asian countries to travel alone

25 Best Places For Solo Travel In Asia

By Jessie Festa. This article on traveling Asia alone contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

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 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 📞  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 .

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

Keep in mind, this list 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. 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.

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 .

3. Vientiane, Laos

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.

There are 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 .

4. 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 .

5. 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 .

6. 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 .

7. 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 .

8. Mount Fuji, Japan

As an easily recognized icon of Japan, Mount Fuji is 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 .

9. 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 .

10. Ubud, Indonesia

The town of Ubud is known as the cultural heart of Bali in Indonesia, and is a fantastic place for solo travelers. 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 .

11. 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 .

12. 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 .

13. 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 .

14. 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 .

15. 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 .

16. 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 .

17. 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. 

-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 .

18. 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 .

19. 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 .

20. 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 .

21. 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 .

22. 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 .

23. 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 .

24. 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 .

25. 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 .

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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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SOLO TRAVEL , ASIA , DESTINATIONS , SOLO LOCATION GUIDES

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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• Best Things To Do in Kagoshima, Japan in One Day: Itinerary & Guide
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• Top Things to Do in Fukuoka in One Day
• One Day in Osaka, Japan
• Is The Japan Rail Pass Worth It?

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

• An Easy DIY Bangkok Boat Tour: Exploring Bangkok’s Temples 
• 10 Unmissable Ayutthaya Temples: An Ayutthaya Itinerary
• 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.

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Solo travel

Solo travel in asia: the best places to go & tips.

Table of Contents

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After many years of travelling alone as a woman , I’m here to help you discover the best places in Asia to travel solo.  When I first began my solo travel journey, I felt confused by the many lists of ‘best solo female travel destinations in Asia’ that already existed. It seemed like they were written by people who had travelled to those countries with partners – which is a very different experience from solo travel – or were big companies who hadn’t visited the countries they listed at all!

Read next: 30 best places for solo travel – world edition!

I’ve also seen very experienced solo travellers recommend difficult countries for solo female travel in Asia (perhaps forgetting what it’s like to be a first-timer) for example, countries or islands that require tours to get around or have few budget hostel options.  Because, frankly, you can go most places in Asia solo (well, if you can get the correct visa). But there are a few destinations that are definitely easier for solo travellers in Asia than others. I’ve been travelling solo for almost 10 years from easy solo mini breaks in Europe like Portugal and Croatia to harder places like Mexico , Cuba , India and South Africa . Every destination on this list below has been visited solo by myself, with a couple of added suggestions from my friend Cassie, who’s been solo travelling in Asia for 5 years.

What makes a good solo travel destination in Asia? 

Before I began travelling alone in Asia, Japan kept hitting the top spot of ‘places to solo travel in Asia’ again and again. However, after I visited Japan I realised that – although it was super safe, it was also lonely, expensive and had a tricky language barrier. Safety is only one element of solo female travel in Asia. What about ease of meeting people? You shouldn’t have to be an extrovert to make friends while solo travelling! 

Affordability is also a very important aspect when considering the pros and cons of travelling alone . If a country is significantly more expensive to get around on your own – or depends on luck over whether you meet other travellers to split costs with – then it’s probably not the best place for solo travellers.

That’s why I’ve created this list to reflect what truly matters to solo travellers in Asia: ease of getting around, affordability (specifically for solo travellers), meeting people, and solo travel-friendly attractions. Along with solo female travel safety of course, because it IS important. It’s just not the only element.

Read next: 101 solo travel tips

Best places in Asia to travel solo

You probably won’t be surprised to learn many countries in Southeast Asia are easy destinations for solo travellers. Don’t knock them!  Even these more commonly visited countries have their own unique day trips and authentic experiences to discover if you do prefer to avoid the crowds and do your own thing.

Read next: travel tips for Southeast Asia based on 2 years experience!

Solo travel rating: easy For solo travel in Southeast Asia, it doesn’t get much better than Thailand. It’s safe, affordable and incredibly easy to meet other travellers. No matter what sort of activities you enjoy, you’re bound to find endless things to do in Thailand – from temple hopping and paradise islands to bustling cities and amazing street food.

Read next: guide to travelling solo in Thailand as a woman

Best places to travel solo in Thailand:

• Chiang Mai – explore the temples in the Old Town and eat your way around the picturesque cafes and delicious street food . Don’t miss side trips to Chiang Rai and Pai also in Northern Thailand.
• Bangkok – look beyond the throngs of backpackers on Khao San Road and you’ll find an absorbing city with brilliant galleries, temples, museums and even peaceful parks if you need to escape the crowds.
• Thai islands – My personal favourite is laid-back Koh Lanta, but you could head to Koh Phangan for partying, go diving in Koh Tao, or relax on the beautiful beaches of Koh Samui. 

Safety: Aside from petty theft and pickpocketing, there isn’t much crime in Thailand. It’s also an LGBT-friendly destination. Meeting other travellers: Making travel friends when backpacking alone in Asia doesn’t get easier than in Thailand! Cost: Very budget-friendly. 

Solo travel rating: easy Vietnam is one of those countries where there’s always have more to see! While the long, thin shape of Vietnam makes it convenient to choose a backpacking route, there are endless mountains, beaches and cities to visit in all corners of the country. Vietnamese food is excellent, the experiences are endless, and you’ll find plenty of other backpackers taking the same route as you.  Best places to travel solo in Vietnam:

• Sapa – for trekking and staying with local communities in the foothills of the mountains. 
• Hoi An – for laid-back days sipping coffee in charming cafes and marvelling at the stunning heritage buildings as you wind your way through beautiful alleyways.
• Hue – to explore the Imperial Palace, dazzling temples and ancient tombs.
• Hanoi – my favourite city in Asia is chaotic and charming in equal parts with out-of-this-world street food !
• Ha Long Bay – it might be touristy, but it’s breathtaking enough to warrant the crowds!

Safety: you can’t get much safer when it comes to solo female travel in Asia. There’s almost no violent crime and the one thing to worry about is having your belongings pinched, especially on the streets of Hoi An after the bars close. Meeting other travellers: Easy.  Cost: One of the cheapest countries in the world!

Read more: Solo travel in Vietnam: everything to know!

TIP: If you’re solo travelling in Southeast Asia, it’s easy to visit multiple countries by cross-country bus or train (and the odd flight) all of which are affordable. Use 12GoAsia to book transport. In addition to the countries on this list, Cambodia and Laos are budget-friendly places for travelling alone in Asia where it’s easy to meet other backpackers. Read my complete Southeast Asia itinerary .

The Philippines

Solo travel rating: easy

With breathtaking beaches and the friendliest locals I’ve ever encountered, it’s safe to say solo backpacking in the Philippines is an experience I’ll never forget. 

The islands are so varied that there’s truly something for everyone, whether you’re looking to party, relax, or explore.  Best islands in the Philippines for solo travellers:

• El Nido (Palawan) – if you’re looking for paradise with a busy backpacker scene, El Nido is a popular spot, although experienced travellers will likely find it TOO busy and hectic. Take an excursion to Port Barton (also Palawan) if you want to avoid some of the crowds.
• Surigao – for excellent surf, brilliant beaches and a more laid-back vibe.
• Siquijor – this is one of my personal favourites and less touristic than Palawan, with plenty of stunning coastlines and inland waterfalls to visit. 

Safety: Manila feels sketchy and unsafe (in fact, I’d recommend skipping it entirely) but most islands popular on the tourist track are very safe. Meeting other travellers: Very easy, especially if you’re staying in hostels or going on island-hopping group tours. Cost: Generally budget-friendly, but if you choose to visit multiple islands then factor in the cost of multiple flights. 

Solo travel rating: easy For solo travel in Asia, Malaysia is a winner with its varied experiences and convenient travel routes. From glamorous big cities and charming historic towns to luscious jungle scenery and mesmerising beaches, you really can do it all in Malaysia. Best places to travel solo in Malaysia:

• Penang – a colourful and diverse island where you’ll find some of Asia’s most impressive street art , world-famous street food and the coolest cafes in the capital, Georgetown. 
• Melaka or Ipoh – take a day or overnight trip to one of these smaller cities for an authentic insight into Malaysia’s history and culture.
• Cameron Highlands or Taman Negara – choose between drinking tea in the picturesque misty mountains or hiking and wildlife spotting in the jungle. Add at least one of these to your Malaysia itinerary !
• Kuala Lumpur – Malaysia’s flashy capital is more Westernised than other capitals so it’s an easy spot to spend a couple of days exploring the museums and temples via its world-class public transport. If you’re travelling solo in Southeast Asia and need a break, you’ll get your home comforts here.

Safety: Crime rarely affects travellers. Malaysia is not particularly progressive towards women and LGBT people although this seldom affects tourists. Meeting other travellers: Easy, especially in backpacker hubs like KL and Penang. It’s one of my favourite places to travel alone in Southeast Asia! Cost: Very budget-friendly. Hostels, budget hotels, public transport and food are all affordable for solo travellers.

Read next: Malaysia solo travel – is it safe?

Bali, Indonesia

Solo travel rating: medium 

With a vibrant social scene for anyone drawn to lazy beach days and busy nightlife, Bali is one of the best places for solo female travel in Asia. Party, explore beautiful scenery and eat amazing food !

However, if you’re more of an adventurous traveller craving culture, you may be disappointed by how touristic Bali is these days. You CAN break off the tourist track but it’s harder than in some countries. Also, if you don’t drive a scooter, you’ll find that Bali is one of the most inconvenient places for solo travellers in Southeast Asia to get around. Due to a lack of public transport, the costs start adding up if you require booking a taxi or private car to get anywhere even vaguely remote. Best places to travel solo during a Bali itinerary :

• Canggu and Seminyak – great food, surf and cafes. Just watch your cash if you’re a foodie – the Canggu restaurant scene is delectable (and often ‘Instagramable’) but also pricey. 
• Uluwatu – for visiting some of Bali’s most beautiful beaches and getting stalked by monkeys at Uluwatu Temple. 
• Nusa Islands – take a day or overnight trip to see Bali’s most extraordinary coastal scenery and exceptional snorkelling
• Ubud – if you ride a scooter, Ubud is great for visiting waterfalls and rice fields . If not, Ubud is an ideal destination for yogis and meditation retreats, and you’ll find some wonderful cafes and warungs many serving vegan food.

Safety: Generally very safe for solo female travel in Asia.  Meeting other travellers: Easy for the average backpacker, especially if you’re looking to explore the bars or – on the opposite end of the spectrum – yoga retreats. However, some travellers report Bali as surprisingly lonely if they’re not into partying or yoga culture. Cost: Very cheap to stay in hostels and eat at local warungs. Costs add up quickly if you either want to treat yourself to brunches and floating breakfasts or travel outside of tourist towns (especially if you don’t drive a scooter).

Read next: complete guide to solo travel in Bali

Java, Indonesia

Solo travel rating: medium

Depending on where you visit in Java, the solo travel rating shoots up from easy to advanced. While key cities like Yogyakarta are very tourist-friendly, I was often the only foreign traveller on board the local buses when journeying across the country.

