Phang Nga beach romance Go Thai Be Free

Phuket

Thailand’s most famous beach escape

Phuket

Phuket is Thailand’s most popular beach destination, not only for the spectacular scenery, luxurious design resorts, stunning tropical sunsets and the warm blue Andaman Sea, but also for the vibrant nightlife at Patong Beach. The island links to the mainland by two bridges, so it is possible to arrive either by air or car.

The epicenter of LGBT+ life is concentrated in Paradise Complex offering multiple options in guesthouses, go-go bars, discos, gay saunas, restaurants and bars: from ZAG Club, which offers free street performances on a nightly basis, to Tango Club, where drag queens belt out the latest chart-toppers in six-inch heels and outrageous wigs! However, all this said, Phuket also makes a fantastic destination for gay families; not to mention honeymoons and romance. A number of properties also offer same-gender commitment and same-sex ‘wedding’ ceremonies.

Beach hopping around the island and indulging in cocktails in view of the sunset over the Andaman Sea is one of the most popular activities of visitors to Phuket. Rent a scooter or car; and motor around the island like a local, but make sure to have a good insurance, since none of the providers will offer that locally. Sample one of the many pristine beaches, each with a different vibe – including the most well known, Patong Beach – but Pansea, Surin, Kamala, Karon and Kata Beach offer stunning views, crystal-clear water and white sand.

Phuket is also a great launching point for other nearby islands. Koh Yao Noi, Koh Yao Yai, Koh Racha and Koh Hey are fab places to play Robinson Crusoe with just your backpack; or live it up in a high-end resort. Alternatively day trips to snorkel, or cruise the islands (James Bond fans will love this) are also available; as are yacht or motorboat charters. Koh Phi Phi sun-seekers can also travel from Phuket.

Inspiration

Inspiration

Spa day – Thai hotels that double as pamper palaces

Ask a hundred Thailand visitors about a quintessentially Thai experience and they’ll give you a hundred different answers: from scuba-diving off the coast of Koh Tao and exploring Chiang Mai’s legendary walking street market to partying it up on Bangkok’s rooftops! With so much to discover, even the most hard-boiled travellers will eventually tire. Fortunately,…

Four reasons every LGBT+ traveller should visit a Thai cabaret

So you’ve landed in Thailand and you’re ready to explore all the country has to offer – from the sacred sites of Sukhothai to the powdery beaches of Koh Lanta and everything in between. There is, of course, a lot to be seen in the Southeast Asian kingdom and you wouldn’t be the first visitor…

Into the blue – Thailand’s best hotels for hobby divers

There are some holiday activities you can be forgiven for not participating in, but when vacationing in Thailand, one thing is simply not an option: refraining from jumping into the sea! And why would you, anyway? After all, Southeast Asia’s original beach destination has a whopping 2,800 km of coastline to explore its crystal-clear waters…

Came to sustain: eco-friendly ideas for a greener Thai holiday

Thailand is often said to have it all. More than anything else, however, the country’s natural wonders are the stuff traveller’s dreams are made of: who wouldn’t get excited about the prospect of fresh coconut juice, ivory beaches and clear ocean waters? Beyond the kingdom’s coastline – which stretches for a remarkable 1,660 kilometres –…

Three romantic Thailand hotels for LGBT+ couples

Thailand. Few countries conjure up sweeter visions of turquoise waters, gentle hills and palm trees swaying in the ocean breeze. The kingdom’s manifold natural wonders are no less beloved than its optimistic and inviting joie de vivre. Thanks to the country’s cordial locals, Thailand embraces visitors from all walks of life, making it a dream…

Lights, camera, action: visiting Thai places you’ve seen in the movies

The making of a great film includes a clever plot, sound acting, sharp editing and more. One aspect that can make or break a motion picture is where it’s shot: amazing locations stay in our minds long after the curtain falls! Home to magnificent beaches, evergreen jungles and a certain, highly recognizable metropolis, Thailand has…

Hidden gems: less visited markets every traveller should visit in Thailand

The movies tend to have visitors believe Thailand is all about beaches, parties and the combination of the two. Ask anyone who’s actually travelled to the country, however, and they’ll tell you the most quintessentially Thai experience might just be strolling down a market!   In fact, heading down to the ‘talad’ is a vital…

4 ways to get into queer art in Thailand

Thailand is a feast for the eyes. Its beauty extends from its tropical landscapes down to the warmth of its ubiquitous smiles. Unsurprisingly, the Kingdom’s arts are reflective of this charm: its creative traditions include crafts, ceremonial music and religious depictions – think shadow puppets and the intricate murals decorating Bangkok’s Grand Palace. Adding to…

Ethical ways to meet Thailand’s gentle giants

Floppy ears, wise eyes and an iconic, grey trunk: getting up and close with Thailand’s national animal – the Asian elephant – is an enthralling highlight for many visitors to the Kingdom. Known for rocking the jungle with their shrill pawooos, the friendly pachyderms hold a special place in the hearts of animal experts and…

