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Apr 11, 2022
5 Amazing Cities to Celebrate Songkran in ThailandThe month of April comes the hottest time for Thais. Aside from the sweltering summer heat, this is the month when the famous “Songkran Festival” takes place, from 13-15 April. Now that you’re intrigued about this refreshing holiday, let’s find out more about the best places to celebrate Songkran in Thailand. Here are the 5 best places to celebrate Songkran in Thailand in 2020, choose your favorite and head out! 1. BangkokExplore Songkran at its liveliest in Bangkok. Being the capital city, there are surely more places to celebrate Songkran than anywhere else. During the festival, more than half the locals travel back to their hometowns for family reunions. Foreign tourists and local Bangkokians then flock about to enjoy one of the most highly anticipated festivities of the year. 2. Chiang MaiChiang Mai in Northern Thailand boasts the wettest out of anyone. This lovely city celebrates the holiday to the fullest, as the religious events held in temples even start on 1st April! Thanks to the ancient moat that surrounds Chiang Mai’s Old City, it has access to an unlimited water source. 3. PattayaThe mayor of Pattaya has granted permission for this year's Songkran festival (also known as the water festival or Thai New Year) to take place in Pattaya, with a focus on traditional and religious traditions. Due to worries about Covid-19, water splashing, water fights, alcohol intake, powder, foam parties, and parties, in general, were still outlawed. 4. PhuketOne of Thailand’s beach paradises, Phuket deserves a mention in this list. With more than 30 beaches on Thailand’s largest island, you’ll find people celebrating everywhere. 5. Khon KaenKnown as the “Sticky Rice Capital”, this charming northeastern (Isaan) town celebrates Songkran just like any other place in the country.From petanque competitions, monk almsgiving, food fairs, Thai dancing to folk music, you’ll never run out of things to do here. Therefore, if you happen to be traveling to Isaan for the first time, there’s never a better time to savor some local Isaan food! “This year, all Songkran festivities hosted or supported by TAT will occur according to universal prevention guidelines against COVID-19. All participants are asked to kindly strictly follow these rules, including being fully vaccinated with an approved COVID-19 vaccine or showing a negative test result using an Antigen Test Kit of no more than 72 hours.” Credit: https://blog.takemetour.com/5-amazing-songkran-cities-thailand/
Mar 30, 2022
5 Reasons Thailand Is a Gay-Friendly Destination If you’re thinking this is just another tourism board attempting to slip their sticky fingers into our pink pockets without taking real action to support LGBT rights, think again. Here are five fast facts on why Thailand is a true leader in LGBT rights. 1. Legal rightsHomosexual activity has been legal in Thailand since 1956To put this in perspective, homosexuality only became legal in the USA in 2003 after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of us during Lawrence v. Texas. 2. Government protectionsSexual orientation and gender identity are specifically protected in the Thai constitutionWhile there are no standalone laws protecting the LGBT community, both “sexual orientation” and “gender identity” are specifically mentioned and protected from discrimination in the Thai Constitution. 3. Bangkok’s gay villageThailand has the largest and loudest gay villages in AsiaGay travelers in Bangkok must visit Silom to experience the country’s (if not the continent’s) liveliest gay village. Outside of the capital, raucous gay districts are found in Phuket, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai. Even smaller cities are peppered with cabarets and gay hangouts! 4. Military serviceThai LGBT people can serve openly in the militaryAgain, unlike America where Trans people were recently banned from serving, Thailand welcomes anyone into its military ranks. 5. Transgender WomanTransgender people are widely acceptedWhile there are many roads to pave when it comes to transgender rights in Thailand, the community as a whole is widely accepted and, in some ways, celebrated. The popular opinion of trans people is extremely favorable and trans individuals are well represented in pop culture and Thai television. Credit : https://www.outadventures.com/gay-travel-blog/gay-thailand-travel/
Mar 05, 2022
