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Solo female travel: the best destinations to visit in Asia

Aug 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Our writer, Zinara, lighting butter lamps on a recent solo trip to Bhutan. Zinara Rathnayake for Lonely Planet

I may be biased as an Asian, but this vast continent of different countries, cities, cultures and cuisines, hosts some of the most incredible travel experiences, blending modern infrastructure with old-world charm. And traveling solo offers great freedom to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and make lifelong friendships. Of course, as a woman traveling alone, I do need to use common sense wherever I go. 

During my slow travels across Asia, mostly focusing on its culture and food, with a mix of outdoors and nature, I’ve often felt safe and welcomed by different communities I feel grateful to be visiting. 

Here are six Asian destinations that I think are great for solo female travelers, and two I’m planning to visit soon.

1. Luang Prabang, Laos

I consider myself lucky to have been to Luang Prabang several times to have grown familiar with the UNESCO-listed town’s slow rhythm of life and to make friends who take me to local BBQ evenings. When I recently spent several weeks in Luang Prabang on assignment, it easily became one of my favorite solo travel experiences. Trust me, there’s hardly anything more magical than watching the sun go down over the Mekong River, either on a boat tour or from one of the cafes that line the waterfront. 

Luang Prabang is tourist-centered and locals are extremely friendly, outgoing and chatty, which makes it easier to make friends. I felt completely safe walking alone in the old town, even at night, and you can cycle, hop on a tuk-tuk or book a Loca (Laos’ ride-hailing app) taxi to nearby villages. 

Some of my favorite things to do include swimming in the Kuang Si Falls, and climbing Mount Phou Si for sunset. I also did the most interactive food tour here with Lao chef Somsack Sengta at the morning market and took a ferry across the Mekong to Lao Pottery House , to see how local potters preserve an age-old tradition. 

If you’ve extra days, cycle across the Nam Khan River to Ban Xang Khong village, to see generational artisans at work, crafting handmade paper or weaving silk. 

2. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai is one of Thailand’s popular tourist destinations, but it’s a far cry from Bangkok ’s daily hubbub. Located in the northern countryside surrounded by forested trails, waterfalls and terraced rice paddies, Chiang Mai is a vibrant blend of Buddhist temples, a thriving coffee scene, food markets and welcoming locals who are ready to help you with patience while you stumble over common, everyday Thai phrases . 

Once you are done exploring the ancient town – the center of the city – book yourself a fun cooking class, they usually include an introductory market tour. You will learn how to whip up a bowl of khao soi (a coconut curry noodle dish from Northern Thailand) while making new friends. Other highlights include exploring the Bang Kang Wat artist village (it’s also a great place to base yourself); hiking up the Monk’s Trail to Wat Phra Doi Suthep at sunrise; day-tripping to Thailand’s highest mountain Doi Inthanon ; aimlessly meandering through the weekend markets like Jing Jai where local artists sell ceramics, clothes, handmade notebooks and stone jewelry. 

3. Kerala, India

Many people are wary of venturing into India . Of course, with a population of over 1.4 billion, it’s crowded, chaotic and overwhelming for even the most seasoned travelers. But it’s also extremely diverse from north to south and east to west, and visiting India will be a memorable experience if you know where to go. Some of my friends started their solo journeys in Kerala in South India, and after several trips to this tropical state beaming with friendly people, a cuisine loaded with fresh seafood and spicy, coconutty dishes cooked with seasonal produce like jackfruit, and famous backwaters, it still remains one of my favorite places.

The best – and the safest – way to explore Kerala is to stay in homestays with local families that you can find on Kerala Tourism – remember to do a quick online search and read reviews to see whether a place suits you. You are also guaranteed to be showered with hospitality that’s hard to better elsewhere. I fondly remember the week I spent in Aymanam, the village of Booker Prize-winning author Arundhati Roy, boating through the backwaters where pink lotus bloom early in the morning and being fed fried fish with every meal by my host grandma. Take your time to wander through the historic Fort Kochi ; chase monsoon-fed waterfalls in interior jungles; and watch sunsets in the beach town Varkala . Remember to dress modestly to respect the local customs. 

I met many other solo female travelers during my trip to Bhutan and almost all of them had one thing in common: Bhutan was their first solo travel destination. According to the country’s foreign tourist policy, guides are mandatory for most parts. Since all guides and drivers are vetted by the Bhutanese government, it makes it easier, safer and more rewarding to explore this somewhat mysterious Himalayan Buddhist kingdom surrounded by temples, fluttering prayer flags and the aroma of burning incense.

Almost everyone who visits Bhutan hike to Paro Taktsang or the Tiger’s Nest, a sacred site nestled on a dramatic cliff. But don’t skip subtropical valleys like Punakha, where you can visit the Chimi Lhakhang – it’s also called the Temple of Fertility. In Phobjikha, a glacial valley where black-necked cranes from Tibet arrive in hundreds during the winter months, you can tour the 17th-century Gangtey Monastery with ornate wood carvings and Buddhist imagery.

For a more local experience, stay at Kinley Choden’s Mendrelgang Homestay to experience the Bhutanese love for chili peppers. It’s the country’s indispensable vegetable and almost everything in Bhutan is cooked with chili, like the national dish ema datshi (chilli and cheese).  

5. The Maldives

Most people think the only way to explore the Maldives is to stay on a resort island – or that it’s only a honeymoon destination. This is, in fact, not true. While I sometimes love a vacation where I can pamper myself, my favorite way to experience the Maldives is to stay on a local island. On your solo trip to the Maldives you could split your time between a resort and a local guesthouse. 

There are 188 inhabited islands in the Maldives, and many of them now have guesthouses and boutique hotels that are more budget-friendly than the well-known resorts. My favorite is Dhigurah , a stunningly beautiful island with a long sandbank on Alif Dhaal Atoll. Home to whale sharks year-round, it’s a great place to explore the marine world with local guides. You should also go on a sunset fishing tour on a dhoni (a traditional wooden vessel) and cycle through the island to see the Maldivian life where fishermen offload their daily catch on the shore. Local islands now have designated powdery-sand beaches where you can slip into your swimwear, but remember to dress modestly, and cover your knees and shoulders when you are in public spaces. 

6. Singapore

Singapore is a great connectivity hub in the region that everyone almost just uses as a pitstop, but I recommend you stay a few days to explore one of Asia’s most economically developed countries. Ride the efficient MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) to get around; you could also walk and cycle as it’s completely safe, clean and convenient. 

There’s plenty to do here, from feasting on hawker stall food in Chinatown and visiting vibrant Hindu temples in Little India to shopping at famous Orchard Road , snapping photos of the Peranakan terrace houses and visiting the Marina Bay Sands . Don’t forget to grab a spot, lie down and watch the light show at Gardens by the Bay at night when these Instagram-famed architectural greenhouses come to life with illuminating colors. If you are on a budget, stay in hostels to cut costs. 

On my bucket list…

Ever since I saw a few TikTok videos of Jiufen , a charming old town with winding narrow alleyways lined up with teahouses and boutiques, I’ve been a fan of Taiwan. Yes, it’s not Asia’s most famous destination – it’s possibly underrated – but Taiwan is definitely on top of my bucket list for incredible food, scenic cycling routes, eclectic night markets and cool hangouts like the Huashan 1914 Creative Park . There’s also more to do beyond Taipei , like visiting the stunning Taroko Gorge or Tainan with historic temples and old streets. And with an efficient train system, the country seems perfect for my slow travels.

Uzbekistan 

In recent years, Uzbekistan has emerged as a cultural tourist destination with historic architecture, bustling bazaars and a thriving art and crafts scene that includes ceramics, pottery and ancient silk paper making. I’ve seen my fellow writer friends travel through the country with so much ease while having the time of their lives. They’ve all told me that Uzbeks are some of the most welcoming people, who’d not shy away from inviting you over for a meal.

In terms of culture, there’s so much to see and do from Tashkent ’s markets and Samarkand ’s Registan Square – the center of Timurid Renaissance – to tasting local plov , Uzbekistan’s national rice and meat dish. I can’t wait to travel through the historic Silk Road cities of Bukhara and Khiva and navigate Tashkent’s subway, stopping at some of its remarkable metro stations.

This article was first published Sep 10, 2019 and updated Aug 7, 2024.

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26 Best Places For Solo Travel In Asia

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Looking for the best places for solo travel in Asia ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Planning a solo trip to Asia can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, as there are so many great destinations to choose from.

To help narrow down your search, I reached out to some of my favorite travel bloggers to get their top picks for where to enjoy solo female travel in Asia. I’ve also my personal favorite solo travel destination in Asia in spot #1.

Whether you’re looking to visit historic temples, relax on beautiful beaches, summit impressive mountains, or immerse yourself in local culture in a safe place, you can find it in the Asia solo travel guide below.

From India to Southeast Asia to Indonesia and beyond, discover some of the best places to travel alone in Asia.

⏳Short on time? Here are some quick tips for traveling solo in Asia: ☔ Safety: Whether you’re traveling alone in Asia or elsewhere, it’s smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves . 🏨  Accommodation: This map  can help you pinpoint top-rated and budget-friendly accommodation in the Asian cities you’re visiting solo. It’s currently set to the Kuta in Bali, but you can easily change it to your intended destination in Asia. 💸 Save Money: Klook Pass , which helps you save big while getting access to numerous activities with one pass 🎉 Experiences: Klook (very popular in Asia), GetYourGuide , and Viator 🥘 Culinary Experiences: EatWith (cooking classes, food tours & dining in local homes) 🏥  Travel Insurance:   SafetyWing (budget-friendly) & World Nomads (robust) 📞  Staying Connected:  Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

Explore The Best Places For Solo Travel In Asia With Confidence [Free Course]

But first, before we discuss some of the best Asian cities for solo travel , here is an invite to grab a seat in my  free Savvy Solo Traveler E-Course .

The 6-day course is designed to help you feel confident about booking your first solo trip and exploring the world alone.

Lessons include:

• Common solo travel fears and how to overcome them
• How to choose your perfect solo trip
• How to tell loved ones you’re hitting the road solo
• Mentally preparing for your solo journey without losing your mind
• Essential steps for staying safe on a solo trip
• How to take amazing solo selfies

Once you’ve  grabbed your seat , read on to dive into the solo travel guide .

25 Best Places For Solo Travel In Asia

Without further adieu, let’s go over some of the top places to visit when traveling to Asia alone .

Keep in mind that this list of the safest Asian countries for solo female travelers is in no way exhaustive.

Feel free to share your own recommendations for solo travel in Asia as where as your tips for how to travel solo successfully in the comments below!

1. Thimphu, Bhutan

If you’re looking for safe places to travel alone in Asia , Bhutan should be at the top of your list. In general, the country experiences very little crime, and even petty theft and pickpocketing are uncommon — though, of course, you should always keep general solo travel safety tips in mind.

Along with stunning Himalayan scenery, your trip to Bhutan will likely include lots of temple visits, cultural experiences, and some of the world’s best hiking .

Most visitors to Bhutan begin their journey in Thimphu, the country’s capital. There are many interesting things to do in Thimphu , from visiting one of the world’s largest Buddhas at Buddha Point to seeing the national animal (the takin) at Motithang Takin Preserve to taking a spiritual walk at the National Memorial Chorten.

Of course, as Bhutan is a very remote destination, you’ll also want to add other stops to your itinerary. A few of my favorite experiences during my solo trip to Bhutan included:

• hiking to Bhutan’s breathtaking Tiger’s Nest in Paro
• hiking around Jakar , the “Switzerland of Bhutan”
• seeing rare black-necked cranes in the Phobjikha Valley
• visiting the Lobesa District of Punakha , a village that worships penises as well as an interesting Buddhist Master known as the Divine Madman

While Bhutan should be at the top of any list sharing unforgettable and safe Asian countries to travel alone, the one downside is the price; you’ll need to pay a daily Bhutan visa fee , which can be expensive when traveling solo.

That being said, if you can swing the cost, you’ll be rewarded with an experience unlike any other in one of the best places for solo travel in Asia.

-Jessie Festa of Jessie on a Journey

Thimphu Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Thimphu tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Thimphu hotels .

2. Osh, Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world, and Osh—the second-largest city in the country—is a great place for solo travelers in Asia to base themselves.

Not only is Kyrgyzstan safe, but Osh is a perfect starting point for getting acquainted with the destination through experiences like walking tours and cooking classes before leaving for a few days or weeks for more adventurous tourism.

For instance, you’re only about 3 hours from Sary Mogol Village and about 3.5 hours from Tulpar Kul Lake, both of which are popular with horseback riders and hikers. During my own 2 week Kyrgyzstan itinerary , I used Tulpar Kul Lake as a jumping-off point for a 4-day trek through the Alay and Pamir Mountains.

I also had enough time to visit destinations and attractions farther away from Osh, like Fairytale Canyon Skazka , Issyk Kul Lake, and Barskoon Waterfall.

Something else neat about traveling solo through Kyrgyzstan is it’s easy to meet people. Not only can you stay in hostels in Osh, but typically the yurt camps and guesthouses you’ll book in more rural destinations have communal dining.

Finally, because Kyrgyzstan isn’t super touristy, it’s easy to immerse yourself in the culture authentically while also connecting with locals. Just note that most Kyrgyz people don’t speak English, so having a driver or guide—or at least utilizing an app like Google Translate—will likely be necessary.

Osh Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Osh tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Osh hotels .

3. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Is solo travel fun ? It certainly can be, especially if you visit this popular destination. Situated at the foot of Doi Suthep Mountain in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a beloved destination for travelers and Thai food connoisseurs alike and one of the best places to solo travel in Asia.

The city is surrounded by an ancient wall and a moat that encloses a lively old town full of cute cafes and fun bars — including a live jazz venue.

For solo travelers, this is an ideal city to visit because of the number of fun adventures that are available — such as visiting an elephant sanctuary like Elephant Nature Park and hiking to one of the seven hill tribe villages of Northern Thailand (and possibly doing a homestay!).

Another fun trip is to take a songthaew (red truck taxi) and head up the mountain to visit the sacred Wat Phra That Doi Suthep Temple that overlooks the entire city. If you enjoy hiking, you can also reach the temple via the Monk’s Trail.

With Chiang Mai being such a big hub for travelers and backpackers, the city is loaded with hostels that not only serve as an inexpensive place to sleep but also a fun spot to socialize.

Chiang Mai is also the jumping-off point for people heading to party in Pai and others that are planning to ride scooters around the scenic Mai Hong Song Loop. You might even consider joining one of these groups.

This all being said, the top reason for solo travelers to visit Chiang Mai is the food. Northern Thai cuisine is unlike anything you will try in the rest of Thailand and this region is the culinary center of the country.

The best food in the city can be tried at small shophouse restaurants around the old town and at the amazing street food markets that are set up each night near the north and south gates. Delicious!

Chiang Mai is truly an incredible destination for solo travel in Southeast Asia.

– Gabriel from Chef Travel Guide

Chiang Mai Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Chiang Mai tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Chiang Mai hotels .

4. Vientiane, Laos

Travelling Asia alone is a unique experience, and the capital of Laos, Vientiane, is one of the best solo travel destinations in Asia boasting exciting architecture, culture, history, safety, and affordable living. 

The city is captivating with its cultural and colonial buildings, museums, and pagodas.

Solo travelers in Laos will find plenty of things to do in Vientiane, too, whether you are a city explorer, history lover, or outdoorsy person. 

The first stop on anyone’s Vientiane itinerary should be Pha That Luang — a 148-foot-high stupa covered in gold that is the most sacred monument in the country, with two adjacent temples.

Patuxai Victory Monument, also known as the Victory Monument, is a replica of the French Arc de Triomphe, representing the colonial history of Lao. Its ceilings and walls are adorned with gorgeous paintings of goddesses, gods, and other critical cultural elements. And those who enjoy panoramic views can even walk to the top for some sweeping views of the city. 

History lovers can visit the Lao National Museum to learn more about the city’s history from prehistoric to present.

And not far from the city lies quite an interesting and impressive Buddha Park with fascinating giant Hindu and Buddhist mythological statues. 

Like elsewhere in Southeast Asia, night markets are a fun way to spend evenings in Vientiane by wandering the stalls of various vendors and trying local street food. 

Finally, another reason Vientiane is great for solo travelers is that it’s relatively small for a capital city, with the main tourist action happening in the central part consisting of three primary roads parallel to the Mekong River. All the accommodation options are located within these areas too. 

-Baia from Red Fedora Diary

Vientiane Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Vientiane tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Vientiane hotels .

5. Bajawa, Indonesia 

Bajawa is a cute off-the-beaten-path town in the middle of Flores Island in Indonesia. It’s a great destination if you are an experienced solo traveler who’s up for adventure and is not afraid to stray away from the tourist trail.

What makes Bajawa extraordinary is that it’s one of only six matriarchal societies in the world!

In Bajawa, women rule and are head of the clan. This means that when a couple gets married the man moves in with the woman and his life will be devoted to her and her family. If he makes a mistake, like cheating, he will be kicked out instantly, and all the possessions they have together will go to the woman and her family. 

There are some truly amazing things to do in and around Bajawa. If you’re visiting Bajawa in the low season, chances are you will have these places all to yourself. It’s the perfect place to experience that feeling of total freedom — one of the many benefits of traveling alone — if that’s what you’re after on your solo trip to Asia. 

Bajawa is all about traditional culture and natural beauty. Places to visit in and around Bajawa are the traditional villages of Bena and Luba if you want to experience local Ngada culture, Ogi Waterfall if you are a fan of waterfalls, and the Inerie Volcano that dominates Bajawa’s skyline.

For a good view of the Inerie Volcano itself, go to Wolobobo Hill — where you can enjoy a coffee after catching the sunrise from a viewing platform. If you’re an avid hiker, summiting Mount Inerie will take about six to seven hours round-trip.

Tired after hiking the volcano? Make your way to the Malanage Hot Springs and soak in the pleasant waters at the confluence of a hot and cold river in the middle of the forest. 

The best way to get around Bajawa is by motorbike. If you don’t dare to drive yourself, it’s also possible to hire an ojek (motorcycle taxi) or arrange a day trip with a car and a driver.

A great place to stay in Bajawa is Cinnamon House and for the best food in town head to Lucas Restaurant .

-Annelies from Travelers&Dreamers

Bajawa Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Bajawa tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Bajawa hotels .

6. Kolkata, India

Kolkata — India’s “City of Joy” — is a beautiful destination and one of the best places for solo travel in Asia.

Home to historic neighborhoods, bustling bazaars, remarkable architecture, and plenty of flea markets, it is a city full of culture everywhere you go. It is also one of the safest places in India to visit on your own .

Start your trip with an early morning visit to the Victoria Memorial Hall and spend some time wandering in the expansive gardens surrounding it. Victoria Memorial Hall is actually inside of Maidan, a giant greenspace with picnic spots, hiking trails, sports fields, racetracks, historic landmarks, and more.

The greenspace is also home to the massive St. Paul’s Cathedral, known for its stunning Gothic architecture. Nearby, you can grab lunch along buzzing Park Street.

Once you’re done exploring, hail yourself an iconic yellow taxi and head to North Kolkata for vibrant markets and colorful houses. Neighborhoods such as College Street, Shobhabazar, Shyambazar, and Kumortuli are where you will find colonial-era buildings and decades-old shops. You can take a stroll at your convenience or book a guided walking heritage tour.

The city of Kolkata is also popular for its culinary offerings. From tangy puchkas to stuffed kathi rolls , make sure to go on a food tour to taste the city’s numerous street food offerings.

If you are in the mood for a sit-down meal, you can also book an authentic Bengali thali dinner with a local, which includes a variety of different dishes served in small bowls on a platter. Yum!

-Charu from TravelwithCG

Kolkata Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Kolkata tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Kolkata hotels .

7. Ko Phi Phi, Thailand 

Thailand is full of fun cities and beautiful islands, but one of the best places to go for solo travelers is Ko Phi Phi. The Phi Phi Islands are located off of Phuket and Krabi in the Andaman Sea and are an easy ferry ride over.

The main island, Phi Phi Don, is known for its long-tail boats and beaches that are perfect for a solo beach vacation . Because of the island’s size, there aren’t roads or cars here. Instead, you have walking streets throughout the town with lots of open-air bars and restaurants.

If you’re looking for safe places to travel alone in Asia, you’ll be happy to know this small island fits the bill. Plus, it’s really easy to meet people since everyone is usually congregating on the beach or wandering the shopping streets.  

Another bonus:

There’s always something going on and you’ll quickly find that Ko Phi Phi has a ton of other travelers doing the same thing you are — traveling alone. 

Staying at a hostel is the easiest way to meet people and most of them have organized boat tours (or booze cruises) where you are likely to meet other solo travelers. I actually met my husband at one of the hostel bars on the beach when I was traveling solo. Talk about a travel love story !

If hostels aren’t your thing, you can still hang out at the hostel bars or head to the beach for the nightly neon parties where lots of people gather to watch the fire shows and performers on the sand. And during the day, there are pool parties at different hotels.

In short, the destination features a social atmosphere with lots of opportunities to meet other people and take in the beauty of the island and the surrounding beaches. And, in my opinion, it’s one of the best places to travel solo in Asia .

-Ashley from Jetset Jansen

Ko Phi Phi Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Phi Phi Islands tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Ko Phi Phi hotels .

8. Siem Reap, Cambodia

The jumping-off point for the legendary Angkor Archaeological Park , Siem Reap is a bucket list destination for travelers of all types. Safe, budget-friendly, and with no shortage of opportunities to get social, it’s one of the best places for solo travel in Asia.

Before hitting the temples, sign up for an Introduction to Buddhism tour with social enterprise Ayana Journeys, where you’ll learn all about Cambodia’s main religion by speaking one-on-one to monks and receiving a traditional blessing.

If you’re keen to link up with other travelers, there are plenty of day trips to the temples that don’t charge a single supplement. If you prefer to go solo, you can easily hire a tuk-tuk and guide for the day. 

Whether you opt for sunrise at Angkor Wat or sunset at Phnom Bakheng — or both — don’t miss visiting the rose-tinted Banteay Srey , which is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva.

Spectacular as it is, there is so much more to Cambodia’s second-largest city beyond Angkor. Siem Reap also offers a huge range of interesting cultural experiences, vibrant local markets, and one of Southeast Asia’s best restaurant scenes.

In between tuk-tuking around the temples and lounging by the pool at your villa, participate in an Apsara dance masterclass, take a cooking workshop, or watch the silk weavers at work at Artisans Angkor.

Go shopping on trendy Hap Guan Street and hop between the many excellent cafes and restaurants, including social enterprise cafe Sister Srey , which contributes to demining efforts in Cambodia and employs young women from the local community.

Another must-do is a treatment at Bodia Spa, where traditional Khmer botanicals and herbs are used for all-natural treatments.

The solo travel adventure doesn’t stop there:

Beyond Siem Reap, there are dozens of hidden gems in Cambodia to discover — including the temples at Banteay Chhmar , three hours north-west of the city, where an innovative community tourism project runs guided tours and family homestays.

-Emily from Wander-Lush

Siem Reap Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Siem Reap tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Siem Reap hotels .

9. Mount Fuji, Japan

An easily recognized icon of Japan, considered one of the safe Asian countries for solo female travellers, is Mount Fuji, the country’s most sacred mountain. Visible from as far as 300 kilometers (186 miles) away on clear days, lucky visitors will take in a view of her usual cloudy backdrop swirling with mystery and intrigue.

Additionally, this beautiful volcano is surrounded by numerous tourist towns and cities. In fact, it’s only a two-hour bus ride from Tokyo, making it an easily accessible solo travel destination.

Visitors will be spoiled for choice when selecting which areas to enjoy the best views of Mount Fuji, as there are so many!

Perhaps one of the most scenic (and popular) experiences is seeing the mountain’s reflection on the expansive Lake Kawaguchiko. Walk the surrounding paths under the cherry blossoms during spring, or frame a shot of Fuji amongst the fiery hues of autumn leaves.

Discover ancient pilgrimage paths at the beloved Fujiyoshida Sengen Shrine, one of the starting points where worshippers once began their long climb to Fuji’s summit.

Later on, catch a bus to Oshino Hakkai’s 8 Sacred Ponds, which feature pure and clear water that’s been filtered through underground volcanic rock for over 80 years.

Nearby Gotemba is a foodie’s paradise as well as a haven for shopaholics with the Gotemba Premium Outlets, Japan’s largest shopping mall. Prefer to skip the shops? Enjoy a relaxing soak in the outlet center’s  onsen  (hot spring bath) instead.

Finally, there is never a dull moment spending time in the Hakone-Izu National Park. Take a combination of train, cable car, ropeway, boat, and bus around this scenic area. Even if Mount Fuji is hiding behind the clouds, the Picasso Museum, Open Air Museum, and beautiful gardens will make up for it.

Mount Fuji is truly one of the best places in Asia for female solo travel !

-Alyse from The Invisible Tourist

Mount Fuji Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Mount Fuji tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Mount Fuji hotels .

10. Siargao Island, Philippines

Nestled on the easternmost edge of the Philippines is one of the best places to travel solo in Asia , Siargao Island.

This small surfing oasis has been compared to what Bali was back in the 80s and many solo travelers flock here to surf one of the most famous surf breaks in the world, enjoy unspoiled island views, and relish in the island lifestyle. 

Exploring Siargao goes a little like this: wake up, surf, eat, party, sleep, repeat — while mixing in island hopping tours and visiting beautiful locations around the destination.

Base yourself in General Luna as it’s one of the most popular places to stay on the island and is close to all the hotspots.

While in Siargao, you can’t pass up the opportunity to learn how to surf at one of the most famous surf breaks in the world. Consider lessons at Cloud 9, Jacking Horse, and my personal favorite, Pacifico Beach!

The coolest thing about the nightlife in Siargao is that each bar takes turns hosting parties each night of the week. So if you want to know where the party of the night is, ask around and they’ll give you the location of the pre-party and then where the actual party is that starts around 11pm.

If you’re in town on a Friday, head to the “Jungle” for one of the most unforgettable parties of your life.

Among all of that, you’ll want to explore some of the best things to do on the island. Book any of the popular tours like the island hopping tour to Guyam, Naked, and Daku Islands as well as day trips to Sugba Lagoon, Corregidor Island, and Sohoton Cove.

Other adventurous things to do include:

• cliff jumping at the Magpupungko Rock Pools
• swimming the crystal waters of Alegria Beach
• caving at the Tayangban Cave Pools
• driving to the “Top of the Road” to look out over thousands of coconut palms
• watch the sunset from Cloud 9 Pier

Siargao Island is an amazing place to visit for solo travelers who want to make lifelong friends, meet adventurous locals, and photograph cherished memories.

-Aaren from What Do You Sea

Siargao Island Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Siargao Island tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Siargao Island hotels .

11. Ubud, Indonesia

The town of Ubud is known as the cultural heart of Bali in Indonesia and is the best place for solo travel in Asia. Bali solo travel in general is an incredible experience, and Ubud in particular is famous for its ancient landmarks, traditional arts, and green rice terraces.

Solo travelers will have lots of great things to do in Ubud and the surrounding area, which includes nearby places — such as the stunning (and very Instagrammable) Tegalalang Rice Terrace . Because of this, you’ll want to create a 3 day Ubud itinerary at minimum.

Around Ubud, you can find traditional markets, temples, palaces, spas, cafes, wood carving shops, and of course, the famous Ubud Monkey Forest , where you can see semi-wild monkeys in their natural environment (just don’t bring any food or jewelry).

There are also easy hikes around Ubud like the Campuhan Ridge Walk, and a bunch of nice waterfalls can be visited on short day trips with a car or motorbike. Two top Ubud waterfalls to see are Tibumana and Kanto Lampo — both of which are easy to reach within a short drive from town.

If you’re looking for a challenge, Mount Agung trekking is an option, and companies will typically pick you up from Ubud.

Bali is a very safe island in general, and the same is true of Ubud. Another huge benefit of traveling here is that it’s very affordable; meals can be as cheap as $3 USD, and private hotel rooms can be as low as $10 USD.