We are family – 5 fun-filled escapes for LGBT+ families

Known as the ‘land of smiles’, Thailand wholeheartedly embraces visitors from all walks of life. LGBT+ families looking for an unforgettable getaway in the tropics will feel welcome, too! After all, the state religion of Buddhism inspires tolerance and openness. Head for the much-loved destinations below – your kids will thank you for it!  …

Five Thai festivals and rituals to be part of

Songkran Probably Thailand’s most well know festival, this three-day celebration marks the Thai New Year. You’ve probably seen scenes of revelry as whole streets are shut to traffic to allow giant water fights. It’s a lot of fun to take part in and a spectacle unlike any other to behold. It’s also an important part…

Hype Luxury Boat Club, Phuket

HYPE concept is a beach club at sea on a big stylish Catamaran featuring comfortable daybeds, professional crew and hostesses . We offer our guests a selection of delectable finger food from traditional Thai food to Sushi and tapas. A bar with an extensive menu of fine Champagnes, spirits and cocktails. The boat is fitted and designed to…

The way to wellness in Thailand

If you’re anything like us, we love to try our best to maintain a healthy lifestyle. But with several LGBTQ friendly parties, clubs, and events in Thailand, temptation can be found everywhere. Here’s how we escape the nightlife and focus on our wellness, so we can be fierce and fabulous on the inside and outside.…

10 LGBT+ friendly destinations to visit

Bangkok is the first name that comes to mind when you think of LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) friendly places in Thailand. It is also referred to as the gay capital of Asia. The nightlife here is magical and intense to say the very least. There are plenty of attractions and activities that…

Thai cuisine is good for you

Yeah. It’s a bummer. You’ve booked your Thailand trip, but it’s the middle of winter and you’re not summer body ready. The beaches are calling your name, and with the country’s prime resorts and warm atmosphere, we know your winter layers are coming off (and then some, probably.) Most of us like to look our best…

Date ideas for adventurer couples in Thailand

Thailand is full of beautiful forests, bodies of water, skies, and people – so what better way to experience it all than to head out for a date that sends you high-flying through the scenery! Whether it’s kayaking or hiking, zip lining or snorkeling, it’s never a bad idea to get active with your honey…

Top five classic date ideas in Thailand

So you’re in Thailand with your beau, whether you’ve been together for a long time or you just met, you’ll need to go on some amazing dates! You have a whole world at your feet, but let’s begin with the basics: the wine and dine. Even if you are an adventurous duo, this classic date…

Top 3 provinces to visit during Songkran

Happy Thai New Year, each year around April. Songkran is the Thai celebration of the passing year, and the festivities extend out for days. Traditionally, you will find most businesses are closed on the day of Songkran, but the streets are filled with smiling faces, water guns, and bright colors. That being said, leave your…

The art of eight limbs

Sounds like fun, right? Watch out – it may be a little more painful than you imagine. Thai boxing, or Muay Thai, is a national sport which in recent years has become popular worldwide, both as entertainment and a form of fitness training. Also known as the art of eight limbs due to the combined…

LGBT+ welcoming hotels in Phuket

Though just about every hotel that you may consider staying at, is gay-friendly seeing as Thailand itself is an extremely open and welcoming country to all, there are certain ones that may sway your vote more than others. Many of which offer amenities and options that are specifically designed with gay travelers in mind. The…

Spoilt for choice in Phuket

I’ve just come back from a long weekend in Phuket.  To be honest I was a little surprised how much I enjoyed it.  I had a preconceived notion that Phuket would be too crowded and touristy for me.  And whilst there are areas which definitely cater to the masses of tourists that descend on the…

Thai massage: Ultimate healing power

After far too much complaining about our sore necks and back muscles after a grueling workout, my American friend and I knew it was time for the ultimate healing treatment: a Thai massage.  To share an interesting tidbit, I’m Thai, but I’d never had a Thai massage. As the host led us to our rooms, nervousness…

LGBT+ welcoming hotels & resorts

LGBT+ welcoming hotels and resorts

Events & offers

Events and offers

Hype Luxury Boat Club, Phuket

HYPE concept is a beach club at sea on a big stylish Catamaran featuring comfortable daybeds, professional crew and hostesses . We offer our guests a selection of delectable finger food from traditional Thai food to Sushi and tapas. A bar with an extensive menu of fine Champagnes, spirits and cocktails. The boat is fitted and designed to…

April: Phuket Pride

Phuket Pride Week was founded in 1999 and is highlight in the LGBT+ calendar. 2019 will celebrate 10 years since its was first put-on. Most of the festival activities take place on Patong beach beach-volleyball tournaments,  beauty pageants, beach and block parties and cabaret shows; as well as a stunning procession with the LGBT+ community…

September/October: Phuket Vegetarian Festival

If you happen to be in the south of Thailand in the first half of October, then you may get the chance to see one of the most shocking festivals on the Thai calendar, the Phuket vegetarian festival.  But be warned, this isn’t for the faint of heart…you’ll encounter sites far more stomach turning than…

November: Loi Krathong

Well, you little devil, if you’re planning to vacation in Thailand at the end of November, you’re in luck literally and figuratively. Not only will you get to witness Loi Krathong, one of the most picturesque festivals of the year, but you can also join in and float away your anger, grudges and defilements of…

Explore another fabulous destination