If you’re looking for an adventure, East Java’s volcanic landscapes are out of this world. In fact, I’d rate it as my favourite solo backpacking experience to date, although it’s trickier than most countries in Southeast Asia for solo female travellers. Best places to travel solo in Java, Indonesia:

• Yogyakarta – walk around the charming old city before taking a day trip to Borobudur at sunrise (the world’s largest Buddhist temple).
• Malang – see the multicoloured villages and take a day trip to see the mighty Tumpak Sewu Waterfall 
• Bromo and Ijen Volcanoes – if you’re daunted by the local transport, it’s possible to visit these phenomenal natural attractions on a day tour . Trek up for sunrise for an unforgettable experience!

I also loved visiting Karimunjawa Island , but it was a headache to get to so it’s not what I would consider the best destination for travelling alone in Asia unless you’re up for an adventure! 

Safety: Generally very safe, aside from petty crime.  Meeting other travellers: Easy in Yogyakarta but fewer backpackers visit Java. However, I found the Javanese locals to be among the friendliest people in the world.  Cost: Very cheap! The local buses in Java were even cheaper than those in Vietnam but it will be pricer if you take private transport and tours.

Solo travel rating: medium If you’re looking for an exciting and cultural solo travel destination in Asia, you should definitely consider South Korea. The inner city and cross-country transport is generally brilliant, so it’s convenient for a city break to Seoul or a longer vacation, for example a 2 week trip to South Korea . I only gave Korea a medium solo travel rating because it’s a bit less affordable for solo travellers than other countries in Asia (although I do have plenty of tips to keep your Korea travel budget down). A few activities – like going for a Korean BBQ – aren’t usually accessible for solo travellers. Otherwise, it’s one of the best places for women to travel solo in Asia! Best places to travel solo in South Korea :

• Seoul – the world-class museums, stunning temples, thriving nightlife, excellent street food and beautiful hikes should be added to your Seoul itinerary !
• Busan – there are lots of cultural experiences to enjoy in South Korea’s second-biggest city, but it’s best for day trips and outdoor activities like hiking or relaxing on city beaches. 
• Jeonju – visit this historical small city for an insight into a more traditional South Korea. 

Safety: One of the safest countries for solo female travel in Asia. Meeting other travellers: Easy to meet people travelling solo in hostels in Seoul or by joining tours in Busan or Jeonju.  Cost: Expensive compared to Southeast Asia, but cheap if you’re used to travelling in the USA or Western Europe. 

Read next: my South Korea travel tips

If this list was only based on safety and ease of using public transport, Taiwan would definitely get an easy rating. However, I found it harder to meet people in Taiwan, so my experience was lonelier than when travelling alone in other Asian countries. If you don’t mind some me-time, Taiwan has some fantastic cities and many stunning natural attractions to visit, and a Taiwan itinerary will likely to a highlight of your Asia travels! Best places to travel solo in Taiwan :

• Taipei and Kaohsiung – both are fun and modern cities with endless indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy – not to mention the brilliant Korean food !
• Taroko – superb hiking and perfect if you want some reflective me-time in the great outdoors
• Kenting National Park – breathtaking and untouched beaches!

Safety: 10/10. Taiwan is a safe place for women travellers and LGBT+ travellers. It was the first country in Asia to recognise same-sex marriage and you can find ‘gay hostels’ and tours in the capital, Taipei.  Meeting other travellers: Quite difficult. Although people were friendly, I didn’t meet many English-speaking travellers in hostels and spent a lot of time alone.  Cost: Accommodation isn’t very budget-friendly, but activities, transport and food are affordable. Follow my Taiwan budget trip guide for more details.

Japan (outside the main tourist attractions)

Solo travel rating: medium I wouldn’t overly recommend Japan for solo female travel in Asia. However, if you’re looking for a specific sort of solo travel experience (such as hiking or foodie travel) and know what to expect, Japan might be the place for you. If you’re only concerned about safety, then Japan would top this list. But, honestly, Japan is the hardest country I’ve visited alone in terms of meeting people. Kyoto is the only place I’ve had stares for eating alone. Once I skipped the big cities – and made peace with the fact I wasn’t going to make friends on this journey – I had some very reflective and memorable experiences. Best places to travel solo in Japan :

• Hiroshima – if you’re prepared to experience some big emotions, travelling alone in this peaceful city is a very reflective way to look back on the atrocities that happened here. A day trip to Miyajima is also easy for solo travellers.
• Kyushu – see the best of Japan’s volcanic scenery with a trip around Beppu’s multicoloured hot pools and the active volcanoes at Aso and Kagoshima. 
• Hiking – if you’re an experienced hiker looking to undertake your first solo trek, Japan is a great option. The scenery is spectacular and solo hiking the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail was a fulfilling and very cathartic experience. 

Safety: One of the safest places to travel in Asia – and the world! Meeting other travellers: …but one of the hardest countries to meet other travellers. Cost: Japan is not an especially affordable place for solo travel in Asia, especially if you have a long list of things you want to do. Hostel and food costs are reasonable but experiences and ‘touristy’ restaurants add up quickly. Reduce costs when travelling in Japan by eating at local restaurants and opting for free activities like hiking and exploring Japan’s breathtaking landscapes.

Solo travel rating: advanced

India can be a fascinating country to explore, but it’s definitely more suited to experienced travellers rather than those embarking on first-time solo travel in Asia.

The best place for solo travel in India (in my opinion) is Rishikesh. However, once you’ve got comfortable with travelling alone in India, you’ll find plenty to do elsewhere too.  Due to the attitudes towards women in India and many stares from men, it’s a harder place for solo female travellers in Asia than male travellers. But isn’t that the case everywhere! Best places for solo female travel in India :

• Rishikesh – known for yoga retreats and meditation experiences, this stunning northern city has been a popular backpacker hub for decades and has excellent hostels and food to show for it. 
• Pushkar – a sleepy Rajasthani town with a peaceful holy lake and lots of vibrant hostels – perfect if you’re in need of some downtime. 
• Pondicherry – this attractive ex-French town on the southeast coast has lovely cafes, colourful buildings and chilled vibes. Take a fascinating day trip to Auroville , an alternative society in the Indian countryside.
• Goa – beach towns like Palolem, Agonda and Arambol are fantastic for yoga and beach chills with many cafes offering modern vegan fare and delicious South Indian delicacies like Goan fish curry. The only downside is there’s little transport between towns so taxi bills for one tend to rack up.

Safety: have your wits about you, research common scams, be assertive, and don’t walk alone at night. Meeting other travellers: easy in hostels. I really valued having this community around me during solo India travel, especially when I was sick. Cost: Literally the cheapest place ever!

Tips for solo female travel in Asia

• Plan your Asia route well so you don’t spend extra time and money going back on yourself. For solo travel in Southeast Asia, I’d suggest going from Northern Thailand to Laos by slow boat, from southern Laos to Cambodia via Four Thousand Islands, from Phnom Penh (Cambodia) to Saigon (Vietnam) by bus or boat, and then up Vietnam to fly out of Hanoi.
• Stay connected with an Airalo e-SIM covering 200+ regions. Either get a SIM for the specific Asian country you’re visiting or their Asialink SIM covering 18 countries. Download it before you arrive to get connected immediately.
• Use 12GoAsia to compare prices and durations of buses, boats, trains and flights, and use the website to buy your tickets.
• Use local taxi apps like Grab and GoJek to get around cities cheaply
• Download Maps.me for offline maps
• 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.
• Don’t be shy of street food! It’s the best.
• Pack period products if necessary because you can usually only buy pads in Asia.
• Use GetYourGuide and Viator for food experiences, bar crawls and day trips to places difficult to reach by public transport.
• Read more Asia travel tips here.

Travel insurance for travelling solo in Asia

Despite Southeast Asia and East Asia being safe destinations in Asia for solo travel, you should never travel without insurance. It’s just not worth it! 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. When I claimed, they paid out within 2 days! Get a free quote today . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing .

Thanks for reading!

Solo Europe travel guides:

• Where to solo travel in Europe for women
• Solo travel in Lisbon
• Solo female travel in Portugal
• Solo female travel in Albania
• The best destinations in Italy for solo female travel
• Solo travel in Croatia
• Is Romania safe for solo travel?

Solo Americas guides:

• Visiting New York city solo
• Is solo female travel in Guatemala safe?
• Solo female travel in Mexico
• Is Mexico City safe for solo travellers?
• Is it safe to travel alone in Cuba?

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

SOLO TRAVEL ASIA RESOURCES Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. For Asia buses and trains , I use 12GoAsia . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. To stay connected, buy an e-SIM with Airalo and connect as soon as you land. Browse packages for different Asian countries or get their Asialink SIM for 18 countries. I use Booking.com for hotels, homestays and apartments. 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 have a huge range of affordable tours. 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!

6 thoughts on “ Solo Travel in Asia: The BEST Places To Go & Tips! ”

funny that your goal is to meet people while you travel alone.

best to be comfortable alone when traveling alone, and meeting new people should just be a bonus and not a priority.

Well the beauty of solo travel is that you can do whatever you like

One of the most sensible blogs on solo travelling aspects and factors to consider while planning a trip solo. Thank you for your insights and suggestions.

You’re welcome!

I am about to do my first solo trip. I live in Thailand and I want to explore the rest of it while I can. What is your advice ? I am someone who has always been scared to do things alone so I am unsettled but I know it will be fun! How do I meet people along the way as well ? I think that is what I am nervous about!

Hi Kim, all I can say is go for it! I have a blog post about meeting people while travelling solo so take a look at that 🙂 have fun!

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Female solo travel: the best places to visit in Asia

Sep 10, 2019 • 7 min read

Sofia Levin with a durian vendor in Singapore © Sofia Levin

The best thing about travelling solo is the freedom it affords the individual. In my case, that manifests as exploring at what others consider a challenging pace and focusing on food. But as a young woman travelling alone, it’s extra important to keep your wits about you regardless of what country you’re in.

Thankfully a little common sense goes a long way, and in all my travels I often feel safest in Asia. Here are six destinations in Asia that I think are best for solo female travellers, as well as two at the top of my bucket list.

Measuring less than 50 kilometres from east to west and around 27 kilometres north to south, nothing in Singapore is too far away. It’s easy to catch the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) subway or download rideshare app Grab, where most rides are below S$10 within the city centre. Singapore is spotless and extremely safe, with one of the lowest crime rates in the world. Walking around after dark is no problem at all.

People often just pass through, but there’s plenty to do from exploring the architectural greenhouses of Gardens by the Bay and sipping a Singapore Sling at Raffles Hotel , to snapping a selfie at the top of Marina Bay Sands ’ Insta-famed infinity pool, visiting pretty Peranakan terrace houses and shopping on Orchard Road .

I found dining solo to be a wonderful experience, especially at hawker centres . Stall owners were always incredibly friendly and a local would always sidle up beside me and provide a rundown of local dishes and sights. Be sure to carry cash for hawker food and note that littering, chewing gum, spitting and smoking are illegal and come with hefty fines.

You might also like: 48 hours in Singapore: making the most of Southeast Asia’s ultimate travel hub

Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An is extremely tourist-friendly and one of Vietnam’s most popular destinations. Located on the central coast, it’s a wonderful mix of ancient and more recent history with ornate temples, French colonial buildings and wooden shop-houses sitting side-by-side along its canals. The main town is completely safe and nearby beaches can be reached via bicycle or a very affordable taxi ride.

Some favourite things to do besides exploring the ancient town on foot include walking along the river in the evening, getting clothes tailored (bring your favourite pieces to copy or have some references ready to go), taking a cooking class and indulging in massages.

