Sex tourism is one of those topics that people are clearly curious about but almost no one wants to talk about publicly. It’s like this open secret in the world of travel. The questions come in quietly, often wrapped in “just wondering” kind of tones, but the curiosity is real. And honestly, I get it.
That’s why I’ve decided to address it head-on. Let me be upfront and let readers know that this isn’t about promoting sex tourism. That’s not what Explore With Kojo stands for. But the truth is, people do travel for it. Some out of curiosity, others out of convenience, and many just because they think it’s legal or “easier” in certain places. If that’s the reality, then I believe it’s important to talk about it honestly and responsibly. People deserve to know the laws, the risks, and the deeper ethical questions that come with it.
Because here’s the thing – what might be legal and normalized in one country can get you into serious trouble somewhere else. I’ve seen travelers get caught up simply because they didn’t understand the local laws. In addition to it being about legality either, it’s also about respect, safety, and basic human decency. So this article is about awareness and clarity.
First, What Is Sex Tourism?
At its core, this kind of tourism is when someone travels primarily for intimate experiences. The appeal could be anything from lower costs to fewer restrictions. It could also be related to the perception that certain destinations are more accepting of that kind of activity. But let’s not sugarcoat it – it’s controversial for a reason.
Some countries have legalized and regulated sex work. Others may turn a blind eye. And many outright ban it with strict penalties. So if you’re someone who’s ever thought about it, or if you’re just curious to understand how different countries handle it, this is where we lay it all out… with facts, not fantasy.
Countries Where Sex Work Is Legal or Regulated
Here’s a look at countries where sex work is legal and regulated, thereby making them destinations for sex tourism, whether openly or quietly:
1. Netherlands
Let’s start with the one that almost always comes up first – the Netherlands. More specifically, Amsterdam’s Red Light District. And yes, it’s just as real as you’ve heard! What makes the Dutch approach different is that it’s incredibly transparent. This is one of the few countries in the world where sex work is fully legalized and professionally regulated.
Brothels are licensed and sex workers are registered. Regular health checks are required. Furthermore, there are even unions that advocate for workers’ rights. It’s treated as a normal job and not a shameful secret.
But don’t let the neon lights fool you. Why? Because this isn’t some wild, anything-goes playground. Dutch law draws a clear line between adult consensual work and exploitation. If you’re planning to visit or just curious, know this: safety, legality, and respect are the three pillars of the system here.
As someone who’s traveled across Europe and seen how different countries deal with this industry, I have to say the Netherlands stands out for how open and honest their system is. It’s not perfect, but it’s leagues ahead of most.
2. Germany
Germany takes things even further in some ways. Here, prostitution is both legal and treated like any other business. Brothels are regulated, taxes are collected, and sex workers can even access health insurance and retirement benefits if they register.
And do take note that this isn’t just some side hustle in a back alley. The industry in Germany is massive. Walk through areas of Frankfurt, Berlin, or Hamburg and you’ll see just how out-in-the-open it is. But (and this is important) just because it’s legal doesn’t mean it’s problem-free. Reports of exploitation, particularly of migrants and vulnerable women, are common.
So if someone’s planning to travel to Germany with sex tourism in mind, they need to be careful not to romanticize it. The German system might look polished on the surface, but there are deeper issues beneath. As a traveler, the least you can do is educate yourself before stepping into a space that involves real people’s lives and livelihoods.
3. Thailand
Honestly I think when it comes to Thailand, it is safe to call it the elephant in the room when it comes to sex tourism. If you’ve been around the travel scene, you know how common it is for people to bring up Thailand in this context. Cities such as Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket are commonly mentioned because they are almost synonymous with the topic.
Here’s the twist: prostitution is actually illegal under Thai law. But it’s one of the most tolerated and widespread illegal activities in the country. Go figure. What you see on the surface such as bars with go-go dancers, massage parlors, and street workers is just the visible part of a much larger, much more complicated picture.
I’ve been to Thailand more than once, and let me tell you, it’s easy to fall in love with the country’s food, nature, and energy. But when it comes to the sex industry, things get murky real fast. The government occasionally cracks down, especially when trafficking or minors are involved. But enforcement is inconsistent.
So what’s the takeaway here? Just because it looks like “everyone’s doing it” doesn’t mean it’s safe or okay. If you’re even thinking about stepping into that world, know what you’re dealing with. The consequences can be severe, especially if you cross certain legal or ethical lines.
