Bangkok, 12 February 2025 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) hosted the Amazing Thailand Out There event in Bangkok yesterday, marking a major milestone in promoting Thailand as a leading LGBTQ+ travel destination. Supported by Marriott Thailand, the event showcased the country’s world-class hospitality, rich culture, and deep commitment to inclusivity.
Taking place shortly after the enactment of Thailand’s Equal Marriage Act in January 2025, the event reinforced the nation’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 worldwide in tourism impact—following the USA, UK, France, and Italy—TAT is strategically tapping into this vibrant sector.
Driving LGBTQ+ Tourism Forward
TAT Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool highlighted the event’s significance, emphasizing that it was shaped by insights gathered from the Amazing Thailand LGBTQ+ Focus Group sessions held last year in Phuket, Bangkok, and Ko Samui. These discussions helped refine Thailand’s tourism strategies to better serve LGBTQ+ travelers while expanding opportunities for local businesses.
The event featured three key components:
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Thailand Out There: Amazing Thailand LGBTQ+ Travel Trade Meet 2025 – A business networking session connecting international buyers with 20 Thai tourism suppliers, featuring travel agents specializing in LGBTQ+ tourism from the USA, Canada, and Brazil. These agents embarked on a week-long familiarization trip across Thailand, with some extending their stays to explore more destinations.
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Meet The LGBTQ+ Influencers – A showcase of Thailand’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community featuring six influencer couples from around the world (USA, Canada, Brazil, South Africa, and Australia) along with a popular Australian TikToker based in Thailand. Thai actors Apiwat “Porsch” Apiwatsayree and Sappanyoo “Arm” Panatkool, a newlywed couple, engaged with media and suppliers, amplifying Thailand’s image as an inclusive and welcoming destination.
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Amazing Thailand Out There Night – A dazzling cultural celebration featuring drag performances, live music, and a DJ set, capturing the energy and creativity of Thailand’s LGBTQ+ scene.
Commitment from Industry Leaders
Presiding over the trade meet, Mr. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for International Marketing (Europe, the Americas, Middle East, and Africa), stated:
“The LGBTQ+ travel market holds tremendous potential, and Thailand consistently ranks 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+ travelers.”
Mr. Brad Edman, Market Vice President for Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar at Marriott International, echoed this sentiment:
“W Hotels proudly champions diversity, amplifies marginalized voices, and fosters vibrant celebrations of LGBTQIA+ rights, equity, and inclusivity. This event reaffirms Marriott International’s longstanding commitment to the LGBTQ+ community through inclusive workplace policies and respect for all.”
Showcasing Thailand’s LGBTQ+ Travel Appeal
Following the event, the six influencer couples embarked on customized travel itineraries spanning Bangkok, Phuket, Krabi, Surat Thani (including Ko Samui), and Chiang Mai. Their journeys highlighted Thailand’s diverse tourism offerings and its appeal as a top LGBTQ+ destination.
As global travelers increasingly seek destinations that embrace inclusivity and diversity, Thailand continues to set the standard. The Amazing Thailand Out There event marked a bold step in reinforcing Thailand’s position as a premier LGBTQ+ destination and a global leader in equality through tourism.