Be sure to dress conservatively, especially when visiting temples, and always ask before taking photos of people. While in Hoi An, I experienced the most informative food tour I’ve ever been on with the Original Taste of Hoi An – I highly recommend you do the same.

You might also like: How to spend a perfect weekend in Hoi An

Flores, Indonesia 

I spent a couple of weeks travelling solo through Flores on assignment and it was one of my favourite solo travel experiences to date. The island is incredibly diverse, yet most people stick to the far western point of Labuan Bajo , the base for exploring Komodo National Park . I implore you to go further and discover this more untouched part of Indonesia .

The locals are welcoming and if you’re in the position to be accompanied by a guide during your travels, you’ll end up leaving the island with a group of new friends – the guides all seem to know each other and bond over reggae tunes. Highlights include visiting Kelimutu's volcanic crater lakes at sunrise; swimming in caves, hot springs and waterfalls; visiting traditional villages and hiking up majestic mountains. If you haven’t experienced open water diving, follow my lead and do a three-day course in Labuan Bajo before exploring the rest of the island and its underwater worlds. I didn’t realise that diving would give me a whole new perspective on travel.

You might also like: By land and sea: outdoor adventures in Indonesia

Tokyo, Japan

Is Tokyo the best city in the world for foodies? Possibly. But the greatest part about dining solo here is that it’s commonplace. Whether ordering ramen from a vending machine, trusting a sushi master at one of just eight seats during an omakase dining experience (where the chef selects your dishes) or finding a seat at a bar, you’re never the only one eating or drinking alone – which paradoxically always leads to company.

For a wonderful – albeit boozy – experience, spend an evening bar hopping in Shinjuku’s Golden Gai , rows of tiny bars that line narrow alleyways and only fit a handful of people each. You’re guaranteed to meet both fellow travellers and locals and will no doubt wake up the next day with a few extra Facebook friends. For a different edible experience, seek out Uobei , an affordable sushi restaurant where you order via a touch screen and sushi shoots across from the kitchen on a conveyor belt.

You might also like: How to spend a perfect weekend in Tokyo

Istanbul, Turkey

Having been to Istanbul twice, I’m still surprised when people ask me if it’s safe. With a huge population of more than 15 million people, of course you need to use common sense in crowds, but you could spend a week in the city – which is easy to traverse both on public transport, in taxis and using Uber – and still discover something new around every corner.

Although Istanbul lies mostly in Asia, a small part of the city, separated by the Bosphorus, is technically in Europe. You should line up with the crowds to see the stunning mosques and basilicas, like Aya Sofya and the Blue Mosque , and to ascend to the top of Galata Tower for the view, but Istanbul is also a fantastic city to explore at your own pace. Take your time wandering the Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar , haggling at your own pace and stopping for tea with shopkeepers when offered; take a moment to smoke shisha at 300-year-old school-turned-cafe, Çorlulu Ali Paşa Nargile ; or treat yourself to a hammam – either with the locals or at a high-end spa. Dress appropriately when visiting places of worship and shop around and haggle in markets.

Understandably, people are wary about travelling to Sri Lanka at the moment, but I’m of the opinion that now is the best time to support the country. Tourism is down, which means crowds are as well, but the people are no less friendly and the scenery no less awe-inducing. You could spend a few days in Colombo , but for a more peaceful environment, head for the hills. Nuwara Eliya is Sri Lanka’s tea country with verdant, rolling hills and fresh air, but I preferred the smaller, laid-back town of Ella .

To get there, take one of the world’s most beautiful train rides from Nuwara Eliya and stay at a local guesthouse. You might wake up to a misty morning with views through Ella Gap then decide to take it easy on a porch, visit the Nine Arch Bridge, take a short hike up Little Adam's Peak or a longer one up Ella Rock, swim in a waterfall, take a cooking class or visit a tea factory. If you’re travelling alone for some peace and quiet, this tiny hill town is a better choice than the beaches down south.

You might also like: Why I won’t give up on Sri Lanka and you shouldn’t either

On my bucket list…

South Korea

Seoul is at the top of my travel bucket list. Here you can rent a ‘romantic hero’ to show you around – a handsome male local that acts as a tour guide. Getting touchy-feely isn’t part of the deal, but you can expect doors to be opened for you and Instagram snaps to be volunteered.

In terms of the food, eclectic mix of new and old, pop culture, beauty and fashion industries, markets and museums, I can’t wait to dive in head first – with or without a hero.

You might also like: 30 free things to do in Seoul

Philippines 

My mother-in-law is from the Philippines , which makes me guilty of continuously pushing back trips to the country because I figure I’ll get there eventually. I’m convinced Filipino people are some of the friendliest and most hospitable in the world, and while there are some lesser-visited spots that should be avoided unless with a local, many of the islands are perfect for exploring on one’s own. I want to try to conquer my tendency to over-plan my travels by letting  a trip here unfold instead of pre-booking every stay and experience. Wish me luck!

You might also like: The Philippines for beginners: 7 first-timer fails to avoid on your trip

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Making solo travel easier.

Solo Travel in Asia

Asia is a wonderful continent to explore as a solo traveller. Having travelled to 147 countries, I've personally spent a few months solo travelling in Asia travelling on different trips. If you're planning solo female travel and are unsure which country or even which region is better to travel in, I share the best solo travel destinations in Asia and my Asia solo travel tips below to help you to decide where to travel to. 

• How much to budget to travel alone in Asia: From $25 to $100 a day
• Cheapest country for traveling to Asia alone – India / Laos  
• Most expensive for a solo trip Asia – Japan  
• Languages spoken: Russian, Chinese, Mongolian, Thai and many more.
• Safest Asian countries for solo female travelers: Japan, Taiwan, Bhutan.
• Solo Female Friendly ratings: Southeast Asia = 5/5. South Asia & Central Asia = 2/5. Eastern Asia = 3/6. Solo travel Southeast Asia for the best solo experience.  

The stunning Longshan Temple in Taiwan

About Asia 

Asia is the largest continent and is divided into several regions, from the ‘Stans’ in Central Asia to Indonesia in the south.Buddhist temples and culture can be found all over Southeast Asia and this region is by far the cheapest on the continent.  

There are so many places to see that you’ll be spoilt for choice: visit Cambodia for Angkor Wat, Vietnam for Halong Bay, Laos for Vang Vieng, marvel at the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, visit orangutans in Borneo and take a river cruise in Singapore. Asia is a melting pot of cultures, and each region brings a different experience.  

Singapore is incredibly safe for solos and you can see the city within 3 days

Solo Travel in Southeast Asia  

Southeast Asia is made up of: Cambodia , Indonesia, Laos , Malaysia , Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore , Thailand, Timor Lester, Vietnam , Christmas Island and Cocos Islands.  

Southeast Asia is a traveller’s dream. It’s welcoming, cheap (there is plenty of street food) and very easy to get around. Many travellers follow a certain trail, so it’s easy to meet people and perfect for the first-time traveller. The most popular backpacking countries are Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and Malaysia.

Myanmar is a country drenched in rich Buddhist culture that forms part of the Golden Triangle and borders the Northern tribes of Thailand. The Philippines and Bali attract those searching for more of an island beach holiday.  

Thailand has more to offer than hill-tribe treks and rice paddies. Surrounded by limestone karsts, the islands have a party atmosphere that will satisfy the hardest clubber or, if it’s the tranquillity that you need, head to the lesser-known islands, south of Bangkok.

Thais are especially friendly, but you do need to be careful at night so don’t accept any drinks bought for you from strangers.  

Be prepared to get ripped off in tourist areas, too. You may be surprised by the amount of landmine victims in Cambodia and Vietnam, so be prepared for poverty and begging. Unfortunately, this region also attracts older men looking for young Thai or Cambodian girls, so you may not feel comfortable in certain areas where it is openly displayed.  

Bali is beautiful, but Kuta does have hard sellers, so be firm or just ignore them if you don’t want to buy anything. Kuta is very touristy and anything goes here, but dress conservatively if you visit the rest of the island. Ubud is the cultural heart, with temples and parks and you may prefer to stay here to avoid the crowds. I have a whole guide on solo travel in Southeast Asia !

Asia is a great continent to explore, but you may prefer to join a group tour to travel with others. Here are my recommended tours.

Solo Travel Asia Tours

• G Adventures – Worldwide group tours throughout Asia for all ages
• TruTravels   – Offers flashpacker and fitness and sailing trips to Asia
• Wendy Wu – Fully escorted tours to Japan, Sri Lanka & other Asia destinations.

Thailand is a great destination for solo travelers

Travelling in Southeast Asia

Getting around Southeast Asia is easy. Air Asia regularly has cheap internal flights, which is perfect if you are restricted by time. As an example, you can fly internally to Kuala Lumpur from Jakarta for just $80 one way.  

Throughout most of Southeast Asia there are good bus systems which take you across the border from Thailand to Malaysia. There is also a railway line here to Taman Negara National Park and the Perhentian Islands.

From Malaysia, you can take the train to Singapore, which also has a reliable bus system. Local buses operate in Indonesia, along with tourist buses and boats to the islands. If you’re looking for a lift, climbing aboard a pick-up truck is common in Thailand.  

Taking the overnight train ride from Bangkok to Chiang Mai is an adventure, but perfectly safe if noisy. Day seats transform into beds with plenty of air and the view of rice paddies as you ride north through the country. The train also heads to Surat Than and Trang in the south and Ubon Ratchathani in the east.  

There are overnight boats that operate across the Andaman Sea from island to island. Prepare to be sleeping on a mattress on the floor close to other travellers. Long-tail boats take you across shorter distances, but they do get overcrowded. Don’t expect health and safety to be top of their agenda here.  

In Myanmar, travelling by bus is the best way to travel economically to see the country, but it can be a bit of a bumpy ride. To some major tourist destinations, such as Bagan, Mandalay, Taunggyi (Inle), Naypyidaw and Yangon, the coaches have quite comfortable seats. You wouldn’t want to hire a car here as the road infrastructure isn’t ideal.

In Vietnam, you’ll find cyclos: three-wheeled bicycle taxis to take you on short distances. You can also hire a motorbike and a driver for a few days or a few hours to take you around the country. Vietnam can be time-consuming, so consider an overnight train journey if you’re traveling up to Hanoi.  

In Cambodia, you can hire a motorbike driver to take you around. They are a great way of reaching the temples of Angkor Wat for sunrise or sunset. Tour companies operate buses around the country. Just walk into any tourist office, and they can book one for you. Be prepared for bumpy roads.  

The best way to get around the Philippines is by air and ferry. There are local jeepneys for short rides. Travelling in Southeast Asia is definitely for the adventurous solo, but it is also the perfect continent to cycle around, especially in the rural areas of Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.  

See the Taj Mahal in India

South Asia  

South Asia consists of: Sri Lanka , Bangladesh , India, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Bhutan, Nepal and the Maldives. India, Nepal and Sri Lanka are the most popular countries in this region.

Afghanistan isn’t advisable to travel to, and Bangladesh isn’t as visited as the other destinations. Pakistan attracts hikers, especially for the north of the country, but you may want to take a tour here to feel more comfortable.  

Many women travel to India to experience its diverse world of colour, spices and spirituality, and for many, it is a life-changing experience. if you are streetwise and remain vigilant, India is a beautiful country to explore as a solo female.

