PUBLISHED June 14th, 2024 06:00 pm
Where love is love and humans are humans, we’re putting on our prettiest pink to celebrate inclusivity and diversity all-year round and around the globe. Gone are the Stonewall days, where gay bars were randomly raided and discrimination was high, making social spaces unsafe for LGBTQ. Today, along with legal rights and anti-discrimination laws in place, more destinations are embracing the vibrancy of diversity, with Pride celebrations, LGBTQ+ establishments, and more importantly, a welcoming attitude. Let’s get out and proud as we explore LGBTQ+ friendly destinations around the world.
Cambodia
From the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat to the vibrant cocktail scene, Cambodia is one of the more LGBTQ+-friendly destinations in Asia where sexual diversity is legal and socially accepted in the cities. Even its head of state, King Norodom Sihamoni supported the rights of LGBTQ+ in a public statement. Cambodia’s Pride Week takes place in May and is filled with events, workshops and even a parade with a tuk-tuk race. Visit its capital, Phnom Penh, to immerse in the small but vibrant LGBTQ+ scene at its community-centred bars and restaurants or head to Angkor Wat for gay-owned cafes and cabarets. Looking for a curated itinerary? Q Travel Cambodia is an LGBTQ+-friendly group of licensed tour guides you can call on. One thing to note when visiting, queer or not, appropriate attire and behaviours are required when exploring the temples or cultural places. Cover up and refrain from public displays of affection. Check our our guide to Phnom Penh here.
Hong Kong
The Pearl of the South China Sea, Hong Kong, known for their bustling food scene, from local cha chaan teng to Michelin-starred restaurants, boasts an equally vibrant LGBTQ+ community. In fact, they attract the global community with their well-organised events and parties such as the Lesbian Gay Film Festival and Pink Season, the annual gay festival that paints West Kowloon Cultural District Art Park pink with performances, parties, and more! The city even hosted the 2023 Gay Games, the world’s largest sporting and cultural event for LGBTQ athletes, artists, and musicians. From food and culture to sports and events, Hong Kong is a welcoming and exciting LGBTQ+ friendly destination. Read our guide to rediscovering Hong Kong here.
Japan
Although public displays of affection, of any sexuality, are frowned upon here, Japan is a warm haven for LGBTQ+. Not only is same-sex partnership recognised in Tokyo, but you’ll also find LGBTQ+ travel tips on the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) site. Tokyo’s queer nightlife is concentrated in Shinjuku, where Japan’s first permanent LGBTQ+ centre, Pride House, proudly stands. Make your way to Shinjuku’s Ni-Chome area and pick from over 400 nightclubs and bars peppered along the unassuming roads. Plan a trip in April and dress up for the Tokyo Rainbow Pride, Japan’s largest pride celebration near Yoyogi Park. Osaka, a featured destination by the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association, has held the annual Kansai Rainbow Festa and Parade at Ogimachi Park since 2006.
Thailand
Thailand, with its wide acceptance of sexual and gender diversity, has been the top destination for LGBTQ+ travellers from all over the world. Besides having some of the liveliest gay scenes in the world, especially in the Silom district, Bangkok, Thailand offers a slew of world-class resorts, gastronomy, and nightlife activities in Pattaya and Phuket too. Don’t forget the pristine beaches of Krabi and the hot springs of Pai which come with plenty of LGBTQ+-friendly accommodations. Join in the fun at Phuket Pride, running on 29 June 2024 at Talat Yai, Phuket, with a live concert, wellness events, and a parade of a large rainbow flag through the old town. This is Phuket’s way of welcoming one and all!
Taiwan
On the legal front, Taiwan sets the benchmark for LGBTQ rights in Asia, being the first Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage in 2019. But this progressive attitude doesn’t just stop there. It is even reflected in its education system which covers inclusive sex education and gender fluidity. Besides the country’s breathtaking sceneries, night markets, food, and shopping, its capital, Taipei is home to East Asia’s largest Pride march, with as many as 170,000 people filling the streets. The convivial event held in October, also includes the highly-anticipated Rainbow Music Festival with a White Ball and live performances from DJs from around the world. Beyond Taipei, cities like Kaohsiung, Taichung, and Tainan are also LGBTQ+ friendly, with Kaohsiung running its own annual Pride celebrations too!
The Philippines
It might be due to culture and history that Filipinos have a more fluid concept of gender. In fact, gender-crossing practices date back to pre-colonial communities where feminized men were seen as being similar to women (except for child-bearing). And in the Suludnon mythology, women can transform into male warriors. Its warm acceptance and tolerance, together with its charming islands and villages, make The Philippines a popular LGBTQ+-friendly destination. Many visit the country for the beautiful and diverse dive spots around Palawan Island and Boracay for its pristine beaches and crystal clear waters. But Manila is the centre of LGBTQ+ events like the annual Manila Metro Pride, which sees the gathering of over 100,000 visitors to the event in June.
Australia
Supported by its anti-discrimination laws, legalised same-sex marriage, and LGBTQ+ friendliness, Australia fosters a welcoming environment for the LGBTQ+ community, especially during its annual Pride celebration in February, Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras. Beyond the festivities, visit Darlinghurst, the historic hub of Australia’s gay rights movement for your dose of queer history. Head to the Darlinghurst Bookshop for its collection of queer literature and media. Dive into the vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife in Sydney in iconic clubs and bars like The Imperial Erskineville, and the Stonewall Hotel. Otherwise, other regions like Cairns and Port Douglas, gateways to the Great Barrier Reef, are queer-friendly too.
Greece
Pristine beaches, stunning architecture, and vibrant party scene, it’s no wonder that Greece, particularly Mykonos, stands out as an LGBTQ-friendly destination. After all, it is the first Christian Orthodox-majority country to legalise same-sex marriage, with the legal right to adoption. Although the legislation was only set in place in February 2024, Mykonos has been hosting the XLSIOR Mykonos International Summer Gay Festival every August, attracting thousands with non-stop parties, international DJs, and live performances. Additionally, beaches like Super Paradise and Elia Beach offer a tranquil sanctuary for the gay community. For glowing sunsets, seaside dining, and partying, head to Little Venice, a little village known to be a charming gay-bourhood. And if you want to soak up the Greek sun in a private oasis, Akkadian is a gay-only boutique hotel. Check out our guide to Greece here.
Spain
From legalised Queer marriage and adoption to gender confirmation and anti-discrimination measures, Spain ranks high on the queer-friendly list. Big cities embrace queer culture and brim with gay pubs, clubs, and cafes in vibrant gay districts, alongside LGBTQ+ festivals and annual Pride events like the Madrid Ogullo. Top spots to check out include Eixample, also known as “Gay-xample,” the heart of Barcelona’s queer scene and Chueca in Madrid, known to be the largest queer district in Europe. For a dose of Vitamin D, Mar Bella Beach and Barceloneta Beach are some of the best-loved spots in the community. Plan your itinerary with our guide to Barcelona here.
Brazil
Rio de Janeiro stands as Brazil’s LGBTQ+ capital, where the community not only finds acceptance but is also supported through anti-bullying initiatives and discrimination laws. Rua Farme de Amoedo, known as the “gay heart of Rio’s south zone” brims with LGBTQ-friendly bars and party spots. You’ll know you have arrived when you see the large pride flag flying. Just a stone’s throw away is Ipanema Beach, a popular hangout spot to soak up the tropical vibes amidst queer-friendly bars and community. And over at Sao Paulo, their annual pride parade in June draws hundreds and thousands of people marching in unison for “All forms of loving, all forms of being.”
Top Image Photo by Eduardo López on Pexels.