Many LGBT+ couples went to the Jewellery Trade Centre (JTC) on Silom Road in Bang Rak district today, to register their union on Valentine’s Day.

They were among about 800 couples who signed up online to express their wish to register their marriage at the Bang Rak district office, but the site for registration this year was moved to the JTC, which is more convenient and spacious.

Couples in love prefer to register their relationships at the Bangrak district office, as ‘Bangrak’ signifies the land of love.

Rampai Meela and her LGBTQ+ partner say that they are very happy to have their union registered, even though it is not yet legally binding in Thailand, pending the passage of the marriage equality bill by the parliament.

Bang Rak district office is the favourite for registration because the name of the district contains “Rak”, the Thai word for love. Nonetheless, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration has instructed all the other 49 district offices to provide a similar service to all couples who want to tie the knot today.