There is extreme poverty here, so be prepared to get hassled from beggars. In beach destinations such as Goa, you may be the centre of attention if you are just in your bikini.

Expect unwanted attention from men and avoid being over-friendly by keeping yourself covered up. Just south in the Indian Ocean is the island of Sri Lanka, a country of tea plantations, elephants and untouched beauty that attracts those looking for culture.  

Bhutan, the Land of the Thunder Dragon, is an oasis of calm, with rivers, forests and monasteries dotted throughout the tiny country. It is one of the safest places in Asia. Here you can find the magnificent Himalayan mountain range that runs along Bhutan, India, Nepal and Tibet. Once a former residence of the Dalai Lama, Tibet shares the world’s tallest mountain, Mount Everest, with its neighbour Nepal, a country famed for trekking.  

Mongolia is known for Genghis Khan and the Gobi Desert. It’s the country to experience a night in a ger (or yurt) and horse ride across green plains. The Maldives are absolutely stunning and the definition of picture-perfect beaches, but they do attract honeymooners, so you may find yourself very solo here.  

Mountain range in Langtang region, Nepal

Travelling in South Asia

India is so vast that taking a train is the easiest way to get around, and you can even reserve on the internet before you go. As a solo traveller, you could find yourself being the only Westerner on the train, so avoid the male-only carriages and if you’re travelling overnight, choose an upper berth in the sleeper carriage, which has more privacy.

Taking the train in India is an experience. You may even be sat next to a family watching the local life of India passing by.  

Buses in Nepal are crazy. Small ones are overpacked and large ones drive erratically along mountain roads, so use internal flights if you don’t want to take the bus. Prepare to be squashed in if you choose to travel by minibus here, with passengers even crouched over standing up.

If you’re travelling to Sri Lanka, you’ll find the trains very overcrowded and not a pleasant experience. Hire a taxi driver or a tuk-tuk for just a short ride.  

The only way to see Bhutan is on a tour unless you are invited by someone in the country. A tour will include your guide, accommodation and food and is usually in a private car or minibus. Boats or seaplanes are the only ways to get around the Maldives, with seaplanes operating from Male, the capital.  

The Great Wall of China

East Asia comprises of: China , Mongolia , North Korea, South Korea ,  Japan , Hong Kong , Taiwan and Macau. Experience nomadic life in Outer Mongolia, or Chinese cuisine, tranquil gardens and majestic landscapes along the Yangtze River in China.

Trek along the Great Wall, see the Terracotta Army or just get back to nature at Tiger Leaping Gorge. Enjoy the nightlife of South Korea, the buzz of Tokyo and the many islands of the Philippines.   East Asia is beautiful and culturally colourful, but it can be more challenging to travel to than Southeast Asia.  

The language barrier in China makes communication difficult, and they tend to stare at foreigners, so be prepared to be the centre of attention. You’ll receive a lot less attention in Hong Kong and Shanghai, and soon win back your solo confidence in these cities.

Japan, Taiwan and South Korea are completely different, with people who will go out of their way to help you. Japan is one of my favourite countries and the best Asian country for solo travel. It's so safe and the people are respectful and helpful. 

A few of the local phrases will help to get by in these countries or get buy a SIM card when you arrive so that you always have Google Translate. 

In Mongolia, you may find more hospitality outside of the capital. Mongolians who live in Ullanbator, the capital, appear to have a different view on Westerners and may not be as friendly as you expect. However, step outside of the capital and welcoming guests is part of the nomadic culture.  

North Korea is only accessible with a tour company, but travelling here is controversial. Tours are used as propaganda and you are not allowed to go anywhere outside of the organised itinerary. If you do visit here, go with an open mind.  

Taiwan has amazing temples to see

Travelling in East Asia

The best thing about Eastern Asia are the train systems and the bullet trains, which travel at over 200mph. Train travel is the best way to travel in China, Taiwan and Japan. China has overnight trains called sleepers, and you can also find sleeper buses.  

You can also travel across countries with connecting rail routes. The Trans Mongolian begins in Russia and runs to Beijing in China, where you can hop aboard and travel down to Ullanbaatar in Mongolia. The journey from Beijing to Mongolia takes two days.  

Japan has express train services and the futsu, which are the slowest but the cheapest option. Buying a Japan rail pass will save you money. There is also a good metro system, domestic flights and boats to get around. South Korea is also connected via a good train network.  

You can get to China, Japan and Russia using the ferries, and if you’re going to Hong Kong, the best way to see it is on a cruise around Victoria Harbour on a junk boat. Rickshaws operate in Beijing, but be careful hopping in one as this is one of China’s scams, and they will rip you off even if you agree on the price beforehand.  

Transport is difficult in Mongolia, so you’ll need a private driver or a tour to get around. There are buses from the capital to Terelj National Park, but the places aren’t signposted, so you need to ask where to get off. They also have a strange taxi system where any driver can be a taxi, so be careful that you don’t get ripped off.  

Go hiking in Kyrgyzstan

Central Asia  

This area is commonly referred to as ‘ The Stans ’. The countries within this region are Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan .  

Central Asia was once part of the ancient Silk Road and Uzbekistan has many preserved monuments from this era. This region also formed part of the former Soviet Union and still has Soviet statues within its capital cities. It is full of history, beautiful mountains and mausoleums and is cheap within the countries. The countries are also known for their dictatorships and visiting this region is definitely an education.  

Turkmenistan is the most difficult to enter, with the government rejecting visas. The highlights here are the Darvaza Gas Crater, fossilised dinosaur tracks and Yangi-Kala Canyon. The other four countries are either visa-free or require an eVisa.  

Kazakhstan is the largest of the Central Asian states, and is relatively poor and underdeveloped, but is home to welcoming locals, the oldest nature reserve and Astana, its futuristic-style city. Kyrgyzstan is known for hiking and has been described as the ‘Switzerland of Central Asia’, because of its untouched nature. Tajikistan also offers incredible nature and hiking.  

If you choose to visit the ‘Stans’ independently, you may feel a bit lonely, as this region doesn’t see many travellers except for Uzbekistan, which is the country with the most tourism infrastructure. Tours only run on weekends in Kazakhstan, so pre-book them if you can.  

Knowing a bit of Russian will help you to get by. Kyrgyzstan is one of the friendliest in Central Asia, and as women were independent in the Soviet Union, you won’t find yourself hassled here, but you could find yourself getting overcharged for goods in Uzbekistan.  

Charyn Canyon is a day trip from Almaty in Kazakhstan

Travelling in Central Asia

There is a reason that solos tend to take a Central Asia tour here. Travelling overland and trying to see more than one country can be challenging. Turkmenistan is very difficult to travel around and if you get accepted for a visa, you may only have five days to see all of it. Consider a group tour for this country.  

Distances in Kazakstan are vast, although there are buses, trains and minibuses for the bigger cities. There is hardly any public transport in Kyrgyzstan, so you need to either hire a car or a private driver to get around. There are cheap internal flights from Osh to Bishkek, and it is also easy to get across the border to Kazakhstan via minibuses.  

This is also the same in Tajikistan, which is the most difficult to get around. Although people come here for the Pamir Mountains, public transportation is virtually nonexistent, so you need a car. The taxis are good here compared to the rest of the region, where anyone driving a car can be a taxi driver.  

You can travel across Tajikistan to Uzbekistan by taxi (across the land borders). Once you are in Uzbekistan, it is easy to travel around with high-speed trains on the main routes, such as Bukhara to Samarkand. Buy your ticket at the train station beforehand to ensure that you have a seat. If you do hire a car, be prepared for security checks along the roads in Uzbekistan, but this is definitely the easiest country to visit here.  

* I have a whole guide on Central Asia. You can find my Backpacking Central Asia guide here

Base yourself in Tbilisi in Georgia and do day trips from there

Western Asia

Georgia , Armenia , Azerbaijan and Turkey sit in the West of Asia. This region is becoming more popular with travellers, who come for skiing in the Caucasus Mountains. There is some confusion over whether Georgia is in Europe or Asia, as it lies on the boundary. Turkey also lies on both continents and is the gateway to Asia from Europe.  

What this area does offer is a relatively new tourism, especially in Azerbaijan and Armenia. Armenia was the first Christian nation in the world, and the country is dotted with churches and monasteries. It is one of the most historical and fascinating countries to visit, with a sombre past.  

Its neighbour, Azerbaijan, is rich in oil and natural gas and is known as ‘The Land of Fire’. As well as the sensational Flame Towers, the country also offers mud volcanoes, cave drawings and futuristic buildings.

Georgia is more understated and although the capital has its own fair share of modern monuments, the country is more known for its historic and cultural sites. In my opinion it's the best country to travel alone in Asia in the western region. Visit the David Gareja Monastery, the ancient cave city of Vardzia or the winelands of Kakheti.  

Then there is Turkey which needs a whole month to explore. From the Blue Mosque in Istanbul to the fairy chimneys in Cappadocia, Turkey has beach holidays, culture and ruins to explore. The only country where you may get attention as a solo is Turkey.

Turkey definitely feels more male-dominated, and you may find yourself waiting in queues as men take priority. Tour guides may be a bit sleazy, so just be firm and assertive. Turkish women wear what they want, but it’s still better to cover up to avoid any unwanted attention.  

In Georgia, you may find the occasional man staring at you, but apparently they can now get fined for doing this. The country also offers homestays for travellers as a way of creating cultural exchange.  

The Fire Temple in Azerbaijan is a must-see

Travelling in West Asia

Travelling in between this region is quite straightforward. From Georgia, it is easy to travel to Armenia and Azerbaijan with minibuses or via overnight Soviet trains, which stop at the borders.

Trains are slow, but incredibly cheap within Georgia. If you are in a hurry, there are several minibuses from Tbilisi to Kutaisi and Batumi on the Black Sea coast. You can reserve train tickets through Railway.ge.  

The infrastructure of the roads in Armenia makes it difficult to drive through some areas. There is a train network which goes to Vanadzor, Gyumri and Sevan, but it can be slow. Mini-vans operate inter-city, but you may find yourself having to go back to Yerevan (the hub) to travel to a different part of the country.  

From Baku in Azerbaijan, you can either hire a car or take one of the buses which connect most of the cities (they are called marshrutkas). You pay your fare on the bus.  

In Turkey, you’ll want to fly internally if you are planning to visit many areas in the country. Night buses are really safe, and they allocate you a seat number to ensure that you are sitting with another woman.  

There are so many regions of Asia, so decide on what type of experience and activities you are searching for and how comfortable you want your trip to be. Southeast Asia travel guide for solos

Siem Reap in Cambodia, one of my recommended solo travel Asia woman countries

Asia Highlights

There are so many best places for solo travel in Asia, especially with the best places to solo travel in Southeast Asia. From Thailand to Cambodia to South Korea, I've put together a list of recommended solo trip ideas Asia wide and experiences to make the most of your solo female travel in Asia.

