Travel News

Taiwan hosts Asia's biggest gay pride

Monday, 15th September 2008

Written by Francesca Cookney

Taiwan saw thousands flock to its bustling capital this week to mark the start of the 2008 Taipei Gay Carnival. With up to 20,000 visitors expected in total, Taiwan is officially the proud purveyor of Asia's biggest Pride.

Taipei is home to the world's tallest building, Taipei 101

Taipei is a young city; with barely more than a century since it began to emerge from its roots in rice and vegetable farming in the valley of the Danshui River, it is a mere teenager compared to its counterparts elsewhere in Asia.

And like a teenager it is bursting with energy, eager to prove itself as the most exciting, the most lively, and not to mention the most rebellious against its elders. Taiwan is undoubtedly one of the more tolerant nations of South East Asia, taking a positive stance towards the gay community, and showing willingness to discuss the introduction of same-sex marriage.

Since 2003, its Gay Carnival has blossomed, even attracting politicians to speak at the opening ceremony of the Pride parade. In 2007, Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) presidential candidate Ma Ying-jeou used the festival to put forward a pledge on the protection of LGBT rights.

This year's festival sees the opening of gay shops and book stalls as well as music, seminars and all-round partying. Taipei Gay Carnival kicked off on September 12 with the Gay Pride parade scheduled for Septmber 27.