Life lessons – three things LGBT+ travellers can learn on vacation in ThailandSomewhere between Phuket’s tropical beaches and Bangkok’s legendary nightlife, travellers to the Thai Kingdom are in for all sorts of surprises. And LGBT+ visitors are no exception to the rule: in fact, many gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Thailand fans think of their holiday as a way to challenge their ways of seeing the world…Perhaps it’s to do with the mysticism of the country’s past, present to this day in its age-old temples, or the spiritual way of life found in Thailand’s Buddhist monks, but there’s something about the Kingdom that gets you thinking. Here are three of the most common lessons travellers will learn during their Thai getaway!1. Have fewer reservations towards others High five: spend some time in the Thai Kingdom and you’ll no doubt pick up on the peaceful and accepting attitudes towards others. It’s easier said than done because we’re often blissfully unaware of our bias. The single biggest reason why LGBT+ travellers are welcome and embraced throughout the country is arguably Thailand’s insistence on the ‘live and let live’ principle. This is beautifully reflected in what might just be the locals’ favourite expression; ‘mai pen rai’. The simple phrase carries a whole lot to meaning, but it all boils down to ‘it’s okay, don’t worry, no problem’.Though public displays of affection can sometimes be frowned upon (regardless of your orientation!), gay and lesbian visitors can feel perfectly safe and at peace whilst exploring all that Thailand has to offer. For many, experiencing these freedoms halfway across the planet offers a glimpse into a world with less prejudice and more tolerance. And just perhaps, that’s something we could all do better at promoting every now and then!2. Get to know a side of yourself you never knew Irresistible: even the most devoted party-goers and beach babies will be wowed by Thailand’s cultural treasures. Got excited at the mention of Phuket’s beaches and Bangkok’s nightlife in the intro? You’re not alone: many travellers know exactly what they’re looking for whilst on vacation in Thailand. But at some point during your stay, you’re inevitably going to be genuinely fascinated with an aspect of the country you never knew you took an interest in!For instance, beyond its malls, the Thai capital offers a sheer inexhaustible amount of culture to absorb. Even if you’re not a museum person, you’re likely to be blown away by Bangkok’s opulent Royal Palace, imposing temples and gilded Buddha statues. Want to go more experimental? You could always challenge yourself to a multi-day trek around an off-the-beaten-path destination and learn the benefits of a simpler life more connected with nature. Or how about participating in a Thai cookery class? You wouldn’t be the first LGBT+ visitor wanting to recreate their favourite Thai dishes (and the ones that took them by surprise…) at home. 3. Everything will be okay in the end – and if it’s not, it’s not the end Peace of mind: a Thai vacation can help you feel more hopeful and optimistic about the future. Life for the LGBT+ community can sometimes be challenging. In many parts of the world, people still face tremendous difficulties and prejudice. To remain hopeful and resilient, arguably nothing beats a healthy dose of optimism – and that’s something you’ll find around every corner on a Thai vacation! There’s an overwhelming sense of things eventually going to be alright rooted deep within the national psyche, and visitors tend to embrace this fairly quickly… perhaps it’s the tropical climate and dreamy beaches?Whatever puts you in a more relaxed and optimistic state, you’re sure to benefit from it: a positive outlook helps people to speak up for themselves and others, knowing well that lasting change is the result of ongoing efforts, and trusting that a more just and equal world is only a matter of time. If nothing else, the Thais’ sense of reassurance alone, and their confidence in good things to come, are worth taking a page from their book! Credit: https://www.gothaibefree.com/life-lessons-three-things-lgbt-travellers-can-learn-on-vacation-in-thailand/
Promenada Chiang Mai
Feb 10, 2022
Chiangmai Craft Week!💟 Let’s get ready to meet the magic of the Up cycle Craft concept that brings back the old unusable materials to be used again which have been through the least industrial or chemical process.💟 Let’s meet great workshops in New Normal style and craft shops at the event. Plus, there will be more than 80 booths and over 30 workshops, and breathtaking crafts from craftspeople.Good activity to promote crafts week in Chiang Mai. To be a center of good product, good workshop, good chance for everyone. Come to join with them.