Obviously, this all depends on your solo travel budget , and there are plenty of high-end luxury hotels and fancy restaurants in Ubud too if you can afford it.

In short, whether you enjoy exploring on a budget or experiencing the finer things in life, those looking to travel Asia solo will be very comfortable in Ubud!

-David & Intan from  The World Travel Guy

Ubud Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Ubud tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Ubud hotels .

12. Seoul, South Korea

A great destination for solo travelers is Seoul, the capital of South Korea and a mega city with a diverse range of historic and modern experiences. 

Central Seoul is densely packed with things to do and is easy to get around via subway trains with good English signage. 

There are many centrally-located and budget-friendly accommodation options located close to subway stations too, which makes it easy for solo travelers to get around via public transportation. A few of my personal favorite areas include Myeongdong, Itaewon, and Gangnum.

Must-do experiences for solo travelers include visiting the historic palaces of the Joseon Dynasty, wearing a traditional hanbok (the Korean national dress), and taking a food tour to savor local culture. 

If you have become a fan of K-pop then check out the clubs in the lively Gangnam district.

Love Korean TV shows like Squid Game ? There are local tours that take you to see filming locations.

And if you’re looking to do a day trip, I recommend visiting the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to the north of Seoul when it is open. Or, for a more rural experience, head to the beautiful Nami Island to explore nature and culture.

-Anne from the  South Korea Travel Planning blog

Seoul Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Seoul tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Seoul hotels .

13. Pattaya, Thailand

The lively city of Pattaya is one of the best places to travel alone in Asia , and a popular option within Thailand for those traveling solo.

Getting to Pattaya is easy thanks to an array of private and public options to get from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok — which is less than two hours from Pattaya by car.

Pattaya is known for its legendary nightlife. To get a taste of it, head to Walking Street — a mile-long street lined with nightclubs, bars, and restaurants.

Another highlight is watching Tiffany’s Show Pattaya, a dazzling dance and music performance by some of the country’s most talented Thai-national transgender & transvestites. The glamour and the energy on display here are unmatched.

Along with entertainment, Pattaya offers solo travelers many opportunities to explore culture, architecture, and natural beauty.

Located by the ocean, Sanctuary of Truth is a unique temple dedicated to human values. The structure consists entirely of wood, a testament to architectural vision and skill.

Nong Nooch Tropical Garden is a perennial favorite of nature lovers. Spread over a massive 495 acres (200 hectares), Nong Nooch features many smaller themed landscaped parks within its bounds, from orchid gardens to French-style plots. Plus, the garden hosts cultural events regularly.

The Pattaya Floating Market is a perfect way to get up close to local culture. Float on a boat as you look for bargain deals on traditional Thai wares, wooden gift items, and hand-woven clothing.

As for accommodation, the city showcases hostels to suit every budget as well as hotels at reasonable rates. This only helps to cement Pattaya’s place as one of the best places to travel solo in Southeast Asia .

-Vidyut from Triplyzer.com

Pattaya Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Pattaya tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Pattaya hotels .

14. Puducherry, India

Also known as Puducherry, the town of Pondicherry was a French colonial settlement until 1959 and in 1962 became a Union Territory of India.

Often touted as a gem of Southern India , Pondicherry is one of the country’s top travel destinations for tourists and backpackers — including those traveling solo to Asia.

Love adventure travel ? Here you can enjoy active experiences like mangrove kayaking and scuba diving. In fact, Pondicherry has 22 unique dive sites. One of the fascinating things about diving in Pondicherry is that there are many artificial reefs, which have helped to restore local beaches.

The town also has a surf school where travelers can learn how to ride a wave. There are plenty of beaches where the waves are smaller and calmer if you’re a beginner, too.

Now don’t worry if you’d prefer a relaxed solo trip, as Pondicherry is home to many beaches. This includes Paradise Beach and Eden Beach — the latter of which is the first local beach to get the coveted Blue Flag tag given to environmentally-conscious and clean beaches.

Both of these beaches are also perfect for witnessing breathtaking sunsets or walking along the beach, as is the coastal walk between the Kargil War Memorial and Old Port and Pier.

White Town, the district where the French formerly lived, is a great place to walk around and enjoy colonial-era villas, leafy streets, and delicious restaurants and cafes — like the highly-rated Coromandel Café , which has a breezy and elegant atmosphere.

For solo travelers who enjoy trying local cuisine, there are many food joints that serve idlis (rice cakes) and dosas (like pancakes).

Since Pondicherry is a popular spot for solo travelers, you’ll find many comfortable, safe, and centrally-located hotels and hostels catering to this group.

-Raksha from Solo Passport

Pondicherry Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Pondicherry tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Pondicherry hotels .

15. Tokyo, Japan

Japan may just be the best Asian country for solo travel. And with delicious food, a plethora of things to do, and a reputation for being one of the safest cities in the world, Tokyo specifically is one of the best destinations in Asia for solo travel. 

Tokyo is Japan’s capital and largest city and is an amalgam of ancient and modern culture. The city’s architecture is a delightful mix of traditional buildings and contemporary skyscrapers, and the city retains its history while also embracing modern innovation.

Tokyo is the perfect city for solo travelers for many reasons.

First of all, Tokyo is one of the safest places in Asia to travel alone, making it perfect for solo explorers, especially females.

Japanese society also tends to be introverted — meaning it’s super common to see locals dining, visiting bars, and exploring alone.

Solo travelers visiting Japan do not have to worry about judgemental looks when eating alone. In fact, many restaurants are tailored for solo diners.

Additionally, Tokyo is full of affordable business hotels with small rooms that are perfect for solo travelers, especially those who prefer privacy over shared hostel dorms.

When visiting Tokyo, you won’t have to worry about running out of things to do. The city is home to countless shrines and temples, and you shouldn’t visit the city without seeing at least one or two. Sensō-ji is one of the most famous temples, and Meiji Jingu Shrine is a tranquil place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Make sure to see the world’s busiest pedestrian crossing at Shibuya Crossing. Pro tip: check out the Starbucks overlooking the crossing or the Mag Park Rooftop for a bird’s-eye view.

For panoramic views of the city, head to the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. The observation deck is free and open for tourists to visit.

Hungry? Tokyo has some of the most delicious food in the world. Whether you’re at a street food stall or a Michelin-starred restaurant, it would be difficult to find a bad meal in the city.

My recommendation:

For amazing ramen, head to Tokyo Ramen Street in Tokyo Station. There, you’ll find eight different ramen shops, each serving up different varieties of the dish.

-Sydney from A World In Reach

Tokyo Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Tokyo tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Tokyo hotels .

16. Jaipur, India

Admire Jaipur’s culture, liveliness, and stunning pink architecture as you meander through the colorful capital of the Indian province of Rajasthan.

Known as The Pink City, Jaipur got its color to welcome the Prince of Wales and Queen Victoria in 1876, as pink symbolizes hospitality.

That welcome can still be felt today as you taste the local street food, encounter friendly locals, and sightsee wondrous city architecture.

Part of the Golden Triangle circuit, Jaipur is one of India’s most popular destinations. And if you’re looking for the best places for solo travel in Asia, it should definitely be on your list, as its developed tourism industry makes sightseeing and transportation easy to navigate — even for first-time visitors.

As for any busy city, aside from common sense dangers and being alert to your personal belongings to avoid pickpockets , Jaipur is very safe for solo travelers.

Jaipur’s top sightseeing hotspots incorporate history and architecture. Just outside the city center, the scenic Amer Fort is the number one tourist attraction showcasing the palace’s history as the former capital of Rajasthan.

While there, don’t miss the Panna Meena Ka Kund Stepwell, a picturesque stair formation reminiscent of the Impossible Staircase illusion.

Another must-visit, Jal Mahal (Water Palace) is structured in the middle of Man Sagar Lake. At nightfall, the light reflections that mirror the palace against the stillness of the lake turn the scene into a site of extreme beauty.

If you’re looking for other impressive fortresses, find panoramic city views at Nahargarh Fort and large cannons at Jaigarh Fort.

No trip to Jaipur would be complete without visiting the Hawa Mahal , situated in the heart of the city center. Inspired to appear like the god Krishna’s crown, this five-story pink sandstone palace features 953 intricately designed windows.

End your tour at the Bapu, Nehru, or Johri Bazaars to taste local Indian cuisines and shop for textiles, leather, and jewelry. As a parting memento, bargain for specialty Jaipur souvenirs of gemstones, lac bangles, and many other handicrafts. 

-Catherine from Nomadicated

Jaipur Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Jaipur tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Jaipur hotels .

17. Beijing, China

The Chinese capital Beijing is one of the most beautiful cities in China and the perfect destination for solo travel in Asia.

With its mix of old traditional neighborhoods, called hutongs , and modern districts with skyscrapers, trendy shops, bars, and restaurants, the city offers the ideal mix of history and modernity.

Beijing is a fantastic place for solo travelers because you’ll be able to easily talk to locals — even if you only know a few words of Mandarin Chinese. It is a very safe place to travel alone in Asia and the risk of getting robbed or attacked is lower than in other places in the world.

You will also find great accommodation for every budget here.

The major sights of Beijing are Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City , the Temple of Heaven, and the new Summer Palace. From Coal Hill in Jingshan Park — located behind the north exit of the Forbidden City — you will have a fantastic view over this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Furthermore, you should visit the Tibetan Lama Temple, also known as Yonghe Gong, where you can immerse yourself in Tibetan Buddhism. From there, you can walk to the nearby Temple of Confucius on Guozijian Street, which is worth a walk.

I also highly recommend taking a stroll through one of Beijing’s hutongs. Three of the most famous are Nanlougu Hutong, Mao’er Hutong, and Liulichang Street. You can combine a walk with a visit to Shichahai and its three lakes, the Drum and the Bell Tower, and the Beihai Park. Art lovers will get their money’s worth in the 798 Art District in the northeast of the city.

In Beijing, you will find a huge selection of dishes from a wide variety of Chinese cuisines.

Originally a street food from Sichuan, you should definitely try out malatang, a kind of spicy individually-made hot pot. You put your favorite ingredients in a bowl and pass it to the counter, where a chef prepares a delicious soup or meal for you.

Meat eaters will enjoy a real Beijing roast duck, the city’s most famous dish.

By the way, if you want to learn how to cook Chinese dishes yourself you should attend a cooking class .

No stay in Beijing would be complete without a visit to the Great Wall of China. Well-known restored sections are Badaling and Mutianyu. If you want to explore an unrestored wild part of the Wall you should take a hike on the Gubeikou, the Jiankou Big West, or the Longquanyu section of the Great Wall with a local hiking agency.

-Vanessa from The Travelling Colognian

Beijing Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Beijing tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Beijing hotels .

18. Taipei, Taiwan

Solo travel in Taiwan is an unforgettable experience, and the country’s capital city of Taipei is the perfect introduction to traveling alone in Asia. It’s extremely safe, English is widely spoken, and you get to experience Asian culture without feeling too overwhelmed.

Taipei has an extensive transportation system, which makes it extremely easy for solo travelers to navigate. The main tourist attractions in Taipei are spread out, so you’ll be relying on public transportation. 

There are plenty of things to do in Taipei, so you should plan to spend at least five days in the city. The top sights you should visit include the National Palace Museum, Longshan Temple, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Elephant Mountain, and Taipei 101 . 

If you have the time, you should also take a day trip to visit Jiufen, a seaside mountain area east of Taipei. It gets extremely busy in the afternoon so try to get there as early as possible. 

No trip to Taipei would be complete without visiting the night markets. Taipei is known for its incredible food, and night markets are the best way to try all the delicious options. 

Raohe Night Market is the most popular in Taipei. It opens at 5pm, and you should arrive close to that time to avoid the long lines. The two items you can’t leave without trying are the pepper buns and ice cream burrito. 

Overall, Taiwan is one of the safest countries in Asia to travel alone, and Taipei won’t disappoint you!

-Erica from  Travels with Erica

Taipei Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Taipei tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Taipei hotels .

19. Sarawak, Malaysia

There are many great places to enjoy a solo trip to Malaysia , though the capital city of Sarawak in Borneo, Kuching offers a truly unique experience.

While the origin of the city’s name is uncertain, many locals refer to Kuching as the “Cat City” as the word Kuching is similar to the Malay word for cat. 

Kuching is the home of many Indigenous people in Sarawak, including the Ibans, Dayaks, and Orang Ulu. There are many opportunities to better understand these cultures, for instance, through museums (like Kampung Budaya Sarawak and the Sarawak Museum ) and immersive tours and experiences (like staying at an Iban Longhouse).

Kuching is really the perfect place for solo travelers to connect with local people and learn more about the city’s history and culture. The city center is also relatively easy to explore, so many main spots to visit in the city are only within walking distance from one and the other. 

Stroll around the Kuching Waterfront with the view of Astana and Fort Margherita, along with the majestic Sarawak State Legislative Assembly Building that you can enjoy for free.

You can also find many cat statues throughout the city where you can take a selfie or two. Stop by the Cat Museum to enjoy the cat city to the fullest. 

Love wildlife? Kuching is the main gateway if you’re planning to see orangutans in their natural habitat in Borneo. Semenggoh Nature Reserve is only an hour away from Kuching city center, and you can also enjoy trekking and seeing the wildlife at Bako National Park. 

-Marya from The Beau Traveler

Sarawak Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Sarawak tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Sarawak hotels .

20. Rishikesh, India

Known as the “Yoga Capital of the World”, Rishikesh is a place widely visited by tourists from all over the globe.

The city got popular when the famous English rock band The Beatles visited the city in the 60s to learn transcendental meditation. Yoga guru Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ji inspired them.

Today, Rishikesh offers yoga, meditation, adventure sports, religious temples, magnificent mountains, cultural diversity, and tranquil ashrams.

Every year, thousands of solo travelers visit the sacred city. Even as a solo female traveler, traveling alone in Rishikesh is relatively safe and secure.

You need to keep a few things in mind, like not consuming alcohol and non-vegetarian food near holy places and ghats (which are steps leading down to the water). These things are banned in Rishikesh to maintain the divinity of the city.

Being an important tourist destination in India, tourism contributes to a significant part of the city’s income. The people here are generous, helpful, and kind.

Things solo travelers can do in Rishikesh include yoga and meditation, which are offered at the many local centers like Parmarth Niketan and Sivananda Ashram.

The city is also heaven for adventure lovers, featuring river rafting, bungee jumping, paragliding, mountain biking, camping, and trekking. You can book a package with any tour operator located in the Tapovan and Jonk areas.

If you’re in Rishikesh, don’t forget to attend the evening Ganga Aarti — a worshipping of the holy Ganges River — at Parmarth Niketan Ashram and Triveni Ghat.

Rishikesh is also well known for its 5000-year-old tradition of Ayurveda, one of the world’s oldest holistic healing systems. There are various therapy centers in the city, like Braham Yoga & Natural Healing and Hemadri Ayurveda Center. The therapy includes an oil massage, scrubbing, and polishing of the body.

Pro tip: Rishikesh is also a great solo trip from Delhi , as you can reach it in about six hours via a direct bus.

-Abhishek from  Misfit Wanderers

Rishikesh Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Rishikesh tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Rishikesh hotels .

21. Osaka, Japan 

Japan is possibly the best country to travel alone in Asia, with Osaka being one of the best cities for solo travel.

Osaka is the second-largest city in Japan and is the hub connecting the Kansai Region with the outside world. Kansai has its own unique culture, cuisine, and tradition that makes it different from Tokyo and the rest of the country.  

Highlights in Osaka include the Osaka Castle, Universal Studio Japan, Dotombori, Umeda shopping area, and Shitenno-Ji Buddhist temple.

Osaka is a great place for solo travelers because, first of all, it’s easy to get around. The entire city is connected by metro and Japan Railways (JR), and a solo traveler can easily visit a number of attractions using public transportation. 

In fact, a JR Kansai Pass offers free or discounted entry and cut-the-line privileges to over 100 attractions: museums, cultural experiences, observation decks, and more.

Additionally, Osaka is surrounded by numerous important historic cities, including Kyoto, Nara, and Kobe. It is impossible for a solo traveler to run out of travel ideas.

Osaka is also known for its friendly locals, exciting nightlife, and safety. In fact, solo travelers will have no problem walking and enjoying the city at night. Plus, there is always an opportunity to get to know a new friend along the way!

Finally, you can’t miss the food in Osaka , a facet of local culture that makes it abundantly clear why the city is one of the best places to travel in Asia solo.

For a delicious yet educational experience, book a local food tour — which also allows you to taste a variety of local dishes like okonomiyaki (a type of savory pancake), takoyaki (octopus balls), fugu fish, and more!  

-Kenny from Knycx Journeying

Osaka Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Osaka tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Osaka hotels .

22. Hội An, Vietnam

Looking for the best solo travel destinations in Asia ? Hội An should definitely be on your radar!

Hội An, formerly known as Fai-Fo, is a coastal city south of Da Nang home to roughly 120,000 people. The Ancient Town became a National Cultural Heritage Site in 1985 and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 due to being a well-preserved trading port with both Indigenous and foreign influences. 

Many backpackers rave about buying handmade clothing here. In fact, one of the travelers I met in Thailand got a beautiful dress made and the shop even mailed it home to her in Belgium!

As a female traveler, I felt entirely safe in Hội An. I spent a few nights partying and never once felt uncomfortable or under threat, even on my walks back to the hostel with another female traveler.

Personally, I loved spending my time wandering solo through the narrow colorful streets of the Old Town. And the beach is only a 15-minute bike ride away.

Some of the other top things to do in Hội An as a solo traveler include exploring the markets (and picking up some incredible bargains), taking a traditional Vietnamese cooking class, hiring a bicycle to explore the countryside, and tasting the street food. 

Another recommendation: join a free tour run by university students where you visit a local carpentry village!

Other things you can do include booking a basket boat tour, taking a trip to My Son Sanctuary , visiting the Museum of Folk Culture, and checking out historical houses like Tan Ky and Duc An. 

Any of these activities are great for solo travelers, and if you feel more comfortable being on a tour, there are lots of options for that, too.

-Lana from Wallflower in Wanderland

Hội An Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Hội An tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Hội An hotels .

23. Singapore

Singapore is one of the coolest city-states in the world and is an excellent destination for solo female travelers in Asia.

Founded as a British trading colony in 1819, it’s since become a cosmopolitan melting pot of Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Arab cultures.

Today, Singapore is known as being a safe country to travel alone in Asia — as well as for its cleanliness, and efficiency.

It’s also incredibly easy to get around, even if you don’t speak the language. Almost everyone speaks English as it’s the language of the downtown businesses.

The variety of ethnicities living within this small city-state makes it feel like a tour of Asia within a week-long trip. You can easily go over to Little India for an afternoon before heading to a Malaysian hawker stall for dinner — all within an hour from the downtown core!

Solo travelers will love how easy it is to get around Singapore. Public transportation is cheap, clean, and efficient. You can also walk everywhere within the city center — though note it’ll be a sweaty walk as Singapore gets hot and humid.

There are plenty of things to do as a solo traveler in Singapore. Some of the best tourist activities include the Gardens by the Bay and walking amongst the Cloud Forest . Every night you can enjoy a free light show at the Marina Bay Sands.

You can also take the train to Sentosa for a beautiful beach day, complete with an amusement park for fun in the sun.

Shopping is plentiful in Singapore, but unless you’re a US size 0 and have lots of money to spend, you should avoid the popular malls downtown. Instead, head to the different communities outside of the downtown core for markets where you can find cheaper goods.

Trying local food is also a must-do in Singapore; not just for sustenance, but also for enjoyment.

You’ll love getting to try a Michelin-star meal at a hawker stall for under $5 USD. Try the variety of different dishes at a hawker market. And don’t forget to try the famous Singaporean chili crab!

One of the coolest experiences is the Night Safari at the Singapore Zoo . You can see the nocturnal animals in full glory on this activity. It’s also cool because you’re sheltered from the intense Singaporean heat.

In Singapore, prepare to wear light, airy clothes or you’ll be a pile of sweat within five minutes. Most people use the malls to navigate the city, as the air conditioning prevents them from melting on longer walks.

-Nina from  Ottawa Things To Do

Singapore Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Singapore tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Singapore hotels .

24. Bagan, Myanmar

One of the most unexpected and best Asian destinations for solo travelers is Bagan, Myanmar. While it may not be the first country to come to mind when you’re planning to backpack Asia alone , it’s one that will surprise you when you’re there!

Ancient Bagan is known for its incredible landscapes and is home to over 2000 pagodas and temples.

Situated on the banks of the Irrawaddy River, Bagan can be reached from the city of Mandalay via river, plane, or road.

Bagan is a good way for solo travelers to experience coming off the well-traveled Southeast Asia backpacking route while also staying on a well-known path that guarantees you to meet other travelers.

There are plenty of backpacker hostels — the most famous being Ostello Bello — which all put on group trips during the day and fun activities in the evening!

Most of Bagan can be accessed with an e-bike or scooter, but if you want to meet other travelers, staying in New Bagan is perfect for lively hostels, restaurants, and shops. Most accommodations will organize sunrise viewings from the Shwesandaw Pagoda (which is rumored to house a hair of Buddha!), hot air balloon rides, and e-scooter hires for an easy way to get around.

One of the best solo travel activities in Bagan is a sunrise hot air balloon ride, which floats you over the mystical land of temples and dusty sky. This can easily be done alone or with new friends and is a memory that will last a lifetime.

If you’re looking for something where your feet stay firmly on the ground, you can take a traditional cooking class in Bagan. It’s the perfect way to meet other like-minded travelers as you’ll cook Burmese curries and traditional snacks in small groups.

If you book with the Pennywort cooking group , you’ll shop for your own ingredients in the morning, then walk to a local’s house in the afternoon to cook. It’s a day well spent eating good food and learning more about Myanmar’s history and culture from a local!

-Jennie from Jennie Wanders

Bagan Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Bagan tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Bagan hotels .

25. Gangtok, India

Located in Northeast India, Gangtok is the capital of the state of Sikkim, which is blessed by the mighty Mount Kanchenjunga, the third-highest peak in the world.

Gangtok is considered one of the cleanest cities in India. The name Gangtok refers to its hilltop location, which has an elevation of about 1,650 meters (5,413 feet) above sea level. 

Gangtok is a perfect city for solo travelers who love culture and nature. It offers a majestic view of the Himalayas and is home to diverse ethnicities such as the Bhutias, Gorkhas, Lepchas, and Kiratis — all of whom are known for their warm hospitality. 

There are also many things to do in Gangtok for solo travelers. First and foremost, you can take a walk down Mahatma Gandhi Marg (MG Marg), a pedestrian street in downtown Gangtok known for its markets, cleanliness, cafes, and upscale vibe.

To enjoy a panoramic view of the city, the Gangtok Ropeway cable car is a must. Additionally, the Lingdum Monastery pairs Tibetan Buddhism with a view of the misty hills.

Another monastery worth a visit is Rumtek Monastery, which sits at an altitude of about 1,500 meters (4,900 feet) and is the largest monastery in Sikkim.

To learn more about Tibetan Culture, you can also visit the Namgyal Institute of Tibetology near the Gangtok Ropeway.

Conclude your solo trip to Gangtok by going to the Tashi Viewpoint and Ganesh Tok Viewpoint. Both are known for their stunning scenery of the city backed by Mount Kanchenjunga.

-Joydeep from The Gypsy Chiring

Sikkim Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Sikkim tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Sikkim hotels .

26. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur, the capital city of Malaysia, is a bustling metropolis that always has something going on. Full of landmarks and constantly packed with tourists, this modern city is the perfect place for solo travelers to explore on their own or find new friends for exciting adventures. Being such an international city as well as a major flight hub, there is no shortage of interesting people to meet in Kuala Lumpur and the best place to do that is at a bar. Luckily, Kuala Lumpur has plenty.

The first place you should head if you are looking for nightlife is Changkat Bukit Bintang, the Times Square of KL.

Alternatively, Bangsar is the area where most expats hang out. Or head to Bridge Bar for an iconic experience: dining on the bridge between the buildings of the G Tower Hotel, 28 floors high! 

When you get hungry, head to Jalan Alor, the main food street in Kuala Lumpur where you will find hundreds of different vendors offering tasty cuisine.

Now, if you prefer to simply enjoy time to yourself while solo traveling, wander your way through the Old Market Square or Little India — both of which are full of shops and restaurants — and go hunting for street art around Jalan Alor at your own pace.

Regardless of whether you prefer to get out there and socialize or enjoy a quiet solo retreat, you cannot leave Kuala Lumpur without visiting some of the biggest attractions, including the world-famous Petronas Twin Towers (once the tallest building in the world). Catch the light show behind the towers each night for an impressive colorful light display.

And don’t miss exploring the underground world of the Batu Caves , a great place to experience real Hindu culture. The caves themselves are impressive, too, and you’ll be greeted by monkeys when entering.

-Yulia from Miss Tourist

Kuala Lumpur Travel Resources

Click here for a list of top-rated Kuala Lumpur tours .

Click here for a list of top-rated Kuala Lumpur hotels .

Travel Insurance For Solo Travel In Asia

When traveling solo in Asia—or anywhere else in the world—it’s wise to get travel insurance.

For this, I have two recommendations:

SafetyWing . If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).

Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.

World Nomads . For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.

What best places for solo travel in Asia would you add to this list?

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This article is a fantastic resource for solo travelers looking to explore Asia. It provides a diverse range of destinations, from the serene beauty of Thimphu, Bhutan, to the vibrant streets of Kolkata, India. The recommendations offer a mix of cultural experiences, natural wonders, and delicious cuisine. It’s great to see the emphasis on safety and the inclusion of helpful travel resources. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, this guide has something for every solo traveler. Happy exploring!

Why none of your articles or posts ever include South Korea, Hong Kong nor Taiwan? Especially South Korea which has tons of attractions and things to do solo or in groups.

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12 Best Destinations for Solo Female Travel in Asia

Posted by Tracey Johnson | May 31, 2024 | Asia

Travelling solo as a female can be an empowering and enriching experience. You can discover new cultures, meet new and interesting people, and discover more about yourself.

With its diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cities, Asia is a fantastic destination for solo female travellers.

Asia has something to offer, whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion.

Here’s a guide 12 best destinations for solo female travel in Asia.

1. Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is a bustling metropolis that effortlessly combines modernity with tradition, the ultramodern with the traditional.

It’s renowned for its safety, cleanliness, and efficiency, making it a perfect destination for solo female travellers.

Attractions and Activities

From the historic Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa to the vibrant shopping district of Shibuya, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Tokyo.

Don’t miss the chance to visit the beautiful Meiji Shrine or stroll through the picturesque gardens of the Imperial Palace.

Tips for Solo Female Travelers

• Stay in hostels to meet other travellers.
• Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to help with communication.
• Keep a portable Wi-Fi device to stay connected and navigate the city easily.
• Get an eSIM that lets you get unlimited data in Asia . It allows you to easily access local services such as ride-hailing apps, map services and restaurant reservations to enhance your travelling experience in Japan.

2. Bali, Indonesia

Ubud, Bali – Credit: Canva

Bali is a paradise for solo female travellers, blending culture, adventure, and relaxation.

The locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality, making you feel welcome when you arrive.

Vibrant Culture and Friendly Locals

Bali’s rich cultural heritage is showcased in its numerous temples, traditional dances, and local crafts. The island’s residents are warm and approachable, ensuring you always feel safe and cared for.

Top Spots to Visit

Explore the stunning rice terraces of Ubud, relax on the beautiful beaches of Seminyak, or experience the vibrant nightlife in Kuta. Bali provides various experiences to cater to every traveller’s taste.

3. Chiang Mai, Thailand

Chiang Mai, Thailand – Credit: Canva

Chiang Mai is a city that has an abundant history and culture. It offers a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere perfect for solo female travellers.

Rich Cultural Heritage

The city is home to numerous temples, including the famous Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, which offers stunning views of the city. The Old City area, with its ancient walls and moats, is a must-visit.

Adventure and Wellness Activities

Chiang Mai offers numerous adventure activities, from jungle trekking to elephant sanctuaries. The city is also known for its wellness retreats, offering yoga, meditation, and traditional Thai massages.

