Why the Pacific Asia region's inclusivity is the pride of Pata
Chris CramptonTo mark Pride month, Pata chair UK and Ireland Chris Crampton reflects on the Pacific Asia region’s LGBTQ+ credentials – and how and why progress has been achieved.
Over the years, we have witness remarkable developments and positive strides towards fostering a diverse and inclusive travel experience for the LGBTQ+ community.
And although there remains some way to go when it comes to LGBTQ+ rights in Pacific Asia, significant progress has been made in a number of countries, ensuring the safety of LGBTQ+ citizens and travellers, improved or equal rights and greater overall wellbeing.
Firstly, it is important to acknowledge that each country in the Pacific Asia region has its own unique cultural, social and legal framework, and its own traditions.
However, many nations have taken noteworthy steps towards creating an environment that welcomes and supports LGBTQ+ travellers. Thailand, for instance, has emerged as a beacon for LGBTQ+ tourism, with its vibrant nightlife, welcoming culture and progressive attitudes.
Capital Bangkok’s recent Road to Pride 2028 campaign, its pitch to host World Pride in 2028, is a great example of how the LGBTQ+ traveller is being celebrated by destinations all around the region.
Tourism Authority of Thailand marketing manager Chris Lee, who is Pata UK and Ireland’s LGBTQ+ spokesperson, says the campaign – which features 80 pieces of art from Thailand’s LGBTQ+ communities – celebrated and showcased sexual diversity in Thailand, and its important place in Thai history.
"This exhibition plays a huge part in putting the city on the world stage and hopefully securing Bangkok’s hosting of World Pride in 2028," says Lee.
Taiwan has also made significant strides towards LGBTQ+ inclusivity, becoming the first country in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage in 2019.
This landmark decision has not only provided legal recognition to LGBTQ+ couples, but has also positioned Taiwan as an inclusive travel destination for same-sex honeymooners and LGBTQ+ travellers from around the globe.
Taipei’s annual Pride parade attracts thousands of visitors, and it testament to Taiwan’s commitment to inclusivity.
Moving further into southeast Asia, we find Malaysia emerging as a destination for LGBTQ+ travellers. despite the country’s complex legal landscape. Bustling capital Kuala Lumpur boasts a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, with gay-friendly establishments, clubs and events.
Another noteworthy mention goes to the ever-vibrant city-state of Singapore. While Singapore still has room to improve its legal framework regarding LGBTQ+ rights, the island-nation has made great strides in embracing LGBTQ+ travellers, while Singapore’s tourism industry has recognised the importance of catering to the LGBTQ+ demographic – offering LGBTQ+-friendly accommodation, nightlife options and cultural experiences.
Australia and New Zealand deserve recognition too for their pioneering efforts in promoting LGBTQ+-friendly travel experiences. Auckland’s Big Gay Out festival has become a renowned celebration of diversity for international travellers, and this year Sydney’s iconic Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras coincided with phosting World Pride.
Both countries have implemented measures to ensure LGBTQ+ travellers feel welcome and safe – including anti-discrimination laws, LGBTQ+-friendly accommodation options, and inclusive events throughout the year.
We are very aware the region is at the forefront of LGBTQ+ matters; with all these recent developments and amazing events and festivals, we will harness that going forward with our members to make travel even more inclusive and diverse.
Region ’stepping up’
Uwern Jong, experientialist-in-chief at OutThere magazine, is another staunch advocate of inclusive tourism, and is board director of the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association.
"Coming from Pacific Asia myself, I am proud to see countries in the region making great strides to ensure greater equality for LGBTQ+ citizens and correspondingly, greater diversity, inclusion and belonging – and a more thorough welcome – for LGBTQ+ travellers.
"As politics in certain parts of the world polarises, the LGBTQ+ community is turning to the destinations they know are safe, that celebrate LGBTQ+ travellers and where local LGBTQ+ communities thrive. As such, many parts of Pacific Asia offer that comfort alongside their already attractive and vibrant experiences.
"Plus it’s encouraging to see so many private sector organisations – hotels and resorts, tour operators and other experience providers – in those countries stepping up in their service and communication to ensure travellers from the community have an amazing time in their care.”
Pacific Asia region has witnessed remarkable progress in embracing and catering to LGBTQ+ travellers. From achieving legal milestones to hosting vibrant LGBTQ+ events, countries like Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand have led the way in creating diverse and inclusive travel experiences.
I am delighted to witness these positive developments and encourage all travellers, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, to explore the beauty and warmth of the Pacific Asia region.
Chris Crampton is the Pacific Asia Travel Association’s UK and Ireland chair.
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