Chiang Mai
Feb 02, 2022
“ Chiang Mai Flower
Festival 2022 ”Why
Chiang Mai became One of famous Flower Festivals in the World.....The
Chiang Mai Flower Festival has been running for over 45 years and celebrates
the beautiful flowers in bloom during this time. The festival runs over 3 days
at the start of February each year and draws thousands of visitors to Chiang
Mai. There is a traditional dress that represents Chiang Mai. And there are
also performances in the procession which reflects the beauty of Chiang Mai as
a flower export city.You
get to witness one of the world’s greatest flower festivals because Chiang Mai
is an exporter of flowers abroad and in a way gets to truly explore the
traditions of Chiang Mai city. Apart from the flower gardens, there are many
food vendors, local shops around where you can buy some souvenirs, clothes,
etc. to take back with you.Between 4-6 February
2022
From 8:30 a.m. -
10:00 p.m. at Nong Buak Hard Public
Park, Chiang Mai
This is for
everyone's safety. The organizer has divided the visit rounds to reduce
congestion and safety, divided into 1.30 hours per round.
Total 9 rounds***• Round 1: 08:30 -
10:00 • Round 2 : 10.00 -
11.30• Round 3: 11.30 -
13.00 • Round 4 : 13.00 -
14.30• Round 5: 14.30 -
16.00• Round 6 : 16.00 -
17.30• Round 7 : 17.30 -
19.00• Round 8 : 19.00 -
20.30 • Round 9 : 20.30 -
22.00Divided into 500
visitors per round.Walk-in= 200 people / roundBook an appointment
in advance through the QueQ application.= 300 people / round
Entrance Free****
Feb 01, 2022
“ Chiang Mai Blooms 2022 ”1. Chiang Mai Blooms City GalleryA flower photography art exhibition Presenting the work of the contestants of the
Chiang Mai Blooms Photo Contest at the Lanna Photo Gallery. Mueang Chiang Mai District and exhibiting photographic works Khun Surachai Sangsuwan (Pui), one of
Thailand's leading fashion photographers, presents her fashion photography
series "Love Blossom", a creative work that reflects the beauty
of flowers and sex perfectly and another talented young artist, Khun
Noraphat Sakarthonsub (Ball) brings the series Ignorant Bond, a contemporary
photographic work through Arrange
flowers together with household appliances.
that tells the artist's identity through the atmosphere of the space Various perfectly. Date and PlacesLocation: Lanna Folklife Museum "The opening ceremony of the
festival Chiang Mai Blooms Chiang Mai Date: February 3, 2022 Time: 16.00 p.m. - 18.00 p.m.Location:
Lanna GalleryDate:
February 4 - March 15, 2022 Time: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Monday - Friday) Free
entrance2. Chiang Mai BloomsChiang
Mai Blooms in collaboration with Central Pattana Public Company Limited invites
shoppers to gather among the blooming flowers in your familiar shopping center. when flowers inspire Happiness that blooms from the flower path
tourist attraction There are Chiang
Mai's leading hotels, restaurants, department stores, products, beverages and
delicious food from famous restaurants and well-known brands, all gathered in
both Central Chiang Mai's favorite shopping centers. to give a discount and a very special package allowing shoppers to select products flower products and go out to travel to tourist attractions,
flower routes at a special price.Date and Placeslocation: Central Chiangmai Airportdate: 4-8 February 2022time: Monday - Friday 11.00 - 21.00 / Saturday -
Sunday 10.00 - 21.00location: Central Chiangmaidate:
11-15 February 2022time:
Monday - Friday 11.00 - 21.00 / Saturday - Sunday 10.00 - 21.00
Free entrance3.
Chiang Mai Blooms Chef's Table No
matter the weekend, it's not as sweet as this time. Chiang Mai Blooms invites
you to experience the taste of four restaurants, four atmospheres of a flower
garden. Come taste the luxury food. The signatures of four chefs stand one of
Lanna. Among the creative works of four
florists who are skilled in Ming Mueang
and enjoy the music from the Chiang Mai Orchestra Create a special night in the style of Chiang
Mai Blooms.buy a
ticket: Coming Soon 4. Chiang Mai Blooms in the AfternoonEnjoy
the soft light first. The sun kisses the
soil with specially selected flower tea and sweets from the chef who is
fascinated by flowers in the garden that she loves. Offering the most exhilarating afternoon tea
time in this tea and flower capital, don't miss two of these. Creative and elaborate set in a tea set for
two moods. which is prepared for the
most special people only. buy
a ticket: Coming
Soon
5.