4. Singapore

Singapore is a modern, vibrant city known for its safety, cleanliness, and efficiency. It’s an excellent destination for solo female travellers seeking a hassle-free experience.

Must-See Attractions

Don’t miss the iconic Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, and the bustling shopping street of Orchard Road. To taste local culture, visit Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam.

Solo Travel Tips

• Use public transportation to explore the city.
• Stay in centrally located hostels or hotels.
• Carry a refillable water bottle, as tap water is safe to drink.

5. Seoul, South Korea

Seoul is a city that perfectly blends traditional culture with modern innovation. It’s a vibrant and exciting destination for solo female travellers.

A blend of Traditional and Modern

From the historic Gyeongbokgung Palace to the futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Seoul offers a unique mix of old and new. The city’s neighbourhoods, such as Insadong and Hongdae, provide a glimpse into its diverse culture.

Safety Tips for Solo Travelers

• Stick to well-lit areas at night.
• Use public transportation, which is safe and reliable.
• Download a translation app to help with communication.

6. Hanoi, Vietnam

With its rich history and vibrant street life, Hanoi is a fascinating destination for solo female travellers. The city’s unique blend of French colonial architecture and traditional Vietnamese culture makes it a must-visit.

Historical Sites and Street Food

Explore the historic Old Quarter, visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and enjoy the city’s delicious street food. Hanoi’s bustling markets and quaint cafes offer plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in local life.

7. Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei is a friendly and welcoming city perfect for solo female travellers. Its efficient public transportation and numerous attractions make it easy to explore independently.

Popular Tourist Attractions

Don’t miss the iconic Taipei 101, the historic Longshan Temple, and the bustling Shilin Night Market. For a taste of nature, visit the nearby Yangmingshan National Park.

Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers

• Stay in well-reviewed hostels or hotels.
• Use public transportation or reputable taxi services.
• Keep your belongings secure in crowded areas.

8. Luang Prabang, Laos

Luang Prabang is a peaceful and spiritual destination, perfect for solo female travellers seeking a serene escape.

Cultural and Natural Attractions

Explore the beautiful Kuang Si Waterfalls, take a boat trip on the Mekong River, and visit the Royal Palace Museum. Luang Prabang’s mix of cultural and natural attractions makes it a diverse destination.

9. Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a lively city that combines bustling urban life with scenic natural beauty. It’s an excellent destination for solo female travellers seeking various experiences.

Top Attractions

Visit the bustling markets of Mong Kok, explore the cultural sites in Tsim Sha Tsui, and take a day trip to Lantau Island to see the Big Buddha. Hong Kong’s diverse attractions ensure there’s something for everyone.

• Use the efficient MTR system to get around.
• Join organised tours to meet other travellers and explore the city.

10. Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur is a diverse and dynamic city perfect for solo female travellers. Its rich culture, delicious cuisine, and numerous attractions make it a must-visit destination in Asia.

Main Attractions

Visit the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, the vibrant Bukit Bintang area, and the Batu Caves. Kuala Lumpur’s diverse attractions ensure there’s something for every traveller.

Safety Advice for Solo Female Travelers

• Stay in well-reviewed accommodations in central areas.
• Use reputable transportation options, such as Grab or taxis.
• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas.

11. Kathmandu, Nepal

Kathmandu is the gateway to the Himalayas, offering a unique blend of natural attractions. It’s an ideal destination for solo female travellers seeking adventure and cultural experiences.

Gateway to the Himalayas

Kathmandu is the starting point for many trekking adventures, including the famous Everest Base Camp trek. The city’s rich cultural heritage, with sites like Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) and Boudhanath Stupa, is also worth exploring.

12. Udaipur, India

Udaipur, known as the “City of Lakes,” is a romantic and historical city perfect for solo female travellers. With its stunning palaces and serene lakes, it offers both beauty and tranquillity.

Romantic and Historical City

Udaipur’s picturesque setting, with its beautiful lakes and majestic palaces, makes it a popular destination.

Visit the City Palace, take a boat ride on Lake Pichola, and explore the old city’s narrow streets.

• Stay in well-reviewed accommodations near the main attractions.
• Use reputable transportation options, such as pre-paid taxis or ride-sharing apps.
• Be cautious when exploring the city at night.

Travelling solo as a female in Asia can be a deeply rewarding experience. From Tokyo’s busy streets to its peaceful lakes of Udaipur, these destinations offer a unique blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation.

Each city has its charm and offers something special for every traveller. So pack your bags, and move on an unforgettable solo journey through this diverse and fascinating continent.

About The Author

Tracey Johnson

Owner of Nomad Girl. I have been travelling on and off for the last 18 years and ran my own businesses whilst on the road. I have travelled to over 60 countries and lived for longer periods in 10 different ones. I feel like a true global citizen.

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The best destinations for solo travel in asia.

Are you looking for the best places to travel alone in Asia?

Then you’ve come to the right place. In my 30+ years as a female solo traveller, I have visited Asia on multiple occasions.

In my view, Asia is one of the best global destinations for your first solo trip .

Ready to dive into solo travel in Asia? This article will steer you through the best Asian countries for solo travellers, and arm you with essential safety tips if you are a woman travelling alone.

Some articles on this website contain affiliate links. This means that I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases . Read the full disclosure here .

Dreaming of your first solo trip? Click here to download your FREE solo travel toolkit . 

It’s just what you need to kickstart your plans!

IN THIS ARTICLE

Best Asian Countries for Solo Travellers

In a hurry? Here are the Asian solo travel destinations covered in this article.

South Korea

Why solo travel in asia.

So why is Asia a great solo travel destination?

It’s relatively safe , easy to travel around and offers a vast choice of cultures and cuisine . As there is a well-worn tourist route, it is easy to meet other travellers .

Many (‘tho not all) Asian countries are very affordable , allowing a splash of luxury travel for less money .

I love the diversity that Asia offers, which is why have returned time and time again. There is something for every solo traveller

Best Solo Travel Destinations in Asia

That said, there are some countries in Asia that are more suited to solo travel than others.

Public transport and infrastructure are better in some destinations. Other places offer a particularly vibrant and friendly local culture .

If your travel budget is a consideration, the cost of living is lower in some countries than in others.

With these factors in mind, I have put together a list of the best Asian countries for solo travel. Although fellow travel writers have helped compile this list, I have travelled alone in most of these places, some on multiple occasions.

For each country, I have indicated how easy and expensive it is to visit, and whether you should consider it as a first-time solo traveller.

>>> Get inspiration to book your solo trip to Asia with these best quotations about travelling alone and these inspirational books by solo travellers.

Solo safety & ease of travel: 4 out of 5 Travel costs: Cheap Recommended for first-time solo travellers: Yes

As Cambodia’s dark past is recent, there’s so much to experience and learn during a visit to the country that you will leave here enriched and with new perspectives on the world. From seeing ancient ruins left by the powerful Khmer Empire to the twentieth-century horrors of the Khmer Rouge , every day in Cambodia is full of nuance.

Cambodia might seem daunting for a solo traveller, but if you take normal, common-sense safety measures the country is one of the best places in Asia to travel alone.

Reasons to visit Cambodia as a solo traveller

• Many of the best activities are perfect for day trips on organized tours
• It’s easier to process challenging material when you are alone
• Easy to get between major destinations alone
• Inexpensive accommodations and transportation eliminate the “solo tax”
• You can spend as much (or as little) time in Angkor as you want

Top tips for visiting Cambodia as a solo traveller

• Try to arrive in Phnom Penh and  Siem Reap  during the daytime to maximise safety.
• Buy a Cambodian SIM card on arrival to allow you to more easily communicate with hosts (have your accommodation’s contact information available ahead of time).
• Use rideshare apps to arrange taxis in Phnom Penh to get a competitive rate.
• For photography opportunities when travelling in Angkor alone, ask your tuk-tuk driver. He or she will be used to taking photos of tourists; just tip accordingly for the extra service.

By Stephanie of History Fangirl

Solo safety & ease of travel: 3 out of 5 Travel costs: Medium Recommended for first-time solo travellers: Yes

With 17,000 islands,  6,000 of which are inhabited, Indonesia has no shortage of choices for solo travellers.

Although the small island of Bali is the most famous destination, there is so much more to discover. The variety of cultures and landscapes within this country is astounding; every island, from Sumatra and Java to Sulawesi and Flores, provides a different experience.

As the largest island in Indonesia, Sumatra rewards intrepid travellers with a little bit of everything.

Hike active volcanoes, explore the rainforest in search of wild orangutans and elephants, laze on deserted beaches, dive among pristine coral reefs, or discover an island set in the largest volcanic lake in the world – Lake Toba . In Sumatra alone, there’s an astounding array of cultures, cuisines, landscapes, and languages to lose yourself in.

The  best time to visit Sumatra  (and elsewhere in Indonesia) is during the peak of the dry season, during June, July, and August. This is high season for tourists, but the joy of visiting lesser-known areas such as Sumatra is that you’ll seldom run into crowds.

Reasons to visit Indonesia as a solo traveller

• Friendly, welcoming locals who treat you like family
• Affordable accommodation – even solo you can afford a private room
• Safe – low crime rate against tourists

Top tip for visiting Indonesia as a solo traveller

• Learn at least a few key words and phrases in Indonesian. Outside of the tourist hotspots, English may not be spoken.
• Indonesian is super easy to learn, and the ability to communicate makes your life easier and helps you have a more authentic local experience.

By Carly and Agung of We Are Sumatra

Solo safety & ease of travel: 3 out of 5 Travel costs: Cheap Recommended for first-time solo travellers: No

There are many reasons to visit Iran .

It is an incredibly diverse country with vast desert areas, jungle, canyons and impressive islands, and is home to the highest mountain in the Middle East, Mount Damavand at 5,610 meters. Furthermore, the architecture is beyond beautiful.

There are endless things to add to your  Iran itinerary  with astounding mosques and shrines found in every city and you can follow the ancient Silk Road through old caravanserais and bazaars.

Reasons to visit Iran as a solo traveller

• Extremely safe to travel as a solo female
• Locals are super friendly and will help you with anything you need. Friendly locals also mean that it’s easy to get a good connection to people when you travel solo and you can expect to be invited for dinner or to other fun activities with locals – a true cultural immersion.
• Easy to travel around by bus or to get a private driver
• Very cheap accommodation, which means you don’t spend a fortune travelling solo

Top tips for visiting Iran as a solo traveller

• A translation app between English and Farsi is helpful when travelling to Iran as you’ll meet people who don’t speak English. However, the people are so friendly and you get a long way with sign language and smiles.
• Make sure that you are open to connecting with people and you’ll have the time of your life.

By Linn of Brainy Backpackers

Editor’s note

Due to ongoing security concerns, travel to Iran is not currently recommended. For current travel advice, check the advice of the UK FCO here .

Solo safety & ease of travel: 4 out of 5 Travel costs: Medium – Expensive Recommended for first-time solo travellers: Yes

If I was pushed to make a choice, Japan would be one of my favourite countries.

It offers an intoxicating mix of the ancient and the modern, retaining its rich culture and historical heritage whilst innovating and embracing technological advances. Japan is also home to some of the best food on the planet, from  okonomiyaki  in Osaka  to  Fukuoka’s legendary Hakata ramen .

Recent  solo travel surveys  point to Japan as an ideal destination for first-time solo travellers . And as a solo traveller, you won’t be viewed with suspicion or pity because you are travelling alone.

Reasons to visit Japan as a solo traveller

• Japan is very safe
• The country has a superb and efficient travel infrastructure.
• Eating out alone  is a cultural norm
• Japan is home to some of the tastiest food on the planet
• For its specular landscapes and bubbling onsens

Top tip for visiting Japan as a solo traveller

Although English is spoken in popular cities, learning a few words in Japanese will go a long way. Failing that, have Google Translate at the ready.

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Malaysia  is a criminally underrated solo travel destination that offers a diversity of cultures and landscapes and has a rich historical heritage.

Peninsular Malaysia is more developed, and more touristed, and includes the capital, Kuala Lumpu r, along with other popular destinations, including Melaka and Penang . 

By contrast, Eastern Malaysia is quieter and may appeal to those with a more adventurous nature. This side of the country features white sand-fringed islands that offer sensational diving and the jungles of Borneo .

Reasons to visit Malaysia as a solo traveller

• Malaysia is a relatively safe country
• It is home to some of the best, and cheapest, food in Asia. We’re talking hawker stall heaven here.
• It’s relatively cheap
• There’s a great travel infrastructure
• Malaysia offers a diversity of experiences, cultures and climates that is hard to rival.

Top tips for visiting Malaysia as a solo traveller

• Malaysia is a vast country; don’t try to do too much. Unless you have a lot of time available, choose between Eastern Malaysia or Western (peninsular) Malaysia. 
• The weather pattern favours east and west at different times of the year.
• The best time of year to visit Western (Peninsular) Malaysia is in the dry season between November and February. To escape the monsoon season, you should travel to Eastern Malaysia between March and September.

Solo safety & ease of travel: 2 out of 5 Travel costs: Cheap Recommended for first-time solo travellers: No

If you’re looking to escape from human civilization and reconnect with nature in wide-open spaces, there’s no better place than Mongolia.

The country offers diverse landscapes , including stark deserts, majestic mountains, and impossibly blue lakes.

Summer is the best time to visit Mongolia, as the weather can be unbearably cold at other times of the year. Luckily, Mongolia is pretty far off the beaten track, so you don’t have to worry about crowds at  Mongolia’s attractions  even in the high season.

In such a large and sparsely populated country, there is very little public transport, and often no real roads to speak of.

To explore the country, most visitors end up joining a budget tour in the capital, Ulaanbaatar. These are usually made up of five to eight tourists, and transport is by minivan or old Soviet off-road vans.

Reasons to visit Mongolia as a solo traveller

• The whole country is very safe
• Easy to make friends in guesthouses and ger camps
• Can easily join with other travellers to create a small tour group

Top tip for visiting Mongolia as a solo traveller

• Bring a sense of adventure! Accommodation is usually in gers (Mongolian yurts), either in ger camps specially built for tourists or in a nomadic family’s extra ger. If it’s the latter, the facilities will be very basic.
• Expect to use squat toilets and go without showering for a few days. Even in the tourist camps, there aren’t many luxuries. Mongolia is best suited to budget travellers who don’t require many creature comforts.

By Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

If you’re someone who enjoys nature, history, architecture and culture, Pakistan is one of the best places to travel alone in Asia.

This country has something to offer to every kind of traveller. If you’re seeking adventure, go for a hike in the northern part of the country, such as in the Hunza Valley in Gilgit. The views of the mountains there are absolutely incredible.

For delicious local cuisine and majestic architecture, make sure to spend a few days in Lahore , the cultural and food capital of the country.

One of the best  places to visit in Lahore  is the Badshahi Mosque , an amazing jewel of the Mughal Empire. You’ll not only be amazed by the stunning architecture of the mosque but can also enjoy exquisite local dishes at the famous Fort Road Food Street nearby.

Reasons to visit Pakistan as a solo traveller

• It’s a very safe country (contrary to what the media may feed you)
• The locals are super friendly, kind, and welcoming
• You won’t see crowds of tourists around and will have an authentic experience 
• It’s a beautiful country with remarkable natural and architectural wonders

Top tip for visiting Pakistan as a solo traveller

Hire a local guide or go around with a local friend if you want to visit Lahore. It can be a big hassle to get around this city on your own, as the tourism sector there isn’t well developed.

By Jiayi of The Diary of a Nomad

Solo safety & ease of travel: 4 out of 5 Travel costs: Medium to expensive Recommended for first-time solo travellers: Yes

South Korea is a country of contrasts.

The traditional temples and houses blend together with tall skyscrapers and office buildings.

A trip to Hongdae , Seoul or the famous  Haedong Yonggungsa Temple  in Busan is a perfect introduction to the rich culture and friendly people of South Korea. If you want to explore the beautiful nature of this country, head to Jeju Island and you’ll discover pristine beaches, hidden waterfalls, and intriguing lava tubes.

South Korea is full of incredible sights to please any kind of traveller. 

Reasons to visit South Korea as a solo traveller

• South Korea is one of the safest countries in Asia to visit as a solo traveller. The crime rate is very low.
• The locals are super-friendly
• The country has a well-developed infrastructure of trains, buses, and subway systems
• Most of the younger generation in big cities speak English so you shouldn’t have any problems asking for information or directions. However, in more remote destinations you’ll find fewer people speaking English.

Top tip for visiting South Korea as a solo traveller

You should take into consideration that South Korea is pretty expensive. Much like its neighbour Japan, the prices here are two or three times higher than in destinations in South East Asia. If you’re on a budget, you should consider skipping South Korea.  

By Aurelia of Daily Travel Pill

Sri Lanka is one of the gems of Asia. An island paradise bursting with beauty on every corner, a trip to Sri Lanka will satisfy all types of solo travellers.

There is so much to see and do , from pristine beaches with lots of snorkelling opportunities, and ethical safari experiences, to ancient temples and World Heritage sites.

Sri Lanka is also a diverse country with regard to the climate.

There are two monsoon seasons that occur on each side of the island and, right in the middle, the weather is cooler in “Little England” where the tea fields flourish and the waterfalls and mountains rise. Sri Lanka is a great place to visit from August to October, but every month of the year has its benefits. 

Reasons to visit Sri Lanka as a solo traveller

• Its size: Sri Lanka is relatively small which means you can explore everywhere safely
• Friendly locals: Everyone in Sri Lanka is happy to help, and they don’t want anything in return
• Strong backpacker vibe: You’ll have lots of opportunities to meet fellow travellers on the road as there are strong backpacker vibes in areas such as Ella, and Arugam Bay
• It’s safe: Most trips to Sri Lanka are hassle-free and you’ll feel safe 

Top tip for visiting Sri Lanka as a solo traveller

Sri Lanka is one of the rare places where you can rent a tuk-tuk and self-drive around the country. This is an awesome way to get around and you’ll get to interact with locals, see sights that are off the beaten track, and be surrounded by beauty.

By Cazzy of Dream Big, Travel Far

>>> Get inspiration to book your solo trip to Sri Lanka with these beautiful images of Sri Lanka

Solo safety & ease of travel: 4 out of 5 Travel costs: Medium Recommended for first-time solo travellers: Yes

Taiwan is one of the best places to travel alone in Asia as a first-time solo traveller. It has all the quintessential Asian experiences without being as overwhelming and busy as many other Asian countries. 

As Taiwan is a small island, it is quick and easy to travel between cities. I highly recommend visiting Taipei and Kaohsiung . If you have extra time, Hualien is the perfect city to visit if you enjoy hiking and exploring nature.

October and November are the best months to visit Taiwan. It isn’t as unbearably hot as the summer months and doesn’t rain very often. However, it is still quite hot during those months, so you’ll still get to enjoy the heat and humidity Taiwan is known for. 

Reasons to visit Taiwan as a solo traveller

• A great public transportation system
• English is widely spoken
• Locals are incredibly kind

Top tips for visiting Taiwan as a solo traveller

• Eat dinner at the  night markets . Taiwan is a foodie’s paradise and has some of the best night markets in the world.
• Be careful where you sit on public transportation. There are designated seats on buses and trains for elderly people.  Don’t sit in them even if the bus or train is half-empty.

By Erica of Travels with Erica

Thailand is a great country for first-time solo travellers of any age, though experienced travellers can still get a kick out of its established digital nomad scene in cities such as Chiang Mai or by adventuring off-the-beaten-track.

Whether you want to take in the serenity of Khao Sok National Park , scooter around the hills and waterfalls in Pai or go  diving in Koh Lanta , both the hidden gems and established tourist trail of Thailand have something to offer.

Reasons to visit Thailand as a solo traveller

• Easy transport options that are cost-effective for solo travellers
• Generally safe. Just avoid getting too drunk as spiking is common. Stay with other backpackers and friends and don’t venture out to the beach alone when drinking. Also, watch out for theft on night buses.
• Established tourist scene
• A huge variety of cultural and natural attractions in one country
• Great hostel scene with cheap private rooms too

Top tips for visiting Thailand as a solo traveller

• Thailand also has an amazing food scene, even for vegan travellers, great hiking opportunities and ample historical temples for you to marvel at.
• I was initially put off Thailand by the stereotype of drunk backpackers and a worn-out tourist trail. However, the country won me over. It is so much more than that. There is something for everyone in Thailand, and at a low budget too. 

By Cass of Cassie the hag

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• Santhiya Resort Koh Yao Yai Review: A Piece of Paradise?

Uzbekistan  is an up-and-coming destination since it introduced visa-free entry a couple of years ago. This is no surprise as this country is rich in history and culture and there are lots of things to see and do.

Weather-wise, spring and autumn are the best times to visit. 

Uzbekistan was once an important part of the Silk Road .

The ancient cities of Samarkand, Khiva and Bukhara retain their beautiful Islamic architecture and bazaars. It’s not hard to imagine camel caravans passing through when you walk through the scenic alleyways of these cities. People are still welcoming of visitors and will greet you with a smile.

Reasons to visit Uzbekistan as a solo traveller

• Uzbekistan is one of the safest countries in Asia
• New high-speed trains make it easy to travel between cities
• Hostels are opening up throughout the country so it is easy to meet other travellers
• Uzbekistan is still relatively cheap.

Top tips for visiting Uzbekistan as a solo traveller

• Try not to skip Tashkent. The capital might lack the ancient Silk Road architecture, but is a great city to learn more about modern Uzbek culture. It is one of the best places to try Uzbek food.
• Other worthwhile off-the-beaten-path destinations include the Fergana Valley, with its traditional handicrafts, and the ancient desert castles of Khorezm.

By Ellis of Backpack Adventures

Vietnam is one of the most well-known travel destinations in Southeast Asia for so many reasons. It offers a rich culture, as well as history. If that’s not enough to lure you into visiting the country, Vietnam is also one of the most budget-friendly destinations in the world. 

Reasons to visit Vietnam as a solo traveller

• You can go far in Vietnam on a tight budget as the country is known as one of the cheapest places to travel. You can even book luxurious accommodation in a relatively affordable price range.
• It’s relatively safe
• It has an excellent infrastructure with many ways to travel around the country. Some travellers buy a cheap motorbike or scooter to move around, while bus and flight options are also available. 

Top tips for visiting Vietnam as a solo traveller

• If you’re the kind of traveller who’s after vibrant local culture, visit Hoi An. Or why not have a luxury experience by booking a cruise trip around Ha Long Bay?
• Sa Pa or  An Giang Province  are recommended if you’re seeking natural beauty. And if you’re into history, don’t miss the capital city Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. 

By Marya of The BeauTraveler

Top 10 Tips for Solo Female Travel in Asia

Travelling solo as a woman in Asia can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it’s important to prioritize safety and plan ahead. Here are my top solo travel safety tips .

1. Booking accommodation

Choosing the right accommodation is one of the keys to safe solo travel. Book well-reviewed, reputable hotels or hostels in busy areas. Read reviews from other solo female travellers on Booking.com or Tripadvisor .

2. Getting around

Use reputable transportation services, especially at night. Consider using taxi apps such as Grab , Bolt and InDrive .

3. Seeing the sights

Try to plan activities during daylight hours and avoid going out alone at night.

I’m a huge fan of day tours and activities and book these through GetYourGuide . They are a fabulous way of meeting other travellers .

4. Dress Respectfully

Dress modestly to respect local customs and avoid unwanted attention. Take your cue from local women. I usually carry a sarong or scarf to cover my shoulders and knees for visits to religious sites.

5. Stay Connected

Carry a local SIM card or an international roaming plan for your phone and download maps and translation apps. I always share my itinerary with family back home.

6. Travel Insurance

Take out comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, theft and trip cancellations. I buy my travel insurance from Staysure .

7. Money and Documents

Lock up your valuables whenever possible.

Use an anti-theft backpack when you are out and about. I use  this PacSafe backpack  which has anti-RFID technology and a hidden pocket.

Make photocopies or digital backups of your documents.

8. Don’t shout about your solo status

Avoid telling strangers that you’re travelling alone.

Use gender-neutral language when discussing your travel plans.

9. Go easy on the booze

Limit alcohol consumption, especially in unfamiliar environments. Never accept a drink from a stranger unless you see it being made.

10. Trust Your Instincts

Above all, if a situation or person makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself from it. A little bit of common sense goes a long way.

READ THIS NEXT: 17 Essential Safety Tips for Travelling Alone

Asia Solo Travel: Final Thoughts

I hope that these recommendations inspire you to plan your solo trip to Asia. This is one of the easiest continents to visit as a solo traveller and one that reaps rewards many times over.

If you are not sure whether you are ready to explore Asia independently, why not join a  group tour ? These are particularly useful in Asian countries that are not easy to travel around independently (e.g. Mongolia), or that are daunting for the first-time solo traveller (e.g. Pakistan).

As well as being a relatively hassle-free way of travelling, there are many other  benefits of a group tour  as a solo traveller. There are lots of  group travel companies  out there but two companies that I have used and can recommend are  Exodus Travels  and  Explore Worldwide!

You’ll have an expertly curated itinerary and you often gain valuable insights into the country, the people and culture. Generally, there’s safety in numbers. Finally, if you fear solo travel loneliness, there’s the reassurance of ready-made travel companions.

READ THESE NEXT:

• 40 Best Places to Travel Alone in Europe
• 23 Best Places to Travel Alone in the USA
• 19 Awesome Places to Travel Alone in Africa

About Bridget

Bridget Coleman has been a passionate traveller for more than 30 years. She has visited 70+ countries, most as a solo traveller.

Articles on this site reflect her first-hand experiences.

To get in touch, email her at [email protected] or follow her on social media.

Solo Female Travel in Asia

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I spent a solitary 4.5 months traveling around Southeast Asia and visited Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Bali, and I enjoyed them all. I would definitely recommend Cambodia. Especially the Koh Rong islands - they are geographically close to the popular Thai islands, but they are much less spoiled and amazing thanks to sections of white beaches and crystal blue ocean!

Group travel

I just returned after 2.5 months in Southeast Asia (Thailand -> Cambodia -> Vietnam -> Bali -> Thailand), which is practically what you are doing. I can initially say that it was absolutely amazing and I felt very safe the whole time (an 18-year-old solo female), although I spent a lot of time on organised group tours, which greatly facilitated the entire experience.

I loved Vietnam (my favorites are the Mekong Delta, Hoi An and Ha Long Bay (you can live on the islands there)) and Sumatra (check out Lake Maninjau and the orangutan sanctuary in Bukit Lawang). Don't book too far in advance, that way you can stay longer in the places you will love and vice versa.

Southeast Asia is the perfect place for solo backpacking trips. Everyone is so friendly in hostels and open to meeting new people. I would recommend occasionally staying at party hostels, because the people staying there are usually very friendly and open to meeting people and having fun! I was traveling for 3 months and here are my main points: - Bali (Canggu and Ubud), Gili Trawangan (island near Bali), - Thailand (Chang Mai, Pai, Koh Phi Phi, Koh Phangan) - Cambodia (Siem Reap, Phnom Penh, Kampot, Koh Rong) - Vietnam (Ha Long Bay, Hoi An)

I've been traveling all over Southeast Asia for over 6 months! My travel plan: Thailand > Cambodia > Vietnam > Laos. I've met a lot of solo travelers backpacking through Southeast Asia and they are thrilled with every minute. There's so much to do, affordable for any budget, and it's really one of the most magical places on Earth.

I loved Thailand and Vietnam. I traveled around Thailand by myself. I visited Phuket, Phi Phi, and Koh Sok. I also did a tourist trip through Vietnam from south to north in 2 weeks. I found that both of these countries are easy to travel in. They are very tourist-oriented.

Meet locals in Asia

Im a travel lover. Also, a foodie. Been to 63 provinces in Vietnam and 16 countries. Hope i can be of your help!

Open-minded, talkative girl who knows a bunch of things about ancient Egypt. Into graphic design and illustration, like to take photos and working out as well Close to nature - sun lover - local joker

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This is Belcan who is half American. I love travelling and getting know the people.

Upcoming visitors to Asia

Hi I'm Laetitia (レティーシャ), I am French but I've been working in Japan for 1 year now!

