These 8 Countries Are the Safest Havens for LGBTQ+ Couples Around the World (3 of 5)

4. Sweden

Sweden doesn’t need to shout about its inclusivity—it’s built into the culture. Same-sex activity has been legal since 1944, and same-sex marriage has been law since 2009. In Equaldex rankings, Sweden scores high in both legal protections and social acceptance.

Stockholm is a beacon of queer culture with an annual Pride festival that draws thousands. But even rural Sweden, often overlooked, is welcoming. Many queer travelers describe it as one of the few places where they felt truly at ease, even off the beaten path.

Take a romantic escape to Vrångö, a serene, car-free island filled with sandy beaches, or explore the medieval charm of Örebro—either way, you’ll feel safe and seen.

3. Thailand

Thailand has long been admired for its relaxed, accepting vibe. The national motto could easily be “live and let love,” thanks to the widespread Buddhist belief in compassion and non-judgment.

Thai pop culture also plays a huge role. “Boy Love” dramas—romantic series featuring male-male relationships—have become wildly popular across Asia, breaking stereotypes and building empathy. In real life, same-sex couples are visible in all corners of society, from street vendors to news anchors.

Equal marriage is on the horizon, but already, the everyday experience of queer life in Thailand is refreshingly normalized.