Chiang Mai Blooms in the JungleFlower
tour route Takes you out of Chiang
Mai The flower garden of Ban Buak Toei
is back in a new form. Show off the
purple roses that will bloom throughout the field. Allowing you to capture impressive images in
the color scheme of the year. Got a
picture to decorate the prestige IG #ChiangMaiBlooms Only once in a yearbuy
a ticket: Coming
Soon6.
Chiang Mai Blooms Beat
I
Love Flower Farm Chiang Mai Blooms fans' favorite flower garden opens the house
to welcome famous artists and musicians.
Open a concert in the middle of a flower field for you to enjoy with
music. with delicious food and beverages
from leading hotels in Chiang Mai Led by
the Northern Thai Hotels Association (upper) and the city's leading
restaurants.buy a ticket: Coming Soon 7.
Blooms Run X At Oon Tai DistrictOontai
Sankamphaeng Community welcomes all runners with a beautiful mood to the most
delightful running route in Thailand.
Admire the beautiful flowers along the way with Bloom's Run, a sweet
running event with chic commemorative coins for you to collect. Feel at ease with the hospitality of the
On-South community that intends to
prepare surprises for all runners.Date and PlacesDate: 27 February 2022 Time: 5.00 a.m. - 10.00 a.m.Location: Oon Tai Community, San Kamphaeng DistrictTicket
Price:Fun
Run 350 baht/person (Not accepting shirts, price 250 baht/person) Mini Marathon 450 baht/person (Not accepting shirts, price 350 baht/person)
buy
a ticket: Coming
Soon8. Chiang Mai Blooms BazaarKnown as Blooms Bazaar, everyone knows that the master artist is nothing more than a traveler's favorite craft market. You'll be shopping for original pieces from emerging designers, artists and craftspeople. There is no better souvenir than Blooms. our bazaar again Enhance your feeling of enjoyment with organic products. and care products from local farms. Feel full, feel comfortable and don't miss out on the hands-on workshops. Create a great experience together with DIY craftsmanship to the fullest. rejoicing as the festival's nameDate and PlacesDate: 5-6 February 2022Location: Old Chiang Mai (Chiang Mai Cultural Center)Time: 08.00 - 14.00Date: 5-6 March 2022Location: Jingjing Market of Central GroupTime: 06.00 - 13.00Free entrance9.
Flowers on the tableChiang
Mai Blooms' most special meal, the work of the Northern Thai Hotels Association
(upper) mobilizes a head chef and florist.
