Sex&Holidays

What should I look out for?

Holidays are the perfect time to escape everyday life, experience new adventures, and just go with the flow. Whether it's romantic nights under tropical stars, exciting encounters on exotic beaches, or a city trip with a fun companion – there are many paths to sex.

But freedom and enjoyment also mean being responsible with yourself and others. In the heat of the moment, protection might not be the first thing on your mind, but especially with spontaneous encounters, it's super important to remember: HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are common worldwide and often go unnoticed.

Whether it's a quick fling or a passionate holiday romance, you can enjoy yourself without worries by taking a few simple precautions. Condoms with a quality seal and PrEP are reliable ways to have safe fun, and regular health check-ups will give you peace of mind.

Enjoy your freedom, live your passion – just make sure to get tested regularly. We're here for you and want to make sure your holidays stay happy memories.

Holidays should be relaxing and fun, and so should the memories. But if you have a bad feeling after your holiday, for example, if you're unsure about the HIV/STI status of your fling, one-night stand, or acquaintance?

Kicking back on holiday and letting loose often leads to some casual nights. To make sure those memories stay fun even afterwards, here's what you need to know about holidays and sexually transmitted infections.

Generally, even on holiday, it's 'better safe than sorry'. Condoms protect against HIV, but they don't fully protect against other STIs. That's why it's worth getting tested regularly.

Are you ready for your holiday?

Before your holiday, find out about the country, its prevalence rates, and laws. Click here for all the info on safer sex

Good to know:

  • Am I vaccinated against Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B? Find out more here
  • Am I vaccinated against HPV? Find out more here
  • Did I pack the right condoms and/or femidoms? (Check the expiry date and quality seal, and keep them out of the sun)
  • Do I have all my medications with me? (e.g., for a herpes outbreak, fungal infections, etc.)
  • Is PrEP an option for me to protect against HIV? Find out more here
Fun Fact
Did you know...? There are some curious laws about sexual health around the big wide world. Here are a few examples:
  • → Playing chess during sex? That's not allowed in Tallinn, Estonia.
    → In Nebraska, you can't be naked during sex. Even married couples have to wear a nightgown during intercourse. So, hotel owners are required to provide all guests with a nightgown.

Follow-up care is important

Get tested after risky situations or if you've had multiple sexual partners. At TEST-IN, you can get anonymous and non-judgmental advice and testing.

  • If you have symptoms, we recommend not waiting too long and making an appointment at Checkpoint Zurich or with a doctor.
  • After two weeks, you can get tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
  • After six weeks, you can get tested for HIV and syphilis.
  • After 12 weeks, you can get tested for Hepatitis C.

Got questions or not sure if you've been in a risky situation? We're happy to give you advice online or over the phone.

Mon3:45 PM – 8:45 PM
Tue & WedClosed
Thu4:30 PM–8:45 PM
Fri10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Sat & SunClosed

TEST-IN is closed on national holidays and May 1st.

We're here to help if you have questions!

We're here to advise you…
In German, in person, by phone, by email, online, and of course, anonymously. We can also arrange an interpreter for you if needed.
And you don't even need an appointment to get our advice.

We can help you with any questions about HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

About the process
How much does a test cost!

What we offer
We offer professional and anonymous tests for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis C. If you want, you can also get tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea here.

We're a walk-in clinic! You can come get tested without an appointment!

Find out more

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