Lonely Planet names Thailand top LGBTQ destination

[Gaybutton]

Thailand Named Top LGBTQ+Destination in Lonely Planet Guide

By Rapipun Suksawat

June 10, 2025

Thailand has been featured in Lonely Planet’s newly released The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide, a publication highlighting 50 global destinations that offer safe and inclusive experiences for LGBTQ+ travelers. Authored by travel writer Alicia Valenski, the guide offers practical advice, local insights, and safety information specifically tailored for travelers in this group.

Bangkok is presented as a standout destination in Southeast Asia, supported by Thailand’s 2024 legal recognition of marriage equality and a cultural landscape that has long embraced gender diversity. The guide describes the capital as a dynamic mix of luxury, nightlife, and community spaces, known for its drag performances, welcoming venues, and vibrant culinary offerings.

Thailand’s inclusion aligns with broader efforts to position the country as a safe, inclusive destination for all tourists. Same-sex sexual relations were decriminalized in 2003, and recent legislative reforms have further elevated Thailand’s status as a regional leader in LGBTQ+ rights. With its tropical beaches, colorful festivals, and reputation for warm hospitality, the country remains a year-round draw for travelers.

The guide also addresses challenges that LGBTQ+ travelers may encounter, providing cultural context and safety tips for each location. Its content indicates a growing demand for travel resources informed by lived experience and community voices.

The 240-page book includes recommendations for accommodation, dining, and itineraries across five continents. Bangkok joins cities such as Amsterdam, Lisbon, and Melbourne in this curated list.

The preceding is a press release from the Thai Government PR Department.

https://tpnnational.com/2025/06/10/thai ... net-guide/

[thewayhelooks]

Oh nonsense. A press release from the Thai Government PR holds no credibility whatsoever. Best to check out the actual guide itself. No mention of Taiwan/Taipei in this release? Seriously?

[Dodger]

The Lonely Planet Guide still refers to gays as "queers".

What does that tell you?

Yeah!!!...queers can get married in Thailand now. Come one - come all.

[Gaybutton]

But Thailand is a top destination for LGTPQ people, isn't it? I'd certainly pick anywhere in Thailand over Kabul or Pyongyang . . .

[Jun]

But Thailand is a top destination for LGTPQ people, isn't it? I'd certainly pick anywhere in Thailand over Kabul or Pyongyang . . .

Yes. No doubt.

I'm not sure about the market for this book. I do have a shelf full of LP guide books, almost all over 15 years old. Once upon a time they were useful for deciding where to go and where to stay. Now the customer reviews on the booking apps guide my choice of hotel.

A guide book might still be helpful to deciding what to see. However, first impressions online are that it's full of glossy pictures and not actually containing much text. I shall look out for it in bookshops.

Spartacus used to publish a guidebook. I think it's now online, but neither up to date nor accurate. Publishing quality guides is difficult without a revenue stream. As many gay guides prove. https://spartacus.gayguide.travel/going ... nd/pattaya?