Create a luxurious party that is unique to our festival. Joining forces with hotel people to overcome
the covid crisis Show the power of the
beauty of Chiang Mai to come back to be happy again.buy a
ticket: Coming Soon
Jan 17, 2022
Top 10 LGBT+ friendly destinations to visit BangkokBangkok is the first name that comes to mind when you think of LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) friendly places in Thailand. It is also referred to as the gay capital of Asia. The nightlife here is magical and intense to say the very least. There are plenty of attractions and activities that members of the LGBTQ community can explore over here. PhuketThe tropical island of Phuket is said to be the second most popular destination for travelers belonging to the LGBTQ community. This island is like a veritable paradise for such individuals.The gay hub of this island is Patong that has so many clubs and bars where LGBTQ people can party as long as they wish to. There is one more factor that works in favor of Phuket – there are plenty of international flights that come straight to Phuket and this is the reason why it is so easy to get to Phuket. KrabiKrabi is the perfect destination for a holiday, whether you are a member of the LGBTQ community or not. It has plenty of beaches, which is a veritable draw for people who love to spend some time in the lap of nature.The most well-known destinations over here are the Railay Beach and Ao Nang – the beaches over here are stunning and the same thing can be said of the nightlife over here as well. If LGBTQ travelers are trying to be adventurous then they could go for activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, snorkeling, exploring the islands located nearby, and scuba diving. This way, they could really enjoy their days over here. Koh PhanganThe claims to fame for Koh Phangan are its full moon parties. These parties are known to be attended by gay travelers from various parts of the world.These parties are held each month of the year at the Haad Rin beach. They are known to attract thousands of people at a time. It also helps that the island is so beautiful that it is stunning. The crescent-shaped beach has white sand and as such is the ideal spot for relaxation as well as exploration. Most of the beaches over here happen to be friendly towards members of the LGBTQ community. However, the most prominent among these are the Bottle Beach, the Haad Yao Beach, and the Salad Beach.The island has a couple of gay bars as well – Alcove and For You. Apart from that, there are plenty of bars located right next to the beach over here. Koh SamuiKoh Samui is located right next to Koh Phangan. However, it is known to be even more relaxed and chilled. It seems like that the holiday never stops over here. The best aspects of Koh Samui as a tourist destination are its beaches and its various luxury hotels. One of the best accommodation options over here is the Absolute Sanctuary that can be a nourishing experience from mental and physical points of view.The wellness resort happens to be a stunning one and it is located at a distance of only 6 km from Bophut, which is supposed to be the hub of the gay scene of Koh Samui. Koh KutKoh Kut could be the ideal exclusive destination if LGBTQ people are looking for a place to celebrate their anniversary or even go on a honeymoon. The vibe here is exotic, to say the least, and the tropical location adds to the overall romance. In short, it has every little thing that you could possibly need for your holiday to be a memorable one. Chiang MaiChiang Mai is also known as the ‘jewel of the north’ in Thailand. The gay scene here is diverse and thriving on top of that. There are plenty of go-go bars in the city along with cabaret clubs, saunas, nightclubs that are friendly towards gays, and massage shops. Apart from this, it has many exciting options for activities such as sightseeing. All these are waiting for people to come and explore them. Koh TaoAs far as the Gulf of Thailand area is concerned Koh Tao can be called the very picture of serenity.This palm-fringed island is one that members of the LGBTQ community should not miss if they are traveling to Thailand. The name of the island comes from the sea turtles that abound in the region. The beaches here are made of white sand and they are located near steep hills, a fact which makes them even more lovable. You can get to some of these hills with a four-wheel drive car. The sun shines here every day, which makes it such a good place for some lounging. Khao LakKhao Lak is located 80 km towards the north of Phuket. The island was basically wiped out in 2004 by the then tsunami, known to be one of the worst of its kind in the history of mankind. However, the town – it seems – has come back with a vengeance of sorts.Compared to other coastal destinations it remains a lot quieter – the beaches are secluded, the nights are peaceful, and the activities here are mostly for families. It may not have the kind of wild nightlife that other places in Thailand are famous for but if LGBTQ people are looking for peace and some stupendous scuba diving then it does not get any better than this. PattayaPattaya is well-known for its nightlife. However, it is also known to have two of the most famed gay beaches in the country in the Jomtien Beach and the Dongtan Beach.The gay scene over here is colorful and alive, to say the least. If you are looking for gay bars, restaurants, massage shops, and hotels in the area then you can visit the BoyzTown district. It does not matter if you are looking for someone new in your life or traveling with your partner you are sure to have a great time here in Pattaya.Credit by https://bit.ly/3fslliV
Nan
Nov 24, 2021
น่า(น)รัก ไม่เป็นรองใคร!คิดดูนะ ถ้าตื่นเช้ามาแล้วเจอวิวนี้อยู่ตรงหน้าจะเป็นยังไง 😛อยากบอกว่า ช่วงนี้แหละสวยมากๆ แถมน่ารักไม่เป็นรองใครเลยด้วยช่วงนี้ใครเหนื่อย ออกไปพักผ่อนเพิ่มพลังกันหน่อยเนอะNan Province is a charming destination in northern Thailand with a fascinating landscape, history and culture. The area has captured the hearts of locals and tourist alike with its calm atmosphere and natural attractions.#ThaiLGBTconnect #ทัวร์อารมณ์ดี #เอเชี่ยนพลัสทราเวล #ทัวร์เที่ยวไทย #เราเที่ยวด้วยกัน #การท่องเที่ยวแห่งประเทศ #ไทยเที่ยวไทย #ThailandLGBTTravel #ThailandGayTravel #travelwithprideflag #AmazingNewChapters #AmazingThailand #ThailandAwaitsYou #Nan
Thailand
Oct 11, 2021
Walk in the park – visit Thailand’s lesser-known but equally stunning national parks
Stunning scenery, the healing qualities of being in nature and the
chance to spot some of the world’s most elusive animal species: a visit
to a national park is high on the priorities list for many visitors to
Thailand. And seeing the country has just under 150 parks to offer (yes,
you read that right!), one could spend half a lifetime exploring.
