From Thailand to the Philippines: Why Two Travellers Couldn't Stay Away From Our Queer Group Trips

When we say our queer group trips operated by our partners create connections that last a lifetime, we’re not just talking about the amazing friendships, wild karaoke nights, or late-night beach chats - we’re talking about the kind of experience that leaves you wanting more.

That was exactly the case for two wonderful travellers from our Queer Thailand Trip (operated by Gap 360), who had such an unforgettable time that they turned around and booked onto our Queer Philippines Group Trip - just three months later!

So... what made them come back for another queer group trip?

We caught up with Wies (@wieses.puffs ) and Samantha (@theaerialadventurer) to find out what inspired the double booking, what stood out in each destination, and what made our queer travel community feel like home. Their story is a beautiful reminder of how affirming, safe, and joyful these trips can be.

What originally made you choose the Queer Thailand trip?

Wies:

"Covid hit right as I finished school and completely derailed my gap year travel plans. By the time the world calmed down a bit, I was too busy juggling jobs and trying to join the “adult world.” I kept telling myself I’d travel once I was stable, but that didn’t happened. Eventually, I realized money is for spending and I was bored. So I started looking for trips. I wasn’t specifically seeking an LGBTQ+ group, but when I found the Thailand trip, one of the first places I’d ever wanted to visit, and saw it was queer-centered, it felt like everything aligned. I grabbed the very last spot. Crazy how that works."

Samantha:

"I’d seen group trip companies before, and I’d been hearing about friends going backpacking, so I was already curious about doing something like that. I randomly came across the LGBTQ+ Backpacker Instagram, and as soon as I saw the Thailand trip and read about the group experience, I was in. Thailand had always been on my list - especially visiting an ethical elephant sanctuary - and I loved the idea of traveling with people who would understand me, especially as a queer person. I knew I’d feel more comfortable and safe, especially with a guide who understood the area and our community. It gave me the confidence to push me out of my comfort zone without feeling like I was doing it completely alone."

At what point did you decide you wanted to book another trip - and why the Philippines?

Wies:

"Haha, what can I say, I caught the travel bug. I had such an incredible experience not just exploring a new place, but doing it with a group of people who already understood such an important (and often vulnerable) part of who I am. I felt seen from the start. As for the Philippines, I honestly just wanted to keep the momentum going. It was the next queer trip on the calendar, and I thought: why not? Let’s go again!"

Samantha:

"Honestly? About a week after I got back from Thailand! I’d had such an amazing time, and the impulsive part of me kicked in again - I just didn’t want to wait. I originally put a deposit down for Bali, but when I checked the Philippines dates, they worked better for me. Plus, one of my friends from the Thailand trip, Wies, had already booked the Philippines, so it felt right. I was lucky enough to grab a last-minute spot, and my work was super supportive in giving me the time off again. I was really interested in learning more about the culture too - especially since one of my childhood friends is Filipino."

Were there any standout experiences in either trip that you'd recommend to others?

Wies:

"They’re both so different, but equally amazing. The Philippines has the most stunning water I’ve ever seen, it’s less touristy, and more relaxed. Thailand, though, has become one of my favorite places. The food, the people, the nature, the activities, it all had this perfect blend of adventure and comfort. In the Philippines, I definitely reccomend the island hopping, it’s unforgettable. In Thailand, don’t underestimate on Ko Samui. It’s a perfect balance of the Thailand bustle and partying as well as having the beautiful beaches."

Samantha:

"Absolutely! In Thailand, the Happy Elephant Sanctuary in Chiang Mai was unforgettable - the care for the animals was so genuine, and one of the owners was queer, which made us feel even more comfortable. Our nights out were also a highlight - especially the drag show where the performers joined our dance circle! The Philippines was more relaxed but equally special. Island hopping, snorkeling with fish and turtles (it felt like Finding Nemo!), staying on a private island, karaoke under the stars... just magical. A huge standout was scuba diving - I'd never done it before, but it was breathtaking. But honestly, the real standout from both trips was the guides. Patrick in Thailand helped us understand queer life and culture there while making us feel so safe and welcome. And Sheena in the Philippines fully embraced the queer energy and became one of us - singing, dancing, getting everyone involved. "

What would you say to someone who's nervous about joining a group trip solo?

Wies:

"Everyone was nervous. Everyone was scared. Everyone was excited to pack their bags, get on that plane, and step into a country they’d probably never been to before, with 22 strangers. But by the end of both trips, nobody wanted to leave. Nobody wanted to get on that plane home. So if you’re feeling unsure, just know you’re not alone, and that hesitation turns into deep connection so much quicker than you’d think. Hopefully that calms your nerves a bit as you hover over that “reserve spot” button."

Samantha:

"I was nervous too. But on our Thailand trip, everyone came solo. We were all in the same boat - feeling unsure, wondering how it would go - but that first dinner changed everything. We bonded so quickly, and I still talk to people from both trips every single day. The itinerary is all planned for you, so you're never left figuring things out alone. And the pre-trip group chat lets you connect with people ahead of time, which helps ease the nerves."

How has being part of a queer travel group impacted your experience compared to traveling in general?

Wies:

"The self-discovery and confidence you gain from traveling with a group of queers is… dangerous, in the best way. There’s something powerful about being in spaces where you don’t have to explain yourself, where you can just exist, and connect. It striped away the usual guard I might carry when traveling in unfamiliar places. I’ve made some of the most meaningful friendships of my life on these trips. Seeing the world is amazing on its own, but doing it alongside people who get you, even before they know you, is something special."

Samantha:

"It’s night and day. I've always loved the idea of backpacking, but doing it alone scared me. Queer travel groups gave me the confidence I never had before. There’s a level of understanding that’s just built in - around identity, expression, and even past experiences that others outside the community might not fully get. 

What really hit me was that I thought my Thailand group was just a lucky fluke-that we all clicked so well. But then it happened again in the Philippines. It’s the queer community-there’s so much empathy, openness, and connection. These trips gave me lifelong friends, beautiful memories, and the courage to keep exploring the world as my full self. People from the Thailand and Philippines trips are now even planning to go to Amsterdam Pride together."

More Than a Trip!

Their journey from Thailand to the Philippines is more than just a couple of stamps in a passport - it’s a story of community, confidence, and queer joy on the road.

Thinking of joining us? Whether it’s your first group trip or your fifth, there’s always room in our little global family.