rickycornish
Sawasdee krup!
Ricky CornishThailand has emerged as a top destination for LGBTQ+ travelers. In September, the Asian country passed The Kingdom’s marriage equality bill, granting same-sex couples the same legal rights as heterosexual couples. The inclusive spot is also welcoming a whole new crop of visitors once EDC Thailand debuts in January 2025.
With the progressive country welcoming more queer tourists than ever, there's so much to see on this gorgeous corner of the globe. From tasty meals at luxurious hotels to impressive performances by sickening drag queens, Thailand is the best place for a top of the line vacation.
The Tourism Authority of Thailand did a flawless job hosting me, along with other LGBTQ+ journalists, to truly experience everything this spectacular place has to offer. Scroll below to see all the incredible highlights from this life-changing trip.
Bangkok, Thailand
Thailand's nation's capital, Bangkok, is the ideal hub to experience everything that the beautiful country known for. In just one trip, guests will be able to attend fabulous gay bars, visit unbelievable temples, and even taste exquisite cuisine on the streets of Chinatown.
The most opulent hotel to stay at in Bangkok, Thailand is undeniably The Salil Hotel Riverside. Amenities at this five-star resort include relaxing spa treatments like hydro pool aqua therapy, adorable shops, fine dining, and stunning rooms with the comfiest pieces of furniture. Trust me when I say the hotel room's bidet is just one of the lavish touches that comes with this staying at this property. The service is also quick and top notch with multiple dining options available for room service.
Nightlife & Culture
Many LGBTQ+ visitors can easily get around Bangkok by hopping in a tuk tuk (equivalent to a taxi in the United States) to explore all of the exciting options throughout the exhilarating city. House of Heals is one of the top gay bars to check out as the host of Drag Race Thailand, Pangina Heals, invites the best local queens to perform showstopping numbers multiple nights a week.
Naturally, it wouldn't be a complete trip to Thailand without acknowledging the lucrative culture that makes the country so special. Historic temples and monuments such as Ayutthaya, Wat Ratchanatdaram Worawihan, and Wat Klang Khlong Wattanaram will give travelers the prime opportunity to enhance their knowledge on Thailand's society.
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Defined by its mountains and scenic landscape, Chiang Mai is a can't-miss city in Thailand and the Na Nirand Chiang Mai is the optimal place to stay. This pristine property is designed for a romantic getaway as the quiet hotel is nestled next to the Ping River.
Core memories will be made at all of the diverse excursions available in Chiang Mai. Without a doubt, the Patara Elephant Farm is a sanctuary that must be added to any itinerary. This safe sanctuary gives tourists the sensational opportunity to interact with elephants in a very intimate and educational way. Personally, this was one of the greatest experiences of my entire life. I've never truly connected with nature and wildlife in such a beautiful and organic way. Guests hop on a Jeep and travel into the jungle as they get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. You'll have an opportunity to feed, bathe, and walk alongside the elephants as you also learn more about their rich history by the wonderful guides.
Food & Excursions
Anyone hoping to see Thailand from a local lens will be overwhelmed with fascinating options in Chiang Mai. Your taste buds have never experienced anything quite like the delicious meals at the local and critically acclaimed eateries. Woo Chiang Mai and Ginger Farm Kitchen both capture the finest ingredients that Thailand has to offer. Mai also acts as a local art shop, so patrons can indulge in incredible food while also browsing for a beautiful art piece or keepsake to take home. Don't forget to order one of their signature smoothies.
Michelin-starred restaurants are also scattered throughout the bustling city as Meena Rice Based Cuisine and Baan Landai promise to deliver a tasty evening. Meena serves as an amazing family style restaurant as many succulent dishes are available on their diverse menu. The eatery is located near the city, but the ambiance gives travelers a wonderful escape into a perfect cove that captures the heart of Thailand. Meanwhile, Baan Landai is right next to the main downtown hub of Chiang Mai, so the delectable dinner you'll enjoy is perfect before a night on the town visiting the adjacent street markets.
Similarly, the Ontai Creative Industry Village immerses explorers deep into Thai culture by eating farm-to-table creations and participating in spiritual activities such as indigo dye. Also, the Zira Spa & Massage Chiang Mai is a superb relaxation destination. The serene atmosphere, tranquil ambiance, and intense massage amenities will leave you feeling calm, yet rejuvenated. With so many intense massage options to choose from, the deep tissue and hot oil massage will finally remove all of the tension and knots that have built up over time.
Krabi, Thailand
The perfect resort to escape reality is found in Krabi, Thailand. Rayavadee Krabi crosses off every box when it comes to a fantasy vacation. This secluded getaway transports visitors away from reality into a relaxing oasis. Gorgeous pools and soft sand beaches surround this property as guests enjoy their own private bungalow in the jungle. Onsite restaurants serve original dishes and tasty cocktails that further sets the mood for a memorable trip.
The Grotto serves the most romantic and stunning backdrop for any special event you can think of. Even just a normal dinner will take your breath away. Although I promise every option will satisfy your taste buds, the surf and turf is a must. The delicious combination of the prime cut and lobster tail is unlike anything else you'll try in Thailand.
Relaxation & Adventure
Nearby, the Wareerak Hot Spring & Wellness makes all of your worries disappear with blissful treatments and services to help reset your mind. Patrons will truly escape all of the stresses of their daily lives by immersing themselves in the Krabi forest. Plus, there's nothing quite like enjoying a succulent meal while watching the magical sunset at the Khaothong Hill Restaurant. The menu offers much more than just the typical Thai choices available throughout the country. For me, a chicken sandwich along with a green apple smoothie really hit the spot as I watched the dazzling sunset.
There's also plenty to do for the adventure seeker as boat excursions, kayaking tours, snorkeling, and numerous other activities are easy to access. Finally, the Railay Pier has all of the adorable local shops you'd need to make this beach paradise feel even more cozy.
Paradise Awaits
These three vastly different cities all offer something unique, but in the end, they all encapsulate everything that defines this special Asian country. This article only scratches the surface as to everything a queer traveler can experience in Thailand.
As a very open-minded place, Go Thai Be Free is the best resource to take the first step and go on the trip of lifetime. Check out some of the highlights from my trip in the Instagram Carousel here.