If you’ve already marvelled at the otherworldly beauty of Khao Sok
National Park and swam in the emerald waters of Ang Thong National
Marine Park, it’s high time you set your sights on the Kingdom’s more
off-the-beaten-track protected areas – for fewer visitors and more
nature, check out the below!
Nam Nao National Park
A sight to behold: Sunsets at Nao Nam National Park are, simply put, magical. Photography by Nopparat Thanatawan via WikiMedia (CC BY SA 4.0).
At just under 1000 square km of uninterrupted natural beauty, this
sprawling park in Phetchabun Province is like a world of its own. There
are picturesque valleys nestled in between forested mountains, with
ancient trees, bamboo groves, tranquil waterfalls and verdant grasslands
all scattered throughout the territory. It’s relatively easy to make
your way here from either Khaon Kaen or Phetchabun town and visitors
have the opportunity to overnight in a basic but charming campsite.
Nam Nao’s main attraction is perhaps the Tham Yai cave system – the
third longest in all of Thailand with a mind-boggling length of almost
10 km! Prefer light to darkness? Visit one of several sunrise and sunset
viewpoints. In terms of wildlife, the epic park offers everything from
over 200 species of birds to elephants, sun bears and leopards (though
you might not want to make acquaintance with all of these!). To have the
most rewarding and perfectly safe visit, stick to Nam Nao’s signposted
hiking trails and you’re in for an amazing time!
Thong Pha Phum National Park
Get high: it’s 8 km to the top of Khao Chang Phueak mountain – and the views are worth the trek! Photography by Khunkay via WikiMedia (CC BY-SA 3.0).
You can’t spell Kanchanaburi Province without the word ‘incredible’
in it – well, that’s not true, but you know what we mean! Near the
border with neighbouring Myanmar, Thong Pha Phum National Park is among
Thailand’s least explored and large parts of it are in fact off limits
for visitors. But there’s still a whole lot to see; including three
cascading waterfalls, the most impressive of which is probably Chok
Kradin.
Beyond this, Thong Pha Phum boasts with an 8 km trail ascending to
its highest peak, Khao Chang Phueak mountain, whose grassy surface
shines brightly in the warm afternoon sun (bring a camera!). Best of
all, accommodation options include two rustic tree houses that ensure
the adventure continues at night, as guests fall asleep to the sounds of
the jungle coming alive – though fret not; the tigers won’t make it up
the tree!
Khao Laem Ya-Mu Samet National Marine Park
Take the plunge: the waters of Khao Laem Ya-Mu Samet National Marine Park are begging to be explored! Photography by Wiranya Youwattana via WikiMedia (CC BY-SA 4.0).
Last but certainly not least on our list is Khao Laem Ya-Mu Samet
National Marine Park. As the name suggests, the park is located in and
around the island of Koh Samet in the Gulf of Thailand. It also entails
another nine smaller islets and, of course, their rugged coastlines and
various, more or less even nature trails. Though a popular attraction
among Thais, Khao Laem Ya-Mu Samet remains somewhat off the radar for
foreign visitors, and it’s especially quiet during the week.