• Hill tribe trekking in northern Thailand
• Night safari at Singapore Zoo
• The temples of Bagan in Myanmar 
• Sunset at Angkor Wat, Cambodia
• Staying with a hill tribe in Sapa, Vietnam
• Riding a two-humped camel in Mongolia
• Riding the Trans-Mongolian Railway
• Tiger Leaping Gorge in China
• Watching taekwondo in South Korea
• Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan
• The Registan in Samarkand, Uzbekistan
• Darvaza Gas Crater, Turkmenistan
• Seeing the Komodo Dragons
• Island-hopping in Thailand (you can't miss this if you solo travel South East Asia!)
• Visiting the rice fields in Bali, Indonesia

Seven Wonders of the World

• Mount Everest in Nepal/Tibet
• Great Wall of China
• Taj Mahal in India

Explore a month in Thailand seeing stunning beaches like these

Itineraries For Solo Travel Asia

If you're feeling overwhelmed at the amount of solo travel destinations Asia and are still unsure where to choose for solo female travel in Asia, I've included itineraries from one week to one month below of the best places to travel solo in Asia. If you love elephants, there are plenty of elephant sanctuaries you can visit on your travels. 

One Week Asia Itinerary 

• Thailand – Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Kanchanaburi, Bangkok, Ko Samet, Bangkok.  
• Cambodia – Siem Reap, Angkor Wat, Battambang, Phnom Penh. Indonesia – Bali, Kuta, Ubud, Lombok Island.
• Mongolia – Ulan Bator, Terelj National Park, Karakoram.  
• Uzbekistan – Bukara, Samarkand, or Kazakhstan – Almaty, Astana.  
• Georgia – Kutaisi, Tbilisi, David Gareja monastery.  

2 Week Asia Itinerary

Below are examples of a Southeast Asia itinerary 2 weeks.

• Thailand – Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pai, Mae Hong Son (via Chiang Mai, Bangkok, Surat Thani), Ko Samui, Ko Pha Ngan, Ko Tao (Chumphon) via Bangkok.  
• Laos – Huay Xai, Pakbeng, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Vientiane (side trip from Luang Prabang to Nong Kiau).  
• Cambodia – Siem Reap, Battambang, Phnom Penh, Sihanoukville, Kep, Phnom Penh, Kampong Cham, Kratie.  
• Myanmar – Yangon, Mandalay, Bagan, Inle Lake, Yangon. Sri Lanka – Colombo, Kandy, Kalutara, Galle.
• Uzbekistan – Khiva, Bukara, Samarkand, Tashkent. Georgia – Kutaisi, Tbilisi, overland to Baku in Azerbaijan.  

3 Week Asia Itinerary

• Eastern Asia – Hong Kong, train to Yangshuo, Yichang, Xiling Gorge, Xi’an, train to Shanghai, train to Beijing.  
• India – Delhi, Agra, Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, Varanasi. Philippines – Manilla, Boracay, Baguio, Banaue.

Southeast Asia Solo Travel Itinerary For 1 Month

This South East Asia travel route is perfect for a month if you are planning on backpacking Asia. It includes all the best solo travel destinations Asia bound to explore the southeast region. 

• Southeast Asia : Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, Chiang Mai, Chiang Khong, Huay Xai, Pakbeng, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Vientiane, Tha Khaek, Savannakhet, Pakse, Champasak, Don Khong, Don Dhet, Don Khon, Kratie, Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, Battambang, Phnom Penh, Saigon, Mui Ne, Nha Trang, Hoi An, Hue, Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa.  

If I've inspired you to travel solo to Asia, click on the photos below for the solo destination guide for your chosen country.  

Travelling Solo

South East Asia is a travellers dream, it’s welcoming, cheap and very easy to get around. Many travellers follow a certain trail so it’s easy to meet people. South East Asia is perfect for the first time traveller but venture east and East Asia is more challenging and you will need to know some phrases of the local language to get by.

South East Asia

Eastern Asia

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Best Places to Travel Alone in Asia

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*A Guest Post by Heeral Mehta who resides in Dubai. Now one of the top places for single travel vacations, see below to learn more about how to reach him at “ Royal Canin Kitten ” where pets share in the luxury for which Dubai is known.

The best places to travel alone in Asia are sometimes those no one has heard about. They may  not even be on any maps! Asia is especially ideal for solo female travelers. It offers diversity and can be safer than many other destinations when following reasonable precautions. Most Asian countries have significantly less terrorism. The greatest hazard in Asia is likely dodging the traffic.

However, if you travel alone in Asia, you will likely have to leave your pet at home spending upon each country’s regulations

Asia’s best solo vacation destinations:

When looking for the best destinations traveling alone in Asia, specifically if itis your first time, keep the following four factors in mind:

Find a place that is well-equipped for tourists. Choose a place where the local residents understand English, have lodging options for tourists, and where everything is well marked. It makes visiting much more relaxing/

Look for available public transportation. Nothing is worse than finding out the items on your bucket list are out of reach. You want to be able to move from point A to point B effortlessly. So, choose a location with good public infrastructure to avoid being told you can’t get there from here.

Choose a venue where local residents welcome tourists. Select a spot for your singles vacation known for their hospitality. It is generally very easy to communicate and get information in large Asian cities where English is widely spoken. Beyond checking your GPS, local residents can likely help you locate major sights as well as those off the beaten path.

Overall security. Asia is an excellent destination for lone travelers. It was my first solo trip, and I highly suggest it. Petty crimes such as pick pockets and pocketbook snatching, while not non-existent, are rarely violent. More severe crimes are uncommon. As I previously stated, your primary issue is traffic. Take extra precautions if you ride a motorcycle or scooter or cross the street. It might be a hair-raising experience in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City!

Singapore has been often considered still the number one destination for solo travel vacations. It has a well-deserved reputation as the cleanest, tidiest and most organized country in Asia, so you know you are in good hands. Singapore is a melting pot of Chinese, Indian, and Western cultures that coexist peacefully. It is without a doubt one of the safest countries for both male and female solo travelers.

In facty, if this is your first time traveling alone, Singapore is a terrific place to start.

• Bali (Indonesia):

Traveling alone in Southeast Asia is an experience, and no country has more excitement than Indonesia! Bali is currently one of the most popular tourist locations for honeymoons, family trips, and those of us single travelers!

In Bali, you will come across other travelers, including many backpackers, making it easy to meet up with new friends and travel mates. Best of all, the people of Bali are among the warmest, most welcoming.

• Boracay (Philippines):

The Philippines is another excellent spot to go alone with its warm and friendly population and beautiful natural scenery. There are dozens of islands to select from, each with its distinct offering of beaches, mountains, lagoons, and more.

While Borocay is not as well known to foreign tourists as much of the Pacific, it is a beach island paradise where you can easily leave behind your hectic life and worries at home making it perfect for a solo adventure.

• Dalat (Vietnam):

I adore all of Vietnam. Dalat, in particular, is a beautiful area within safe solo travel places. While it is less well-known than Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi, it is ideal for a stay off the beaten path. Encircled by rice fields and farmlands, it provides a calm haven that is relaxed than its busier relatives.

Hong Kong warrants a spot on my list of the safest countries to travel alone, particularly among single female travelers, relative to its size and how congested it can be. Hong Kong residents are accustomed to tourists, the equipment is excellent and user-friendly, and English is widely spoken. Don’t pass up a visit to Hong Kong — it’s ideal as a stopover and great for shopping (although pricey)!

No list of top Asian tourist destinations would be complete without Japan. Although it is more expensive than most of Asia, it offers both breathtaking natural landscapes as well as ancient temples and historical sites as well as 21 st innovative technology.  Its high-speed bullet trains make travel easy. It is said to be so immaculately clean throughout that the koi fish even swim in the storm drains.

*Pampered pets in Dubai can find a relaxing vacation of their own at Royal Canin Kitten where pets enjoy meals that are high in nutritional value.

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The 5 best countries in Asia for solo travel

Ah, Asia. A continent so diverse, so beautiful, and so packed with chaos and charm that it truly does provide something for everyone.

And this is certainly the case for solo travelers, who will feel right at home provided they pick the perfect destination to visit. Enter our round-up. We’ve made a list of the best countries in Asia for independent explorers (though we’d love to hear where else you’d recommend in the comments below!).

Anyway, we love the following five destinations, and we reckon you will too:

South Korea

But it’s not all about the food, it’s about the people too. Plenty of young Koreans can speak some English, but even if they don’t, you’ll be hard press to find a country with friendlier locals. Their warmth is truly outstanding, so whether you’re hiking Mt. Gangcheon to Byeongpung Waterfall or browsing the seafood at Busan’s epic Jalgalchi Market, you’ll find them always willing to help you out. Bonus: the subways in Seoul, Daejon and Busan are super easy to use, thanks to announcements in English and a ton of signs – solo travelers needn’t worry! The glittering skyscrapers and irresistible energy of South Korea is calling…

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Plus it’s safe, too. Reports of harassment are incredibly rare, and even though travelers aren’t super common outside of Siem Reap, you’ll barely notice thanks to the kindness of locals. It really is easy to get off the beaten track here. Once you’ve seen the temples and visited the Killing Fields (devastating, but a must) you can explore little-known sites. Our recommendations for solo travelers seeking something special? Battambang , the second largest city – brimming with riverside charm and colonial architecture – and Kampot, where you can help blind Cambodians make a living by getting a traditional massage (info here ).

Lastly, it’s worth bearing in mind that Vietnam is very much a developing country, meaning it provides travelers with a wealth of ways in which to offer their support. Our favorite way of doing so is by hitting up KOTO restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City, an organisation dedicated to giving jobs in hospitality to street kids (hint: you can go there on this 10-day tour ).

RELATED: WHAT TO EXPECT ON AN OVERNIGHT TRAIN IN VIETNAM

Stroll round any big city, such as Tokyo, and you’ll see just how many people walk alone. It’s very safe to do so, so you definitely won’t be judged as a solo adventurer. Females can even go one step further if worried about safety and check out ladies-only transport and accommodation options. And although English isn’t spoken fluently, you’ll find that everyone is both respectful and eager to offer assistance, so all that’s left to do is chill out and explore the beautiful country. You can do so in just one week (if you’re time poor), but don’t leave without checking out an onsen, a traditional Japanese bath (guide here ). In doing so you might be pretty glad you’re traveling alone – after all, you have to be 100% nude to indulge…

RELATED: WHAT IT’S LIKE TO TRAVEL IN JAPAN AS A SOLO TRAVELER

Solo travelers will be more than happy here, mostly thanks to the above, but also because of the authenticity on offer. It’s a given that Yangon, Bagan and Mandalay will likely be visited on a trip to Myanmar, but Intrepid’s Best of Myanmar trip takes you through so much more of the country than that. For example, the small group tour takes you to Kalaw, home of extraordinary hikes, tea plantations and tiny villages. It also lets you sleep at a unique community lodge, where you visit a thanka farm, help out with an important tree-planting project, and even get a dinner cooked by nearby villagers. It doesn’t get cooler than that.

Got the solo travel bug?  Intrepid has a new range of trip departures just for solo travelers. 

Image Credits: All c/o Intrepid Travel

Feeling inspired?

Bex Shapiro

Born in London and based in Toronto, Bex is happiest anywhere she can connect with interesting people over good food. She's passionate about sustainable travel and powerful storytelling, and her favourite cities are New York and Shanghai. She's also the Senior Editorial Manager at Intrepid. Follow her adventures on Twitter and Insta @BexShapiro.

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Traveloka PH

08 Nov 2017 - 7 min read

9 Best Destinations in Asia for Solo Travel

1. Siem Reap, Cambodia

You’re probably visiting Siem Reap to see Angkor Wat, the largest religious site in the world, but the town has so much more to offer. You can explore over a thousand other temples surrounding the UNESCO heritage site, and see where the original Tomb Raider was shot. Once you’ve had your dose of history, it’s always good to unwind in one of the town’s many quaint restaurants and cafes.