4. Colombia
Colombia is one of those countries where the laws around sex work are clear… but the reality is far more complex. Prostitution is legal here, but only in designated zones, usually tucked away in big cities like Bogotá or Medellín. These zones often have brothels operating with official oversight. Some of them even require workers to register and undergo regular health checks.
But here’s the issue: Colombia also struggles with serious challenges like underage trafficking and organized crime. So while sex tourism does exist, especially among foreign visitors, the line between legal and illegal can get dangerously blurry.
From a travel perspective, Colombia is a very beautiful place, which is rich in culture. But if someone’s coming here with sex tourism in mind, they need to think twice. There’s a darker side to the story, and it’s not something to be ignored. As always, awareness matters.
5. Brazil
Brazil is one of the few countries where prostitution itself is legal. However, brothels are technically not legal. That means many sex workers operate independently, on the streets or through private arrangements. You won’t find regulated establishments like in Germany or the Netherlands. It’s more informal and less organized, more unpredictable.
That being said, during big events like Rio’s Carnival, the adult tourism industry explodes. You’ll see a lot of international visitors who aren’t just there for the samba. But that doesn’t mean it’s a free-for-all. Brazil has strict laws against exploitation and trafficking, and those laws are increasingly being enforced.
Having been to Brazil myself, I can say the country has a lot to offer beyond its reputation for nightlife. The people, the music and the food are beyond fantastic. It’s one of the most exciting places I’ve ever visited. But when it comes to sex work, visitors should be cautious. It’s easy to misunderstand the legal landscape if you only go by what you see in movies or on social media.
6. Mexico
Mexico’s approach is what I’d call patchwork. Prostitution is legal in some states (like Baja California), while it’s illegal or unregulated in others. In Tijuana, for example, there’s an entire Red Light District that openly caters to tourists. Brothels exist, but many operate in a legal gray area. Some are tolerated by local authorities, others are shut down overnight.
The biggest issue here is inconsistency. One city might turn a blind eye, while another enforces strict penalties. That makes things risky for travelers who assume the law is the same everywhere. Add to that concerns about organized crime and trafficking, and it becomes clear that this isn’t something to approach casually.
Mexico is a beautiful country with so much to explore but if sex tourism is the goal, it’s not as straightforward as people think. And yes, caution is not just advised. I would say applying caution when exploring that path is more than essential.
7. Australia (New South Wales & Victoria)
Now here’s an interesting case. In New South Wales, sex work is fully decriminalized. That means it’s treated like any other profession. Owing to this, there are legal brothels, health checks, and workers’ rights protections. In fact, Sydney is home to one of the most regulated sex work industries in the world.
But Australia is huge, and each state plays by its own rules. In Queensland, for example, there are stricter regulations and penalties for unlicensed activity. So again, it depends where you are.
What I respect about the Australian model is that it takes a public health approach. It doesn’t pretend the industry doesn’t exist. It has acknowledged the existence of this industry and puts in a great deal of effort to manage it. And that’s something more countries could learn from. Still, travelers need to do their homework. Just because it’s legal in one city doesn’t mean it’s legal nationwide.
Countries Where Sex Tourism Is Popular but Illegal
Here’s something I really want my readers and viewers to understand. Just because a country is known for this kind of tourism doesn’t mean it’s legal or safe. In fact, many places that attract sex tourists are places where prostitution is outright illegal. That means visitors are not just taking ethical risks but legal ones too. And in some countries, those consequences can be severe.
Let’s take a look at a few:
Philippines
The Philippines is often mentioned in conversations about this sort of tourism, especially in areas like Angeles City or certain parts of Manila. While there are bars and entertainment venues that clearly cater to this kind of tourism, prostitution is illegal under Philippine law. And the government does conduct occasional crackdowns.
There are also deep concerns about child trafficking, which makes things even more serious. If you’re caught engaging in anything illegal (especially something involving minors) you could face years in prison and permanent blacklisting. It’s not worth the risk.
Cambodia
Cambodia has seen a wave of tourists over the years, some coming for temples and culture, but others for the country’s darker underground. Prostitution is illegal here, although enforcement is inconsistent. You’ll find “massage parlors” and bars that operate in a legal gray area. But again, that doesn’t make it legal.