The park’s most alluring sights are arguably below the surface and
it’d be a crime not to bring a snorkel and goggles when going for a swim
– though if you’d like to stay on land, this is perhaps the perfect
place to spend a few days to kick back with a book and do nothing. Khao
Laem Ya-Mu Samet’s landscapes aren’t dramatic or overwhelming. They’re
peaceful and idyllic; and sometimes, that’s exactly what you might be
looking for!
Oct 11, 2021
Rural rainbow – three reasons LGBT+ travellers should visit the Thai countrysideDone with Phuket and bored with Bangkok? Just kidding – either seems impossible! And still, a growing number of gay and lesbian visitors to Thailand seek out destinations that go beyond experiencing the Kingdom’s non-stop metropolis and tropical islands. In fact, it’s a trend the travel industry sees across the spectrum of holidaymakers: from backpackers to luxury resort aficionados, heading for evermore remote corners of rural Thailand is all the rage; and events such as the 2020 coronavirus epidemic have only increased travellers’ longing for seclusion and authentic experiences!Whether you’ve discovered parts of the Kingdom before and you’re looking for deeper immersion in Thai culture, or you’re a first-time visitor with a penchant for seeking out lesser-known destinations, there are many incentives to swap Chiang Mai and Koh Samui for Mae Hong Son or Chiang Khan Loei… Here are just a few.Experience another side of Thailand
Ready, set, go: horseback riding around rural grasslands makes for a splendid day out in the country.
There’s a reason we mentioned Phuket and Bangkok in the introduction:
almost all LGBT+ travellers head for those destinations, and it’s not
surprising. Both Phuket as well as Bangkok have large queer communities
and vibrant nightlife. But when venturing out beyond the typical gay
tourist route, you’ll be rewarded with experiencing a slice of real
Thailand.
Thais are actually very relaxed and peaceful people, with each of the country’s 77 provinces
keeping distinct cultural and culinary traditions alive. Life in rural
areas still happens at a much slower pace than anywhere aimed at
tourists – think unfussy wet markets, hole-in-the-wall-style
restaurants, fishermen spending their days on idyllic lakes and
orange-robed monks making flower bouquet offerings at village temples.
It’d be a shame to miss the Kingdom’s countless little wonders!
Let yourself be surprised by a warm welcome
All smiles: Thai people are proud of their hospitality – everyone is made to feel welcome!
When wanting to visit countryside destinations in countries all
across the world, LGBT+ travellers can encounter all sorts of concerns;
from feeling uncomfortable about social etiquette to dreading downright
hostile treatment. In rural Thailand, however, you’ll see the locals
live by the all-encompassing ‘mai pen rai’ philosophy, which is informed
by tolerance and respect.
Thai etiquette means PDA is off-limits for everyone, regardless of
their sexual or gender orientation. Stick to this simple rule and you’re
unlikely to encounter any bad vibes travelling around the Kingdom’s
countryside. If anything, some locals might put you in the same category
as Thailand’s famous ladyboys, as older generations tend to be less
informed about individual groups within the queer community – but then
again, ladyboys are both popular and fabulous… Take it as a compliment!
Take some time to unwind and heal
Let it go: sometimes, a bit of silence and a view like this is all you need to contemplate, reflect and move on.
There’s nothing wrong with wanting to dive head-first into Thailand’s
incredible nightlife or taking Insta-pics at a fancy beachside resort.
But if you’re looking for longer-term benefits of travel, and you feel
the urge to reconnect with nature and yourself, the Kingdom’s rural
regions are a treasure of spiritual experiences. LGBT+ people continue
to be among the world’s most vulnerable, with many facing discrimination
and prejudice – a relaxing stay in a remote part of Thailand can do
wonders for one’s mental health.
On top of this, many queer individuals have made the move to bigger
cities in their respective home countries, looking for a community. To
escape a hectic, cosmopolitan life and feel embraced and welcomed in
rural Thailand for a few days offers a rewarding glimpse at peaceful
small-town life that might be hard to find back home. And sometimes, all
you need for a perfect holiday is a slice of countryside idyll!
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