2. Phuket, Thailand

Thailand’s paradise island boasts of amazing beaches, warm waters, and a world-famous party scene. It’s a great place to catch up on some me-time without worrying about getting lonely. Much different from other Asian island destinations, Phuket’s well-developed roads and highways make it easy to get around. And just like the country’s capital, you won’t run out of delicious street food, and bargain shopping all over the island.

3. Singapore

The Lion City is famous for being one of the cleanest, safest, and most efficient countries in the world. Despite being fairly small, Singapore has a lot of must-visit places: from Michelin-starred restaurants to hawker food centers, a world-famous theme park, high-end shopping centers and more—you'll never run out of things to do in Singapore! If you can splurge on accommodation, how about booking a room at Marina Bay Sands ? This hotel in Singapore is an attraction itself because of its infinity rooftop pool with amazing views.

Read Fun 3D/2N Singapore Itinerary: Where to Go & What to Do

4. Hong Kong

Home to one of the world’s best airports and an internationally renowned theme park, Hong Kong remains to be a dream destination for many. Solo travelers can expect an iconic skyline, delectable grub, and colorful cultural scene should they visit this vibrant city that’s pulsating with energy. Hong Kong is ideal for lone travelers who are into challenges. Only few locals know how to speak English, so visiting Hong Kong by yourself can be extra challenging yet fun. You’ll eventually learn to cope with the situation and possibly meet new friends—who are also solo travelers—during your stay. After conquering Hong Kong, you can easily conquer other parts of the world.

Taiwan’s tourism got a boost after the country’s local government allowed Filipinos to enter without need for a visa (The privilege takes effect until July 31, 2019 only). This little island country, just above the Philippines on the map ,consistently ranks as one of the safest and cleanest countries in Asia—adding more reasons for solo travelers to visit this country. While you’re at Yehliu Geopark, you can easily ask for a stranger to take your photo as you strike a pose beside the interesting rock formations. Couples and partners may be flocking at Jiufen to release love lanterns, but you are most welcome to release your own #selflove lantern there. And if you're looking for budget-friendly yet quality accommodation, there are many interesting hostels in Taipei City under PHP1,000 that you can book.

6. Osaka, Japan

If food is your life, then Osaka has to be on your list of where to solo travel in Asia. The birthplace of takoyaki is the hailing culinary capital of the world with its multiple little ramen bars, Michelin-starred restaurants, and okonomiyaki stalls. What’s best is that it's extremely tourist friendly and slightly more affordable than the Japanese capital.

7. Maldives

The Maldives has always been labeled a honeymoon destination, but who says it can't be on your list of where to solo travel in Asia? The country is everything you’d want from a tropical vacation—white sand, palm trees, clear water, and awesome diving spots. If you’re not up to breaking the bank, the recent increase of tourists has pushed the government to open more affordable accommodations and modest guest houses where you can enjoy the island’s beauty just the same.

8. Siargao, Philippines

It’s not surprising to hear about a first-time Siargao visitor who ends up staying there forever. Many people decide to stay on the island for a good reason—it’s paradise. Far from the smoggy skies of the city and framed with aqua blue waters, the surfing capital’s charm is unmistakable. Surfer or not, you have to make the trip. Be sure to book your hotel in Siargao in advance to avoid the hassle especially if you're visiting during peak season.

Read Top 8 Places in the Philippines for Solo Female Travelers

If you want to go off the grid and escape the noise of urban life, a trip to Nepal will recharge you. As cliché as it sounds, you can’t get any closer to an Eat, Pray, Love experience than when you’re in Kathmandu. With the view of the Himalayas and the rich green nature, you almost can’t help but meditate on the spot.

Head over to one or all of these destinations with Traveloka . Book now and enjoy great savings on your hotels! ]]>

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13 BEST Places to Travel Alone in Southeast Asia

By: Author Julie Julien

Posted on Last updated: January 25, 2024

Julie Julien from the travel blog Julie Around the Globe is guest author with her article on the best places to travel alone in Southeast Asia. My first solo trip was a backpacking trip for seven months to Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. But Julie has traveled on her own since 2016 and visited many more countries in Southeast Asia. This is one of my favorite regions of the world, for the people, the food, and the beaches – which also makes for some of the best solo travel destinations. My backpacking trip to Southeast Asia is still one of my best solo travel experiences ever. Read Julie’s picks for best places to travel solo in Southeast Asia.

Traveling alone can be tough at times, but don’t let the fear of being lonely stop you from doing so. Southeast Asia is the perfect destination to start backpacking on your own.

There, you’ll get tons of opportunities to make new friends or find a travel buddy. Here is a list of the best places to visit when you’re solo traveling in Southeast Asia.

Best Places To Travel Alone In Southeast Asia

1. hanoi – vietnam.

Apart from being home to one of the best cuisines in the world (and the famous egg coffee), Hanoi is a perfect example of organized chaos. If you want to settle your nerves for life, try driving a scooter there.

Hanoi is a great base to explore Northern Vietnam, from there you can quickly get to the Halong Bay, Sapa and Ha Giang.

It’s also the perfect place to chill for a few days, they are tons of backpackers, cafés, restaurants, and bars. If you want to take a cooking class, Hanoi one of the best places in Vietnam to do so.

There are also a lot of cultural activities going on for locals as well as for foreigners.

Tips: Hostels in Hanoi sometimes have bedbugs. The staff usually respond quickly to fix the problem, but checking the last few reviews before booking can be a wise decision.

In Hanoi, besides great food, is a great base for exploring Northern Vietnam

2. HO CHI MINH – Vietnam

Some travelers swear by Hanoi other by Ho Chi Minh, also known as Saigon. The food is just as good, and everything is cheaper.

It’s also a great place to meet people, it’s full of hostels, and the CouchSurfing community is really active. There are also tons of events for expats and travelers where you can get the chance to meet more people.

And you can visit the city’s numerous museums or take a day trip to the Mekong Delta, the Cao Dai temple or the Cu Chi tunnels.

You may also like: 52 Solo Travel Quotes to Inspire Traveling Alone

Ho Chi Minh City – also known as Saigon – is where you can do a Mekong Delta boat tour

3. LUANG PRABANG – Laos

You might feel a bit alone at times if you’re solo traveling in Laos, but Luang Prabang is a great place to meet people. It’s a must-go for people visiting Laos, and the city is mostly kept alive by tourism.

There are a lot of hostels as well as middle-range accommodations and a few luxury hotels. The town is pretty small, so you can easily meet people.

Don’t miss the alms giving ceremony (inform yourself on how to behave before going to one) where people offer food to the monks, it takes place every morning.

There are also several incredibly beautiful waterfalls in the area and a cave temple worth visiting.

Luang Prabang is the religious capital of Laos – in the city, you’ll find dozens of temples and monasteries, some built centuries ago.

Luang Prabang in Laos is a small town where you can easily meet other people while traveling

4. KOH RONG ISLAND – Cambodia

Careful here, if you go to Koh Rong you might never want to leave. It’s not yet crowded by tourists, but it’s more and more on backpackers’ radar.

It’s definitively a place to relax.

Here in Koh Rong island, no roads, internet access is scarce, and electricity doesn’t run 24/7. The shore is gorgeous with more than 40 kilometers (24 miles) of sandy beaches and crystal clear water.

There all kinds of accommodation options and several bars and restaurants. If you like partying, every month there’s a full moon party on a secluded beach only reachable by boat.

Koh Rong Island in Cambodia is waiting for you with 24 miles (40 km) of white sand beaches

5. KOH PHI PHI – Thailand

Koh Phi Phi is a great place if you like partying and going to the beach. The island is super small, and everything is concentrated in the same area.

In Koh Phi Phi, you can party all night long on the beach, gazing at the stars, if you don’t like the song then just walk a few meters to the next bar.

You can also join a party boat (or a regular one) and go island hopping for a day. Near Koh Phi Phi, you’ll find Maya Bay, also known as the beach from the famous movie “The Beach.”

The bay area has been closed off to allow its restoration as tourism has had a terrible effect on the environment here. You can now only see the beach from a distance.

It’s supposed to re-open, but there’s no set date and the number of people allowed on the island will be limited. Thankfully, the area is still full of breathtaking beaches you can actually visit.

Learn more about Solo Travel to Thailand

Koh Phi Phi in Thailand is known for partying – but also do some island hopping to explore

6. KOH PHANGAN – Thailand

What would be a visit to Thailand without going to a world-renowned full moon party?

The full moon party at Koh Phangan is one of the biggest open-air parties in the world, it’s a must-live experience if you like partying.

If you cannot make it to the full moon, they also have half moon and dark moon parties.

Koh Phangan is not all about partying, the landscape is beautiful, the island is mostly undeveloped and full of lush vegetation.

The beaches on Koh Phangan are pristine, with crystal clear water and white sand, perfect for snorkeling.

Koh Phangan is the island in Thailand with the famous Full Moon Parties and great snorkeling

7. BALI – Indonesia

Bali is a backpackers and expats mecca, if there’s a place in Asia that has been entirely built for foreigners it’s Bali.

Among the most popular spots are Nusa Penida, Ubud, and Kuta. You’ll find Bali is one of the best places to travel alone in Asia.

Kuta is by far the most crowded area of Bali, that’s where you’ll find all the night clubs and bars, the beach there has nothing exceptional so unless you want to party head for Ubud or Nusa Penida.

Nusa Penida is more of a beach destination, while Ubud more of a nature and spiritual destination. In Ubud, you can find a hostel surrounded by rice paddy fields, see a traditional Balinese dance show and rent a scooter to visit the nearby Hindu temples.

Tip:  Remember that Indonesia is a deeply religious country, even if the vibe in Bali is more relaxed, don’t walk around in swimsuits unless you’re on the beach and cover yourself when you’re outside of touristy areas.

Visiting temples is one of the things to do while in BALI Indonesia – one of the best places to travel alone

8. FLORES – Indonesia

What is great about Flores is that if you decide to explore the island, there’s only one itinerary possible, so you’re bound to meet people who are heading the same way as you. You can easily find a travel buddy for a couple of days.

In Flores you can do some diving and see the famous Komodo Dragons, a short boat trip from Labuan Bajo to Komodo Island.

You can also spend a few days in Bajawa and visit several Ngada traditional villages, and don’t miss the beautiful Kelimutu volcano and its three colored lakes.

In Indonesia be sure to plan a visit to see these volcanic crater lakes at Kelimutu on the island of Flores

9. SIQUIJOR – Philippines

Siquijor is a great island if you’re looking for a place to relax. It’s quiet, yet you won’t get bored. And it’s filled with hostels and bars playing live music most of the nights. Plus it’s also a great place to learn more about the Philippines’ faith healers.

In Siquijor you can go diving to nearby Apo Island, enjoy the beach and go waterfalls hopping.

Many travelers come to Siquijor, yet it’s far from being crowded with tourists. Most people stay in San Juan, that’s where you’ll find all the hostels, bars and restaurants.

There are also a couple of nicer hotels if you want to treat yourself. From San Juan, you can easily rent a scooter and explore the island.

