“Drag Race” Star Pangina Heals To Launch Lonely Planet’s Latest LGBTQ+ Travel Guide In Sydney!
BRAND: Lonely Planet | Instagram | X | Website
MODEL: Pangina Heals | Instagram | X #sponsored
Register for FREE to attend the Pangina Heals book signing event here.
Uncover 50+ queer-friendly destinations across the globe, packed with heart, soul, and a dash of fabulous flair. And see Pangina Heals, author of the chapter on Thailand, at an exclusive book signing at Dymocks, 424-430 George St in Sydney from 12 noon, February 28th. Bookings are FREE but essential here
When international travel was at its peak before the pandemic, travel spending from queer people reached US$218 billion worldwide. By 2030, experts predict that travel spending by queer travellers could reach US$568.5 billion. (*Globetrender). In response to this thriving market, Lonely Planet has launched a definitive and exciting new guide, The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide by Alicia Valenski.
Authoring the chapter on Thailand is Pangina Heals, drag performer, singer, and TV personality, who has made a major impact in the global drag scene through her innovative performances and bold presence. Rising to fame as a host on RuPaul’s Drag Race: Thailand, she quickly became known for her wit, style, and captivating charm. Her international fame grew through her lip-sync assassin appearance on RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars 6, guest judging on Drag Race Philippines, and her appearance on Drag Race: UK vs The World.
A trailblazer for Asian queens, she uses her platform to promote diversity, advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and elevate Thai drag culture. Beyond television, she is recognised for her fashion-forward aesthetic, high-energy performances, and music career, blending traditional Thai elements with modern drag.
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This vibrant, inclusive LGBTQ+ Travel Guide is the ultimate resource for travellers seeking destinations that feel welcoming and authentic. With a unique, community-to-community perspective, it serves as a global queer concierge, connecting readers to places where the community flourishes not only during Pride but throughout the year.
“We recognised the queer community was looking for a guide that understands them, especially given the challenges they continue to face when travelling. By example, Booking.com recently revealed 59% of LGBTQ+ travellers have experienced discrimination when on holiday.” Comments Chris Zeiher, Lonely Planet’s Snr Director, Trade Sales And Marketing.
“Creating a guide that is community-led, inclusive and a little bit surprising in terms of destinations featured felt absolutely essential.”
More Than a Travel Guide, It’s a Love Letter to the LGBTQ+ Community
Featuring over 50 destinations including dynamic cities, unexpected gems, and cozy hideaways each handpicked for their queer-friendly vibes, this guidebook is designed for the community by members of the community, and is brimming with insights, insider secrets, and lovingly curated recommendations by LGBTQ+ locals.
- Find out about what ticks and clicks in Thailand from the legendary Pan Pan Narkprasert, also known as Pangina Heals (she/her when in drag).
- Queer bookseller Mairi Oliver(she/her) introduces you to another side of Edinburgh, Scotland
- Lauren Aadland (she/they/her/their) and her wife, Lisa Halling-Aadland (she/her) show-off Stockholm, Sweden in a different light.
- Or get the queer vibe on Melbourne, Australia from writer and comedian Aurelia St Clair(she/her).
Forget the mainstream itineraries and think lesser-known queer-owned cafes, artsy neighbourhoods, and wellness escapes you’d only find through a friend. Many of the destinations and locations are not so obvious- which makes for a refreshing outlook and thought-provoking options. Maybe you haven’t considered places like Valletta in Malta, Saugatuck & Douglas or Richmond in the US as queer friendly destinations. Or Melbourne over Sydney?
Each section is packed with gorgeous photos, easy-to-follow maps, and invaluable tips for seasoned travellers or first-timers, all presented with a sense of warmth and camaraderie. It’s the book that says, “We’ve got you, darling,” every step of the way.
Highlights of The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide:
- 50+ LGBTQ+ destinations around the world: USA, Europe, Africa, South America, Asia, Canada, Australia, and more—because being queer shouldn’t limit where you travel.
- Community to community insights and hidden gems from LGBTQ+ locals, showcasing the best spots for dining, arts, relaxation, and mingling beyond the typical Pride celebrations.
- Intimate interviews with diverse voices from the community, each sharing their go-to places and personal stories of love, resilience, and pride.
- LGBTQ+ travel essentials and travel recourses including a Worldwide Pride Calendar, LGBTQ+ travel agencies, tours, publications and apps
if you’re a curious, thrill-seeking queer traveller ready to celebrate community in every corner of the globe, or simply an armchair wanderer dreaming of places where queer joy shines, Lonely Planet’s LGBTQ+ Travel Guide invites you to pack your bags—or your imagination—and discover a world that welcomes you with open arms.
The LGBTQ+ Travel Guide by Lonely Planet, $44.99 is now available at shop.lonelyplanet.com and leading bookstores nationally.
About the Author: Alicia Valenski
Alicia Valenski, a queer, neurodivergent travel writer, brings her own journey to these pages, with a touch of cheek and lots of heart. From discovering hidden safe spaces to navigating the challenges of queer travel, Alicia’s firsthand experiences offer a safe space for readers to connect, dream, and feel seen. She reminds us that exploring the world should feel like stepping into a friend’s arms—and that LGBTQ+ travellers, of all identities, deserve nothing less.
About Lonely Planet
Lonely Planet has been guiding travel for over 50 years with a core belief that travel is for everyone.
A trusted voice in travel guidance, Lonely Planet is part of the Red Ventures portfolio, and has been dedicated to providing actionable inspiration for every kind of traveler since 1973,
Lonely Planet’s mission is to help more people from more backgrounds experience the joy of going places. Over the past 50 years Lonely Planet has printed over 150 million guidebooks covering 221 countries as well as countless other titles showcasing the wonders of the world for travellers of all types.
Lonely Planet reaches hundreds of millions of travellers each year online and across social channels helping them unlock amazing experiences. Lonely Planet can be found on lonelyplanet.com, mobile, video, social media, and in 14 languages, armchair and lifestyle books, ebooks and more.
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