When it comes to ladyboys , Thailand can be called the ladyboy nation in Asia. Though the Philippines has a big population of ladyboys, it comes second to Thailand. Ladyboys are definitely part of the social landscape in this country because Thai society is open and accepting towards them. When we talk about the people of Thailand and how they respond to ladyboys, we can honestly say that Thailand wins at being the most accepting and tolerant in the world.

What comes to your mind when you think of Thailand? I know what you will say. You will probably tell me about paradise beaches, palm trees, good food, temples, Buddha statues and scooters. Then, with a bit of irony and humour, you will mention go — go bars and ladyboys. In Thailand ladyboys are everywhere: in town halls, shops, on the streets, in schools, temples and restaurants.

What makes them different from many others is that both are transgender: Yollie, who identifies as female, was born in the body of a man, while Sam, who identifies as male, the body of a woman. Now, two years after beginning their relationship, the couple are fighting to have their gender identities officially recognized so they can marry and consider adopting a child. But the rights of the transgender community are far from being equal to those of other men and women. For starters, they are not even legally recognized. They cannot marry because unions between a transgender person and another person are considered same-sex marriages and have no legal validity in Thailand.