Originally Posted by
quitecontrary
I have to say that in Muslim countries I wouldn't be openly affectionate even as an heterosexual. I do think we should all respect the culture and customs of the countries we visit. I shudder when I think of how I used to dress in Muslim countries when I first visited in my early 20s!
We all can act as we prefer, of course. Respecting the culture is not the same as accepting discrimination. I therefore disagree with you about being "openly affectionate even as a heterosexual". If straight people can kiss in public, I feel it is our human right as gay people do so, as well. We aren't flaunting it by doing anything more. That we almost never have any issues is largely because we do not try to flaunt it, but act naturally and sensitively--but not consciously trying to avoid being who we are.
Being gay and kissing (e.g. not sucking face with) your loved one is not the same as wearing conservative clothing to show humility in another culture's religious sites. You can choose what clothing you where but you can't choose your sexual orientation. Sucking face in public, on the other hand, is uncool everywhere for anyone.