Hello everyone! My name is Emily. I am half French half Ecuadorian. I was born in Barcelona, Spain and I also lived six years in Ecuador. I am 23 years old and live in Aachen Germany where I also work as a financial analyst at a freight company. I am very interested in new cultures and also in getting to know new people from all over the world. I travel a lot and enjoy it so much!! I am starting my big travel in October and I would really enjoy spending time and staying with local women :) I am very friendly and open to new experiences. As I speak for languages it is easy to communicate with new people and is a very big advantage while meeting new people 🫶🏼

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Girl about the Globe

Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Taiwan

Types of Girl about the Globe (GatG) – Active, Foodie, Nature, Spiritual & Wellness

When you solo travel in Asia , Taiwan is such an under-rated country and a hidden gem in Asia. It doesn’t have the crowds of tourists that you find in Japan and it’s incredibly safe. Plus there is bubble tea everywhere! This article is an overview of Taiwan. I spent a week here and share my travel tips, the best places to see the country, how to get around and places to stay to inspire you to visit Taiwan.  

Is Taiwan Safe For Solo Female Travellers?

Taiwan is ranked as the second safest country in the world behind Japan. In Taipei you’ll find some people speaking English. The Taiwanese are so accommodating and will even make a u-turn in the street to help you if you look lost and escort you where you are supposed to go. From my own personal experience, being in Taiwan feels comfortable because no one stares at you here. There is also an expat community as there are a lot of women teaching English.

Taipei is a foodie heaven with its numerous night markets offering all sorts of cheap but delicious local food. It’s also vegetarian friendly with amazing vegetarian cuisine. Make sure to try the beef noodle soup and smelly tofu that the country is known for. 

As well as outdoor adventure and good hiking, Taiwan offers museums, monuments, water parks, hot springs, and also smaller islands with gorgeous beaches and great scuba diving.

Wellness solos will be in their element here as the locals are into their spas and the country has hot springs too. But, check before you go in as some of them don’t allow swimwear but it’s definitely a liberating experience. You also need a swimming cap too!

Taiwan has so much nature and nature solos will love Sun Moon Lake and Taroko Gorge. For cultural solos, there is also a Buddhist monastery which hosts retreats for foreigners to teach them more about Buddhism.

If you're unsure where to go in Taiwan, I have included my favourite places in Taiwan below to help you to plan your solo trip.

Taipei is the capital of Taiwan. This city is really cool and a good place to base yourself for a few nights if you don’t have time to travel around the rest of the country. You can do plenty of day trips from here.  

One landmark that you have to see here is Taipei 101. This is the city’s tallest building (it used to be the Grand Hotel before). This 508-meter-tall skyscraper was once the world's tallest building, boasting a unique design inspired by traditional Asian pagodas. Head up to its observatory to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

My tip – If you're on a day tour, the company may drop you at Taipei 101 after the tour so check with them before. When you leave, if you order an Uber from Taipei 101, they only pick up from a certain area so make sure to exit from the East gate for your pick up. 

In the modern Xinyi district, you'll find upscale shopping malls, nightlife, and a dynamic dining scene. And if you're interested in history and culture, make sure to explore the indigenous cultures of Taiwan at the Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines.

The National Palace Museum in Taiwan is a treasure trove of ancient Chinese artefacts that takes you on a journey through Chinese history and culture. Its extensive exhibits include priceless artworks, ceramics, calligraphy, and historical treasures. Nearby, the serene Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall stands as a tribute to the country's former leader.

Nature solos can venture to Yangmingshan National Park , where you’ll find hiking trails amongst lush landscapes and sulfur hot springs. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the changing of the guard ceremony at the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, a tribute to the founding father of the Republic of China.

Songshan Cultural and Creative Park is a beautifully restored tobacco factory turned creative hub in Taipei. It hosts a range of exhibitions, events, and cultural activities, making it a hotspot for art and design enthusiasts. Stroll through its historic architecture, art galleries, and craft shops, and immerse yourself in Taipei's vibrant creative scene. It’s super nice and arty.

Taipei is also ideal to explore solo at night and the city is renowned for its bustling night markets; Shilin Night Market being one of the best. Here, you can taste a wide array of Taiwanese street food, shop for local goods, and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant street culture.

But if you don’t get a chance to see that night market, you can explore the Huaxi Street Night market instead. As the Huaxi Tourist Street Market is located near one of city's beautiful temples, Longsham Temple.

Longsham Temple is a historic Buddhist temple renowned for its beautiful architecture and cultural significance. Built in 1738, it features beautiful carvings and decorations and is even more stunning at night with a really serene atmosphere.

It’s really safe wandering through the lit streets and when you’re here, you can also indulge in some of Taiwan’s wellness. The night market has plenty of massage parlours for 400 TWD (New Taiwan dollar) which include a 20 minute free shoulder massage too!

Day Tours from Taipei

Yehliu, jiufen & pingxi.

From Taipei it’s easy to take day tours to explore the north and east of the island. The most reachable day trips are Yehliu, Juifen and Pingxi all located in the new Taipei area that you can combine in one full day tour.

Yehliu is stunning. This coastal gem in northern Taiwan is a Geopark of natural rock formations shaped by erosion. It’s a really unique place to visit with a surreal landscape and formations such as a sandstone turtle and large mushroom.   The most famous formations here are the “Princess’ and the “Queen’s Head” which sadly is eroding away. Tip – if you visit during the summer months there is no shade here so take a hat or umbrella to protect you from the sun.

One of my favourite places in Taiwan is Jifeun Village. This former gold-mining town has a chaotic charm to it where you can lose yourself in the assortment of shops as wander through its passageway. And don’t worry as you won’t get lost here either.  

The street is full of local stores and sellers passing you free oolong tea and local food to try such as their famous pineapple cake. Make sure to try the ice cream and peanut spring roll. They even produce their own coffee too! It’s a great place to buy presents and souvenirs whether it’s just for yourself or others to take back home.  

One of the most iconic and popular tea houses here is the A-Mei Teahouse, perched on a hillside, that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the coast. Nearby is the Daoist temple known as Jiufen Wangyou Temple (also known as the Wangyou Shrine). This temple is famous for its unique dragon sculpture that coils around the temple's pillars (a symbol of power, protection and good fortune in Chinese culture).

Taiwan even has its own ‘Little Niagara Falls'. Shifen Falls is also located in New Taipei and seeing its cascades from the several viewing platforms is definitely impressive. It's a really lovely area to sit and enjoy a snack or drink too. 

If you do go on a tour that combines all of these areas, you'll also get to visit Pinxi. This small village nestled in a valley with a Taiwanese charm is known for its annual Sky Lantern Festival. You'll see air lanterns as they are let off into the sky, each one with a handwritten message of the sender’s wishes for the future. 

Pinxi is a working train track so make sure to listen out for the tooting of a passing train as everyone steps of the tracks and out of its way.  

The Maokong Gondola is a scenic cable car system in Taipei that takes you on a breathtaking journey through lush tea plantations, offering stunning views of the city and mountains. It's a unique opportunity to savor Taiwan's tea culture, explore traditional teahouses, and take in the serene atmosphere of the Maokong area.

Taichung City

Head south of Taipei to Taichung city, the Silicon Valley of Taiwan. This city has the most skyscrapers in the whole of the country and is where modernity is said to meet tradition. 

Arty and Museum solos can explore art and culture at the National Museum of Fine Arts or check out a performance at the National Taichung Theatre with its own unique funky design. You can learn about the region's history at the 921 Earthquake Museum or get artsy at Rainbow Village, renowned for its colourful murals.

The vibrant artwork of a retired soldier featuring diverse scenes and characters, saved the village from demolition and instead turned it into a popular tourist spot. It’s worth visiting just for the story and impact of one man’s creativity to preserve his home.  

Kaohsiung is the largest port in Taiwan with the best river name. The Love River is the heart of the city where you can walk along the river or take a scenic boat ride. See vibrant temples, including the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at the Lotus Pond, or visit Cijin Island for its sandy beaches and fresh seafood. Get creative at the Pier-2 Art Center which hold cultural events or see panoramic view of the city at 85 Sky Tower. 

But my favourite place here is the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. There are so many Buddhas here; it's an amazing place. This huge complex is home to the world’s tallest bronze sitting Buddha statue which is stunning. The Great Buddha Land is one of Fo Guang Shan Temple’s oldest landmarks. It features 480 statues of Buddha which surround a forty meter-tall Great Buddha. If you don't get a chance to see any other place in Taiwan, make sure you visit this amazing, peaceful place. 

Sun Moon Lake

Not far from Taichung is one of my favourite places in Taiwan. Sun Moon Lake is stunning and is called so because of its sun and moon shaped resemblance, this giant lake has so many beautiful places to visit and is really tranquil. It’s also ideal for the active solo as you can kayak across it or take a boat trip. There are also hiking and cycling trails around the lake such as the Shuishe Bikeway.

As well as its temples, you can also learn about the indigenous Thao tribe at the Thao Village on the east side of the lake and see their traditional houses and handicrafts. There’s a pier here and many local stalls selling their local cuisine. Make sure to try the rice chicken wings (which is chicken stuffed with rice), Gao bao – Taiwanese hamburger made of boar, and millet on a bamboo stick which is a tribal snack. (You can find all these stores near the 7/11 shop).

Tainan, Taiwan's oldest city, is a tapestry of history and culture. Explore the ancient Chihkan Tower and Koxinga Shrine, both steeped in history that showcase the city's heritage. The Anping Old Fort provides a good insight into Taiwan's colonial past and there's the Confucius Temple, one of Taiwan's oldest. 

The Chihkan Tower and Koxinga Shrine, steeped in history, showcase the city's cultural heritage. Anping Old Fort sheds light on Taiwan's colonial past. The Confucius Temple, one of Taiwan's oldest, exudes tranquility and tradition.

The city's vibrant street food scene is a delight for foodies and make sure to visit the Flower night Market when you're here too. 

Kenting National Park

Located in southern Taiwan, Kenting National Park is another must-see when you solo travel Taiwan. This natural wonderland has coastline and lush grasslands. You can go hiking at stunning Longpan Park, or see the Eluanbi Lighthouse, that stands tall on Taiwan's southernmost tip, surrounded by unique geological formations. The Maobitou coastal area is another gem, famous for its breathtaking sea-carved terrain and picturesque scenery.

The White Sand Bay and Xiaowan Beaches are perfect for sunbathing and water sports. and if you love exploring underwater, Kenting's coral reefs are another must-see, teeming with colorful marine life. As with the rest of the country, Kenting also has a vibrant night market where you can sample even more Taiwanese street food. 

Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is a natural wonder with marble cliffs and waterfalls, temples and bridges. If you love nature this is a definite must-see. And there are hiking trails such as the Zhuilu Old Trail, and the Shakadang Trail for the active solo.  

The Eternal Spring Shrine is a 200m trail which offers stunning views of the marble gorge. The trail leads to the shrine that was built of memory of the workers who died building the Central Cross Island highway.  

The Swallow Grotto Trail gives you fantastic views of the marble canyons carved by the Liwu River. The Tunnel of Nine Turns is like a winding rollercoaster road through the gorge, and the Baiyang Waterfall Trail takes you to a picturesque waterfall. Taroko Gorge is a must-visit for anyone into nature and culture.

Tours in Taiwan

I spent time solo in Taipei and booked a 5-day tour for the rest of the country for the ease of getting around. I recommend Edison Travel as the guide was amazing. I met some great people and stayed in 5-star hotels that I wouldn’t have been able to afford otherwise. The tour visits the most popular and most important places in the country so it’s a great way to explore Taiwan. * Here's the 5 day tour that I did!

Edison tour also offer day tours from Taipei to the north. I used them again for Yehliu, Jiufen & Pingxi. * Check rates and availability for Ediison Travel tours

Get Your Guide offers some great day tours for one (some of them have a minimum of 2 people but there are still plenty for one). You can take a day trip from Taipei to Yehliu, Jiufen and Pingxi. Visit the Beitou hot springs and Yangmingshan Volcano, or see Thousand Island Lake and Pinglin tea plantation. They also offer tickets for Taipei 101 Observatory too (which is a must-see!) * Check prices and availability for all Taiwan tours  

Accommodation in Taiwan

Taiwan has a range of accommodation from the capsule hotels in Taipei to luxury 5 star hotels with their own hot springs in your room. The room sizes for budget accommodation can be quite small but if you're travelling solo then it's more than enough space for one person. 

I’ve listed below all the accommodation that I personally stayed in as well as recommended accommodation from our solo female community. * Check rates and availability for all Taiwan accommodation

Taipei  

• $ – Star Hostel Taipei Main Station – I love this place so much that I stayed here twice! The staff are really helpful and you can choose from a dorm bed or private room. Breakfast is delicious and there is a lovely common space too. 
• $$ –   Citizen Hotel – This 3-star hotel is near the subway and walking distance to restaurants. They also offer an airport shuttle and laundry and you can store your luggage with them  too. 
• $$$ –  Inhouse Hotel Taipei – This 4-star hotel is a great area, just a 5 minute walk from the train station. The staff are really welcoming and helpful. 

Sun Moon Lake – Fleur De Chine – This 5-star hotel is just gorgeous. Situated near the lake, it has a pool, sauna and hot springs and even had hot springs in my room! 

Kaohsiung – Grand Hi Lai Hotel – This 5-star hotel is one of the tallest skyscrapers in Kaohsiung. It even has its own mall on the ground level with a fantastic food court. 

Taitung –   Royal Hotel Chihpen – I loved the hot springs in this hotel (and in my room). They even had lavender and green tea springs. Breakfast at this 5-star hotel was amazing and they also host cultural performances every evening. My room even came with its own coffee machine and snacks!

Taroko –  Silks Place Taroko Hotel – This hotel is just gorgeous. There's a rooftop pool with hot tubs and even an outdoor cinema. Plus They hold weekly yoga classes and have cultural singers in the evenings. It's located in such a peaceful place in the gorge. 

Best Time To Go To Taiwan

March to May and sept to nov are best times to visit Taiwan. The summer months can get humid and sweaty. I travelled around the country during September as it was still very hot especially in the south where apparently it’s always summer. Below is an annual weather chart for Taipei to help you decide when to go.

FAQs  

• Can I drink the water? Yes the tap water is safe to drink.  
• Is tipping expected? In restaurants, there is usually a service fee added so you don’t need to tip. It’s expected to tip your tour guide and driver (separately).  
• Fixed price or barter? Fixed price.
• Any ATMs? Yes and you can find ATMS in the 7-Eleven shops .  
• Which side of the road do they drive? On the right-hand side
• Good for vegetarians? Yes. There are lots of places that are good for vegetarians and vegans . 
• Any Seven Wonders of the World? No.

Plan a Trip to Taiwan

Capital –   Taipei City

Population – 23.57 million

Language spoken – Mandarin Chinese. Some people speak a little English  

Local Currency – New Taiwan dollar  

Do I need a visa? For British Citizens you don’t need a visa for Taiwan. You can stay up 90 days.  

Vaccinations Required  

Useful Info

Airlines to Taipei

Which Plug Do I Need?  

Events and Festivals in Taiwan  

Local Cost Guide  

Local Customs & Etiquette  

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(photo @go2taiwan.net) 

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Solo travel , Taiwan

Solo travel in taiwan – a girl’s guide.

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

After my solo travels in Taiwan, I have a lot to say on the matter. But the first thing I’d say to anyone on the fence is: DO IT!! In this guide, I’m going to share everything you need to know for a solo trip to Taiwan including where to go, how to get around, the perfect Taiwan itinerary , the best hostels, how to make friends and more!

TAIWAN ESSENTIALS Accommodation  – Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting around – car hire / bus / train ( 12Go ) Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Guide book: Lonely Planet Taiwan Staying connected: Taiwan e-SIM card / Asia e-SIM (inc Taiwan)

Read next: the best places in the world for women to travel solo

Is Taiwan good for solo travel?

Yes, Taiwan is a great place for solo travel given its positive safety rating, fantastic infrastructure and countless wonderful attractions.

I felt totally safe as a woman travelling alone in Taiwan. TOTALLY. However, I would say that Taiwan’s suitability for solo travel depends on what type of solo trip you want. I did get a bit lonely at times. Unlike countries in Southeast Asia like Vietnam and Thailand where hostels are packed with solo travellers keen to explore together, the hostels in Taiwan are a little quieter and frequented more by locals. Overall, I didn’t meet THAT many other travellers in Taiwan but I expect that will change as it grows in popularity. So, if you’re looking for a party trip akin to travelling solo in Thailand , perhaps Taiwan is not the adventure for you. But as long as you’re happy doing things alone, you’ll easily keep busy. There are so many amazing places on this incredible island!

Read next: the best places to travel solo in Asia

Is Taiwan safe for solo travel?

Taiwan is ranked the 32nd safest country in the world by Population Review and even higher – 3rd in the world – by Numeo ! Although it’s hard to say which is correct, I wouldn’t dwell too much: Taiwan is incredibly safe! If the statistics aren’t enough to convince you, I can say with first-hand experience that I felt incredibly safe as a woman in Taiwan. There’s next-to-no crime and the locals are so friendly and helpful. I remember on my first day, someone coming up to ask (in English) if I was lost and needed help. So kind! Taiwan is safe for solo female travellers at all times of day and night. I never felt unsafe walking alone in the evenings.

Read next: my guide to solo female travel safety

Attitudes to women in Taiwan

This is worth mentioning! ‘Safe’ is an arbitrary term because, safe for who? Women, People of Colour, LGBT+ travellers? Well, in Taiwan, safety extends across demographics. Taiwan has a woman president and progressive attitudes to women’s rights. It’s not a conservative country and I felt comfortable wearing what I would at home. Although a lack of crime is always a positive thing, it’s even better travelling knowing that the country has genuinely great attitudes to women!

Also, Taiwan was the first Asian country to legalise same-sex marriage in 2019 making the country safe for LGBT+ locals and travellers.

Is Taiwan ok for first time solo travellers?

Safety-wise – yes absolutely! Logistic-wise – yes, it’s straightforward to get around with great infrastructure. Things are clean and ordered so it’s not too overwhelming. The only hurdle may be Mandarin… if you’re nervous about communicating, there are easier countries to travel solo in Europe and Asia. Social-wise: maybe not! If it’s your first time travelling alone , I’d recommend going somewhere with more of a backpacker scene so you have support and company if you need it. I’d suggest solo travel in Thailand or Vietnam .

Good things about solo travel in Taiwan

• Taiwan is safe for women travelling alone – the chances you’ll be victim to a crime are nearly nonexistent so you can relax and enjoy your trip
• It’s an affordable country – aside from accommodation which I found disproportionally spenny, most things in Taiwan are cheap from food to transport. I barely spend £500 ($600) in 3 weeks!
• It’s easy to get around – so you don’t need to worry about hiring a car alone.

Bad things about solo travel in Taiwan

• It can be a bit lonely since it’s not yet as popular with other travellers as Thailand or Vietnam
• The cost of accommodation is high meaning getting a private room for one may eat into your budget, especially if you’re not a hostel person.

Best places to travel alone in Taiwan

Here’s where I recommend solo female travellers go, plus what to do there…

Taipei (the capital)

Taipei is a fantastic city and a great introduction to Taiwan. Although there are two other cities with international airports (Kaohsiung and Taichung), I suspect 99% of travellers start their trip here. Taipei is a blend of modern and traditional. Shiny, futuristic skyscrapers neighbour colourful temples dating back centuries. Food stands serving age-old delicacies passed down through generations are just a stone’s throw from modern bubble tea cafes. I spent 10 days in Taipei and didn’t run out of things to do!

Read next: 3-5 day Taipei itinerary

Things to do in Taipei

• Taipei 101 – visit the observation deck inside or hike the Xiangshan Trail to Elephant Mountain for the best views
• Explore Ximending – this modern, vibrant neighbourhood is alive throughout the day and night with street performers, markets, shopping opportunities and bubble tea cafes. It’s safe to wander at any time
• Take a free walking tour with TourMeAway – they have free tours of the Old Town and Longshan Temple, plus food tours at a surcharge (I can highly recommend their food tours!)
• Visit important sites such as Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple and the National Palace Museum
• Soak in bubbling thermal springs in Beitou – visit the museum, sightsee at the Thermal Valley and soak in the Public Hot Springs with the locals
• Songshan Cultural and Creative Park – this refurbished factory is a hub for art, design and events
• Eat at all the night markets – such as Shillin, Raohe, Linjiang and Huaxi.

Day trips from Taipei

Jiufen – if you take just one day trip from the capital, make it this scenic hillside town. Dating back to the Japanese gold rush, it’s an ex-mining town full of adorable tea houses (A-Mei Teahouse being one of the best) and atmospheric winding streets. It’s also a renowned foodie destination with all kinds of delicacies to discover. There’s a direct bus connecting the capital and Juifen or you can take a regular train service to Ruifang and jump on a bus the last section. It’s a safe and lovely place for solo travel in Taiwan so don’t skip it!

Read next: the perfect Juifen & Shifen day trip from Taipei

Shifen and the Pingxi Line – the touristic railway village of Shifen where people release lanterns for luck is just one stop along this train line that connects attractions in the countryside. Although Shifen is a pleasant town and Shifen Falls is worth a visit, my highlight (obviously!) was the stop before: Houtong Cat Village where feline friends rule the roost. After Shifen, the final stop on the line is Pingxi Village, a more peaceful version of Shifen. The line begins at Ruifang Station. One option for a solo day out from Taipei is to make all the stops along the Pingxi Line and save Juifen for another day. Alternatively, see Juifen and Shifen during the same day with this tour ($38) .

Yehliu Geopark – the weird and wonderful volcanic shapes caused by nature have become tourist attractions, thought to resemble common objects and people’s profiles. Make your own mind up whilst wandering this open-air gallery beside the sea. Take a bus or a day tour (using my guide to Yehliu Geopark ).

Related tour ($38) – Jiufen, Shifen & Yehlui during one day

Yangminshan National Park – the closest national park to the capital is the best place to escape the city and feel at one with nature. For some peaceful soul-searching during your solo travels in Taiwan, you can arrive by public transport, car hire or an organised day tour.

Where to stay in Taipei – easily the best-rated hotel is Star Main with 9.7 stars out of 10 based on almost 3,000 reviews! Browse all hostels on Hostelworld .

Having enjoyed all the city pleasures of the capital, I didn’t know what to expect from Kahosiung. But I loved it! Sure, it’s not as huge as Tapiei, but it may be better for those who feel overwhelmed by big megacities. It’s a creative, arty city with lots of colourful places to visit. My favourite attraction in Kaohsiung is the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas beside the peaceful Lotus Pond. These two huge statues connect the pagoda behind; enter via the dragon’s mouth and exit via the tiger for luck. Before heading back to the city centre, visit other pagodas around the lake: the Autumn & Spring Pagodas and Zuoying Yuandi Temple.  The Rainbow Church on Cijin Island is another Instagrammable attraction, and you also can’t miss Pier 2 Art Center near the harbour (where you get the boat to Cijin). If you’re feeling energetic, hike Monkey Mountain or take a trip out of town to Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum where a 108-metre Buddha statue awaits. Foodies travelling alone in Taiwan, don’t miss Liuhe Night Market or the more authentic option of Ruifeng Night Market. These are great places for cheap and informal dining, ideal if you don’t want to dine alone in a restaurant. Where to stay in Kaohsiung: the best-rated hostel in town is Ahiruyah , which is spotlessly clean with easy access to all the city’s important attractions.

Hualien and Taroko National Park

Taiwan has fantastic cities but the nature is also incredible! Especially if you’re not a big city person, a trip to Taroko Gorge is the perfect dose of nature and me-time during a solo trip to Taiwan. The best place to stay near Taroko is Hualien, a city on Taiwan’s east coast just a 2-3 hour train ride from Taipei. From here, there are a couple of ways to explore the park: hire a car, ride the hourly shuttle service that visits points of interest around the park, or take an organised day tour. Highlights for your Taroko Gorge itinerary include the Swallow’s Trail where birds swoop in the canyon above picturesque hanging bridges; Changchun Shrine (a beautiful temple cut into the hillside beside a waterfall) and Shakadang Trail, the best place to get off-grid and do some walking. Hualien is a decent base with great places to eat like Dongdamen Night Market. I stayed at On My Way which is a lovely hostel close to the station. World Inn also has great reviews.

Another suitable place for solo female travel in Taiwan is Taichung, a mid-sized city on the west coast that makes for a pleasant stop-off when travelling between Taipei and Kaohsiung. It was the Rainbow Village that used to bring lots of travellers to Taichung but sadly it was vandalised in 2022 and is now quite different. Other things to do in Taichung include:

• Visit the first bubble tea cafe – as a super fan, you can imagine how excited I was about visiting Chun Shui Tang ! It didn’t disappoint
• Zhongshe Flower Market – these gorgeous flower fields are the perfect place for a photoshoot
• Take a day trip to Sun Moon Lake – one of Taiwan’s must-visit places, easily reached from Taichung. Take a boat on the lake, ride a cable car above it, or hike around it
• Have the best ice cream of your life at Miyahara – but seriously! This place is a palace and the ice cream is phenomenal.

Being Taiwan, of course there’s plenty to eat in Taichung. I even wrote a guide to the best food in Taichung . I stayed at Getcha Hostel with cosy pod bunks, but T Life also has fantastic reviews.

Kenting National Park

Easily accessed from Kaoshiung or Hualien, this wonderful national park on the southern tip of Taiwan is a place to relax and unwind during solo travel in Taiwan. Stay overnight in Kenting or Hengchun. The only downside to visiting Kenting Nat Park alone is that the best way to get around is by hiring your own transport, either a car or scooter (an international driving license is required for either). However, there are shuttle buses travelling around the park so DIYing it is possible provided you manage your expectations about seeing everything. Highlights of Kenting include visiting Longluan Lake, Maobitou Park and lookout, watching sunsets (from Guanshan Sunset Viewing Park or Eluanbi Lighthouse) and hitting the beaches. These aren’t the quality of Southeast Asia but they make for a decent beach break when visiting Taiwan. Beaches worth visiting include Baishawan Beach, South Bay and Kenting Beach.

Although I ran out of time to visit Tainan, this is an important stop for history lovers planning a Taiwan solo travel itinerary. You can stay overnight or visit as an easy day trip from Kaohsiung (just 1 hour on the slow train and 15 minutes on the High-Speed Train). The historic Qing Dynasty capital from the 1600s-1800s is full of fortresses (such as Anping) and temples (such as Luermen Mazu Temple dedicated to the goddess of the sea). Nowadays, there are a few modern influences, too, like Blueprint Creative Park.

Best season to visit Taiwan

Although you can visit Taiwan solo year-round, it’s a destination with clear seasons. I went in May and it was VERY rainy! Although I still enjoyed my trip, I’d recommend visiting outside of rainy season if you’re on a tight schedule because you won’t be able to reschedule activities cancelled due to bad weather. Spring (March-May) – before the rainy season, the weather is still cool. This is an ideal time to visit Taiwan. However, the rain starts in May so this is not the best month. Visit in Feb or March to see the cherry blossoms! Summer (June-August) – this is the hottest and most crowded time to visit Taiwan so not optimum. There’s also the chance of typhoons. Autumn (September-November) – this is another ideal time to visit Taiwan when the rainy season has ended and the December crowds have yet to arrive. Winter (December-February) – this is the coldest time to visit Taiwan, plus the Christmas and New Year period is busy and expensive. Overall, the best times to go are April and October-November, either side of rainy season when the weather isn’t too hot or too cold.

Cost of solo Taiwan travel

Solo travellers visiting Taiwan will be relieved to know it’s generally not an expensive destination. Getting around the country is affordable if you take the TRA slow train ($10-25 a journey), and getting around cities is super affordable with the MRT underground and buses (around $1 a journey). Food in Taiwan is incredibly affordable! Eating mainly at night markets rather than restaurants isn’t a sacrifice because this is where some of the best food can be found. Dishes start from $1! And you don’t need to skip restaurants entirely if you’re on a budget because a meal with a drink costs around $5. The only thing about Taiwan is that accommodation is a little expensive in comparison to other costs like food and transport. In Taipei, you’ll struggle to find dorm beds for less than $20 a night, meaning accommodation is more than double the cost of travelling alone in Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries.

