FEMALE SOLO TRAVEL IN ASIA - WHERE TO VISIT AND SAFETY TIPS

solo travelasia
Written By Sara Green

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This post is about travelling solo in Asia including the best places to visit in Asia and Asian travel tips

Are you planning a solo trip to Asia and it all feels a little overwhemling? Don’t worry - I’ll guide you through the best places to visit in Asia as a solo traveller.

Asia is a great place to travel as a solo female traveller. With its mix of cultures, amazing history and stunning scenery, you’ll find plenty of spots that are perfect for solo female travellers. Whether you're craving the buzz of city life, relaxing on beautiful beaches or exploring charming old towns, Asia has got everything.

In this article, I'll take you through some of the best places in Asia for solo female travellers, giving you the lowdown on what makes each destination a great place to visit. Plus, I’ll share some handy tips to make sure your trip is safe, fun and unforgettable.

 

Planning your trip? Use my favourite resources!

🏨 Accommodation : I recommend Booking.com
✈️ Flights : for the cheapest flights, I use Skyscanner
🚗 Rental Car : I recommend Rental Cars
🛡️ Travel Insurance : for the best deals I rely on HeyMondo

 
 
 

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WHAT MAKES A GOOD SOLO TRAVEL DESTINATION?

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There are many things that go towards making a destination a good place to visit as a solo traveller including safety, accessibility, cost, engaging activities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Safety is paramount, although it’s not the only factor. I see many recommendations for solo travel destinations focusing only on safety when if you look at the bigger picture there’s many other factors to consider. That’s not to say you should ignore the general safety of an area but bad things can happen anywhere so please don’t only consider places with very low crime stats.

Affordability is one of the most important aspects of where you choose to visit. Asia is a pretty affordable destination with south east asia being one of the cheapest places to travel in the world. You can get dorm beds for £2 a night and delcious street food for £1.

A place where there are lots of social opportunities may be important to you so you can mix with other travellers or locals.

The language barrier in Asia can be challenging for many westerns as most of us don’t speak a word of Mandarian, Thai, Malaysian or any other eastern language. This is important to bear in mind, as if you can’t communicate with people you may get very lonely and everything could be really difficult.

READ NEXT : How to plan a solo trip

HOW TO GET AROUND ASIA AS A SOLO TRAVELLER

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Bus

Long-Distance Buses: Many countries in South East Asia have extensive bus networks connecting major cities and tourist destinations. For example, Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia offer comfortable, air-conditioned buses for long journeys.

Local Buses: In urban areas, local buses are a cheap and efficient way to get around. Cities like Bangkok, Hanoi, and Jakarta have extensive bus systems, though routes and schedules may be confusing for first-time visitors.

Minibuses and Vans: Popular for shorter trips and between smaller towns, these are often faster but can be cramped.

You can use Bookaway which connects you to different bus companies and is a great way to book your bus tickets in advance.

Train

Overnight Trains: Countries like Thailand and Vietnam offer overnight trains with sleeping berths, providing a comfortable way to travel long distances, such as Bangkok to Chiang Mai or Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

Scenic Journeys: Some routes, like the Reunification Express in Vietnam or the Eastern and Oriental Express from Singapore to Bangkok, offer scenic views and a unique travel experience.

Local Trains: Useful for shorter distances and regional travel, though they may be slower and less comfortable than buses. 

Flights

Budget Airlines: Southeast Asia is well-served by budget airlines like AirAsia, Scoot, and Lion Air, offering cheap flights between major cities and tourist destinations. This is often the quickest way to cover long distances.

Domestic Flights: In larger countries like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand, domestic flights are a practical option for reaching distant islands and remote areas.

Major Airports: Key hubs like Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, Singapore’s Changi Airport, and Kuala Lumpur International Airport offer numerous connections and amenities for travelers.

I always use Skyscanner to compare prices and book my flights.

Rental Car

Renting a car can be a great option if you want to explore more remote areas that are difficult (or in some cases, impossible) to reach via public transport.

The downside of renting a car, especially if you are travelling solo is it can be quite an expensive option. In the past, I’ve hired a car locally for a day with people I’ve met on a trip to go to something specific which could be an option for you. Depending on your confidence levels it could be quite intimidating and nervewracking to drive in a foreign country.

If you do choose to rent a car, make sure you have the correct licence and do your research on the local traffic laws as they may be different than you’re used to at home. You should make sure you have the correct insurance for driving.