Tips: most of the boats arrive in Larena or Siquijor (the town), it’s a bit far from San Juan and a private tricycle is expensive if you’re alone. If you arrive before 5 pm, you’ll find shared tricycles in both cities, at the market. You’ll have to change tricycle in Siquijor if you arrive in Larena.

In the Philippines enjoy pristine tropical settings like this one in Siquijor – one of the best places to travel in Asia

10. BORACAY – Philippines

Boracay is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines , it’s also where you’ll find the most fellow travelers. It’s a great place to enjoy the beach and buzzing nightlife. Boracay is full of party hostels, bars, and nightclubs.

It was recently closed off to tourism (in April 2018) due to environmental issues and has been through several changes before it reopened in late 2018.

To develop a more sustainable type of tourism, numbers of visitors have been limited, and drinking on the beach has been banned, among other rules since the reopening of Boracay.

Boracay Philippines boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the Philippines

11. SIARGAO – Philippines

Siargao, also known as the surf capital of the Philippines, is one of the country’s tourism hot spots. As almost every island in the Philippines, beaches are gorgeous, and locals are friendly and welcoming.

Most people come to Siargao to surf, but there are tons of other activities you can do such as diving, snorkeling, partying, or simply going to the beach.

It has a really laid back vibe, it’s not over-developed and crowded like Boracay, but still, most backpackers coming to the Philippines include a stop to Siargao on their itinerary.

Stunning Siargao is the surf capital of the Philippines

12. GEORGETOWN PENANG – Malaysia

Georgetown, on Penang Island Malaysia , is a great place to meet people. There are a lot of expats there, and the city has an important cultural scene, with regular events and festivals. The town is famous for its street art, but a lot of other things are going on.

The Couchsurfing community is really strong there, they organize a lot of meetups and events for backpackers.

The nightlife is great, there are no big night clubs but a lot of bars with live music, pool tables, happy hours and such. Georgetown is also full of cute little cafes with great internet connections.

If you like trekking, you can also visit the Penang National Park and its beautiful Monkey Beach.

Welcoming white sand beaches of Penang Malaysia – one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia

13. SINGAPORE

Even though Singapore is a huge city, it’s a breath of fresh air when you’ve been traveling through SEA for a while. It’s clean, there are sidewalks, and public transportation is well organized.

Singapore is a cosmopolitan country, a blend of hundreds of different cultures. It has a lot to offer, and whether you like museums, nature, architecture, history, culture, gastronomy or partying, you’ll find something you like.

Most hostels are in Chinatown or Little India. Both are great neighborhoods to meet other backpackers and explore the city.

Hostels organize a lot of activities. You should try joining a walking or cycling tour of the town, it’s an excellent way to socialize.

Tip: if you’re coming by bus from Malaysia, there’s a scam going on where the bus driver won’t wait for you at the border, and you’ll be forced to buy another ticket to get to the center. To avoid this, make sure you keep your bus ticket and don’t take the last bus of the day, this way you can get on the next bus from the same company.

Singapore is a beautiful and modern city country in Southeast Asia

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How about you? Do you have a favorite place in Southeast Asia where it’s easy to meet people while traveling solo ? Leave your comment below.

You may also enjoy reading Solo Traveler’s Guide to Surviving Japan and Melaka Malaysia Itinerary

Not sure you are ready to travel solo? Read these posts for encouragement and advice.

• 10 Inspirational Travel Quotes About Everyday Life
• How to Plan a Solo Trip – BEST Planning Tips for Solo Travelers
• Best Solo Travel Tips For Both Men and Women Travelers

About the author : Julie Julien has been traveling full time since 2016 and is always on the lookout for great destinations and travel hacks. She shares her best travel experiences on her blog Julie Around the Globe and aims to inspire others to travel more and to places less known. Follow Julie on Instagram .

20 Best Countries to Travel Alone for the First Time

06/26/2023 by Kristin Addis 23 Comments

Hey, I know that going on your first solo trip can be nerve-wracking, from deciding to go, to planning it, to actually going.

I was surprised to find — and I think this is a common experience — that the hardest part was making the decision to go. Once I was on the road, everything fell into place. I found my stride, and I enjoyed it so much that I laughed at how scared I’d been of the whole idea.

Traveling alone is a gift. You will be presented with daily opportunities to learn and grow, and you will become closer to yourself as a result.

Since it can be overwhelming to decide where to go first, I’ve compiled a list of 20 destinations that I loved over nine years of firsthand solo traveling experience, and I know you will love them too:

Table of Contents

1.  Thailand

It should not come as a surprise that the Land of Smiles is first on the list — it’s the perfect spot to “test the water.” Thailand is friendly, affordable, easy to travel through, and full of other travelers and delicious food. There are multiple daily flights from all over the world arriving in Bangkok, the country’s capital, sending new and seasoned backpackers, budget and luxury travelers, fresh grads and retirees, solo travelers (like you!) and tour groups on an epic journey around the country.

I recommend beginning in Bangkok and learning how to  fall in love with the city , or starting off in Chiang Mai up north — there are so many things to do there, like  cooking courses and temples , and  playing with elephants ethically .

Next, head south and go scuba diving around one of the  many gorgeous islands , some of which are well known and some of which are  lesser known , or even participate in a  10-day silent meditation retreat .

If you end up loving your experience in Thailand, it is so easy to extend your journey and explore nearby countries by plane, train, or bus.

A Complete Guide to Thailand

2.  Malaysia

Malaysia is often overlooked as a travel destination in favor of its neighbors — and to me, that’s mind-boggling! As a multicultural country, the locals generally speak at least two languages, and English is usually one of them. I personally never had a problem with communication when traveling there. In fact, having a common language helped me have more local interaction in Malaysia, including  participating in local events  and  being invited to local family celebrations .

Like in Thailand, you can have all kinds of travel experiences in Malaysia, from cities and small towns to beaches and mountains. I also think, when it comes to islands, diving, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, it’s hard to beat Malaysia, both the peninsular part and Borneo.

So if you are hoping for an interesting cultural experience minus the language barrier on your first solo trip abroad, Malaysia could be the ideal choice.

A Complete Guide to Malaysia

Japan is one of the cleanest, safest, most polite, and most organized countries I’ve ever visited. It was also one of the most unique in terms of culture,  food , and the delightful mastery of technology in everything from  art museums  to bathrooms. Plus, cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are some of the most interesting in the world and are great to visit any time of year, even in the dead of winter .

I should warn you that language  will  be a problem at some point. I got pretty confused at the train stations, as some signs are only in Japanese. And since English isn’t commonly spoken, it was challenging at times to communicate with some hotel staff and restaurant waiters. However, you can always rely on apps to navigate and use the classic “point and nod” method to order your food. All that said, people are so kind and friendly, the language barrier wasn’t as stressful as it can be elsewhere.

If you are traveling solo for the first time, the idea of sleeping in a hostel room can be daunting. In Japan, you can opt for a capsule hotel, which is very similar to a hostel, except that your bed space is much more confined, and your personal space is respected. Eating alone is not only acceptable but a norm in Japan, so it’s an awesome place to do that, especially if that’s usually intimidating to you.

A Solo Female Travel Guide to Japan

A Complete Guide to Japan

4.  Iceland

Iceland is gorgeous, and an outdoorsy person’s dream. Plus, it’s been ranked as  the safest country in the world  several years running. This means that you ( and your parents ) can put your worries aside. Another thing you wouldn’t have to worry about is getting lost. Most travelers in Iceland drive  the Golden Circle  or  Ring Road , and while I think that’s just right for  a road trip with a buddy , it’s amazing solo too. If you don’t feel like driving, the public transportation system is great as well.

Additionally, Iceland is delightfully small and intimate. With such a small population, it feels more like a big neighborhood where everybody knows everybody and there’s so much trust that people don’t even lock their cars when they grocery-shop. Almost everyone speaks English quite well, too, so there’s no language barrier either.

The only drawback is that  Iceland is pretty expensive . You can cut your costs by staying in hostels and buying your own groceries. But I’d say that Iceland is absolutely worth it if you can afford it!

A Complete Guide to Iceland

5.  Germany

Germany is my favorite country in Europe. I liked it so much that  I moved to Berlin for five years . I think that Berlin in particular is perfect for first-time solo female travelers: there are  so many things  one can do alone, such as visiting galleries, joining an alternative street art tour, and shopping at flea markets. When you’ve had enough of the artistic scene there, you can hop on a train to  Spreewald  or  Stuttgart , or visit the castles in the rest of  Baden-Wüttemberg  and enjoy the beautiful nature Germany has to offer.

The country is safe, navigation is a breeze, English is widely spoken, the locals are generally helpful — Germany just checks all of the boxes for first-time solo travelers! I also really appreciate its cultural diversity, and for some reason, I feel like I can be 100% my true self there without being judged — and perhaps that’s exactly what you are looking for for your trip.

A Complete Guide to Germany

6.  New Zealand

If you are under the age of 30 and planning a working holiday, New Zealand may end up being the destination of your first solo trip abroad! Many people use this opportunity to explore the country on their days off or after finishing up work contracts, and as New Zealand is such an awesome country for a road trip, I highly recommend gathering 3-4 people and renting a camper van for a drive around both islands.

Even if you are not considering the working-holiday opportunity, New Zealand is still awesome for first-time solo travelers, especially if you are comfortable driving long distances. You could take buses and trains, which are generally convenient and inexpensive, but to  get to off-beat places , a car is much more ideal. It’s also the best way to  find all these amazing views . Navigation is fairly easy, and the locals are incredibly friendly and helpful. Find more info on  road tripping New Zealand here.

Perhaps the best thing to do is to stay in a social hostel for your first couple of days and look for a road-trip buddy — just because you set off on this trip alone, it doesn’t mean that you need to be by yourself the entire time!

A Complete Guide to New Zealand

7.  California

To my non-American readers, if you are looking at the States for your first solo trip abroad, allow me to present to you the home I grew up in — California! While each state has something to offer, and  many places in the US  are perfect for solo travelers, I truly believe that California is the ideal destination for first-time solo travelers.

Some of the best spots in California are San Francisco,  Humboldt County , Orange County, and everything along the  Pacific Coast Highway . I suggest beginning in San Francisco, as it’s a tourist favorite, with ample public transport, high walkability, and a vibrant cultural scene. There’s truly nowhere else like the Bay Area.

If you want to head off the beaten path,  Humboldt and the Lost Coast  are beautiful and laid-back. There are also a bunch of road trip routes to choose from. My favorites are the  Southwest  (California and beyond) as well as  Highway 395 . Finally, if you want to see the last free place in America, head down to  Slab City . You can also enjoy dozens of amazing state and national parks, like Anza Borrego and Death Valley . There are just endless ways to  enjoy California as a solo traveler !

A Local’s Guide to California

8.  Hawai’i

Hawai’i isn’t typically what comes to mind when most people think of a solo trip. But I was so pleasantly surprised there that I genuinely think it’s perfect for first-time solo travelers!

Thanks to its rich culture and tropical climate, Hawai’i feels more like a country of its own, with so many things to do that are totally solo friendly. You could do a road trip along the  Road to Hana , explore  Lanai , or join the  Maui Surfer Girls  camp, designed specifically for solo female travelers who are looking for a supportive group of women to take up a new sport with. It’s an experience that is both empowering and fun!

The Big Island  is especially suited for  solo female travelers in Hawaii  because of the amount of  spiritual experiences  there are, plus the rugged adventure you’ll find.

