Asia is a place of contrast and colour, and it’s full of travel potential for LGBTQ+ travellers. Whether you’re planning your first escape or you’re a seasoned pro when it comes to gay holidays to Asia, this guide is here to help you plan the kind of trip you’ll actually remember. We’re going beyond the typical rainbow flag sticker on the hotel reception door. At Wide Awake Holidays, we believe that “gay-friendly” should mean genuinely inclusive, not just tolerant. This is your space, your trip, and your comfort comes first.
From the beaches of Thailand to the urban cool of Tokyo, we’re bringing you the best resorts, legal insights, and personal touches that make a big difference. Oh—and just so you know—we don’t only help with Asia.
Thailand: Where Beach Life Meets Nightlife
Thailand is one of the most popular spots for gay holidays to Asia—and for good reason. The country offers a warm welcome, world-class resorts, and a nightlife scene that’s known globally. It also blends culture with relaxation in a way few places can match.
Best Resorts in Thailand
1. Kata Rocks, Phuket
An upscale hillside resort with sea-view villas, private pools, and an on-site spa. Great for couples.
2. SALA Samui Chaweng Beach Resort
Boutique luxury with a beachfront vibe on Koh Samui. Think private plunge pools and beachside dining.
3. The Siam Hotel, Bangkok
An urban resort with old-school glamour and riverside views. Perfect for a city break with style.
Ask us about our current offers on Thailand resorts for gay holidays to Asia.
How Gay Friendly is Thailand?
- Legal status: Homosexuality has been legal since 1956
- Marriage equality: Same-sex marriage is not yet legal, but civil partnerships are progressing
- Anti-discrimination: Protections exist under gender equality laws, though enforcement varies
- Workplace rights: Employment protections are limited
- Age of consent: Equal at 15 years
- Public opinion: Generally accepting, especially in tourist areas
Taiwan: Asia’s Legal Trailblazer
Taiwan is the first country in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage, making it one of the most progressive destinations for LGBTQ+ travellers. Taipei Pride is the biggest in Asia and reflects real support from the wider community.
Best Resorts in Taiwan
1. Hotel Proverbs Taipei
A sleek, centrally located stay with contemporary design and rooftop pool.
2. The Lalu, Sun Moon Lake
Luxury in a lakeside setting. Think hot springs, mountain views, and architectural calm.
3. Just Sleep @ Ximending
A fun and budget-friendly hotel in Taipei’s gay village, ideal for younger travellers or solo explorers.
Let us know if you’d like current rates for Taiwan accommodation tailored to gay holidays to Asia.
How Gay Friendly is Taiwan?
- Legal status: Homosexuality has been legal since 1987
- Marriage equality: Legalised in 2019
- Anti-discrimination: Legal protections in place
- Workplace rights: LGBT-inclusive employment policies are enforced
- Age of consent: Equal at 16 years
- Public opinion: Widely supportive, especially among younger generations
Japan: Respectful, Private, and Culturally Rich
Japan may not yet offer marriage equality, but it’s still one of the safest and most respectful places for gay travellers. Public displays of affection aren’t common—whatever your sexuality—but private acceptance is widespread. Tokyo has a thriving gay district, and Kyoto offers peace and beauty.
Best Resorts in Japan
1. Park Hyatt Tokyo
Iconic views, impeccable service, and a setting that featured in Lost in Translation.
2. Hoshinoya Kyoto
A riverside retreat that combines traditional ryokan elements with modern comfort.
3. The Knot Sapporo
Fun and affordable, located near nightlife with a stylish, creative vibe.
Ask us about bespoke itineraries for Japan as part of your gay holidays to Asia.
How Gay Friendly is Japan?
- Legal status: Homosexuality has been legal since 1880
- Marriage equality: Not yet legal, but local recognition is growing
- Anti-discrimination: No national protections, though local areas are introducing them
- Workplace rights: Vary between regions and employers
- Age of consent: Unequal in some jurisdictions, but generally equal at 13 (though this is often overruled by local laws)
- Public opinion: Mixed, with growing support in urban centres
Vietnam: Progress and Privacy
Vietnam is emerging as a favourite for couples looking for relaxing gay holidays to Asia. While not as publicly open as Thailand, Vietnam is legally permissive and quietly welcoming. The hospitality industry is increasingly aware of LGBTQ+ travellers’ needs.
Best Resorts in Vietnam
1. The Reverie Saigon
Luxury at its most lavish, right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
2. Fusion Resort Phu Quoc
A beachfront escape where every room comes with a private pool and spa treatments are included.
3. Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort
Ideal for wellness seekers, located near the charming Old Town.
Let us know if you’d like to see offers for Vietnam resorts that work well for gay holidays to Asia.
How Gay Friendly is Vietnam?
- Legal status: Homosexuality has never been criminalised
- Marriage equality: Same-sex marriages are not legally recognised but are not banned
- Anti-discrimination: No specific laws, but social tolerance is increasing
- Workplace rights: Limited formal protections
- Age of consent: Equal at 18 years
- Public opinion: Neutral to positive, especially among younger people
Bali (Indonesia): A Mixed Experience with Beautiful Rewards
Indonesia overall is not LGBTQ+ friendly, but Bali is a rare exception. With its strong tourism base and relative cultural openness, Bali has become a beacon for LGBTQ+ travellers in the region.
Best Resorts in Bali
1. W Bali – Seminyak
Chic beachfront resort with bold design, pool parties, and walkable access to nightlife.
2. The Udaya Resort & Spa, Ubud
A romantic retreat surrounded by jungle and rice terraces.
3. Maya Sanur Resort & Spa
Seaside sophistication with a peaceful, upscale vibe.
Reach out for offers tailored to Bali if you’re considering gay holidays to Asia.
How Gay Friendly is Bali?
- Legal status: Homosexuality is legal, though not widely accepted nationally
- Marriage equality: Not recognised
- Anti-discrimination: No official protections
- Workplace rights: Not formally protected
- Age of consent: Equal at 18 years
- Public opinion: More tolerant in Bali than the rest of Indonesia, especially in tourism hubs
Jamie says: “We speak to travellers every day who just want to feel safe, respected, and free to be themselves. That’s why Wide Awake Holidays isn’t just about destinations—it’s about personal freedom and thoughtful planning. We care about the details, so you can focus on the joy.”
Planning Gay Holidays to Asia with Confidence
Choosing the right country matters, but choosing the right support is what makes a trip memorable. That’s where we come in.
At Wide Awake Holidays, we tailor every holiday to your preferences. Whether it’s finding a resort that truly welcomes you, ensuring transfers are smooth, or just sharing insider tips on where to go out—we’re with you all the way.
You won’t find off-the-shelf packages here. You’ll find personal service, real understanding, and the reassurance of Protected Trust Services.
Seeking Gay Holidays to Asia? Let’s Plan Your Next Adventure
Whether you’re ready to head to Tokyo, touch down in Taipei, or simply browse ideas from the comfort of your sofa, we’re here when you need us.
Call us on 01495 400947 or use our holiday enquiry form to get started.
Your holiday should be about you. Let’s make it that way.