A big consideration to factor in when deciding whether to rent a car is the cost of gas. It may be the taking a bus places is the more budget friendly option although you are then limited on where you can go.

Use Rentalcars to compare rental options and find the best deal for you.

 
 

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO TRAVEL SOLO IN ASIA?

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The best time to travel solo in Asia depends on the regions you plan to visit, as the climate and weather patterns vary significantly across the continent. Here’s a guide based on different regions:

Southeast Asia

  • Best Time: November to February

  • Why: This period is the cool and dry season, offering comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, ideal for exploring countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar. Rainfall is minimal, and it’s a great time for both cultural sightseeing and beach vacations.

East Asia

  • China and Japan:

    • Best Time: April to June and September to October

    • Why: Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit due to mild weather, blooming flowers, and colorful foliage. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters can be cold, especially in northern regions.

  • South Korea:

    • Best Time: April to June and September to November

    • Why: Similar to China and Japan, these months offer pleasant weather, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves. It’s also a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

South Asia

  • India:

    • Best Time: October to March

    • Why: This period is the winter season in India, with cooler and more pleasant weather, making it ideal for exploring diverse regions from Rajasthan to Kerala. Summers can be extremely hot, and the monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rains.

  • Sri Lanka:

    • Best Time: December to March (west and south coasts), April to September (east coast)

    • Why: The island has two different monsoon seasons affecting different parts. The west and south coasts are best visited in the northern hemisphere winter, while the east coast is best in the summer.

Central Asia

  • Best Time: May to October

  • Why: The climate in Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan) is generally best in late spring, summer, and early autumn. Summers are warm to hot, but not overly humid, making it suitable for trekking and exploring historical sites.

Read next : Best places for solo female travel - Europe edition

BEST PLACES TO SOLO TRAVEL IN ASIA

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Asia is a huge continent, with diverse cultures and rich histories. Realistically you can visit anywhere in Asia as a solo traveller but there are some places that are definately more difficult than others. For example, whilst I love China and I’d love to visit more of the country one day, I wouldn’t recommend it to someone on their first solo travel trip.

As a general rule the countries in South East Asia are the ones I’d recommend to solo travellers due to the cost, safety and ease of meeting fellow travellers.

To create this list I’ve considered various aspects such as the above mentioned safety, affordability, how easy it is to meet people (if that’s what you want to do) and the attractions the place has to offer.

This is my list of the best solo destinations in Asia.

 
 

THAILAND

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For incredible solo travel in Asia it doesn’t come much better than Thailand. It’s safe, affordable and incredibly easy to meet fellow travellers. There’s so much to see and do in Thailand from stunning temples to beautiful beaches, there’s bound to be something for you whatever your interests.

Where to visit in Thailand

Bangkok

  • Why Visit: The bustling capital offers a mix of modern and traditional attractions. Explore ornate temples like Wat Pho and Wat Arun, shop in vibrant markets, and experience the energetic nightlife.

  • Highlights: Grand Palace, Chatuchak Weekend Market, and Khao San Road.

Chiang Mai

  • Why Visit: Known for its laid-back vibe, Chiang Mai is a hub for cultural and outdoor activities. Visit ancient temples, partake in a Thai cooking class, or go trekking in the surrounding mountains.

  • Highlights: Wat Phra That Doi Suthep, Elephant Nature Park, and the Sunday Night Market.

Phuket

  • Why Visit: Thailand’s largest island offers stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and a range of water activities. It’s a great base for island-hopping tours to nearby destinations like Phi Phi Islands.

  • Highlights: Patong Beach, Big Buddha, and Phang Nga Bay.

 
 

Safety

Thailand is generally safe for solo travellers, with low violent crime rates. Petty theft can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Meeting People

It’s so easy to meet people in Thailand. There are thousands of hostels and budget guesthouses that cater to solo travellers, providing a social atmosphere and opportunities to meet others. Popular destinations like Bangkok, Chiang Mai and the islands have active travel communities and events where solo travellers can connect and share experiences.

Cost

Extermely budget friendly with many dorm beds available for as little as £2 - £5. Street food is incredible in Thailand and eating out there costs as little as £1.

 
 

THE PHILIPPINES

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The Philippines is just simply an exceptional destination for solo travellers with its stunning natural beauty and the friendliest locals I’ve ever met. Travelling to the Phillippines is an experience you simply won’t forget.

Where to visit in the Phillippines

Palawan

  • Why Visit: Known for its breathtaking natural beauty, Palawan is a paradise for nature lovers. Explore the stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life.

