of white sandy Mediterranean beaches to discover.
With regards to LGBTQ+ rights, Greece has not always been very LGBTQ+ friendly. Society is predominantly Greek Orthodox, which is known for being conservative and homophobic. Families have traditionally expected men to get educated, find a good job, marry and produce many children. Women are expected to stay home and look after the house and children. However, over the past few decades, attitudes have started to change as more LGBTQ+ issues are discussed in the media, and the government has passed proactive LGBTQ+ laws such as anti-discrimination in employment and allowed LGBTQ+ people to serve in the military and the right to change gender.
Greece has still not legalized same-sex marriage, but civil unions were allowed in 2015. Adoption is only possible for single LGBTQ+ individuals, not yet for couples. There are no LGBTQ+ anti-bullying laws in schools yet and conversion therapy remains legal in Greece.
Athens and Mykonos are Greece's top LGTBQ+ friendly destinations along with several other cities, however, when venturing into small towns and villages, some locals may be homophobic so you should be cautious with public displays of affection.
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More at https://www.iglta.org/country/Greece
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