If you don’t want to stay in a hostel dorm, you’ll need to up your budget as a solo traveller in Taiwan because private rooms start at $35. It’s cheaper outside of the cities so, if you decide to mix up dorms and private rooms, I suggest being tactical about where you do it.

Read next: Taiwan travel budget

Where is Taiwan?

Taiwan is an island located off the east coast of China (separated by the Taiwan Strait), north of the Philippines and southwest of South Korea and Japan.

Getting to Taiwan

Being an island, you’re pretty limited about how to arrive in Taiwan. Most travellers arrive by air into Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). Flights from other Asian countries start from $50. The cheapest flights are usually to Vietnam , China, South Korea (see my guide to solo Korea travel if you’re heading here next), Japan and Singapore . I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights. Getting from the airport to downtown Taipei is quick and easy using the MRT: ride the purple line to Taipei Main Station in 35 minutes. The bus is cheaper and slower (around 1 hour) but a reliable option outside of MRT hours (6am-11pm).

How to get around Taiwan

The train system in Taiwan is incredibly efficient, if a little confusing to understand at first. I got around Taiwan using… HSR – the high-speed train (Taiwan’s answer to Japan’s bullet train) is the quickest but most expensive way to get around. It connects Taipei to Kaohsiung in just 2 hours. Journeys can be booked up to 29 days in advance and cost up to $35. I used 12Go to book my tickets.

TRA – these trains are slower but worth it for budget travellers. Taiwan is small so the journeys never take forever. The trains are clean and reliable. They fill up quicker than HSR trains so book in advance, especially at weekends and public holidays. Note – I had problems trying to buy TRA train tickets (as opposed to HSR ones) online with a foreign bank card so I always bought them at the station a day or two in advance. Bus – although I never took buses when travelling solo in Taiwan (aside from city buses and shuttles in the national parks), there’s a wide network of comfy buses that can be even cheaper than the train. Kuo Kuang and UBus are two of the main networks.  Rental car – some travellers visiting Taiwan hire a car but I can’t see the need, really, with this many efficient and affordable public transport options (especially for solo travellers in Taiwan who’ll have to do all the driving and front the whole cost).

Read next: 25 Taiwan travel tips for a first visit

Getting around Taipei

The MRT (underground train) is a cheap, clean and efficient way to get around Taipei . There are 107 stations connected by 5 lines (brown, red, green, orange and blue). Journeys cost around 20-60 NT$ (up to $2) depending on distance. Note – there’s no eating or drinking allowed on the MRT! I even got told off once for drinking water. There’s also an expansive network of city buses that travel further afield than the MRT, connecting the city with day trip destinations like Yangmingshan National Park and Juifen. Buses are slightly cheaper than MRT journies but a little more convoluted.

Be sure to pick up an EasyCard . Not only do these save you money but you can top them up in advance, saving time on purchasing each ticket individually.

Bicycle: Unlock a bike from any YouBike station and pay using your EasyCard.

Getting around Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung also has an efficient MRT system although there are just 2 lines, connecting at Formosa Boulevard station (don’t miss the Dome of Light art installation while there). There are also LRT overground trains, city buses and the ferry connecting Cijin Island with the mainland. Your EasyCard works here, too.

Taiwan food & night markets

I loved the food in Taiwan. Not only are there many local delicacies but there’s fantastic Korean and Japanese food, too (for a fraction of the price of food in those countries). The sushi is phenomenal! During solo travel in Taiwan, I rarely ate in restaurants even though dining alone isn’t something I mind at all. The night market food was just so good I rarely needed to! Some of my favourite Taiwanese foods are:

• TFC – Taiwanese fried chicken is a popular dish, especially with young people who can be found crowded around Hot Starr in Taipei’s Ximending district
• Bubble tea – this is the birthplace of boba so it would be rude not to drink it everywhere!
• Xiao long bao – soup dumplings are best eaten at Din Tai Fung restaurant. Don’t stop with them: there are so many types of dumplings in Taiwan!
• Coffin toast – a hollowed-out hunk of bread is filled with a creamy stew. A calorific feast!
• Beef noodles – this dish in a rich soup is best eaten on Kong Kang Street in Taipei.

The only Taiwanese food I didn’t like was stinky tofu ! This may be the national dish but I couldn’t get past its overwhelming odour.

Do you need travel insurance as Taiwan is so safe?

Although Taiwan is safe for solo female travellers, I always recommend getting travel insurance. Although you’re unlikely to be victim to a violent crime, it’s possible that you could fall sick and need emergency treatment, just like you could anywhere in the world. I use  True Traveller : it costs £30 (€40) per month for world coverage for a year. When I’ve claimed, they’ve had the money in my account within days. They cover pre-existing health conditions and will cover you if you’re already travelling and/or don’t yet have your flight home booked.  Click to get a quote . True Traveller is just for European residents (including the UK) so, for other nationalities, I recommend  Hey Mundo  and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest   Safety Wing .

Getting a SIM card in Taiwan and do you need it?

One of my top solo travel tips for women is to stay connected by getting a local SIM card. You can buy these in local stores (just remember to bring your passport as they usually ask). To get connected right away, buy an e-SIM on Airalo that you can download to connect as soon as you land. Browse packages from 7-30 days from $4.50 or, if you’re visiting other countries on your trip, check out Airalo’s Asialink card covering 18 countries including Taiwan. However, you don’t absolutely NEED a SIM in Taiwan because there’s free Wi-Fi in MRT stations and 7-Eleven stores. When sightseeing, it’s easy to quickly get online to do research or load your next journey.

Can you drink tap water in Taiwan? The tap water is technically safe to drink but many travellers choose to play it safe by buying bottled water or bringing a reusable water bottle and filling up from filtered units at their accommodation. This is what I did. What is Taiwan like for vegetarians? The typical food isn’t the best as there’s lots of pork (and the national dish of stinky tofu tends to revolt foreign travellers), however it’s easy to find buffet restaurants where you can fill up a lunchbox with ingredients of your choice. Opt for all the veggies. Should you tip in Taiwan? No, Taiwan does not have a big tipping culture so it’s not something you need to factor into your budget.

Thanks for reading!

More solo travel guides…

Guides to solo travel in Europe :

• Solo female travel in Europe
• The perfect solo trip to Lisbon
• Solo travel in Albania – is it safe?
• Complete guide to solo female travel in Croatia
• Solo travel in Italy
• Is it safe to travel to Romania solo?

Solo travel in the Americas:

• Solo female travel in New York
• Is Cuba good for solo travel?
• Mexico solo travel guide
• How to stay safe as a solo female traveller in Mexico City
• Solo travel in Belize
• Guatemala solo travel guide
• Is Patagonia good for solo travel?
• Chile for solo women travellers
• Solo travel in Brazil
• Solo female travel in Argentina

Guides to solo female travel in Southeast Asia :

• Solo travel in South Korea
• Solo female travel in Bali
• Where to travel solo in Vietnam as a woman
• What to know about solo Malaysia travel
• Thailand solo travel guide
• How to stay safe as a solo traveller in India

For more content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

TAIWAN QUICK LINKS Getting there – it’s easy to arrive by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. To stay connected, buy an e-SIM with Airalo and use data as normal. Browse their Korea SIM packages . In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Taiwan . Car hire – I recommend RentalCars.com for car hire in Taiwan and around the world. For Taiwan High Speed Trains , use 12Go . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide and Viator as they both have a huge range of affordable tours. e-SIM: Stay connected with an Airalo e-SIM data plan: they have a Taiwan SIM card or an Asialink card covering 18 countries that you can download in advance of your trip. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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6 perfect destinations in South East Asia for solo female travel

While most of South East Asia is suitable for women exploring alone, these are spots I have visited that I think are really safe, friendly and comfortable as a solo female traveller. Not to mention, totally beautiful!

If it’s your first time in the region, they are a great place to begin.

Northern Thailand

Photo captured by Patrick O’Neill

Thailand is an amazing starting point if you’re new to travelling solo. It’s much more modern than its neighbouring countries, making transportation easy and food convenient. There’s also a large number of other foreign expats and travellers here. Rather than heading straight down to the islands, where the party scene and number of groups of friends travelling together can be overwhelming, I find the northern parts of the country offer a calmer introduction.

Chiang Mai is a laid-back city with a buzzing backpacker scene and tons of things to do. After a few days, you can head up to the misty hillside of Doi Mae Salong where you’ll find lush tea plantations, interesting markets selling local crafts and an impressive Buddhist temple. If you want even more of an adventure, there’s plenty of trekking and biking trails around Chiang Rai, which will show you the best of the north and introduce you to the unique hill tribes that occupy the region.

Coastal Vietnam

Like Thailand, you’ll find Vietnam to be modern and convenient in many ways, but also a cultural paradise. For first time travellers, following the coastline is an ideal route to take in the best of the country. A train line also conveniently runs along most of the coast, as well as buses on generally well-paved roads.

Start in the buzzing metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, then head up to Dalat, Hoi An, Hue, Halong Bay and Hanoi. You’ll find the mix of beautiful beaches, incredible food, buzzing market and ancient architecture totally intoxicating. And the range of safe, clean accommodation and friendly locals make it a great spot for solo female travellers.

Malaysia and Singapore

Photo captured by Melissa Findley

Singapore is often overlooked by travellers to South East Asia, but it is really much more than the big bland skyscraper city its often made out to be. Singapore is one of the safest cities in the world, and the huge mix of Asian cultures means it’s the perfect spot to get acquainted with Asian life and culture in a secure and clean environment. The hostel scene in Singapore is also really strong, and it’s a great place to meet people, enjoy some great food and culture before heading north.

In Malaysia , you’ll find quaint towns like Malacca (Melaka), foodie paradises like Penang and the stunning beaches of Langkawi. The country is small enough to only have a few hours transit between each destination and there’s plenty of places to stay along the backpacker trail.

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Bali and the Gili Islands

Photo captured by Damien Raggatt

Indonesia is high on many bucket lists for good reason. It’s beautiful, with a huge number of islands and lots of variety. Cities like Jakarta can be difficult places for solo women, but the unique island of Bali is a traveller’s dream.

From the hippie paradise of Ubud to the surf beaches of Canggu and the volcano and waterfall hikes in the north of the island, Bali could keep you occupied for weeks. The huge array of solo travellers and digital nomads on the island make it a great place to meet other travellers too. If you’re craving a paradise beach and quieter vibe, head over to the nearby Gili Islands for a few days.

A few final words of advice

If you’re a solo woman heading to South East Asia for the first time, my biggest piece of advice is – don’t be afraid. You are about to have the time of your life. Stay safe, stay aware, stay open and enjoy every moment!

Feeling inspired? Start planning your South East Asia adventure, click here to find out more about Intrepid Travel’s range of sustainable, small group tours.

Feeling inspired?

Annapurna Mellor

Annapurna Mellor is a photographer, writer and storyteller. Her travels have taken her across Asia, Northern Africa, along the Trans-Siberian Railway and around Europe - always taking the road less travelled and always aiming to go a little deeper into the heart of local culture and people. Her photography work has been featured in National Geographic Traveller Magazine, Lonely Planet Guide Books and in campaigns for many travel brands around the world. Although she is usually dreaming about adventures afar, she is based, most of the time, in Manchester, England.

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My 7 Best Tips for Solo Female Travel in Central Asia

Updated May 2024 , 7 Tips For Solo Female Travel In Central Asia was originally written in November 2019

Travel in Central Asia is gaining popularity with each and every year. A frequently asked question I receive about my travels regards solo female travel in Central Asia .

I have actually traveled each of the ‘stans solo at different points in time. I’ve hitchhiked, trekked, taken shared taxis, and camped completely alone in Central Asia, with only a small number of incidents. After several trips to the region here are my top tips on solo female travel in Central Asia.

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Tip #1: Modest Dress Is Best, But Don’t Sweat It

Dressing more conservatively is wise for any female traveler in Central Asia. This doesn’t mean you have to completely batten down the hatches unless you’re heading to Afghanistan – then do.

In post-Soviet Central Asia that I’m covering in this post (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan) it’s generally safe to wear western-style clothing. To dodge harassment I 100% recommend avoiding any low-cut tops or skirts and shorts above the knee. Also, note that it is not required or necessary to wear a headscarf unless you enter a mosque or holy site.

A great general outfit choice that covers all the bases would be a longer top or tunic paired with trousers or leggings. Long breathable-fabric dresses are great if you’re visiting cities and lower-lying areas in the scorching-hot summer months.

If you’re headed to trek in the mountains you’ll want clothing that can be layered, as well as a warm jacket and sturdy hiking boots .

Tip #2: Be Merry-d

“Are you married?”

“Where’s your husband?”

“Do you have children?”

All commonly asked questions within the first seconds of meeting someone new in Central Asia. I get it, women tend to marry younger here than in the likes of the US, Canada, and Europe, plus, women are expected to want and have children. So naturally, marriage and children are common topics of discussion.

But there comes a time when it’s just easier to say you do have a husband even if you don’t: When prying men ask. This all said, you don’t have to make claims of a false marriage if you don’t want to.

Having a husband (real or otherwise) helps to curb male advances. Sometimes these questions are asked just out of general curiosity and politeness, but sometimes they come with an ulterior motive.

Women traveling independently in Central Asia aren’t unheard of, but local women tend to travel with their husband or family most commonly, friends, less commonly.

Tip #3: Don’t Be Afraid To Be Assertive

No means no, and don’t be afraid to exercise this. If a man is bothering you or making you uncomfortable, be assertive. Chances are he’ll take the cue and leave you alone.

Tip #4: Make A Scene

If you are groped, touched inappropriately, cat-called, etc., make a scene. Especially if you’re in a city or town or any crowded area. People will come to your rescue. The only time this doesn’t work is if you’re somewhere remote, like the mountains of Tajikistan.

Tip #5: Learn Some Self Defense

For the first time in all my travels in Central Asia, I finally was attacked by a man. As mentioned above, it happened in the mountains of Tajikistan.

Strangely enough, it was the one time my husband did join me to travel in Central Asia. But, he wasn’t around at the time, not even within earshot.

The man in question shoved me down and was trying to pin me. Unluckily for him, my parents made me take Tae Kwon Do lessons as a kid. Had I not been able to wrestle him off of me with self-defense techniques I had under my belt, I may have been raped.

I have spent a large amount of time in Central Asia. While things like this can and do happen, it’s not the norm so don’t let one of my bad experiences put you off from the region– this could have happened anywhere.

However, if you are a victim of sexual assault, violent crime (robbery or anything else) it’s advised to report it to your embassy and to local police (though police in Central Asia have a reputation for solving nothing).

Tip #6: If You’re Ever Uncomfortable, Look For Other Women

Women in Central Asia generally are quick to take any other fellow female under their wing. Whether in a busy bazaar, on the street, or in a remote village you’re almost guaranteed to have heaps of positive interactions with other women.

But sometimes a guy is making you uncomfortable whether you feel you’re being followed, he tries touching you, etc., look for other women– they’ll likely chase him off.

Tip #7: Stock Up On Period Supplies Before Leaving Home If Traveling Remote

It’s not that you can’t find feminine hygiene products in Central Asia– you can. Especially in larger cities and capitals, you’ll likely be able to find anything you need. But if you plan to visit more remote areas and smaller towns and villages finding tampons can prove tricky.

I recommend bringing your own stash from home if you plan to spend most of your trip in remote and away from cities, or better yet: switch to a Diva Cup .

Other General Tips For Traveling Central Asia

• Learn a few phrases in Russian and any of the local languages of countries you plan to visit. I also recommend learning to reach the Cyrillic alphabet to aid in reading signs, menus, and more. The Central Asia Phrasebook by Lonely Planet can prove helpful.
• Figure out which countries you may need to apply for visas or e-visas for before leaving home. Check out my post on Central Asian visas to learn more.
• Apply for any necessary permits, or know where to get them once you arrive. Many border areas are sensitive in this region and may require a special permit to visit (and I’m not talking about border crossings). The most common permit needed by travelers is the GBAO permit required for travelers taking on the Pamir Highway in Tajikistan, which can be easily applied for at the same time as you apply for your e-visa.
• Research any border crossings you plan to use and verify that they are open and are open to foreigners. Several border crossings in Central Asia are bilateral, meaning only passport holders from the two countries sharing that border can use that particular crossing. Due to border disputes and other random beefs Central Asian nations seem to have, some border crossings are closed altogether.
• Figure out your budget and plan accordingly. Central Asia can be a great budget travel destination, but costs can add up if you plan to hire private transport, take guided tours, or if you need more upscale accommodations.
• Know the exchange rates prior to entering an exchange kiosk or trading on the street with a money changer. This is one of the most common ways people get scammed. Make sure and count your money afterward too.
• Pack any medications you take regularly or may need. Getting sick in Central Asia is pretty common, so having Imodium, Ibuprofen and a broad-spectrum antibiotic is wise. I recommend packing a small first aid kit too.
• Be careful about where you take photos and always ask people permission before photographing them. Sensitive areas, military installations, police, and military officers and checkpoints are generally off-limits for photography (though I have had times where officers had requested I take their photo). It’s always best practice to ask before photographing anyone, especially women and children, though you may find that people will come up to you and ask you to take their photo.
• If you don’t want to travel alone in Central Asia you can always search the forums at Caravanistan to look for other travelers looking to join forces, or join an organized tour offered by one of many local tour operators. Another great way to meet other travelers to trip-share with is by staying at homestays, guesthouses, and hostels .
• Keep an open mind. Cultures and views on certain topics in Central Asia can differ greatly from yours at home. There are good ways to approach and even discuss these differences, and then there are downright disrespectful ways. I recently attended a press trip with a wretched travel blogger, who constantly offended, belittled, berated, and disrespected our organizers, local staff, and the people and cultures of the two countries we visited. How this person considers themself a traveler, let alone a travel writer about it is beyond me.
• I recommend Bradt’s Guidebooks to help you plan an in-depth visit to Central Asia. They have updated editions for Kazakhstan , Kyrgyzstan , Tajikistan , and Uzbekistan .

Have Questions About Women’s Travel In Central Asia?

Ask in the comments section below.

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20 Safest Destinations In Asia For Solo Female Travellers!

Quick Jumplinks to Navigate

Asia is the dwelling house of some of the most vibrant and rich cultures on this planet. Mesmerizing landscapes, mouth watering cuisine, hospitable locals and exciting lifestyle of Asian people, paves way to one of the most unforgettable journeys of any traveler. To dive deep into once in a lifetime kind of microcosmic experience and to explore the pristine, diverse and enriching heritage around the globe, Asia is a remarkable destination for all. World’s largest continent awaits you. Here are some of the best places for solo women travelers to visit in the magical continent of Asia:

1. The Land of Sun, Sea, Sand And Fun: Goa, India

A place where cultures meet, a scintillating locality of the Indian Ocean mesmerizes you. The sandy beaches and gently swaying palm trees fill you with calmness, energy, and vitality. Another reason why Goa is a favorite destination for many people is the shopping extravaganza. And how can you forget about the thrilling water sports adventures and the majestic view of the sea while parasailing? Goa is also widely recognized for it’s awesome party culture. And then if you are a party animal, the place is calling out for you.

Places to visit and attractions:

Some of the best places to visit in Goa are Panaji, Old Goa, Dudhsagar Waterfalls, St. Francis Church, Palolem Beach, Candolim, Benaulim, Margao, Basilica Of Bom Jesus and the list is neverending. Backwater kayaking, Prawn Cocktail at Curlies, Anjuna Beach, Greek wines and food at Thalassa, Underwater walk, Backwater cruise and shopping at the Flea market are some of the best things to do in Goa.

2. Maldives: The Endless Azure of Blue Waters

With staggering beauty, the tranquility of the archipelago and an eclectic mix of unique cultural influences, the Maldives offers a majestic blend of memories and experiences that can be preserved for a lifetime. With an economy largely based on tourism, Maldives is an island paradise that lets you indulge into ultra luxurious resort experiences.

Attractions:

Underwater diving, Shark Park, Island Fire, sensational spas, Maldivian food, dolphin spotting, spice shopping in Mali, Sun Island Beach and the elite resorts are the major attractions of Maldives .

Check Out: Best Maldives Tour Packages

3. The Tranquil Kingdom: Bhutan

Lying at the eastern end of the Himalayas, the serenity and rejuvenating aura of Bhutan is a once in a lifetime kind of experience. The remarkable culture, mountains, landscape, monasteries, spectacular flora and fauna and thrilling trekking trails will surprise and mesmerise you to the core.

Things to do and major attractions:

Enjoy the divine view of Mt. Everest. Experience Buddhism to the core by visiting the Gangteng Monastery and Tamshing Monastery. Also, experience breathtaking adventure sports and don’t forget to visit popular places in Bhutan like Paro Taktsang, Tashichho Dzong, Rinpung Dzong, Clock Tower Square, Black Mountains and Gangtey Valley.

Also Check Out: Fascinating Bhutan tour packages

4. The Wonder of Asia: Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a land of diverse landscapes, located in the heart of the Indian Ocean. The nation is famous for its world famous cuisine, hospitality, and blissful nature. From the rocky mountains to arid highlands and beaches washed with aquamarine waves, Sri Lanka surely fills the shoes of being a dream destination.

Things to do and places to visit:

Colombo tea and herb tour, golden sands of Bentota Beach, surfing at the Arugam Bay, Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Adam’s Peak, a visit to the sacred city of Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya Fortress, Galle, visit the city of Kandy, Horton Plains from Nuwara Eliya, ancient Deegawapiya monastery and a glimpse of Duvili Ella waterfalls are some of the major attractions of Sri Lanka .

Check Out: Best Sri Lanka Holiday Packages

5. The Vibrant Affair: Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok is a vibrant and dynamic travel destination with a vivacious nightlife, bustling streets and markets and soothing temples and monasteries. The capital city of Thailand is the pilgrimage of enthusiast travellers. Situated in the Chao Phraya River delta, Bangkok has been rated as one of the ‘Best Travel Destinations of the world.’

A visit to the stunning Wat Arun Temple, food at the Chinatown Market, shopping at the Asiatique Riverfront, partying at the Khao San and RCA, a visit to The Grand Palace and the old city of Wat Pho are some of the best places to see in Bangkok .

Click here for Places to visit in Thailand . Here is the list of adventure things to do in Thailand .

6. A Delightful Experience in The Lion City: Singapore

One of the safest and cleanest cities in the world with a blend of greenery and skyscrapers, visiting Singapore is an opportunity that must not be missed. Relics of Buddhism, mesmerizing culture, lively shops, and restaurants call for a once in a lifetime experience.

Spectacular ride at Marina Bay, alfresco- style dining at Clarkes Quay, roller coaster rides at Universal Studios, colourful skywalk at Gardens by the Bay, shopping and food at Chinatown and Little India, panoramic views at Singapore Flyer, Singapore Night Safari, Beach Resort experience at Sentosa and a visit to the National Museum of Singapore and Botanic Gardens are the best things to do in Singapore .

7. The Supernatural Buddhist Kingdom: Ladakh

Enclosed in between the Himalayan and Karakoram mountain ranges, the rugged landscape of Ladakh is aligned by snow-crested peaks, lush green patches of vegetation and breathtaking scenic beauty with crystal blue water bodies. The indigenous culture, lifestyle, festivals and chronicles of Buddhism would fill your heart with unforgettable moments of vigour.

Zanskar Valley, Pangong Tso Lake, Khardungla Pass, Nubra Valley, Shanti Stupa, Royal Leh Palace, Lamayuru Monastery and Hemis National Park are some of the major tourist attractions o.f Leh .

Things to do:

Experience the enchanting scenic beauty, photography, motorbiking , Indus River rafting, Camel Safari, shopping at Leh Market, skiing and experiencing rituals and relics of Buddhism are the best things to do.

Packages : Leh Ladakh Holiday Packages Bike Trips: Leh Ladakh Bike Tours and Manali To Leh Bike Tours Suggested Reads:  Enjoy Trekking on Frozen River in Ladakh

8. The Oriental City of China: Shanghai

A city that rivals New York or Paris in terms of modernity, boasts of a blended culture of East and West and widely known as ‘Oriental Paris’ is a place that must be on your list. Shanghai’s dynamic life and superior natural setting make it a spectacular and worthwhile destination. It is now easy to get a visa and it surely will make your journey comfortable and fantastic.

Shopping on Nanjing Road, a ride in the Maglev- the world’s fastest train, a boat or ferry cruise along the Huangpu River while exploring the Bund, taking a bird’s eye view of the city from the World Financial Centre, fun and frolic at Disneyland Park and enjoying performances at Shanghai Circus World are some of the best things to do in Shanghai.

9. Kerala: Into God’s Own Country

Kerala is a serenely beautiful state on India’s tropical Malabar Coast. It is among the top ten tourist hotspots in the world by the virtue of its natural splendour and charm. The golden beaches, undulating backwaters, coconut groves and misty hills in green along with an aroma of coffee and tea plantations would take you on a thrilling and unforgettable journey.

Attractions of Kerala :

Tea gardens, Munnar, Kovalam, Kolukkumalai Tea Estate, Alleppey Backwaters, Bekal, Trivandrum, Thekkady, Varkala, Vagamon etc.  

Check Out: Best Kerala Tour Packages

10. Vietnam: The Adventurous Journey

A UNESCO world heritage site, Vietnam offers fascinating landscapes, rich history, epic food, electrifying adventures and friendly people. If are planning to explore extraordinary and surprising things, Vietnam should be one of the top priorities on your travel list.

Attractions of Vietnam :

Aqua green waters of Halong Bay, historic musings of Hanoi, an architecture of Hoi An, grand places of Hue, mountain hiking and trekking expeditions at Sapa, Seaside charm at Nha Trang, colorful markets at the Mekong Delta and temples at My Son are major attractions.

Also Checkout :   Vietnam 5 Days Tour Package

11. The Land of Mystique: Sikkim, India

Enveloped by the Himalayas, the gorgeous state of Sikkim is a welcome diversion from all the conventional notions of an Asian Holiday. The pristine alpine forests, snow-capped mountains, perfect landscapes and a rich tribal culture makes it a destination worthwhile.

Attractions Of Sikkim:  Rumtek Monastery, trek to Goecha La, valleys of Yumthang and T sorta, Tea plantations in North Sikkim, Drive to Tsomgo Lake and adventure sports at Teesta River are some of the major attractions.

Tours:  Sikkim Holiday Packages

12. Bali: The Land of Enchanting Cultural Adventures

With spectacular canyons, waterfalls, seas, temples and caves, majestic water villas, cliffside adventures, vibrant arts, rich culture and heritage, Bali provide a diversity of experiences that are enthralling to the core. There is something in the store for everyone: surfing, shopping, serenity-seeking and what not.

Attractions in Bali:

Tanah Lot Temple, Uluwatu Temple, Besakih Temple, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Ubud Monkey forest, Ubud Art Market, Caldera Lake, Elephant safari park, Dreamland beach, Pedang beach and beautiful stone caves are some of the major attractions of Bali .

13. Japan: The Window Into the Future

Filled with perfect landscapes, skyscrapers, bright neon technology, the magnificent rugged mountains, gracious folks and delicious food, Japan is one of the best and freakily preserved countries of Asia. Japan has 17 world heritage sites and some of the marvelous shrines and temples, making it a place.one must visit.

Attractions in Japan:

Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Takayama, Nikko, Kamakura, Hiroshima, Kanazawa, Koyasan, and Mt. Fuji are some of the major tourist attractions.

14. Cambodia: To The Kingdom of Gods

Incredible ancient history, untouched beaches, generous and hospitable people, the monument of Angkor, the intricate ruins of a painful yet enriching history and comforting food and dining experiences make Cambodia a journey worth looking forward to. So, why wait?

The magnificent Angkor Wat Temple, Bayon Temple, Banteay Srei, Koh Ker, upper Cambodian Mekong area, Silver Pagoda, Tonle Sap, Phnom Penh and The Royal Palace are the major tourist attractions in Cambodia .

