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Although Tallinn is a tolerant city, it is some way behind Scandinavia and many northern European countries in terms of the atmosphere surrounding homosexuality. Many closet gays still do not feel confident enough to come out, partly because they fear, perhaps wrongly, that it might damage their career prospects. Older people will remember the utter intolerance that was part of Soviet life. Gay Estonians who have spent time in countries that are more open about homosexuality are struck by the difference when they return home. That said, gay-bashing is very rare (although some recommend discretion outside the protective walls of gay bars), and you are unlikely to come across people who make you feel awkward about being gay. It is almost as if it is not an issue. In summer, the main cruising spots are Harjumägi and Stroomi beach. Watch out for underage hustlers around the Balti jaam Railway Station and be aware that AIDS is not widespread but spreading, mainly as a result of intraveneous drug use.
Associations
Estonian Association for Lesbians and Bisexual Women, T 055 11 132.
http://www.gay.ee General website for gay people in Estonia.
http://www.meaculpa.ee Youth association for lesbians.
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