Trafficking and exploitation are major problems in the country, especially among vulnerable communities. Cambodia has been working to clean up its image and clamp down on these issues, so tourists caught participating in sex tourism (particularly involving minors) are often made an example of. They are arrested, publicly shamed and deported.
Indonesia (Especially Bali)
Bali is a global hotspot for digital nomads, honeymooners, and yes people seeking a wild nightlife experience. But here’s the catch: while sex work isn’t illegal in Indonesia, those involved in it can still be prosecuted. Despite this, it doesn’t stop people from trying, of course. There are entire streets where the scene feels like it’s out in the open, but don’t be fooled – it’s not legal.
Indonesian authorities do conduct raids, especially when the tourism spotlight turns negative. And trust me, you don’t want to end up in an Indonesian jail. Even foreigners have faced arrest or deportation for being involved in prostitution-related offenses.
India
India’s relationship with sex work is complex. Technically, prostitution is not illegal if done privately and independently. But soliciting in public, running brothels, or living off the earnings of a sex worker are all crimes. That creates a confusing and risky environment – especially for foreigners.
In cities like Mumbai, Delhi, or Kolkata, there are red-light districts, but they’re not legal in the full sense. Add to that a conservative cultural backdrop and growing public awareness, and you’ve got a situation where tourists engaging in this sort of activity are treading on thin ice. There have been several high-profile arrests of foreigners, and India doesn’t take kindly to outsiders breaking the law.
Kenya and Other Parts of Africa
In places like Kenya, especially coastal towns like Mombasa or Diani Beach, there’s a long history of foreign tourists (often older Westerners)seeking out young local companions. But again, prostitution is illegal in Kenya. And while it might look like it’s tolerated in some areas, the law is very much in place.
The real problem here is exploitation. Many young people (some underage) get caught up in this cycle, often out of desperation. And governments in Africa are starting to crack down on sex tourism not just legally, but also from a reputational angle.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is one of the most fascinating cities in the world. It’s modern, full of skyscrapers and luxury places. Furthermore, it is also very strict when it comes to the law. You might be surprised to hear this, but sex work and prostitution are totally illegal in the UAE, and that includes Dubai. However, people still ask me about it all the time, and I get why. This is because it’s one of the most visited cities in the world, and like any big city, it has a hidden side.
Here’s the thing: although prostitution is officially banned, there are many areas and venues where it quietly exists. Some tourists have shared stories of being approached at certain nightclubs or hotels, especially in areas like Deira or near the Marina. But don’t be fooled into thinking this means it’s legal or tolerated.
The UAE has some of the toughest laws when it comes to public morality, decency, and behavior. People have been arrested for far less issues such as kissing in public.
If you get caught engaging in or soliciting prostitution, the consequences are severe. We’re talking arrest, hefty fines, jail time, deportation, and a permanent travel ban from the country. And unlike some other places, the UAE enforces these rules very publicly when they want to send a message.
Beyond the legal risks, there’s the ethical side too. Much of the sex work that does happen in Dubai operates in the shadows. It is unregulated and often exploitative. Many of the women involved come from very vulnerable backgrounds and may not be there by choice.
Why This Matters
I love Dubai because it’s one of the most impressive cities I’ve ever been to. I’ve visited several times and still discover new things every trip. But as someone who travels and shares what I learn, I have a responsibility to remind readers that respecting local laws and culture is non-negotiable.
Dubai may feel modern, but its legal system is still deeply rooted in conservative Islamic values. If you’re traveling there, enjoy everything the city has to offer but don’t cross the line thinking you’ll be treated like you’re back home.
Ethics, Safety, and Reality Checks
This is where I get serious. Just because something is legal doesn’t mean it’s ethical. Many young women working in this industry are vulnerable. Human trafficking, underage exploitation, and abuse are real and widespread in many places across the world. Always make sure the person you’re dealing with is a consenting adult and not being coerced. If you ever feel unsure, my advice to you is to walk away. It’s better to be safe than to contribute to a global problem.
I wrote this article to inform and not to glamorize the subject in question.
As someone who has traveled to more than 30 countries, I’ve seen both the glitzy surface and the gritty underside of sex tourism. If you’re considering a trip that involves this kind of activity, do your research. Respect the laws and people. And most of all, stay safe.
