Niar Ibrahim Rose came to Thailand in search of knowledge; instead, she found her identity. While living in Thailand, the Indonesian scientist came out as trans and finally “accepted” herself as Niar. “And I’ve also met some Indonesians and they can be themselves here,” she said. “They don’t need to hide. They can express their love to each other and enjoy their life more than in a previous life, [in] a previous country.” Niar is one of many LGBTQIA+ people from across South-East Asia who have left their country for the more inclusive shores of Thailand. The queer caravan may only grow larger following Thailand’s historic decision to legalise same-sex marriage in June.