  • Highlights: El Nido’s limestone cliffs and lagoons, the Puerto Princesa Underground River, and Coron’s shipwreck diving sites.

Cebu

  • Why Visit: Cebu is a perfect blend of urban and natural attractions. The island offers historical sites, vibrant city life, and nearby natural wonders.

  • Highlights: Kawasan Falls, Oslob’s whale shark diving, and the historical sites in Cebu City such as Magellan’s Cross and Fort San Pedro.

Siargao

  • Why Visit: Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, Siargao offers not only world-class waves but also a laid-back island vibe, beautiful beaches, and unique natural attractions.

  • Highlights: Cloud 9 surfing spot, Sugba Lagoon, and the Magpupungko Rock Pools.

Safety

Filipinos are known for their warmth and friendliness and will often going out of their way to assist and welcome visitors. Major tourist destinations like Cebu, Boracay and Palawan are generally safe. Manila does feel a little unsafe.

Meeting People

The Philippines has a growing number of hostels and budget accommodations that offer social environments perfect for meeting other solo travellers. Joining island-hopping tours, diving trips or trekking excursions are excellent ways to meet fellow travellers and share experiences.

Cost

Accommodation in the Philippines is pretty affordable with dorm beds available for £10 per night. Local eateries, known as "carinderias," offer delicious and budget-friendly meals for as little as £1. Street food and local markets are also great for inexpensive dining. If you choose to visit multiple islands then make sure you factor in the cost of multiple flights as that can add to your cost quickly.

 
 

VIETNAM

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Vietnam is one of my favourite destinations in Asia. I’ve spent months travelling the country solo and the long, thin shape of Vietnam makes it a great place to backpack through. You can start at the top in Hanoi or the bottom in Hoi Chi Minh and work your way along the coast. There are endless mountains, beaches and cities to visit all over the country.

Where to visit in Vietnam

Hanoi

  • Why Visit: The capital city is a blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy. Explore bustling markets, historic sites, and the charming Old Quarter.

  • Highlights: Hoan Kiem Lake, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and the Temple of Literature.

Hoi An

  • Why Visit: Known for its well-preserved ancient town, Hoi An offers a picturesque setting with lantern-lit streets, traditional architecture, and a rich cultural heritage.

  • Highlights: Hoi An Ancient Town, Japanese Covered Bridge, and An Bang Beach.

Ha Long Bay

  • Why Visit: Famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands, Ha Long Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for its breathtaking scenery.

  • Highlights: Boat cruises through the bay, exploring caves like Sung Sot Cave and kayaking around the karst formations.

Safety

Vietnam is generally safe for travellers, with low levels of violent crime. Vietnamese people are known for their hospitality and friendliness, often eager to help visitors and share their culture.

Meeting People

Vietnam has a wide range of hostels and guesthouses that cater to solo travellers that offer a social atmosphere where you can meet fellow adventurers. Cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Hoi An have active expat and traveller communities, with plenty of social events and meetups.

Cost

Vietnam offers a variety of budget accommodations, from hostels to mid-range hotels, with dormitory beds available for as low as £5-10 per night. Vietnamese street food is delicious and affordable, with meals costing as little as £1-3.

 
 

BALI, INDONESIA

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Bali is an ideal destination for solo travellers as it has a vibrant social scene. You can laze around all day on the beach and party all night. You can also explore beautiful scenery around the island.

The best way to get around Bali is by a scooter and if you don’t ride one you may find it a little difficult to get around due to the lack of public transport.

Best places to visit in Bali

Ubud

  • Why Visit: Known as the cultural heart of Bali, Ubud offers a serene environment with lush greenery, traditional arts, and spiritual retreats. It’s a great place for those seeking tranquility and cultural experiences.

  • Highlights: Ubud Monkey Forest, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, and the Ubud Art Market.

Seminyak

  • Why Visit: Seminyak is a vibrant area known for its stylish beach resorts, high-end restaurants, and lively nightlife. It’s perfect for those looking to enjoy a more upscale and energetic atmosphere.

  • Highlights: Seminyak Beach, Potato Head Beach Club, and the numerous boutique shops and galleries.

Uluwatu

  • Why Visit: Uluwatu is famous for its dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches, and world-class surf breaks. It’s ideal for beach lovers and surf enthusiasts.

  • Highlights: Uluwatu Temple, Padang Padang Beach, and the Kecak Fire Dance performance at sunset.

