Taiwan has been awarded “Best LGBTQ Trend Destination” in 2024 by the popular German travel site Spartacus International Gay Guide. Editor-in-Chief Dirk Baumgartl said that in addition to legal equality, Taiwan was awarded for its progressive attitude toward anti-discrimination and support for the gay community.
Baumgartl says that despite Thailand’s popularity among the general German population, Taiwan’s gay-friendly and safe environment makes it the most suitable country for LGBTQ people to visit. He reminds the public that, in some countries, sexual minorities are viewed as criminals, and where Sharia law is implemented, same-sex sexual behavior is punishable by death. LGBTQ people must be extra cautious when traveling to protect their right to life and safety.
Spartacus is Germany’s oldest and most recognized LGBTQ travel guide. Since its publication in 1970, it has provided the LGBTQ world with global recommendations for gay-friendly hotels, restaurants, attractions guides, and lifestyle information. Since 2012, Spartacus has released an annual Gay Travel Index (GTI) which analyzes the impact of political decisions, legal changes, violence, and bans on the LGBTQ community in various countries around the world.
Spartacus’ GTI and awards not only encourage LGBTQ tourists to travel but also encourage a more comprehensive and profound public understanding that will help expand the market and promote tolerance and diversity. Baumgartel says that he believes LGBTQ tourism has gone from having great potential to becoming a part of the industry that cannot be ignored.
Taiwan was the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019, with same-sex couples able to adopt children since 2023.