Lovely subject...and so culturally sensitive.
So I have had various experiences.
The first one was when I was studying a training course to work with children and adolescents (still a closeted boy), we had to see pros and cons of LGTB and straight couples and lucky me, I was supposed to look for them with my partner (a girl).. So, we found soooo many pros that we overwhelmed the rest of the groups, and holding hands in public was one of the advantages. Being a girl-girl couple is really nice. No one would look at you holding if you are two girls holding hands in public...at least in Spain.
The other experience I had was in Africa and in some Muslim countries (as a man), where men are Ok to walk around in public holding hands. I have to admit that the first time I was shocked, until I realized that it is normal...
Whatever the case, touching someone can transmit a lot of information, and hands are very sensitive to many more things than just touch and provide an very nice degree of intimacy, at least for my point of view.
Love (and open hands to hold yours if you need) Anne ❤️