 
 

Safety

Generally very safe for solo female travel in Asia.

Meeting People

Should be easy for most people especially if you’re looking to explore the bars or yoga retreats. Bali is very much focused on these two activities so if you’re not into either you may find it difficult to meet people.

Cost

Bali offers various budget accommodations, from hostels to mid-range hotels, with dormitory beds available for as low as £5-15 per night. Local food is inexpensive, with meals costing as little as £1-3 at warungs (local eateries). Western food is also available at reasonable prices. If you don’t ride a scooter and have to rely on taxis to get around the costs can soon add up.

 
 

MALAYSIA

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Malaysia is an excellent destination for solo travellers as it has many varied experiences and convenient travel routes. You can visit big cities such as Kuala Lumpur, charming towns such as Melaka, jungle scenery and stunning crystal clear beaches. Malaysia has it all and is another one of my favourite countries in Asia.

Where to visit in Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur

  • Why Visit: The capital city offers a mix of modernity and tradition, with iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and diverse cultural experiences. It’s a great place to start your Malaysian adventure.

  • Highlights: Petronas Twin Towers, Batu Caves, and Jalan Alor Food Street.

Penang

  • Why Visit: Known as the food capital of Malaysia, Penang offers a blend of cultural heritage and modern attractions. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of George Town, vibrant street art, and delicious cuisine.

  • Highlights: George Town’s heritage sites, Penang Hill, and the famous street food at Gurney Drive.

Langkawi

  • Why Visit: Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and lush landscapes. It’s perfect for those seeking relaxation and adventure.

  • Highlights: Langkawi Sky Bridge, Pantai Cenang Beach, and the Kilim Karst Geoforest Park.

Safety

Malaysia is generally safe for travellers, with low violent crime rates. Malaysia is not particularly progressive towards women and LGBT people although this doesn’t ever really affects tourists.

Meeting People

Cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang have active travel communities with plenty of social events, meetups, and workshops.

Cost

Very budget-friendly. Hostels, budget hotels, public transport and food are all affordable for solo travellers.

 
 

INDIA

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India is a fascinating country to explore, but I would say it’s more suited to experienced travellers rather than those on a first-time solo travel trip in Asia.

Due to the cultural attitudes towards women and frequent stares from men, India can be more challenging for solo female travellers than for male travellers but you shouldn’t let this put you off.

Where to go in India

Delhi

  • Why Visit: As the capital city, Delhi offers a mix of historical landmarks, bustling markets, and modern amenities. It’s a great starting point for exploring India’s rich culture and history.

  • Highlights: Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, and Chandni Chowk.

Jaipur

  • Why Visit: Known as the Pink City, Jaipur is famous for its stunning palaces, forts, and vibrant bazaars. It’s part of the Golden Triangle tourist circuit, making it a popular destination.

  • Highlights: Hawa Mahal, Amber Fort, and City Palace.

Goa

  • Why Visit: Goa is renowned for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and Portuguese-influenced culture. It’s an ideal place for relaxation and meeting other travellers.

  • Highlights: Baga Beach, Anjuna Flea Market, and Dudhsagar Waterfalls.

Safety

I recommend you stay vigilant at all times, especially as a woman travelling solo in India. You should ensure you research your destinations and common scams. I don’t recommend walking alone at night and you should avoid isolated areas and dress modestly.

Meeting People

India has many hostels and guesthouses that create a social atmosphere, making it easy for solo travellers to meet others. You can also join group tours, cultural classes, or adventure activities like trekking or yoga retreats to help you connect with like-minded individuals.

Cost

One of the cheapest places in the world to travel.

 
 

TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELLING TO ASIA AS A SOLO TRAVELLER

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If you’re planning a solo trip to Asia here are my top safety tips and advice.

  • Research your destination: Before you travel, learn about your destination’s culture, local customs and any areas to avoid. Check travel advisories for up-to-date safety information.

  • Use Get Your Guide and Viator to prebook any trips such as day trips, food experiences or any other activity you want to do.

  • Stay connected: Share your itinerary with family or friends and check in regularly. Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local emergency services, your embassy and accommodation details.

  • Make sure you have data: If your home SIM plan doesn’t allow for roaming, pick up a local SIM when you get there.

  • Secure your belongings: Use a money belt or hidden pouch for passports, credit cards, and cash. Keep bags zipped and in front of you, especially in crowded areas.

