🌈 Queer in Southeast Asia: LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to the Region

Southeast Asia is one of the most exciting, vibrant, and culturally rich regions in the world. For queer travellers, it can also be a deeply rewarding - yet complex - part of the globe to explore. From ultra-queer-friendly places to more conservative rural areas, the experiences vary widely. But one thing is certain: LGBTQ+ people are everywhere, and Southeast Asia is full of unexpected pockets of queer joy, resistance, and celebration.

Here’s a guide to navigating some of Southeast Asia’s most popular destinations from a queer traveler's perspective.

🇹🇭 Thailand – The Region’s LGBTQ+ Star

Thailand is widely regarded as one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly countries in Asia. Same sex marriage was recently legalised and Thai society is generally accepting, especially in urban areas.

Why it’s great:

• Bangkok has a thriving queer nightlife, with bars and clubs in Silom and Ari.

• Chiang Mai is more laid-back but still LGBTQ+ welcoming, with cozy queer-friendly cafes and social spots.

• The islands (like Koh Phangan and Koh Phi Phi) are open-minded party hubs where travellers from around the world mix freely.

We have a Thailand queer group trip here!

🇻🇳 Vietnam - Quietly Progressive

Vietnam may not shout about it, but it’s quietly one of the most progressive places in the region for LGBTQ+ rights. Same-sex marriage isn't legal, but it was decriminalised and de-stigmatised in 2015.

Why it’s great:

• Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have a growing queer nightlife scene.

• Pride events, while still small, are becoming more visible each year.

• Vietnamese youth tend to be more open and curious rather than judgmental.

Tip: You may not see many openly queer couples in public, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t there.

🇰🇭 Cambodia – Warm, With Pockets of Queerness

Cambodia is a warm and welcoming country with a calm attitude toward LGBTQ+ people. While legal protections are limited, societal tolerance is relatively high.

Why it’s great:

• Phnom Penh and Siem Reap both have small but mighty queer nightlife scenes.

• The annual Cambodia Pride in Phnom Penh is a beautiful grassroots celebration.

Tip: You might be met with curiosity more than hostility. Being visibly queer may draw attention, but rarely aggression.

🇲🇾 Malaysia – Caution Advised

Malaysia has stricter laws regarding LGBTQ+ expression and relationships, with same-sex acts criminalised. This makes it one of the more challenging places for queer travellers.

That said:

• Kuala Lumpur has a discreet but active underground queer scene - from secret parties to queer art collectives.

• Malaysian LGBTQ+ folks are resilient, creative, and deeply connected through online and offline communities.

Tip: Keep a low profile with PDA and use private channels to connect with local queer folks.

🇮🇩 Indonesia (including Bali) – Bali is Different

While Indonesia as a whole has conservative areas and anti-LGBTQ+ laws in places, Bali is the exception.

Why Bali stands out:

• The island has a relaxed, queer-inclusive vibe, especially in areas like Canggu, Ubud, and Seminyak.

• If you visit, you must check out 'Inklusiv Warung' in Canggu - a social impact restaurant supporting the deaf and queer community, with drag shows and karaoke three times a week!

• Many queer-owned and friendly spaces are popping up, especially for digital nomads.

We have a Bali queer group trip here!

🇵🇭 Philippines – Loud & Proud

The Philippines has a vibrant queer culture that shines through its drag scene, out celebrities, and generally accepting public. Despite lacking full legal protections, Filipino society is often emotionally warm and inclusive.

Why it’s great:

• Manila and Cebu have exciting queer nightlife and events.

• Pride is big, beautiful, and growing.

• You’ll see queer people in media, fashion, and everyday life.

Tip: The country is socially tolerant but legally behind - same-sex marriage isn’t legal, and workplace protections are limited.

We have a Philippines queer group trip here!

💬 Things to Keep in Mind as a Queer Traveller in Southeast Asia

• PDA: What’s normal in Berlin might attract stares in some places - Gauge the vibe of your surroundings.

• Legal status vs. social acceptance: In many places, the law may say one thing, but society behave another way - or vice versa.

• Find your community: Join our facebook group to meet other queer travellers using our group chats.