Bangkok’s Pride Parade Attracts Chinese LGBTQ+ Tourists
In June, Xinyu Wen traveled to Thailand with plans to attend Bangkok’s Pride parade during her two-week vacation. However, the 28-year-old ended up staying for a month and a half after discovering the vibrant LGBTQ+ community in the Thai capital. LGBTQ+ individuals from China, who often face discrimination at home, are increasingly flocking to Thailand for the freedom to express themselves. Wen described the parade as a “huge amusement park” where she could forget the troubles and have fun.
Thailand, only a 5-hour flight from Beijing, is actively promoted by tourism authorities as one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly destinations in the region. Wen’s interest in Thailand was sparked when her friend sent her a photo of rainbow-colored Pride-themed ice cream being sold on the streets. As a queer individual, Wen faces judgment and stares in China for her appearance. However, at the Bangkok Pride parade, she witnessed people confidently expressing themselves, which allowed her to drop her guard and embrace her true self.
The event had a protest element, with signs written in traditional Chinese highlighting the lack of LGBTQ+ acceptance in China. Wen experienced mixed emotions of both touched and sad, as she read reports about widespread discrimination in Thailand, particularly in the workplace. Same-sex unions and marriages are not recognized, preventing LGBTQ+ couples from adopting children and accessing legal processes available to straight couples.
Despite initial skepticism, Wen found the parade empowering because it provided a platform for neglected groups and suppressed feelings to be heard. Apichai Chatchalermkit, an official from the Thailand Tourism Authority, acknowledged that LGBTQ+ tourists are considered “high-potential” due to their tendency to spend more and travel frequently. Thailand has seen 2.2 million Chinese tourists, out of a total of 16 million visitors, by mid-August.
Owen Zhu, a gay real estate agent in Bangkok, noted that many Chinese LGBTQ+ individuals are choosing to live in Thailand, with approximately two-thirds of his clients falling into this category. Thailand has earned the nickname “gay’s heaven” among Chinese gay people. The country offers a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals, allowing them the freedom to express themselves without fear of persecution.
Jade Yang, a lesbian from China’s conservative province, was pressured into marrying a gay man to maintain appearances. Since moving to Thailand, she can now openly date women and focus on her studies and career without hiding her true identity. At the Silver Sand gay bar in Bangkok, the owner estimates that 30% of his customers are LGBTQ+ tourists from China, and this number continues to grow. The relaxed enforcement of prostitution laws and famous nightclub shows in Thailand also attract tourists from all walks of life.
Eros Li, a visitor from China, initially came to Thailand for the nightlife and massage parlors that offer sex services. While similar services exist in China, they are less accessible and carry the risk of legal consequences. Li enjoys the lively and open LGBTQ+ community in Thailand and appreciates the attention he receives on gay dating apps.
The LGBTQ+ community in Thailand provides a warm and welcoming environment for tourists, regardless of their sexual orientation. The country continues to attract Chinese tourists, particularly those from the LGBTQ+ community, who seek a space where they can freely express themselves and be accepted.
Find more of AP’s Asia-Pacific coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/asia-pacific
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