Check Out: Best Cambodia Tour Packages

15. The Thrilling Powerhouse: Seoul, South Korea

Home to several of the world’s largest companies, a unifying and fascinating culture with a vibrant nightlife and rich ancient history, the capital city of South Korea is an economic powerhouse with a blend of modern and traditional experiences on an offer to the world.

Cryeongbokgurg Palace, shopping at Myeongdong and Dongdaemun, Bukchon Hanok Village, Changdeokgung Palace, Insadong, Hongdae, Itaewon, Jongmyo Shrine, Namiseom Island, Everland, Lotte World and Mount Seorak are the major attractions in Seoul.

16. Jaipur: The Princely Glory

A jewel destination with lively forts, majestic palaces, thriving architecture and arts, rich cultural heritage, decorated stone construction, a treasure trove of precious stones, the Pink City Jaipur is an essential Asian expedition everyone should look forward to.

Hawa Mahal, City Palace, Johari Bazaar, Jantar Mantar, Amber Fort, Jaigarh, Nahargarh, Sisodia Rani Palace Garden, Raj Mandir Cinema, Rambagh Palace, Chokhi Dhani Village, Rajasthali, The Pink Pearl Water Park, Revolving restaurants are some of the major tourist attractions of Jaipur .

17. An Unforgettable Encounter: Kathmandu, Nepal

An intoxicating, amazing and pupil dilating experience awaits you in the capital city of Nepal in the Himalayan Kingdom. Kathmandu hosts a number of World Heritage Sites and thus, creates a sensory overload of awesomeness blended with pristine emotions.

The Pashupatinath Temple, Boudhanath Stupa, Everest Region, Annapurna Region, Durbar Square, Bhaktapur, Narayanhiti Palace Museum, Chitwan National Park, Patan, Royal Botanical Garden, Kopan Monastery, Swayambhunath Stupa, Garden of Dreams and Pokhara are the major tourist attractions in Nepal .

Must Read: Enjoy Base Camp Trekking of Everest in Nepal

18. Beijing: The Vibrant Modernity

Brightened by its glorious past, rich and complex historical tapestries, home to some of the finest remnants of China’s past, Beijing is a dream destination for exploring history, grandest sights, variant markets, colorful nightlife and well-preserved culture.

Forbidden City( The Imperial Palace ), Tiananmen Square, Great Wall at Badaling, Juyongguan, Mutianyu, Simastal and Jinshanling, Summer Palace, Temple Of Heaven, Ming Tombs, Hutongs Pedicles Tour, Lama Temple, Beihai Park, Beijing Capital Museum, Silk Street and Juyong Pass are the major tourist attractions.

19. Andaman & Nicobar Islands: An Exotic Escape

Untouched clean beaches, underwater corals, adventure sports, historical monuments, lush green tropical islands and silent musings make Andaman one of the safest and blissful tourist destinations of Asia. The sun-kissed beaches and azure waters give a rhythmic splash of memories worth longing for. Attractions: Radhanagar Beach, Neil Island, Jolly Buoy Island, Ross Island, North Bay Island, Samudrika Marine Museum, Anthropological Museum, Science Centre, Kalapani Museum, Cellular Jail, Howrah Bridge, Elephant Beach, Bharatpur Beach, Viper Island and The Great Nicobar Island are some of the prime tourist attractions .

For tour packages of Andaman, click here

To go on   honeymoon in Andaman check out the best deals here

20. Dubai: The Ambitious And The Amazing

Dubai is a destination which is not in Aisa but considered to be one of the best and safest places for solo women travellers. An attention seeking over-achiever of sorts, positioning itself as a tourist Mecca and transforming itself from a desert to a thriving ecosystem, Dubai is a destination that mustn’t be missed. There is a level of cultural diversity that is hard to match. The mega malls, arts and designs, 5-star hotels, amazing skylines, tall residential buildings with a massive 90% of the population coming from outside the population coming from outside the country make it one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. You can do a lot of adventurous activities in Dubai and you won’t be disappointed at all. The city is a foodies heaven with a diverse range of Arab-Persian Indian Pakistani French Japanese Chinese British and American restaurants. A blend of sea, sand and sun awaits to enthral you to the core.

Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Creek, Palm Islands, Wild Wadi Water Park, Dubai Marina, The Dubai Mall, Mall of The Emirates, Dubai Museums, Jumeirah Beach, The World, Ski Dubai and the list continues. Activities like skydiving, cruising, scuba diving, desert safari in Dubai are quite popular amangs tourists.

Best Himalayan Trekking Packages

 things to do around the world, top selling asia tour packages, international tour packages.

I have been travelling across India for a long time and I am using this blog to share my experiences with you so that you can see the tremendous beauty which India has to offer. Thrillophilia Blog

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The Solo Female Traveler’s Guide to Thailand

07/16/2020 by Kristin Addis 3 Comments

They say you never forget your first love, and for me that rings true of Thailand. I can’t help my soft spot for the country—it was where I began my life as a solo female traveler.

I’ve now spent a cumulative five months in the country and every visit is just as magical as the first time. Thailand offers so many experiences that every type of traveler can appreciate, even when you inevitably return and want something different from your trip. Here’s my guide to making the most of your trip to Thailand as a solo female traveler:

Table of Contents

Solo Travel Safety

Thailand is the most visited country in Southeast Asia, bringing in over 60 billion USD annually from tourism. Thai people welcome tourists as an integral part of the economy. I found that even during rural excursions, people were friendly to me.

That being said, scams are prevalent, especially with the country’s different transportation systems. Before you get in a tuk-tuk or a taxi, don’t be afraid to establish the price—and walk away when you’re being taken advantage of. Better yet, stick with Grab, Southeast Asia’s version of Uber, so you know exactly how much a ride should cost.

But besides the occasional scam, Thailand has a laid-back and fun environment. This oftentimes brings a crazy party scene, so it’s easy to get caught up in the moment. Follow standard drinking safeguards and don’t get too intoxicated (or just don’t drink at all. Trust me, it’ll still be amazing ). Play it safe and you’ll thank yourself the next day, when you can spend the day on a hike instead of curing a hangover.

Purchase travel insurance in case anything happens. As always, bring copies of your passport with you for peace of mind.

With all of the normal precautions, I had an amazing time in Thailand.

Solo Traveler Friendliness

Most brochures promote Thailand’s nickname, the “Land of Smiles”,  which was acquired in part due to clever marketing on Thailand’s part, but I also found it true in the country’s friendliness.

In hostels you’re bound to meet other free spirits who are down for a beach trip or a good party. Some places, like Pai , are havens for travelers who just can’t seem to leave. Famous events like Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party ensure that Thailand’s sociable reputation is alive and well!

But if you’re over the Banana Pancake Trail crowd, private hostel rooms are still affordable and a quality room costs only about $10. Even more so, there are plenty of things to do as a solo traveler, whether you want to hit the hot spots or venture off the well-worn path. Read on for both options.

Things to Do

Contrary to popular stereotypes, Thailand isn’t just for partiers and beach bums (though you can easily find plenty of them). There are also off-the-beaten-path experiences if that’s more of your speed too. You can do everything—from dancing with fire at a circus resort in Pai to taking a cooking class —to make the most of your solo trip.

Unfortunately, you can’t do everything. Having a rough idea of what experiences you’ll find in the northern and southern regions will help you scrap together an itinerary with the right touristy to non-touristy ratio.

In the North: The deep forests of the northern region remind you that  oh yeah, Thailand isn’t just beaches and Bangkok . There are plenty of  hiking opportunities  in the mountains surrounding Chiang Mai. A lot of attractions can be made into  day trips  from the city, like  Doi Inthanon National Park .

It’s easy to get off the tourist trail during your time with nature to find hidden gems like Emerald Lake relatively untouched by visitors. One of my favorite ways to get in touch with the wildlife in Thailand was having an ethical elephant experience with rehabilitated elephants.

During your time there, don’t forget to explore the city of Chiang Mai too. There are temples of every kind imaginable here— white  ones,  silver  ones, even ones with slightly creepy artwork—but all worth the visit. In November, you can participate in the  Yi Peng  lantern festival if you keep your schedule flexible. The Sunday night market in the Old City offers food (I recommend the khao soi curry with crunchy noodles), clothes, and art to browse through.

I highly encourage renting a car while you travel around the north. I know—driving through the region’s winding roads on a 4-seater sounds like a disaster waiting to happen, but once you make it out of the city the journey actually becomes enjoyable. The best part is that driving gives you access to remote places like Wat Chaloem Phra Kiat .

In the South: Making your way south, you can stop by Thailand’s ancient capital of Sukhothai for an Angkor Wat-esque sunrise and sunset. Bangkok is an eight-and-a-half-hour drive from Chiang Mai and is the popular gateway to the southern region and vice versa.

Thailand’s south is a thin strip of land compared to the north, with natural sights more familiar with the tourist circuit. A lot of national parks like Khao Sok and Khlong Phanom cluster in the middle of the south. One of the best SCUBA diving trips I had was in Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park, where I saw a manta ray for the first time. Another favorite mainland experience was spending New Year’s at a  silent meditation retreat  in the Suan Mokkh Forest Monastery.

Off the mainland, island hopping is a popular way to explore the region. Each island I visited came with its own personality and appeal. Some islands, like Phuket , were overrun by tourists and not worth my time. But I have come across quite a few favorites.

My favorite island by far is Koh Chang , which has a reputation of being “the last cheap island” in Thailand. Koh Chang is ideal for solo travelers because it attracts the lone backpacker type—many of whom stay for over a month—without losing touch with the locals. Tonsai is another island I enjoyed, and is popular for slack-liners, rock climbers, and cliff divers.

If you’re looking for something more secluded and romantic without a party vibe, check out Koh Yao Noi .

When to Go and What to Bring

Thailand comes in three seasons: hot, wet, and dry. March through June bring the hot months, during which maximum temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit are quite common. Months of straight rainfall follow from July to October during the wet season. The most comfortable time to visit is from November to March, during Thailand’s dry season. But these months are also high season for tourists. To beat the tourists and still catch some good weather, go near the beginning or end of the dry season (like during April and October).

The time you go to Thailand will significantly impact your budget; high season will mean higher prices, and vice versa. Where you go is another big factor. My rule of thumb for budgeting a trip to Thailand is that going further south requires more money.  For an honest breakdown of Thailand’s costs, check out my budget post .  

Planning your packing list to Thailand is much simpler than planning the costs, as the weather is consistently hot despite the differences in Thailand’s seasons. The glorious lack of winter means your suitcase will be lighter, though I’d be conscious of the local dress throughout the country. Most locals dress on the more conservative side and shy away from spaghetti straps and crop tops.

I navigated the country by wearing airy materials in the form of dresses and shoulder-covering shirts. I also avoided long jeans like the plague seeing that they’re useless when they inevitably get wet and never seem to dry . I’ve written a post covering this topic if you want more detailed advice. Pack an eSIM to stay connected too!

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A trip to Thailand turned my pipe dream of travel into a reality, and I’ll never forget how welcoming the country was to me when I began my journey as a solo female traveler. If you’re thinking of traveling somewhere new, Thailand has more than enough beaches, forests, and temples for a fresh start. It’ll be life-changing.

Are you considering a trip to Thailand? Let me know in the comments!

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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07/06/2022 at 12:29 am

Heading to Thailand in 7 hours! This is a great read, thank you.

05/03/2023 at 8:20 pm

The country is run by a corrupt Military Junta. It could go into civil war at any time . It is very unstable , do not be fooled by the happy smiley faces of Monks , they are oblivious of modern struggles. Would you visit any other country that had a Coup d’etat , I dont think so . Certain Thai individuals expressed concern over the death of a particular tourist on facebook and were arrested . Do not contribute to the corruption and legitimate murder whitewash culture of Thailand.

Kristin says

05/13/2023 at 6:22 am

I was there during the coup. It was pretty low key to be honest.

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Top 10 Destinations for Solo Female Travel in Asia

If you’re a woman who loves exploring new places on your own, consider adding Asia to your travel list. This vast continent consists of so many beautiful countries, and it is undoubtedly a traveler’s paradise. 

If you are not sure about which country is best to visit, I’m excited to share my top 10 locations for solo female travel in Asia.

But first, let me share the benefits and drawbacks of traveling alone and why you should choose Asia as your next destination.

Pros and Cons of Traveling Solo

• You can meet and befriend new people
• You will learn about new cultures
• You can learn new languages faster because you are forced to talk to strangers
• You can build your confidence
• You can do anything you want on a trip without having to factor in others’ opinions, wishes, and schedules
• You may feel lonely
• You may miss out on shared experiences and memories
• There may be safety issues in dangerous areas
• The trip may be more expensive because there is no sharing of expenses 

The advantages of traveling solo and going on such an adventure vastly outweigh the minor downsides. So, consider booking a solo trip to experience the many benefits of traveling on your own.

Why Choose Asia as Your Next Destination?

Asia is a popular travel destination for millions of tourists around the world. It is the world’s biggest continent, after all, and it offers endless options for travelers to explore all kinds of scenery, cultures, cuisines, lifestyles, and more.

You can take your pick from dozens of natural and manmade wonders for your sightseeing sessions, such as beaches, mountains, forests, waterfalls, skyscrapers, monuments, and so on. You can also try a plethora of flavors in every country—the continent is definitely a foodie heaven.

Traveling to most countries in Asia is also affordable, more so than in America and Europe. Flights, hotels, food, local transportation , and other costs like travel insurance are often decently priced, especially if you hunt for attractive deals and discounts.

These important benefits make a trip to Asia a smart choice for people who love to explore and experience new things.

Top 10 Destinations for Solo Female Travelers in Asia

Here are my top 10 destination recommendations for solo female travel in Asia:

1. South Korea

South Korea should be at the top of your Asian travel bucket list. Okay, I might be a bit biased as I’ve been living here since 2015 but there’s so much to see and do in Korea. You can enjoy lip-smacking street food and fine dining, a quirky mix of ancient and modern architecture, and pop culture at its finest. You can shop at markets and tour museums to experience the local culture in all its glory.

The country also ranks high on safety, making it an ideal destination for solo female travelers. You can easily get around with the well-connected and easy-to-navigate public transportation system .

Seoul and Busan are expansive cities with many interesting activities. The rest of the country is brimming with natural beauty. For example, Jeju Island offers excellent opportunities for hiking, horse riding, seaside views, and more.

If you’re interested in visiting South Korea, check out these popular blog posts:

• The Ultimate Seoul Itinerary: 3 Days in Seoul | 2023 Edition
• The Best Korea Travel Apps to Plan Your Perfect Trip
• My Budget Watcher’s Guide to Planning a Trip to South Korea

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• 3-week Summer Course Korea Study Trip (Learn Korea & Travel)
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2. Thailand

Thailand is a beautiful country with lush landscapes, pristine beaches, wild parties, and mouthwatering cuisine. This backpacker’s paradise is a wonderful introduction to traveling in Asia. Its popularity with tourists also makes it a fantastic spot for meeting new people on solo trips. Many travelers start out in the country’s capital of Bangkok, which also tops my list of the best cities in Asia to visit this year!

The country has its fair share of reported tourist scams and frauds, but it is still safe for lone female travelers. I’ve been there three times by now – twice solo!

The local people are typically friendly and hospitable. No wonder that it is fondly called “the Land of Smiles.”

If you’re interested in visiting Thailand, check out these popular blog posts:

• 3 Days in Bangkok: What To See & Do | Complete Guide
• Chiang Mai Yi Peng Festival Guide For First Timers

Popular Thailand Guided Private or Small-Group Tours:

• Thailand In-Depth Exploration – 14 days
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• Treasures of Northern Thailand – 10 days

Taiwan is an underrated travel destination that holds many surprises for visitors. It has beautiful vistas in the form of jagged mountains, waterfalls, hot springs, and more. The rich culture, vibrant food scene, and high level of safety make it a hotspot among female travelers.

The country also has a seemingly endless number of street markets where you can shop to your heart’s content. If you don’t know the local languages (Taiwanese Hokkien, Hakka, Mandarin), stick to the big cities and avoid offbeat spots where locals don’t speak much English .

If you’re interested in visiting Taiwan, check out these popular blog posts:

• 5 Days in Taipei Itinerary: The Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• Complete Guide To Staying Overnight in Jiufen – What I Wish I Knew Before

Popular Taiwan Guided Private or Small-Group Tours:

• Explore Taiwan – 11 days
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Until a few years ago, I would not have recommended Vietnam as a destination for solo female travelers, especially first-timers. Hanoi , Ho Chi Minh City, and other big cities face heavy congestion, which can be a menace while navigating them.

Today, Vietnam is an enchanting and ever-evolving country that has made many changes to engage tourists, making it suitable for solo women. You can trek through rice terraces or experience the natural beauty of the many national parks.

Vietnam is also famous for its gastronomic scene and offers endless delectable delights for foodies, especially when it comes to street food. Its vibrant culture and blend of traditional and colonial architecture add to its popularity as an Asian tourist destination.

If you’re interested in visiting Vietnam, check out these popular blog posts:

• Ultimate Hoi An Travel Guide: What to See, Do and Eat
• My Son Sanctuary: A Gorgeous Day Trip from Hoi An
• The Best Things to do in Hue, Vietnam

Popular Vietnam Guided Private or Small-Group Tours:

• Highlights of Vietnam – 10 days
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5. The Maldives

If you want to visit a picturesque island paradise, head to the Maldives. A few islands cater mainly to tourists, but you can easily find many others that stay true to local traditions. You can explore and connect with locals and tourists.

The Maldives is also affordable and safe, making it great for solo female travelers. 

Popular Maldives Guided Private or Small-Group Tours:

• Marine Wildlife Tour of the Maldives 7 days
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6. Indonesia

Indonesia boasts stunning landscapes , tropical islands, immaculate beaches, and a hospitable culture that attracts tourists from around the world . Its idyllic spa treatments, aromatic coffee, and trendy smoothie bowls make it Insta-worthy and ideal for first-time solo female travelers.

Its social landscape and culture vary in different islands, so you can experience diverse cultures firsthand.

Note that a few places in Indonesia require women to cover their heads, shoulders, and knees. Study the specific norms in the part of the country that you’re visiting. This will help you avoid social faux pas and turning yourself into a target for crime.

Scams and catcalling are common in a few areas, especially big cities, so stay alert when you’re out and about.

If you’re interested in visiting Indonesia, check out these popular blog posts:

• 10 Must-Do Activities in and around Ubud, Bali
• Fivelements – Balinese Flower Baths in Ubud

Popular Indonesia Guided Private or Small-Group Tours:

• Best of Indonesia – 22 days
• Classic Bali Tour – 6 days
• Highlights of Bali and Java – 11 days

The Global Peace Index ranks Japan as the world’s 10th most peaceful country , so it is perfect for solo female travelers. This island nation is also famous for its hospitality, so you can depend on the friendly locals to help you out.

Japan has beautiful landscapes, engaging tourist attractions, and a rich traditional culture that has been upheld for centuries. The food choices here are also vast and excellent, so you can experiment with new, delicious flavors.

Overall, I find Japan very similar to South Korea – safe & easy to travel ✅

If you’re interested in visiting Japan, check out these popular blog posts:

• What to do in Osaka: an Amazing 4-Day Guide
• Nara Day Trip Guide: How To Get To Nara Deer City

Popular Japan Guided Private or Small-Group Tours:

• Historical Japan from Osaka to Tokyo – 9 days
• Essential Japan with Rural Shirakawa-go – 8 days
• Cruising the Land of the Rising Sun – Southbound – 14 days

If you’re up for anything when traveling, visit Nepal. This country is ideal for adventurous solo female travelers—you can trek here and get your adrenaline rush. Mount Everest is the most extreme option, but there are more accessible peaks, such as the Annapurna Circuit , that you can tackle even without a guide.

I had a great time traveling in Nepal but don’t walk alone in Nepal at night, and always be alert. You may also consider covering your shoulders and knees during your stay to avoid unwanted attention.

If you’re interested in visiting Nepal, check out these popular blog posts:

• Ultimate Kathmandu Travel Tips – Best Things To See and Do
• Top Ten Challenging Hikes to try in Nepal for Adventure Seekers
• Nepalese Food Tour in Kathmandu With a Local Guide

Popular Nepal Guided Private or Small-Group Tours:

• Best of Nepal: Kathmandu, Chitwan & Pokhara – 9 days
• Everest Base Camp Trek – 14 Days
• India, Nepal, and Bhutan Tour – 14 days

Called the land of dragons, Bhutan is known for being a happy and peaceful country with a bustling and caring culture. Its heartwarming hospitality and high safety attracts travelers from all over. Bhutan is still a rather mysterious travel destination, partly because the local government wants to keep it that way. They implement several laws to avoid mass tourism. This is great because you won’t have to worry about crowds of people while traveling Bhutan.

I explored Bhutan on a 7-day trip and it was an extremely memorable trip. The great thing about traveling in Bhutan is that you’re not really doing it solo – you have to go with a local guide and a driver.

Visit local attractions in Thimphu, the capital city, along with Punakha and Paro, to make the most of your time here.

If you’re interested in visiting Bhutan, check out these popular blog posts:

• 25 Incredible Photos That Will Inspire a Trip to Bhutan
• How To Visit Bhutan: Ultimate Bhutan Travel Guide
• Hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery in Bhutan – 10 Things To Know

Popular Bhutan Guided Private or Small-Group Tours:

• 7-Day Essential Bhutan Travel Plan
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10. Singapore

Singapore is a small, clean, and well-organized country that is a fantastic destination for solo female travelers. It’s on the relatively pricey side, but if you want to splurge on the finer things in life, this is the place to do it! You can also find deals to save money if you’re on a budget—you can still enjoy the best of the country.

The gorgeous modern architecture, vibe, and unparalleled safety draw millions of tourists, including solo women, from across the globe. You can explore its islands and beaches or trek through Pulau Ubin’s lush forests. You can also do a wide range of fun activities here, so it’s great for people with varied interests.

If you’re interested in visiting Singapore, check out these popular blog posts:

• Free Walking Tours in Chinatown Singapore with Monster Day Tours
• Free Walking Tours in Little India Singapore with Monster Day Tours
• Where To Eat The Best Chili Crab in Singapore

Popular Singapore Guided Private or Small-Group Tours:

• Essence of Singapore and Malaysia – 11 days
• Bangkok to Singapore – 15 days

Bonus Mention: Cambodia

Cambodia is my honorable mention on this list of top destinations for solo female travel in Asia for a variety of reasons . The biggest one being that there were moments during my travels in Cambodia that I did not feel 100% safe. Luckily, nothing bad happened to me but there were moments that could have gone wrong.

That being said, I would definitely recommend Cambodia as a travel destination, also for women traveling solo – if you are an “experienced” traveler and this isn’t your first rodeo. Scams in tourist hot spots seem to be the most common occurrence here and if you’re not aware of the situation, you might become a victim.

Cambodia is a beautiful country and I highly recommend visiting Siem Reap to see the beautiful Angkor Wat Temple Complex.

If you’re interested in visiting Cambodia , check out these popular blog posts:

• Ultimate Guide to the Angkor Wat Temples in Siem Reap, Cambodia

Popular Cambodia Guided Private or Small-Group Tours:

• Classic Cambodia – 6 days
• Heart of Cambodia – 13 days

Traveling alone as a woman is challenging yet exhilarating. Just make sure to do your due diligence, plan your itinerary thoroughly, and follow basic safety tips when you visit a new country.

I hope you enjoyed reading my article on solo female travel in Asia. Check out more such blog posts on my website to learn more about your favorite Asian destinations.

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Go Solo: 5 Safest Asian Countries and Tips for Female Solo Travelers

Ready to travel alone as a woman.

The age of female solo travel is on a rise! There has been a growing desire for females to travel alone. Since 2016, the search volume for the term ‘female solo travel’ across all search engines has increased by 62%.

We totally understand why!

Solo Trip – Your trip is yours and yours only. You get to call the shots, unwind while seeing new places and enjoy a peaceful alone time.

Truly, the joys of travelling alone as a woman are unparalleled. It provides the perfect balance between self-discovery and rejuvenation, giving you a sense of absolute freedom. Kangana Ranaut’s iconic character ‘ Rani ’ from the blockbuster Bollywood film ‘ Queen ’ showed us exactly how a solo trip can transform your life, help you reconnect with yourself and not to forget, the lifelong new friendships, you’ll make on this jam-packed solo trip adventure.

Now the question is, where should you go?

While some places make for easier solo trips than others, Asia tops our list of a fabulous destination for solo female travelers. It’s relatively safe, easy to travel around with fun people, lots of culture, amazing food, amazing attractions and playful adventures.

Since personal safety is at the top of most female travelers’ minds when planning a solo trip, we’ve made a list of the TOP 5 safest Asian destinations as well as our favourites.

Let’s take a look!

Not a year goes by in which Singapore does not top the rankings of the world’s most safest cities. Apart from being one of the cleanest and most orderly cities, Singapore scores full marks for its safety, low crime rates, advanced security and willingness to host tourists anytime of the year. To add to it, Singapore is a year-round sunshine destination, thereby topping our list of the first choice for solo female travelers. From exotic gardens, adrenaline-filled theme parks to the buzzing shopping, nightlife and food scene, the Lion City has enough attractions to keep you busy whether you are staying for a few days or a couple of weeks. Our Singapore holiday packages including your Singapore visa , flights and accommodation are not only there to offer you enthralling experiences of local feel and culture, but also to ensure your safety.

If you wish to dip a toe into solo adventuring, Malaysia is the perfect country to do it — it’s safe, welcoming and easy to get around. Much like Singapore, Malaysia is one of Asia’s most friendly and tolerant countries and has a very good safety record. The Malaysians are known to be easy-going. There is very little to be worried about, when you are in Malaysia. So perhaps the only thing you need to be worried is, how to go about planning your perfect Malaysian holiday . Whatever you do, make sure you explore Kuala Lumpur city for the foodie in you, Langkawi Island for a bit of sun, sea, sand and tan, as well as, the highest mountain in Malaysia, Mt. Kinabalu for a high adrenaline mountain climbing experience.

A top favourite destination of millennials and backpackers, Thailand is one of the best places for a solo female traveler. It’s safe, affordable and there is a plethora of things to do; beaches, islands, temples, culture, history, adventure, shopping, eating and partying. Being one of the easiest places to discover on your own, It’s a breeze to get around in this city state. You can spend your time on the coast relaxing by the sea or wander around on foot, enjoying the area’s natural and idyllic beauty. Thailand is both traditional and modern, cosmopolitan, multi-ethnic and authentic. The Land of Smiles is synonymous with good weather and pleasant temperatures all year round. No matter what time of the year you’re planning a Thailand trip , you will find yourself surrounded by warm and welcoming locals, affordable prices, and gastronomic delights.

Due to its stunning beaches, magical temples, adventure activities and relaxed pace of life, Indonesia is one of the most popular holiday destinations in south-east Asia that lures around 20 million travellers every year. It is known for its friendly people with an easy-going attitude who will make you feel welcome in their country from the moment that you arrive. Hence, It’s not a surprise, why the Island nation is a preferred destinations for single travellers, it’s safe, forever welcoming, incredibly diverse, and bursting with exciting experiences. If you are looking for a safe and instagrammable destination to take beautiful photos, Indonesia it is!.

A great combination of safety and quality leisure time, Sri Lanka is the ideal choice for individuals seeking nature, outdoor activities, relaxation and well-being. It is worth noting that each year more than 10 million tourists visit Sri Lanka, and most trips are without incident. With a welcoming and tolerant environment, Sri Lanka is one of the safest places in Asia for female travelers. Locals are extremely hospitable. You can walk around the streets to your heart’s content. The Island nation, buzzing with diverse ethnicities, is host to lush green plantations, incredible wildlife, ancient ruins and stunning natural wonders! We recommend you visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura, UNESCO World Heritage Site or walk to the top of Sigiriya (Lion Rock Fortress), one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic historic landmark.

