Bangkok, 12 February 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) staged the Amazing Thailand Out There event yesterday in Bangkok, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to promote Thailand as a premier LGBTQ+ travel destination. Marriott Thailand supported the initiative, highlighting the country’s world-class hospitality, rich culture, and unwavering commitment to inclusivity.
Arriving at a pivotal moment following the enactment of Thailand’s Equal Marriage Act in January 2025, the event further cemented Thailand’s reputation as a global leader in LGBTQ+ rights. With the LGBTQ+ travel market projected to generate US$1.5 billion in spending by 2025 and Thailand ranked fifth globally in tourism impact—after the USA, UK, France, and Italy—TAT strategically engaged this thriving sector.
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, emphasised the event’s significance: “This initiative is shaped by insights from the Amazing Thailand LGBTQ+ Focus Group sessions held late last year in Phuket, Bangkok, and Ko Samui. These discussions helped us refine our strategies to better serve LGBTQ+ travellers while strengthening opportunities for Thai tourism businesses.”
Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, emphasised the event’s significance: “This initiative is shaped by insights from the Amazing Thailand LGBTQ+ Focus Group sessions held late last year in Phuket, Bangkok, and Ko Samui. These discussions helped us refine our strategies to better serve LGBTQ+ travellers while strengthening opportunities for Thai tourism businesses.”
Yesterday’s programme featured three key events: a travel trade meet, an influencer showcase, and a cultural night celebrating Thailand’s dynamic LGBTQ+ community.
The Thailand Out There: Amazing Thailand LGBTQ+ Travel Trade Meet 2025 connected international buyers with 20 Thai tourism suppliers, fostering business networking and industry insights. The session included a welcome address by TAT and a presentation by Marriott Thailand. Among the attendees were 18 travel agents specialised in the LGBTQ+ segment from the USA, Canada, and Brazil, who embarked on a week-long familiarisation trip across Thailand, with some extending their stay to explore further.
Presiding over the session, Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing – Europe, the Americas, Middle East, and Africa, stated: “The LGBTQ+ travel market holds tremendous potential, with Thailand consistently ranking among the world’s top destinations for this community. Through this event, we aim to strengthen partnerships, share insights, and position Thailand as the preferred destination for LGBTQ+ travellers.”
Mr. Brad Edman, Market Vice President- Thailand, Cambodia & Myanmar, Marriott International, shared his enthusiasm: “W Hotels proudly supports celebrating diversity in thought, culture and experiences, and amplifies conversations by giving marginalized voices a platform and moving culture forward with vibrant celebrations of LGBTQIA+ rights, equity and inclusivity. This vibrant celebration reaffirms W Hotels’ mission along with Marriott International’s longstanding commitment to the LGBTQ+ community through equitable workplace policies and practices, a strong commitment to inclusion and respect for all.”
Following the trade session, the Meet The LGBTQ+ Influencers event shone a spotlight on Thailand’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community. The session welcomed six influencer couples from the USA, Canada, Brazil, South Africa, and Australia, along with a popular Australian TikToker based in Thailand. Adding to the star-studded gathering, newlywed Thai actors Apiwat “Porsch” Apiwatsayree and Sappanyoo “Arm” Panatkool engaged with media and suppliers, amplifying Thailand’s image as an inclusive and welcoming destination.
After the reception, the six couples embarked on tailored travel itineraries across Thailand, showcasing the country’s diverse tourism offerings. Their journeys spanned Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani (including Ko Samui), and Chiang Mai, highlighting Thailand’s appeal as a premier LGBTQ+ destination.
The eventful day culminated in the Amazing Thailand Out There Night, a dazzling cultural celebration hosted by Ms. Thapanee. Guests were treated to an electrifying drag performance, live music, and a DJ set, capturing the energy and creativity of Thailand’s LGBTQ+ scene.
Ms. Thapanee added: “Thailand’s openness, rich culture, and welcoming people make it a perfect destination for LGBTQ+ travellers. We are proud to lead the way in creating a space where everyone feels valued and celebrated.”
As global travellers increasingly seek destinations that embrace inclusivity and diversity, Thailand continues to set the standard. The Amazing Thailand Out There series marked a bold step in reinforcing Thailand’s position as a premier LGBTQ+ friendly destination and a global leader in fostering equality through tourism.
