Let’s Talk Sex | Understanding Sex Tourism: How to Make Responsible Choices – News18

Sex may permeate our popular culture, but conversations about it are still associated with stigma and shame in Indian households. As a result, most individuals dealing with sexual health issues or trying to find information about sex often resort to unverified online sources or follow the unscientific advice of their friends. To address the widespread misinformation about sex, News18.com is running this weekly sex column, titled ‘Let’s Talk Sex’. We hope to initiate conversations about sex through this column and address sexual health issues with scientific insight and nuance.

In this article, I will examine the facts about sex tourism, its impacts on local communities, and how you can be a responsible citizen.

As you plan your next international trip, you may encounter the complex issue of sex tourism in certain destinations. While the topic can be uncomfortable, understanding the realities of this industry is crucial for making ethical travel choices. By educating yourself on this sensitive subject, you’ll be better equipped to navigate challenging situations abroad and support sustainable tourism practices.

Sex tourism is a complex and controversial phenomenon that involves travel specifically arranged to facilitate sexual activities. It encompasses both travellers seeking casual sexual encounters and those pursuing illegal and exploitative sexual contact. Research indicates that local communities have mixed feelings about sex tourism. While it can provide economic benefits, it also brings negative social impacts. The industry fuels the spread of sexually transmitted infections and poses threats to community health, gender equality, and human rights. Understanding the complexities of sex tourism is crucial for addressing its consequences and promoting responsible travel practices.

Practising Safe Sex While Travelling

• Understanding PrEP for Travellers: Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a powerful tool for preventing HIV infection while travelling. Studies show high rates of casual sex and low condom use among some traveller populations, making PrEP an important consideration. To use PrEP effectively, initiate it 1-2 weeks before your trip and maintain a consistent daily dosage. PrEP is forgiving of up to 12-hour shifts in dosage time, making it manageable for most travel schedules.
• Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): If you’ve had a high-risk sexual encounter, PEP can be a crucial emergency measure. PEP should be taken within 72 hours of potential HIV exposure. Common PEP medications include Tivicay and Descovy. While not a substitute for daily PrEP, PEP can serve as a stopgap measure in emergency situations.

Additional Precautions for Safe Travel

In addition to PrEP and PEP, consider these safety measures:

• Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B before travelling
• Bring condoms as quality may vary abroad
• Research local sexual health resources at your destination
• Get tested for STIs before and after your trip

Remember, responsible choices and preparation are key to enjoying safe, healthy travels.

Tips for Responsible Travel and Intimate Encounters

• Prioritise Safety and Consent: When engaging in intimate encounters while travelling, prioritizing your personal safety is paramount. Always obtain clear, enthusiastic consent from your partner before any sexual activity. Trust your instincts and remove yourself from any situation that feels unsafe or uncomfortable. Avoid consuming excessive alcohol or drugs, as these can impair your judgment and decision-making abilities.
• Practice Safe Sex: Bring your own supply of condoms and birth control, as availability and quality may vary in different countries. Get tested for STIs before your trip to know your status and take necessary precautions. Consider engaging in non-penetrative sexual activities if you’re not comfortable with full intercourse.
• Respect Local Customs and Laws: Research the local sexual etiquette and norms at your destination to avoid misunderstandings. Be aware that public displays of affection may be frowned upon or even illegal in some places. Choose reputable, ethical establishments if engaging with the local sex industry, and avoid any situations that may involve exploitation or human trafficking.
• Communicate Openly: When engaging in casual encounters, communicate openly with potential partners about expectations. Be mindful of potential language barriers and cultural differences that may affect communication. Treat all partners with respect and dignity, avoiding objectification or reinforcing harmful stereotypes.

Travelling Responsibly: Making Informed Choices

• Understanding the Risks and Realities: When it comes to sex tourism, making responsible choices starts with being well-informed. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 357 million new infections with curable STIs occur globally each year. Travellers who engage in casual sex abroad are exposed to different “sexual networks” and may potentially import novel or drug-resistant STIs. It’s crucial to understand these health risks before making any decisions.
• Recognising Exploitation and Trafficking: Responsible travel means being aware of the darker side of sex tourism. Sex trafficking is a major criminal industry, often masquerading as consensual sex work. As a traveller, it’s your responsibility to be vigilant and avoid supporting establishments or individuals known to exploit or mistreat sex workers. Research local laws and cultural norms to ensure you’re not inadvertently contributing to harmful practices.
• Prioritising Ethical Engagement: If you choose to engage with the sex industry while travelling, prioritize ethical and consensual experiences. Respect the privacy and boundaries of sex workers, and avoid any behaviour that could be considered coercive or abusive. Consider supporting organizations that promote the rights and well-being of sex workers instead. Remember, responsible travel is about making choices that don’t harm local communities or individuals.

As you consider your travel plans, remember that responsible tourism means being aware of the impacts of your choices. While sex tourism may seem harmless on the surface, it often perpetuates exploitation and human trafficking. By educating yourself on the realities behind the industry, you can make more ethical decisions that respect local communities and protect vulnerable individuals. Seek out cultural experiences that don’t commodify people. Support organisations working to address root causes of exploitation. And use your voice to raise awareness among other travellers. With conscious effort, you can enjoy meaningful travel experiences while upholding human dignity. The power to create positive change lies in your hands as a global citizen and responsible tourist.