Here are some essential tips for travelling alone:

Research before you go Once you’ve picked the destination, do a thorough research of the places you will be visiting. The prospects of exploring an unknown land on your own can seem scary. Knowing about what places to visit, the culture and language, recommended local restaurants, transport options etc. will be an added advantage. Refer to TripAdvisor for destination reviews, read posts by famous travel bloggers, ask about it on Reddit and watch videos on youtube. The more you know about your destination, the easier your trip planning and ultimately your trip will be.

Stay at reputed hotels When travelling solo, it’s important to book a centrally positioned, good hotel for safety reasons. Even though the lower hotel rates may tempt you, you most definitely don’t want to be stuck by yourself in the middle of nowhere or in a weird part of town. Only choose hotels with high reviews and multiple positive ratings for your stay. Avoid couchsurfing and isolated accommodation that is fairly remote.

Stick to touristy places In every country, there are neighbourhood and suburbs that you should avoid. Plan your trips during daylight hours, opt for tourist locations where there are co-travelers, bars, restaurants, beaches, shopping streets, common things to do – it’s generally safer and more interesting, too. Avoid areas that look isolated or are known to be dangerous and if at all you’re required to walk through a particular area, ensure that you’re part of a group.

Keep your loved ones updated with your trip Share your travel plans with your closest friend or family member. It is prudent to keep them constantly updated with your schedule such as where you’ll be staying and where you’ll be going each day.

Use Public Transport Apart from the safety issue, private transport such as taxis are generally very pricey especially when travelling alone as there is no one to spill the bill. It will be much cheaper to hop on a bus or metro. If at all you need a taxi ride, team up with other travellers to share the ride.

Avoid travelling at night When travelling solo, you are responsible for yourself as there is no one to take care of you. If you are out at night, stay in well-lit and populated areas, avoid secluded areas and alleys and always organise your mode of transport in advance.

Avoid heavy partying in a foreign city While visiting local bars or pubs, do not get drunk or accept drinks from strangers on your solo trip. Watch your food and drink at all times. Your drink may be spiked, you may subject to petty crime or simply not being able to actually find your way home. Moreover, over drinking can lower your awareness and compromise your safety. No matter how safe a country may be, you should not let your guard down.

Stack up cash in different sections of your backpack Store enough petty cash in your bag, apart from your wallet. In case you end up losing your wallet, or a your credit card, having money to fall back on is always a sensible choice.

Join “Solo Female Travelers” groups on Social Media Social media has become a critical source of information for female travelers, with Facebook, and Instagram becoming the main destination for travel tips and inspiration. On these platforms, you’ll meet woman from different walks of life with similar interests. It is a great way to meet other travelers, have shared experiences, and maybe even develop new friendships.

Carry yourself with confidence Your solo trip is only for you to know. Behave and dress appropriately to avoid unwanted attention. While interacting with strangers, pretend that you have friends or family in the destination you’re in, even if you don’t.

Update your whereabouts on Social Media Keep your family and friends in the know of your whereabouts with constant location check-ins and photos. Inform your close ones that if you don’t post anything for 2 days, something is definitely wrong, so that they can check on you.

That’s it folks! Just trust your own instincts and intuition and use the same safety skills you’d use in your own city. Go for it and we are sure you will have the time of your life!

If you have any questions or need help with planning your trip, be it local or international, let us know in the comments and we’ll be happy to help you out!

You might be interested in this:

• Top 5 Travel Essentials for Women
• Riding Solo: The Best Destinations for Female Travellers

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Solo travel for women: the 18 best destinations (plus tips).

Plan an independent getaway to suit your own personal travel style.

Solo Travel for Women

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For your next solo adventure, consider exploring waterfalls in Iceland, rice fields in Indonesia, beaches in Thailand and more.

Perhaps you have a bucket list of places you've always wanted to travel at the ready but you just keep waiting for the right person to go with you. But if your friends are busy, you just broke up with your partner and you're not feeling a family vacation, you don't have to wait to embark on a new adventure – just go solo .

Traveling by yourself, even as a woman, is not as challenging or scary as you might think. There are plenty of benefits: You don't have to adhere to anyone else's schedule, budget or food preferences, so you can truly prioritize yourself. Solo travel means doing whatever you want whenever you want, while seeing the places that you most want to visit. Adventuring alone as a woman can empower you to see the world on your terms.

Whether you're concerned about safety or seeking companionship, there are plenty of places around the globe to consider for your next solo trip. U.S. News has compiled this list of top solo travel destinations (and helpful tips) with expertise from women who have traversed the globe by themselves and loved it.

Barcelona, Spain

With a visit to Barcelona , immerse yourself in the local culture at your leisure, whether you want to dine at Michelin-starred restaurants or go cheer at a football (soccer) game. Writer Mona Gable says, "Barcelona is a place of wonder − medieval neighborhoods, sunny beaches, and world-class museums, not to mention Antoni Gaudí's celebrated architecture." She enjoyed exploring the Mediterranean port city, especially because of its walkability and easy-to-navigate transportation system with metro lines and buses. She also noted feeling safe on her own: "As a female traveler, I felt perfectly at ease wandering many neighborhoods alone, even at late hours, when Catalans famously dine out."

Travel tip: Gable says it's best to avoid touristy Las Ramblas – Barcelona's main thoroughfare – except to see La Boqueria, the city's legendary food market.

[See more of Barcelona:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Botswana is well known for African wildlife safaris , where travelers might encounter elephants, zebras, rhinos, lions and cheetahs while glamping in luxury tents and dining on gourmet food. "Wildlife travel offers an outstanding combination of camaraderie, safety and autonomy," says Darcie Smith, owner of Great Expeditions Travel . She recommends Botswana's green season (November to March) for solo female travelers; at this time of year the single supplement surcharge is waived at many safari camps, which offers an excellent value and means you're more likely to meet other solo travelers. It is also peak season for birding, and you'll find plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife in the lush landscape.

Many camps will send someone to meet guests upon arrival to help you navigate airports or transfers. In Smith's experience, camp guests are also escorted to their rooms at night, for an added wildlife safety element. "Solo female travelers can enjoy daily shared safari activities in intimate camps that encourage social gatherings with full independence to design the itinerary around what's best for you," she says.

Travel tip: Smith recommends making your social media accounts private when you travel so strangers can't track your location as well as learning about the customs of your destination. "This will help avoid accidentally coming across as forward or flirtatious based on local standards," she explains. "For example, while long eye contact may be considered a sign of self-confidence or being polite at home, it may come across as flirtatious in your new destination."

Picture yourself indulging in pizza and gelato, visiting world-famous museums, touring picturesque wineries, and shopping at designer boutiques – all of that is at your fingertips in Italy , writer Martha McCully's go-to travel destination. "Italians want to share their culture and it's part of their personality to welcome you," she says. "Plus, the food and wine are outrageously divine."

The idea that traveling solo means you will be alone is a misconception, according to McCully. "It's simply not true," she says. "Book a group tour at your destination, or DM a friend from your past on Instagram, which is what I did in Bologna." There are plenty of unique ways to meet fellow travelers in Italy; she recommends signing up for a cooking class in Bologna through Taste of Italy, a food tour by Curious Appetite or a painting class with Plein Air Tuscany. "The idea is you will be with like-minded travelers and someone else is doing all the organizing," McCully explains.

Travel tip: McCully suggests sticking to your wellness routine while on the road to keep healthy habits. "I like to take my rituals with me," she says. "When I ground myself with what I know makes me feel good physically and mentally, it's like I'm living in another country, not just visiting."

[Read: The Top Italy Tours .]

With glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls and hot springs galore, the dramatic landscapes of Iceland make it a must-visit destination. The "Land of Fire and Ice" is also known for puffins, its Viking history and women's empowerment, with the country's reputation as a champion of gender equality.

"Iceland is a favorite destination for female solo travelers because it is easily one of the safest countries in the world," says Jenny Ly, professional travel blogger at Go Wanderly . Iceland has one of the world's lowest crime rates and no animal predators dangerous to humans – just prepare for challenging weather and exercise caution if you plan to do any driving. Ly's itinerary recommendations include whale watching, with nearly a dozen types of whales navigating Icelandic waters; visiting Vatnajökull Glacier's ice caves; and chasing the northern lights in the darker months (October to April).

Travel tip: Ly encourages solo female travelers to not let the lack of a travel companion prevent them from exploring the world. "It can be both empowering and rewarding for women to travel solo, at least once in their life," she says. "While traveling alone can be riskier than traveling with others, it can also be more fun and gratifying." Her tip is to always be aware of your surroundings.

[Read: The Top Iceland Tours .]

San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

While some women may shy away from traveling to Mexico due to safety concerns, travel blogger Jeanine Romo of lewildexplorer.com , who has ventured solo to many countries, recommends visiting the charming town of San Miguel de Allende . "I decided to go on my own and had such a wonderful time," she says. "The people are friendly, the hospitality is amazing, and there are so many things to do if you love art, incredible food, and incredible architecture." San Miguel de Allende is a great option for women travelers because the city center is easily walkable and Uber is available, which Romo says made her feel safe because she could always call a ride.

Travel tip: For women traveling by themselves, Romo advises doing research on transportation options (such as local buses, metro lines and ride-sharing app availability) before you arrive. "I like to know how walkable the city I'm visiting is," says Romo. "This helps me feel so much more confident when navigating a new city."

[See more of San Miguel de Allende: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

New Zealand

From pristine beaches on the North Island to snowy mountains on the South Island – and all kinds of geological wonders in between – the diversity of New Zealand is a major draw for tourists. Travelers can learn about the indigenous Māori culture, visit a sheep farm or go sailing in Auckland , among an abundance of other incredible things to do in this island nation.

Travel blogger Nina Ragusa of whereintheworldisnina.com enjoys visiting because of the welcoming culture, outdoor adventure and feeling of safety. "Traveling New Zealand as a solo woman is quite easy, and if it's your first trip solo, this would be a good country to start in," she says. Ragusa spent a month camping in a van by herself and said she never had to worry about her safety, even in more remote areas. "I went on hikes solo, some of them deep into the mountains for miles and miles, and was either alone or passing other tourists or friendly kiwis to wave hello to," she says. Ragusa adds that New Zealand is not the cheapest travel destination, but her personal recommendation for saving money on longer trips here is to rent – or buy and later sell – a van to live in.

Travel tip: Ragusa recommends steering clear of the outskirts of the bigger cities (particularly if you do travel by van). She warns that, as in most urban destinations around the world, those parts of New Zealand are where you're more likely to run into trouble.

El Calafate, Patagonia, Argentina

For an outdoor adventure in South America, Argentine Patagonia offers pristine ice hiking, backpacking, kayaking, trekking and wildlife viewing. Nicol Gillum-Thomas, an African-American solo female traveler whose mission is to encourage women to live life as an adventure, enjoyed her time in the town of El Calafate. "El Calafate, Argentina, was the destination that seemed the most off-putting in my imagination, but became the trip with the most adventure, awe-inspiring beauty and ease," she says.

Travel tip: Gillum-Thomas recommends a stay at the América del Sur Hostel Calafate, saying she appreciated the clean accommodations and interesting guests.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

If you dream of a getaway that includes picturesque beaches and crystal-clear water, Croatia is the perfect spot to explore. In Dubrovnik , the ancient city walls and medieval architecture of Old Town , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, set a particularly gorgeous scene when the sun goes down. Tamara Williams, owner of solo female travel-focused blog My Elated Odyssey , says the unmatched beauty of the surrounding sea and mountains is only one reason to plan a trip here.

"The locals are some of the nicest people I have ever met," Williams says. "They truly made it feel like a second home. They spoke English well, so no need to worry about a language barrier." She adds that this Balkan country is also considerably more affordable than destinations in Western Europe.

Travel tip: For solo female travelers, Williams suggests staying in the Lapad neighborhood or near Old Town. "Both are full of cafes, bars and shopping to keep you busy," she says.

[See more of Dubrovnik: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Svalbard, Norway

You can't go wrong in Norway , with breathtaking fjords, fascinating wildlife, scenic railways, outdoor adventure and the chance to glimpse the northern lights . Jurga Rubinovaite, founder of the travel blog Full Suitcase , says you won't want to miss Svalbard: a Norwegian archipelago located approximately 800 miles from the North Pole. "It is one of the most unique nature destinations in the world," she says. "Despite being so far north in the Arctic, it's extremely easy to visit and is also a great and safe destination for solo female travelers."

The main town, Longyearbyen, is the focal point of activities in Svalbard, which range from hiking and boat tours in the summer to winter pursuits such as ice cave visits and snowmobiling. "Because of the presence of polar bears, everything you do in Svalbard requires booking a guided tour, so you are always in safe hands," Rubinovaite explains. "Longyearbyen town itself is very lively and safe, with lots of accommodations, restaurants, shops, and a few museums, all within easy walking distance from each other."

Travel tip: For women traveling alone, Rubinovaite advises thorough research in advance of your trip to this Arctic locale; staying in hotels, rather than private accommodations; and booking guided tours or looking for a travel buddy when venturing out to very remote places.

Head to Ireland for a memorable solo getaway complete with rolling emerald-green hills, fairytale castles and Irish coffee. Experienced traveler Kelie Fiala of the Vacations Planned blog ranks this European country at the top of her list for solo travel spots. "Many attractions in Ireland are wonderful for solo travelers because they offer peaceful spots to stop and enjoy the gorgeous views, but also provide plenty of opportunities to meet friendly people at cafes and other points of interest," she says.

Fiala appreciates the nightlife and music scene of Ireland as much as the history and scenery. She suggests experiencing some of the country's pubs, even if you're a woman traveling alone, since you'll almost always find live music and friendly people. "Even if you start out by yourself, you'll easily find that you're having great conversations in no time," she says.

Travel tip: Fiala warns that for solo travelers, especially women, it's best to be careful how much you drink and leave the situation if you ever feel uncomfortable. But she also encourages women to not be afraid to have a chat. "You could hear some great stories, and make a new friend," she says.

Beautiful beaches, delicious food, friendly people, exotic animals and floating markets are just some of the incredible things that you can experience in Thailand . Loredana Gogoescu, head of content for Destguides.com , says she felt safe in Thailand as soon as she arrived. "Thai people are hospitable and kind," she says. "Moreover, as a solo traveler, I was surprisingly never alone. I had to book a private room for myself at one point just to get a breather, as I was constantly meeting new people!"

Travel tip: If you're apprehensive about exploring a new place on your own, especially if you've never traveled abroad before, Gogoescu recommends sorting out all the logistics like accommodations and transportation in advance so it's easier to acclimate once you get there. She adds, "If you're afraid of being alone, join different apps like Bumble and Facebook groups for the destination you're traveling to, to see if you can match up with other solo female travelers who will be in the area at the same time as you."

Netherlands

Nailah Hayward of TheresSoMuchToSee.com says the Netherlands is a superb option for first-time solo female travelers, based on ease of transportation, overall safety, the variety of things to do and other factors. "The Netherlands comes out high on all of these areas," she says. "And after multiple visits to the country, traveling through big cities and small towns, I always felt extremely safe." With the country's extensive train system, in addition to local trams and bike lanes, navigating the Netherlands by yourself doesn't pose too great a burden. Hayward also appreciates the ease of communicating with locals as an English speaker, since most people speak English in addition to Dutch.

"Whether you are into the arts scene, outdoor activities, luxury experiences, cultural exploration or culinary delights, the Netherlands has a huge variety of activities to dive into," Hayward says. "All of these elements make the Netherlands a place that I enthusiastically recommend for solo women travelers."

Travel tip: Don't carry cash. Hayward says most transactions can be done electronically, so there's no need for frequent trips to the ATM.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

Luxury family travel influencer Irina Claire Bromberg suggests Grand Cayman in the Cayman Islands as a top spot for solo female travel, partially because of its high safety rating from the U.S. Department of State. There's also no shortage of activities in this Caribbean destination, with Bromberg calling Stingray City a must. "The stingrays are peaceful and gentle," she says. "They glide along the ocean floor and you're free to observe and even play with them in their natural habitat." She also recommends soaking up some sun at the renowned Seven Mile Beach .

Grand Cayman is also a foodie paradise, according to Bromberg. "The vibrant dishes are as tasty as they are exciting, representing the fascinating mix of cultures and traditions that make the island so unique," she says. Her suggestions for food to try include the classic Cayman-style lobster, coconut shrimp and Johnny cakes.

Travel tip: Bromberg recommends checking the U.S. Department of State safety rating and other solo travelers' experiences prior to booking a trip.

[See more of the Cayman Islands:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

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Chart your course for Istanbul , the only city in the world that straddles two continents, Europe and Asia. This anomaly is one of many features making the Turkish city stand out as a unique destination; you'll get to experience its Byzantine architecture, Ottoman cuisine and landmarks like the Grand Bazaar on a trip here. Farihah Fuaad, a Muslim solo travel expert and founder of MuslimSoloTravel.com , says, "It offers the best of both worlds – East and West, Europe and Asia, modern and ancient – and lots of surprises." This lively, fast-paced metropolis is also rich in history and culture, with remnants of bygone eras visible in the skyline of Istanbul, according to Fuuad.

For solo travelers, there are endless opportunities for memorable experiences. "Wherever you go in Istanbul, multiple surprises await you at the corner of every street, its cobblestone alleys, or within the maze-like structure in Grand Bazaar," Fuaad says. The network of easy and convenient public transportation options also makes Istanbul a great choice for women traveling solo.

Travel tip: For first-time solo female travelers, Fuaad suggests taking time to adjust to being on your own: "Start small, by venturing to your next neighboring town or city first, or any city in your country first before you make the leap into solo traveling abroad." She adds, "Don't do things you're not comfortable with. Listen to your gut feelings – they're always right!"

[See more of Istanbul:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Bali, Indonesia

For a tropical island escape, Bali is undeniably magical. Its natural beauty spans volcanoes, waterfalls and stunning beaches, as well as sprawling rice fields, diverse nightlife and breathtaking temples. Katie Caf, travel blogger at KatieCafTravel.com , who has been traveling solo full time for the past year and a half, says Bali is by far her favorite place to visit. "The Balinese people are very respectful towards female travelers, there's no street harassment based on gender like you might find in other locations, and while no place is perfect, Bali just feels very safe as a woman," Caf says. She adds that, although Indonesia is a conservative country, she found that women traveling there aren't expected to cover up except in temples or other sacred religious sites.

Travel tip: Caf recommends that travelers always use ride-sharing apps like Uber, Gojek and Grab rather than hailing cabs off the street, since the apps' tracking features make them much safer to use for solo female travelers in foreign countries. Some of these sites also allow you to share your route with chosen contacts for added safety.

[See more of Bali:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Paris is one of the most iconic destinations in Europe for any traveler. Antoinette Harris, founder and owner of travel blog Frolic & Courage , considers the "City of Love" a superb option for women traveling solo due to its cuisine, cultural attractions and hands-on activities of all sorts. "I consider Paris the city of self-love because it has everything solo women travelers need to care for themselves and their interests," Harris says.

With the flexibility of traveling on your own, you can plan the Paris trip of your dreams. Depending on what you're interested in, you may choose to learn about French cooking, immerse yourself in the Louvre , attend an opera at the historic Palais Garnier or browse local shops, as Harris has done. "Uninhibited by the demands or requests of others, I was able to really take the time to focus on who I am, what I wanted and what sparks joy and life in my spirit," she says. "Traveling to Paris taught me how to truly enjoy spending time solo."

Travel tip: One of Harris' top tips is to not bring more than you can carry, as you won't always find someone to help you with your luggage if an escalator breaks and you have to take the stairs. "By keeping only the essentials, you're able to move quickly to and from your destination without worrying too much about being a target for crime," Harris says. She also recommends downloading an offline map you can reference even without internet connection and sharing your itinerary with family members or friends who could help in a sticky situation.

[See more of Paris:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

New York City

It's hard to beat the allure of the twinkling lights of Times Square , award-winning Broadway shows and Lady Liberty . Melanie Musson, a travel expert with AutoInsurance.org , loves taking a solo trip to New York City , saying she doesn't even have the chance to feel lonely because the hustle and bustle of the big city keeps her sufficiently distracted.

Musson says that, while there are risks for visitors in any city, the odds of anything scary happening to you in New York are low as long as you take appropriate precautions. "New York City prioritizes tourist safety because they know they’d lose this valuable industry if visitors had frequent bad experiences," she explains, adding that you may be surprised how friendly the local residents are. "They're usually happy to help you identify the right subway line to take or bus to catch. They'll probably even give you tips on the best places to eat or things to see."

Travel tip: Musson's pre-trip tip is to check crime reports in the destination you're heading to and stay within the safe areas. "Trust your gut and get out of the area if you don't feel safe," she cautions.

[See more of New York City:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

The city of Singapore is known for being clean, green and safe for travelers – as well as expensive. Singapore boasts impressive architecture, the iconic Singapore sling cocktail, street food markets and luxury shopping malls. Daina Cohen, editor at WorldlyKnown.com , says, "Singapore is a fantastic destination for solo women travelers because of its vibrant, yet safe culture and exciting sights." On a solo trip to this Southeast Asian city, you can experience the unique blend of diverse cultures and cuisines, Cohen says, in addition to other benefits. "It's easy to navigate with plenty of public transportation options, plus an excellent healthcare system, which makes it a great choice for those who want to travel solo," Cohen notes. Tourists should research Singapore's laws – such as a ban on chewing gum – before traveling there to avoid fines.

Travel tip: Cohen advises staying in a hostel (which often have options for women-only dorms) or renting an Airbnb for more privacy. You'll also want to familiarize yourself with the city's public transportation system prior to arrival.

[See more of Singapore: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to solo travel for women. Her first trip by herself was to New Zealand when she was 19. Since then, she has traveled solo all over the U.S. and to countries such as Fiji, Argentina, Chile and Italy. Her favorite destination to travel alone is still her native California, which offers a diverse landscape from the city to the sea and the mountains and the desert.

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15 Best Trip Destinations for Solo Female Travelers

Here are the top travel destinations around the world for women traveling solo.

Solo travel can be intimidating. Whether you're heading to a city in your own country or across the globe, traveling alone can bring up a long list of concerns — from the awkwardness of dining on your own to more serious issues of safety, especially for women. But despite any nervousness or uncertainty, traveling on your own can be one of the most freeing and rewarding experiences.

Choosing the right destination is key, so we've collected some of the best destinations around the world for women to travel on their own.

• Best for those with safety top of mind: Iceland
• Best for booking single rooms: Copenhagen, Denmark
• Best for free attractions: Washington, D.C.
• Best walkable destination: Barcelona
• Best for natural beauty: Norway's fjords

Read on to see our full list of the top spots for women traveling solo.

Between exploring the charming streets of Reykjavik, chasing the northern lights , and driving the famous Ring Road, solo female travelers can have an unforgettable trip in Iceland and feel safe doing so. The country has consistently ranked first on both the Institute for Economics and Peace's Global Peace Index and the World Economic Forum's Global Gender Gap Report , so visitors can rest assured that safety and gender equality are prized in this naturally stunning destination. Solo tourists can head out into the wilderness via well-traveled (often busy, even) hiking trails and make friends with locals and fellow foreigners alike.

Copenhagen, Denmark

In the quirky Danish capital, you'll find plenty of centrally located hotels offering single rooms, each providing the perfect jumping-off point for Copenhagen adventures. Must-visit spots include Nyhavn , the iconic canal lined with multicolored houses (opt for a tour for a closer look at the city's waterways), and Tivoli Gardens , a historic amusement park. Then stop for a quick bite at the TorvehallerneKBH food hall. With Danish culture valuing the importance of community dining, solo travelers should never feel alone.

Washington, D.C., United States

The manageable size and easy layout of the U.S. capital make it an ideal stomping ground for solo travelers. In addition to exploring the memorials along the National Mall, you can take in the exhibits at the many Smithsonian museums (plus the zoo), all walkable and offering free admission. If you want to explore Washington D.C. further, get on two wheels at one of the hundreds of Capital Bikeshare stations, which extend to Arlington, Alexandria, and Montgomery County. Alternatively, take advantage of the efficient D.C. Metro for day trips to nearby areas.

Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is an extremely walkable city, and you're unlikely to get lost as long as you have a map of some kind. You can window shop along Las Ramblas, stroll down the beach boardwalk, and wander through the Gaudi-designed Park Güell while taking in the gardens and panoramic views of the city.

The dining options are conducive to solo travel, too. Instead of sitting by your lonesome in a dining room, you can take your paella al fresco at one of the many waterfront restaurants (people-watching is built-in entertainment) or opt for a counter seat at a tapas bar.

Norway's Fjords

Lara D'agostino/Travel + Leisure

There's no better environment for self-reflection than the soothing blue-and-green canvas of the Norwegian fjords. In Bergen , you can ride up the Fløibanen funicular or embark on a daylong journey on the Bergen Railway. Head to Gudvangen and take a cruise through Aurlandsfjord and Nærøyfjord. Equally impressive as the waterfalls-at-every-glance boat ride is the Flåm Railway trip, with views outside the window changing from seascapes to snow-capped mountains. This trip is for the solo traveler seeking peace in nature rather than busy biergartens and the like.

Seattle, Washington, United States

Thanks to the omnipresence of Seattle's coffee culture, a solo diner (or drinker) is not an uncommon sight. Plus, the city's proliferation of cafes means there's a rest stop around every corner to break up visits to Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, or the campy Museum of Pop Culture , aka “MoPOP.” The compact downtown area makes it easy for visitors to zip between attractions, restaurants, and shops on foot — and anything that is slightly farther is accessible by the easy-to-use Link light rail .

Munich, Germany

The jolly German mentality shines through in this Bavarian city, where tourists and locals bond over brötchen in mom-and-pop bakeries and pints in the biergartens. Although Oktoberfest happens only in the fall (and does not lend itself to a solo experience, per se), the beer halls in Munich maintain that same kind of festive ambience throughout the year. Hofbräuhaus is, hands down, the most famous and guaranteed to contain an abundance of other tourists. Fellow travelers can also be found climbing the Olympiapark tower ( Olympiaturm ), the top of which provides views extending as far as the Alps.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

The rise in Croatian tourism has improved the ease of travel, and the country's low crime rate heightens the appeal. Protected by 6,365 feet of pristine walls, the oceanfront medieval city of Dubrovnik gives you history, culture, and beautiful beaches all in one destination. Its cobblestone streets guide visitors to artisanal shops and local eateries, while a walk along the walls offers spectacular bird's-eye views of the Adriatic coastline. Just a few minutes from Old Town, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking and snorkeling via tours and rentals offered right on the beach.

Austin, Texas, United States

Austin's festival culture makes it easy to get pulled in multiple directions, but it's also a great way to meet new people. There's plenty to see and do, whether you're checking out live music or eating your way through Tex-Mex and BBQ restaurants and food trucks. When you need a little quiet time, head downtown for a walking tour, or find a spot to watch the Congress Avenue Bridge bats soar.

For a city of its size, Austin is typically considered quite safe. Note, though, that the ubiquity of booze here can be a blessing or a curse. While it keeps the streets populated (and therefore generally safe) at night, alcohol can lead to crime even within tourist circles, so exercise caution while participating in Austin's lively bar scene.

Salzburg, Austria

Overlooked by the Hohensalzburg Fortress and bisected by the Salzach River, Mozart's hometown has storybook allure. After reliving scenes from “The Sound of Music” at Mirabell Gardens and Nonnberg Abbey, relax with a coffee on the terrace of Cafe Tomaselli or a pint in the 1,400-seat outdoor area of Austria's biggest biergarten, Augustiner Bräu .

While the entire city is walkable, Salzburg is also one of the country's most bike-friendly cities. More than 100 miles of cycle paths mean you can pack way more into a day and get around more efficiently (and economically) as a solo traveler.

Taipei, Taiwan

xPACIFICA/Getty Images

The capital of Taiwan offers an ideal mix of history and modernity. You'll find temples and skyscrapers, contemporary malls and traditional night markets — perfect for making a meal out of snacks while shopping for accessories and souvenirs. Taipei has the bustle of a major Asian metropolis but with important urban comforts as well. Street signage and public transportation all have names in English — and even though crime is overall low in the country, the metro system has “ Safe Waiting Zones ” marked on the platforms, which are monitored closely by video feed to protect passengers at night.