  • Use reputable transportation: Opt for official taxis or ride-sharing services. When using public transport, be aware of your surroundings and avoid empty carriages.

  • Avoid burning seasons (Northern Thailand is a no-go from Feb-April) and be aware of local holidays like Tet in Vietnam when everything is shut.

  • Stay in safe accommodations: Choose well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighbourhoods. Consider hostels, hotels, or rentals with good security measures and central locations.

  • Blend in: Dress to match the local culture to avoid standing out as a tourist. Be discreet with maps and guidebooks.

  • Avoid overindulging: Be mindful of alcohol consumption to keep your judgment sharp. Never leave your drink unattended.

  • Trust your instincts: If something feels off, leave the situation. Your intuition is a powerful tool for staying safe.

  • Keep copies of important documents: Have digital and physical copies of your passport, travel insurance, and other essential documents.

  • Learn basic phrases: Knowing a few key phrases in the local language can be helpful in emergencies and shows respect for the local culture.

 
 

HOW MUCH DOES A SOLO TRIP TO ASIA COST?

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The cost of a solo trip to Asia can vary widely depending on factors such as destination, duration, travel style, and the time of year. Here’s a rough breakdown to help estimate your budget in euros:

Accommodation:

  • Hostels: £2 to £16 per night. Dormitory beds in hostels are the cheapest option and are available in most tourist areas.

  • Budget Hotels: £16 to £40 per night. Private rooms with basic amenities.

  • Mid-range Hotels: £40 to £80 per night. More comfort and additional services.

  • Luxury Hotels: £80 and up per night. High-end accommodations with premium services.

Food:

  • Street Food: £0.80 to £2.40 per meal. Delicious and affordable, especially in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia.

  • Local Restaurants: £2.40 to £8 per meal. A sit-down meal in a casual restaurant.

  • Western Restaurants: £8 to £16 per meal. More expensive, especially in touristy areas.

  • Daily Food Budget: £8 to £24 depending on your dining choices.

Transportation:

  • Local Transport: £0.40 to £2.40 for buses, trains, and tuk-tuks. Inexpensive and widely available.

  • Taxis/Ride-sharing: £4 to £16 for short to medium distances. Services like Grab are popular in many Southeast Asian countries.

  • Long-distance Travel: £8 to £40 for buses and trains between cities. Domestic flights can range from £24 to £80 depending on the distance and airline.

Attractions and Activities:

  • Entrance Fees: £4 to £16 for popular tourist attractions such as temples, museums, and parks.

  • Tours and Excursions: £16 to £80 for guided tours, cooking classes, adventure activities, and day trips.

  • Daily Activity Budget: £8 to £40 depending on the number and type of activities.

Example Budget for a Month in Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, etc.)

  • Accommodation: £240 to £480 (hostels/budget hotels)

  • Food: £240 to £480

  • Local Transport: £40 to £120

  • Activities: £160 to £400

  • Miscellaneous: £80 to £160

Total Estimated Cost: £760 to £1,640 for a month

Example Budget for a Month in East Asia (Japan, South Korea, etc.)

  • Accommodation: £480 to £960 (budget/mid-range hotels)

  • Food: £320 to £640

  • Local Transport: £80 to £240

  • Activities: £240 to £560

  • Miscellaneous: £120 to £240

Total Estimated Cost: £1,240 to £2,640 for a month

 
 

VISAS

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For many countries around the world you can visit many Asian countries on a 30 day tourist visa. Before you travel it is imporant to check the rules for any visas you may need.

I recommend using iVisa as you can type in where you’re from and where you’re going and it will show you if you need a visa or not.

Make sure you do your research and ensure you’re not overstaying your visa as you can get into trouble for overstaying.

TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

Planning a trip? Here are some of the resources and tools I personally use to organise my travel plans to anywhere in world.

FLIGHTS : Find the best deals on flights using Skyscanner.

VISAS : Use iVisa to check if you need a tourist visa for wherever you’re going to and apply for an expedited visa online. Use OneWayFly to obtain proof of onward travel/hotel reservation for your visa application if needed.

TRAVEL INSURANCE : Insure your trip with my preferred insurance for single trip and annual cover HeyMondo

AIRPORT TRANSFER : Pre-book your hotel transfers from the airport.

ACCOMMODATION : Find the best hotel deals on Booking.com.

DAY TRIPS : Find the best city tours and day excursions on your travels on Viator or Get Your Guide.

 

Did you know that …

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Sara Green
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