From Same-Sex Marriage to Pride: Is Thailand Truly an LGBTQIA+ Paradise?
While it’s important to celebrate Thailand’s progress in becoming more inclusive, we must also acknowledge the ongoing struggles that the Thai queer community continues to face.
Throughout my 15 years of living in Thailand, I’ve always known this country to be a safe haven for foreigners in the LGBTQIA+ community. I remember the first time I went to DJ Station, a popular gay nightclub in the Silom area of Bangkok. It reminded me of Babylon from one of my favorite shows, Queer As Folk.
The smokey club with its giant disco ball in the center of the ceiling, kinky dance cages in the back area, and hot, shirtless people dancing to the latest pop tune, was my happy place for many years until I became sober and stopped partying.
There are so many places all over the Kingdom that cater to our community, like Soi 4 in Bangkok, which is packed with restaurants, clubs, and bars. I especially love The Stranger Bar, which has nightly drag queen shows and is owned by a drag queen.
The small island of Samed is a popular weekend getaway for Bangkokians, including the queer community. It’s only a three to four-hour van ride from the capital. When…