Melbourne, Australia

This Australian metropolis is one of the most livable cities in the world, according to the Economist Intelligence Unit . Throw in a free tourist tram that reaches the major sights — including Queen Victoria Market, Carlton Gardens, and Federation Square — and Melbourne's got simplicity and safety all rolled up in one. Because Australia offers a Working Holiday visa allowing visitors between 18 and 35 to work in the country for a year, the city is especially popular with young expats.

Stockholm, Sweden

Ivey Redding/Travel + Leisure

Sweden's safe, accessible cities are ideal for solo-traveling women. The cobblestone streets of Stockholm's Old Town, or Gamla Stan, are home to coffee shops, restaurants, stores, and even a castle, prompting hours of exploring on foot. The modern areas surrounding it are also easy to navigate through a string of metro stations, which double as art exhibits with their over-the-top murals, mosaics, and sculptures.

Okinawa, Japan

For a taste of Japan without the overwhelming hustle, head to Naha, the capital of the Okinawa islands. The monorail is super accessible, linking the airport to the city center. Within walking distance of the city center are the Naminoue city beach, Tsuboya pottery district, and Makishi Public Market, where the pull-up-a-chair stands are primed for solo dining.

London, England

For European charm without the culture shock or language barrier, there's London . Visitors could spend days just roaming along the River Thames, snacking in Borough Market, and admiring the eclectic houseboats, or strolling through the Royal Parks and eyeing luxury items at Harrods . After dark, grab a seat alongside locals at a pub or catch a show in the West End, then enjoy a late-night bite in nearby Chinatown. The endless sights and entertainment are easily connected via the London Underground, better known as the Tube.

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Amazing thailand, cambodia and vietnam 18 days, spirits of vietnam, cambodia & thailand in 16 days, 12-day south korea adventure: from seoul to jeju island, highlights of israel and jordan - 11 days, vietnam in 10 days: journey from south to north, epic 13-day japan budget tour: odyssey across the land of the rising sun, grand tour of sri lanka, southeast asia discovery 19 days, 9d splendid japan with nagoya (private 3 star hotel rooms).

“Every aspect of this trip was flawlessly planned. I would highly recommend this tour company.” Pamela Benink, traveled in November 2023

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year
• Cycle around the villages of Vietnam and attend a cooking class
• Explore the biggest temple complex in the world, Angkor Wat
• See cascades waterfalls right in the middle of lush jungles

“The tour was excellent. I highly recommend this tour.” Errol Farro, traveled in April 2024

• Sightseeing
• Join a traditional Khantoke dinner in Chiang Mai
• Experience the vibrant Damnoen Saduak floating market
• Cruise along Chao Phraya River and visit temples

“Lamphong & Realistic Asia were first rate. Accommodations were good to excellent.” Claudia Steeves, traveled in January 2024

• Take a ride in a traditional Vietnamese unique basket boat
• Explore the largest religious monument in the world - Angkor Wat
• Sit back for a relaxing time at the stunning beaches of Phuket

“I absolutely loved this tour! Made so many memories and would 100% recommend this tour!” Sage RJ Lee, traveled in August 2023

• Gyeongbokgung Palace & Bukchon Hanok Village
• Bhuddhist Temple Stay
• Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour

“I am very happy. The tour was excellent.” josefa carranza, traveled in August 2022

• Visit the ruins in the city of Petra
• Float in the mineral-rich Dead Sea
• Tour Jerusalem's historic sites

“We had a wonderful vacation, with the enthusiasm of the coordinators. Everything made us feel very comfortable.” Quiana Nguyen, traveled in September 2023

• Coach / Bus
• Explore the remarkable Vietnamese countryside on bike
• Visit the My Son Sanctuary and the Temple of Literature
• Connect with locals and cruise to Cai Be Floating Market

“The trip was very enjoyable.” adam clark, traveled in July 2024

• Train & Rail
• Golden Route - Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka
• Sushi Making
• Hiroshima Peace Memorial

“the itinerary was amazing and exactly as described, but nothing could have prepared us for both the splendour of the countryside and the overall friendliness of everyone we met on the trip.” Paul Harrison, traveled in July 2024

• Witness elephants at Minneriya Park
• Explore Dambulla's ancient cave temples
• Enjoy Kandy's Temple of the Tooth

“We were really impressed with the accommodations and experiences that Bravo provided.” James Clowes, traveled in February 2022

• Explore Bangkok by boat, tuk tuk, and canoe
• Shop and dine in Bangkok's vibrant Chinatown
• Take a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai

“The hotels were comfortable and clean and better than we expected. The itinerary was perfect for first time visitors to Japan.” Gail Lawson, traveled in June 2024

• Cruise on Lake Yamanaka with views of Mt. Fuji
• Stroll through Kyoto's Arashiyama Bamboo Grove
• Ride the Shinkansen to Hiroshima and Miyajima

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16 Best Places To Travel For Solo Female Travelers + Solo Travel Safety Tips

Discover the safest destinations and the best places to travel solo for female travelers. Solo travel isn’t just about visiting new places; it’s a journey of self-discovery and a testament to your strength. Gain self-confidence while making unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a unique opportunity for women to challenge themselves and see the world on their own terms.

Solo travel is a thrilling adventure. With the freedom to set your own pace, make your own choices, and explore whenever and wherever you want. It’s a chance for self-discovery and relaxation. However, safety concerns can be a significant obstacle for women who wish to travel alone.

We’ve traveled all over the world solo, so we’ve compiled a list of the best places to travel for solo female travelers. These countries are rich in culture and attractions and boast solid safety records, making them among the best destinations for solo female travelers.

What Makes a Good Solo Female Travel Destination?

Table of Contents

1. Safety and Security

2. female-friendly culture, 3. accessibility and infrastructure, 4. welcoming locals, 5. diverse activities and experiences, 6. solo traveler-friendly accommodations, 7. language accessibility, 6. portugal, 7. the azores, portugal, 9. switzerland, 10. slovenia, 11. thailand, 12. australia, 13. barbados, 14. costa rica, 15. south korea, 16. spain , 1. start local, 2. don’t let language barriers scare you, 3. make an itinerary, 4. share your itinerary with loved ones, 5. remain alert, 6. pack light, 7. wear a fanny pack, 7. never leave your drink unattended., 8. don’t post in real time, never mention you are alone., solo travel tips summary: , final thoughts.

Solo female travel has become increasingly popular, women are exploring the world on their own terms. Choosing the right destination is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are key factors to consider when selecting a destination for female solo travel.

Safety is  not just a consideration; it’s a priority  when traveling alone, especially as a woman. Opt for destinations with low crime rates and a welcoming attitude towards solo travelers. Countries like Iceland, Japan, and Costa Rica are known for their high safety and security scores, making them ideal choices for solo female travelers.

Look for destinations with a culture that respects and values women. Countries like Sweden, Canada, and New Zealand are known for their gender equality and progressive attitudes towards women, making them great options for solo female travelers.

Choose destinations with good transportation systems, reliable infrastructure, and easy navigation. Cities like Tokyo, Paris, and Madrid offer excellent public transportation options, making it convenient for solo travelers to explore safely and efficiently.

Opt for destinations where locals are friendly, helpful, and welcoming towards solo travelers. Countries like Italy, Portugal, and Mexico are known for their hospitality and warmth towards visitors, creating a positive and inclusive travel experience.

Select destinations that offer a variety of activities and experiences to suit your interests. Whether you enjoy cultural immersion, outdoor adventure, or culinary experiences, choose destinations that align with your preferences. Cities like Rome, Oaxaca City, and Paris offer solo female travelers a mix of cultural, culinary, and historical experiences.

If possible, look for accommodations that cater to solo travelers and offer safe and comfortable lodging options. Hostels, boutique hotels, and female-only dormitories at hostels are great choices for solo female travelers looking to meet other like-minded individuals and create a sense of community while traveling alone.

Consider destinations where you are comfortable with the language or where English is widely spoken. This can ease communication barriers and enhance your overall travel experience.

Spain, Italy , and Japan offer a mix of English-friendly environments and opportunities to learn and practice a new language.

Choosing the right destination is essential for a successful solo female travel experience. Remember to do your research, plan, and trust your instincts when selecting your next solo travel destination.

Best Solo Travel Destinations For Women

Iceland, Costa Rica, Portugal, and Japan stand out as some of our favorites as top female solo travel destinations. These destinations offer a vibrant mix of culture, cuisine, and experiences that cater to solo travelers seeking adventure and self-discovery.

From the warm hospitality of Costa Rica to the bustling streets of Tokyo, each destination provides a unique opportunity for women to explore, connect with locals, and create unforgettable memories.

Ready to explore the world solo? Check out our list of the safest destinations for female travelers!

Iceland is one of the best solo travel destinations in Europe.

Iceland’s breathtaking natural landscapes include waterfalls , volcanoes, hot springs , and glaciers. The capital city, Reykjavik, is lively, with plenty of nightlife and cultural attractions. The Global Peace Index ranks Iceland as the world’s safest country due to its low crime rates and friendly locals.

Iceland should be at the top of the travel wish list for solo female travelers who adore the outdoors.

Iceland offers outdoor activities such as observing whales, exploring Europe’s largest glacier, the Vatnajokull, and seeing the Northern Lights in winter, visible from September to April, are examples of the outdoor activities Iceland has to offer.

Due to its small size, welcoming locals, and breathtaking scenery, Iceland is a highly recommended travel destination for women traveling alone. 

Read Next: How To Visit Iceland On a Budget

Prefer listening to podcasts? Listen to this episode on creative ways you can save money exploring Iceland.

Listen on Apple Podcasts  |  Spotify  |  Any podcast player

Japan is known for its rich culture, low crime rate, and politeness. It’s regarded as the ninth safest country globally and the third safest in Asia, making it a fantastic vacation destination for solo female travelers. It’s also really clean and well-organized.

Japan offers so much to explore, from its beautiful mountains and archipelagos to its delicious food, rich history, and intriguing culture. Visit the traditional hot spring hamlet of Shibu Onsen, the world-class sand museum, or the Senmaida Rice Fields.

Eat your way through Japan by going on a ramen food tour or taking a cooking class.

Japanese culture is geared toward solo living; hungry customers can find single tables and service counters at restaurants. Additionally, Japan provides everything needed to make individuals feel safe, such as women-only hotels and train carriages.

Just be mindful that the language barrier in Japan can be tough, adding to the mental exhaustion, especially for longer trips. 

Ireland is one of the best places to travel for solo female travelers. It’s safe, the locals are friendly, and the natural beauty is breathtaking. There are also few language barriers for English speakers.

See locations like the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, which span 700 feet above the untamed Atlantic coast. 

Visit Dingle as well, a traditional charming Irish seaside town.

Take a trip to the Carrick-a-Rede Bridge , which connects a small island and the mainland.

Overall, Ireland is a great pick with relaxed cities, gorgeous countryside, and a lively culture. We’ve already made two trips to Ireland, and it’s one of our favorite European cities for solo travel.

Read Next: How Much Does a Trip To Ireland Cost?

You can also make your way to Northern Ireland, an easy day trip from Dublin on a guided tour, or spend more time exploring the country at your own pace.

Norway is renowned for its low crime rates. It’s a breathtaking country known for its mountains, fjords, scenery, and northern lights.

Explore Norway’s rugged wilderness by hiking and climbing massive mountains to discover spectacular views. Visit Tromsø, the top destination for seeing the Northern Lights.

Along with adventurous activities, Norway offers husky dog sledding and orca freediving.

Norway is also the site of numerous cultural treasures and intriguing cities, like its capital city of Oslo, a vibrant place with lots of nightlife and cultural attractions.

Read Next: How Much Does a Trip To Oslo Cost?

Is Oslo Expensive?: My 4 Day Norway Trip Costs

Canada is a favorite because of its ease of travel and its melting pot of cultures.

Vancouver has the West Coast’s thriving theater, music, and art scene. It‘s also home to the 450-foot Capilano Suspension Bridge Park.

Montréal is renowned for its distinct French colonial past, charming bistros, and boutiques. It also features the largest church in Canada, Notre-Dame Basilica, a designated National Historic Site. The church is a must-see for its carillon, gardens, museum, and crypt.

Prince Edward Island’s rolling green hills, sandy beaches, red sandstone cliffs, and mouthwatering seafood provide a tranquil getaway. Visitors can also visit the island’s Green Gables Heritage Place and golf courses. 

In central Canada, Winnipeg is a vibrant city with a thriving food scene, museums, and art galleries, such as the Canadian Museum For Human Rights and the Winnipeg Art Gallery. People are friendly, hospitable, and open to sharing their culture with visitors.

In the winter, go ice fishing, snowmobiling, and dog sledding. You can also see polar bears and the Northern Lights.

The province of Manitoba is underrated; go visit!

Listen to this podcast episode to learn the best ways to embrace Indigenous culture in Manitoba.

Listen on Apple Podcasts  |  Spotify  |  Amazon Music  |  Any player

If you enjoy a quieter pace and want to immerse yourself in a lively arts community, Saskatoon is a gateway to exploring the Canadian prairies.

Listen to this podcast episode for things to do and see across the province of Saskatchewan.

Portugal’s progressive views toward women, LGBT tourists, and people of color make it appealing for female travelers.

Once a haven for Portuguese royalty, Sintra is known for its gardens, tiled houses, fairy-tale-like palaces, and neo-Gothic architecture.

Spend time exploring Lisbon, Portugal’s capital. VisitSão Jorge Castle for panoramic views of the city from the top of a medieval fortress.

A mightymedieval castle on the Tagus River, the Belém Tower in Lisbon is a World Heritage Site recognized by UNESCO. It’s a representation of Portugal’s nautical history.

Madeira Botanical Gardens is a 20-acre Funchal sanctuary home to over 2,000 exotic plants. Its topiary gardens and vibrant geometric flower beds make it a must-see.

Tour the Douro Valley wine region, relax on the beaches of the Algarve Coast, or marvel at the natural wonders of Ponta de Piedade.

Read Next: How Much Does a Trip To Lisbon Cost?

Explore the Azores and volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean for a blend of adventure and relaxation.

São Miguel Island is a gem for solo female travelers seeking natural beauty, affordable prices, and tranquility. For ultimate freedom, rent a car to explore the island on your own or book various guided tours.

Hike Sete Cidades Lagoons, go whale watching, or relax in the natural hot springs of Furnas.

In Ponta Delgada, explore historic churches, visit a pineapple plantation farm, and enjoy traditional Azorean food at various restaurants.

Vienna, the capital of Austria, combines music, European charm, and an inviting atmosphere filled with trendy wine bars and coffee shops.

Vienna’s historic center has spectacular architecture, such as the late-19th-century Ringstrasse and Baroque gardens and castles.

The Belvedere Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day. The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings and the largest collection of Viennese Biedermeier art.

One recognizable landmark in Salzburg is the Fortress Hohensalzburg, an 11th-century castle that overlooks the city. The castle’s structures showcase the historical events within its walls. 

Graz is another must-see destination in Austria. Enjoy its rich history, modern architecture, and a vibrant arts scene. The city is easy to navigate.

Explore the charming Old Town, admire modern art at the Kunsthaus, and enjoy breathtaking views from Schlossberg.

Read Next: Where To Stay in Graz, Austria

Switzerland is a peaceful country with low crime rates, respectful locals, a reliable transportation system, and quiet streets, making it a safe destination for solo female travelers.

The country’s picturesque landscape includes mountains, sparkly lakes, and woodlands.

Right on the lake, the city of Geneva, for example, offers exquisite wine, cheese, and chocolates. It’s a melting pot of cultures with French, German, and Italian influences.

Visit the Rhine Falls, the largest waterfall in Europe. This popular tourist attraction offers boat trips to the center and a quick stroll to the summit. 

Switzerland is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, biking, skiing, and snowboarding. 

Switzerland is perfect for exploring independently, from the towering Alps to charming villages.

Slovenia provides an abundance of scenic landscapes and beautiful villages, as well as a secure atmosphere that offers peace of mind as you explore independently.

Due to its relatively small size easily explore different regions and experience a variety of attractions from coast to coast.

Compared to other European cities, Slovenia offers good value, making it a budget-friendly option for solo travelers.

Ljubljana, the nation’s capital, is a charming city with many restaurants and cafes along the river. While Postojna Cave for its network of tunnels, passageways, galleries, and hall.

Thailand is a popular travel destination for solo females. Its friendly locals, affordability, accessibility by public transportation, and well-developed tourism infrastructure make it stand out.

Explore the Grand Palace in Bangkok, built in 1782. Visit the Phi Phi Islands, known for their white sand beaches and verdant jungles. Rising from the Andaman Sea, the islands are surrounded by blue waters and marine life.

Thailand’s highest peak is another fan favorite. Doi Inthanon National Park offers breathtaking views from its summit, trails, and waterfalls. 

Across the country, you can find temples, vibrant markets, and delicious food, whether street food or a fancy restaurant. Plus, Thailand’s affordable cost of living makes it a remarkable budget-friendly option for solo travelers.

Australia is a top bucket list destination for good reason. It’s such a large country, and many people like Gemma Thompson choose to spend a significant amount of time backpacking here.

Sydney is renowned for its vibrant beaches, dining scene, and iconic landmarks, such as the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

The Sydney Opera House hosts over 1,600 performances annually, showcasing creative theater, symphonic music, and contemporary dance.

Bondi Beach in Sydney offers a glistening blue sea, hip restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Melbourne, Australia’s cultural hub, offers music, art, architecture, and cuisine. The center of a trendy and lively dining scene, Melbourne’s events, exhibitions, and rich cultural heritage complement various styles.

Excursions in Melbourne include the Yarra Valley, a premier wine region with historic farmhouses, vineyards, and rolling green hills.

Queensland takes a different approach with its natural resources, including the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics World Heritage Rainforest.

Overall, if you’re adventurous, Australia will not disappoint.

If you are looking for a beachy destination in the Caribbean, Barbados offers crystal-clear beaches, outdoor activities, rich historical sites, and a vibrant nightlife.

The Andromeda Botanic Gardens, the oldest and largest in Barbados, offers over 500 plant species and 100 tree types to marvel at.

Bathsheba, the leading fishing community, has several charming churches, including the Saint Joseph Anglican Church.

St. Nicholas Abbey, a 350-year-old plantation property, is a must-see site for its rum distillery, old-fashioned furnished rooms, gardens, orchards, 1800s antiques, and an on-site sugar cane factory.

Rent a car and explore the island at your own pace. The island is relatively small, so you can see much of the country even if you’re short on time.

Costa Rica should not be missed by travelers seeking rest and wellness. Its warm and friendly locals are beloved for their willingness to welcome travelers and welcoming nature. It’s also one of the safest countries in Central America.

Costa Rica is ideal for hiking and surfing. You can also enjoy yoga retreats, eco-lodges, spa treatments, lush rainforests, wildlife viewing, and volcano exploration. Costa Rica offers everything from hiking and zip-lining to surfing and white-water rafting.

Nausheen Farishta says Costa Rica provides opportunities for solo female travelers to meet new people and experience the local culture, making it a safe and enjoyable destination for solo female travelers.

Listen to this podcast episode to learn about the benefits of solo travel and how it can be more affordable than traveling with friends and family. Nausheen shares her favorite solo travel destinations, activities she enjoys, and tips for staying true to your budget while traveling alone.

Beach lovers will find beautiful beaches in Tamarindo, Santa Teresa, and Nosara on the Nicoya Peninsula. These beaches are ideal for reading a book, surfing, and sunbathing. 

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Santa Rosa National Park in Guanacaste is Mesoamerica’s last dry tropical forest. It’s also home to the Battle of Santa Rosa site from 1856. 

While exploring the dry forest in the Murciélago area, visitors can see the Monument to the Heroes, the Stone Corrals, and the Casona Historical Museum.

The Ecotermales Hot Springs soothes tired and achy muscles. The natural energy of the Arenal Volcano heats the magnesium-rich waters, which gather in pools surrounded by patio chairs and a beautiful tropical rainforest.

Hospitable local, accessible public transportation and safety measures like emergency response systems offer solo female travelers peace of mind as they explode in popular cities like Seoul, Busan , and beyond.

South Korea offers a variety of activities, including hiking mountains, viewing cherry blossoms, and exploring the Jeju islands.

In Seoul, the royal palace, Gyeongbokgung, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gates, structures, pavilions, and museums.

Bukhansan National Park offers a day hike through dense forests with dramatic peaks and hidden temples.

Meet new people and learn about the nation’s cuisine by taking a cooking class.

The Boseong region offers vibrant green hills and fields, with year-round tea consumption and the May green tea festival.

If you love good food, rich culture, and history, visiting Spain will not disappoint. Spain’s breathtaking natural landscapes and architecture are stunning from the beaches to the mountains.

Park Güell in Barcelona offers incredible city views and is up close to Antoni Gaudí’s design.

Take a cooking class at a local culinary school in Madrid to learn how to make authentic Spanish tapas, socialize, and meet new people.

Attend a flamenco show, visit museums, and relax on the beaches in Barcelona and Valencia.

How To Travel Alone Confidently

If you haven’t gone on your first solo trip yet, or it’s been a while, don’t worry. Here are our best tips for getting started with solo travel and how to feel more confident.

If traveling alone frightens you, you can build up your confidence by attending local events alone. 

Enjoy your own company by watching a movie alone, eating at a restaurant, going to a concert, or taking a short weekend trip nearby. 

Starting on a small scale will allow you to test the waters and discover what traveling solo is like.

Do this a few times, and you’ll be ready for your first (or next) solo adventure.

If you visit a place where you do not speak the language, you will find a way to communicate.

Practice with language apps, purchase a phrase book, and use Google Translate  to translate signs and menus and pronounce words.

Read More:  Tips for When You Don’t Speak the Language

Planning ahead is especially important when you are venturing to a new destination alone. It also helps you maximize your time.

Before your trip, determine the top things you want to see and do, and how much money you will spend. 

Start with a free walking tour of the city to get a lay of the land and meet other travelers.

Ask your tour guide about their favorite restaurants, bars, and activities – they’ll gladly share their recommendations with you.

Share your travel plans with family and close friends. Include addresses, websites, and phone numbers just in case they need them.

When traveling solo, always remain alert and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid looking down at your phone or listening to music.

Packing light helps you easily travel and ensures heavy, bulky backpacks and luggage don’t weigh you down.

While traveling solo, you need to be able to lift your bags overhead without any help. Packing light reduces the number of things you need to keep track of and saves you money on airline baggage fees.

Knack Bags is our favorite all-in-one carry-on backpack and weekender bag.

Fanny packs are back in style!

Keep your belongings close to your body with a cross-body bag or fanny pack.

Always bring your drink with you, and never leave it unattended. Also, never accept a drink if you haven’t seen how it was made.

As much as we’d like to share our travels in real time, please avoid it.

Posting your whereabouts makes it easier for people to track your movements and target you. Avoid alerting people you are not home. Also, you never know if one of your followers is nearby and would go out of their way to meet you. Wait a while before posting about your trip. We prefer to delay sharing until after we’ve returned home, sometimes weeks after outings.

When traveling alone, it’s easy to meet people. Never share you are traveling alone. Say you’re meeting up with a friend, family member, boyfriend, or partner soon.

• Start local – go to nearby events and dine at restaurants alone.
• Don’t let language barriers scare you – use resources like Google Translate to help you communicate.
• Create an itinerary – focus what you want to do and how much it will cost. 
• Remain alert.
• Even though you travel alone, it doesn’t mean you must remain alone. You’ll meet lots of people along the way.

As we wrap up, we hope this list of solo travel destinations for women has sparked your interest in exploring the world alone.

The world is a big place, and luckily, many incredible destinations offer safety, beauty, adventure, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences.

Choosing the right destination comes down to interests, budget, travel style , and research findings. Happy solo travels!

Read Next: Best Winter Destinations For Black Female Solo Travelers

Jael   Jean – Louis is a freelance writer and college student who is majoring in Psychology. She enjoys learning new things, traveling, and developing her personal finance and financial literacy knowledge. She participates in various activities, including serving as an intern for the mental health club at her school and being a member of the National Honor Society, among other things. Besides keeping herself busy with extracurricular activities, she enjoys reading, crocheting, and living life to the fullest. She also receives excellent support from her family and enjoys spending time with them.

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How Women Can Conquer the Challenges of Solo Travel

September 10, 2024

Kelly Bejelly

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This post contains affiliate links.  Click here to read my affiliate policy .

Last Updated on September 10, 2024

Introduction

Solo travel has become increasingly popular among women, offering a unique opportunity for self-discovery, personal growth, and unforgettable adventures. However, embarking on a journey alone can present its own set of challenges. This article explores how women can overcome these obstacles and make the most of their solo trips.

Embracing Independence and Self-Reliance

One of the primary challenges of solo travel is the need to be entirely self-reliant. From planning the itinerary to navigating unfamiliar places, everything falls on your shoulders. This can be daunting, but it’s also an excellent opportunity for personal growth. To conquer this challenge, start by thoroughly researching your destination and creating a flexible itinerary. Check out some of the best solo trips for women in the US . Familiarize yourself with local customs, transportation options, and emergency services. Remember, being prepared doesn’t mean you can’t be spontaneous; it simply provides a safety net for your adventures. 

Overcoming Safety Concerns

Safety is often the top concern for women traveling alone. While it’s essential to be cautious, don’t let fear hold you back. Take practical precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings, trusting your instincts, and avoiding risky situations. Consider using women-focused travel apps that offer safety features and connect you with other solo female travelers. When booking accommodations, opt for well-reviewed places in safe neighborhoods. Remember, most destinations are safe for travelers who exercise common sense and stay vigilant.

Combating Loneliness and Building Connections

Loneliness can be a significant challenge for solo travelers. However, traveling alone doesn’t mean you have to be lonely. Take advantage of social opportunities by staying in hostels, joining group tours, or using travel apps to connect with other travelers. Engage with locals by taking cooking classes, language lessons, or volunteering. These experiences not only combat loneliness but also enrich your travel experience by providing cultural insights and potential friendships.

Managing Finances and Budgeting

Solo travel often means shouldering all expenses alone, which can be challenging. To conquer this, create a detailed budget before your trip and track your expenses diligently. Look for ways to save money, such as using public transportation, staying in budget-friendly accommodations, or cooking some of your meals. Consider using travel rewards credit cards to earn points for future trips. Remember, solo travel doesn’t have to break the bank if you plan wisely and make informed choices.

Dealing with Cultural Differences and Language Barriers

Navigating cultural differences and language barriers can be intimidating when traveling alone. Prepare by learning some basic phrases in the local language and researching cultural norms before your trip. Be open-minded and respectful of local customs, even if they differ from your own. If you encounter difficulties, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Many people are willing to assist travelers who show genuine interest and respect for their culture.

Overcoming Self-Doubt and Building Confidence

Self-doubt can creep in when facing challenges alone in unfamiliar territory. Combat this by setting small, achievable goals for each day of your trip. Celebrate your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Keep a travel journal to document your experiences and reflect on your personal growth. Remember that every challenge you overcome contributes to building your confidence and resilience.

Balancing Solo Time with Social Interactions

While solo travel offers valuable alone time for reflection and self-discovery, it’s important to find a balance with social interactions. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with fellow travelers or locals. Join group activities or tours when you feel the need for company. At the same time, cherish the moments of solitude and use them for self-reflection and personal growth.

Capturing Memories and Sharing Experiences

Traveling solo means you’re responsible for capturing your own memories. Learn to use a tripod or selfie stick for photos, or don’t shy away from asking others to take pictures of you. Share your experiences through social media or a travel blog, which can also help you connect with other travelers and provide inspiration for future trips.

Solo travel for women comes with its unique set of challenges, but with the right mindset and preparation, these obstacles can be transformed into opportunities for growth and empowerment. By embracing independence, prioritizing safety, building connections, managing finances wisely, and overcoming cultural barriers, women can conquer the challenges of solo travel and embark on truly transformative journeys. Remember, every step outside your comfort zone is a step towards personal growth and unforgettable experiences. So pack your bags, trust in yourself, and set out on the solo adventure of a lifetime.

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