A Complete Guide to Hawaii

9.  Peru

If your heart is set on South America for your first solo trip, I recommend Peru. This incredibly diverse country will expose you to a variety of experiences, cultures, and especially climates. Iconic spots, such as  Rainbow Mountain ,  Huacachina , the  Peruvian Amazon , and  the Inca Trail  (and  many other hiking trails ), are absolutely gorgeous. I mean, they are all bucket-list worthy!

As most people visiting Peru end up at these sites, you will hardly be alone, so most tours are more than happy to welcome single supplements. Peru also has a vibrant backpacker scene, so it’s really easy to meet others at hostels and on tours.

Note: My biggest piece of advice for you is that you learn a little Spanish. Don’t expect locals to know English.

Also, Peru’s safety reputation isn’t as great as the other countries on this list, but really, all you need to do is to exercise the same precautions as you do back home. Here are  safety tips from 31 solo female travelers  to get you started.

A Complete Guide to Peru

10.  Botswana

Want your first solo trip memories to be filled with wild elephants? Botswana’s the answer, as it has more than anywhere else in Africa. In fact, it’s my favorite country for  wildlife viewing  out of all of the African nations I’ve traveled to so far. It is slightly more expensive than other countries in Africa, but it’s also one of the safest, and has decent roads and a great safari lodge system as well. It is also quite the perfect place to try out glamping, especially since the cost of private accommodations may not differ much from that of basic dorms.

A Guide to Botswana

11.  Switzerland

The mountains make Switzerland ideal for solo female travelers (and the country is considered safe, too). Outdoorsy girls will love staying in little huts in the Alps owned by local families. While many places in Switzerland are pricey, hiking is free. If you don’t want to  hike in Switzerland  alone, there are hostels where you can join a day trip. You absolutely must go for a hike on the Edelweiss Trail, which gives you an amazing view of the Matterhorn.

A Guide to Switzerland

12.  Namibia

Namibia has a special warmth — both temperature-wise and people-wise. In the summertime, it’s in the 80s or 90s, and there’s so much to do. The place is an adventure junkie’s dream!

Go  sandboarding  if you visit Namibia. It’s like snowboarding, but you go down a sand dune. I’d only gone snowboarding once in my life and told the guy how terrified I was — but I was fine. The sand is really soft, and it doesn’t hurt to fall.

The country is surprisingly a wonderful place for a road trip — you can read all about mine  here . You’ll see plenty of wildlife in Namibia, along with some amazing  astrophotography  opportunities.

A Guide to Namibia

13.  Canada

Canada is world-renowned for having some of the friendliest people, so this comes at no surprise. Finding where to travel alone for the first time often boils down to where travelers will find the perfect balance of adventure and safety, and Canada is right at that intersection. I love Montreal for a winter weekend escape or Quebec for a fall road trip . If you want to experience the Canadian wilderness, head to Banff, where I found some of the most breathtaking hikes.

Since Canada as a whole is such a stellar pick for solo travelers, it might be tough to choose where to go. I put together this list of the absolute must-visit spots to help narrow down your search.

A Guide to Canada

14.  Singapore

You’ve never been to anywhere cleaner than Singapore, I guarantee it! There are so many rules — no littering, spitting, or chewing gum — and they enforce them. It does, however, make it nice to walk around. Also, English is one of the main languages there, so you can communicate just fine, making this a great pick for solo female travelers.

You absolutely must see Supertree Grove. It has giant trees that light up at night, synched to music. Plus, it’s open all the time. I had no reservations about going there at 4 a.m. — Singapore is that safe.

Singapore gets a reputation for being ungodly expensive, but some careful planning focused on  free activities in Singapore  will help you save money here. You can also find more info on  traveling in Singapore like a local here.

A Guide to Singapore

15.  Ireland

Some people may be surprised that  Northern Ireland  would be a good choice for solo female travelers, but it’s super safe now — the problems are in the past. Hospitality is one of Ireland’s strong suits. Irish people are so friendly and welcoming. You walk into a pub, and you’ve made a roomful of friends.

Belfast is a lot more manageable than Dublin for solo female travelers. It’s just calmer and less overwhelming. When you’re by yourself, you don’t need all the constant stimulation, and in Belfast, you’ll feel more at ease. Don’t miss the Titanic Museum there. I don’t have much interest in the  Titanic , but the museum was so well done and interesting and interactive!

If you can make it to western Ireland to see some natural beauty, definitely work that into your itinerary as well.

A Guide to Ireland

The beautiful architecture is the star of the show in Spain , especially in Granada. You don’t need to be with anyone else to enjoy its cool mix of Eastern and Christian influences. You especially can’t miss the Alhambra, a famous fortress originally constructed all the way back in 1889.

Also, Granada is safer than Madrid and Barcelona, where you have to be constantly watching your back for pickpocketers.

Other smaller cities are definitely worth checking out, like seaside Málaga, because they’re the perfect size for solo female travelers. You’ll be able to see more of those places without the greater safety risks of bigger cities.

17.  Mexico

Some travelers are too quick to write off Mexico as unsuitable for female travelers, but I disagree. Mexico is an incredible place to travel solo for the first time because it’s bursting with cultural richness, amazing food, and an astounding variety of landscapes. Mexican people are generally very warm and hospitable, making it a great place to meet locals and get to know the culture.

In Mexico, you’ll find  pristine beaches , beautiful mountain landscapes, crystal clear cenotes (swimming holes), and fantastic cities like  Oaxaca ,  San Miguel de Allende ,  San Cristobal de las Casas , and many more to explore.

If you’re concerned about  staying safe as a solo female traveler in Mexico , I get it. With alarming stories on the news about violence in Mexico, it can be daunting to think about going there alone. However, most of these stories come out of specific regions of the country that are far off the tourist track. This isn’t to say that popular areas don’t have risks, but there are plenty of ways to stay safe in Mexico as a solo female traveler.

A Complete Guide to Mexico

18.  Costa Rica

There are few places on earth with as much biodiversity and an overall abundance of outdoorsy things to do as Costa Rica. It’s also one of the best places in Latin America to  travel through as a solo female traveler  because of how easy it is to meet other travelers and how safe it is .

From the thick  green jungles  of Costa Rica’s interior to the golden beaches on both coasts , this is one of the places I will go back to over and over again. Imagine going from a  remote beach with rock arches  one day to hiking to a gushing waterfall in the jungle the next. Plus, the national parks here are next-level. My favorites are  Manuel Antonio National Park  and  Tortuguero National Park . Costa Rica is paradise on earth, and as a solo female traveler, it’s absolutely ideal.

-READ NEXT-

A Complete guide to Costa Rica

19.  Finland

Finland is a fantastic destination for first-time solo travelers not only because of its beautiful scenery but also because it’s one of the safest places on Earth to travel alone in. Crime rates in Finland are astonishingly low, the people are super friendly, and you don’t have to know any Finnish because most people speak great English.

From idyllic cities like Helsinki to small coastal villages and wintry Nordic scenes, Finland is perfect for travelers who love the outdoors and don’t mind chilly temps.  Finnish Lapland  is one of the best places to visit in Europe in the wintertime, too, because of the unique celebrations of the region and the possibility of catching the northern lights.

20. Portugal

Gorgeous cobblestone streets, astounding seaside views , and warm hospitality all keep solo travelers coming back to Portugal over and over again. As one of Europe’s most affordable countries to visit, it’s become an excellent place for budget-conscious travelers as well. Pair that with amazing food, delicious wine, and stunning landscapes, and you’ve got yourself a world-class travel destination fit for adventurous women.

Like most of Europe, pickpockets are common in big cities like Lisbon and Porto, but overall, crime is still quite low here. Plus, Portuguese people tend to be friendly and willing to help visitors, so even if you’re alone, you don’t have to feel alone.

First Name:

So these are the 20 destinations that I have personally traveled to and think are perfect for first-time solo travelers. Which one will you choose?

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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Jerry James says

12/03/2018 at 3:50 am

Wow… awesome list there. From Asia to Europe, Europe to America and Africa, hard to pick destinations as there are many other places just like this, nevertheless you have crafted marvelous content, loved it. Hope to visit all those places. Firstly, I wanna got to Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal from Ammonite Adventures and then I will try to go through this list. Thanks !!!

Anil Kumar says

08/28/2019 at 2:38 am

I am a beginner solo traveler.I am going to start my first trip to Bhutan on this 1 st September.and want to see the world.need good suggestions and recommendations. I am 50 year old.

Vijay Patel says

03/28/2019 at 3:47 am

Wow! Amazing list about the destinations across the globe. One of my favorite place to visit is Thailand and my dream destination is California. These 2 are one of my favorite places. So, thank you for sharing just great and very helpful list of some of these travel destinations.

JoAnne says

04/11/2019 at 5:46 am

We’re you actually traveling solo? I was just wondering who took the pics.

This is great information.

Kristin says

04/11/2019 at 9:34 am

I took them, ye of little faith: https://www.bemytravelmuse.com/how-to-take-best-travel-selfies/

Whitney says

05/24/2019 at 9:09 am

Im new to global travel and I realize that my friends are not about this life?. I want to see the world and I am so down to do it as a solo traveler. Thanks for the post it has givien me lots of insight?

05/25/2019 at 11:28 am

Yay get it!

Mylene says

06/25/2019 at 10:02 pm

Sooner or later, I’ll start my fist solo travel! I hope so hahahaha

Frances says

07/15/2019 at 10:37 am

I have Christmas Holiday OFF (all 2 weeks)… any recommended places specifics to traveling alone for the Holidays? Thanks1

09/26/2019 at 7:15 am

Taiwan should be on this list!

09/26/2019 at 8:30 am

Agreed. I haven’t been back in over 10 years but it’s such a lovely place with friendly people.

Simon Payne says

12/30/2019 at 12:31 pm

Wow! Great stuff, thanks Kristen. I backpacked in 1992 as a young 20 year old and did many of the places you mention. I’ve just had my 50th and I am going to do it all over again. No distractions, just nature and me. Where are you now then? Simon.

12/30/2019 at 12:39 pm

Wow that’s amazing! I’m still traveling! Not done yet.

D. Styne says

03/07/2020 at 3:11 am

I am making some life memories fantasy about heading out to the entire world and investigating each culture that presents on the planet. In the wake of perusing your accommodating article, I think my 50 to 70% dream is finished and I now just set up the bank balance for it. This is an extremely helpful article for travelers and tourists who want to travel to the best places all around the world. In any case, it’s extremely supportive and you’re the best for imparting it to us. Keep this work ongoing.

Tina K. says

07/07/2020 at 7:16 pm

What a lovely and inspiring writer you are, not to mention an intrepid solo traveller. I found the content organized, informative and uplifting.

Thank-you. I am ready for my next journey

07/08/2020 at 11:07 am

Thanks Tina!

suzanjack says

09/24/2020 at 4:04 am

It’s a wonderful place to visit with friends thankyou for sharing with us , I am planning to visit Iceland with my friends but unfortunately, just because of COVID we cancel the plan. But definitely, we will visit there. Once again thank you for sharing beautiful places.

grasya.com says

02/23/2021 at 9:51 pm

I started traveling alone at a very young age. I agree Thailand and Malaysia are great countries to start with. I cant wait to explore more of this earth as a solo female traveler

Camilla Centerwall says

03/22/2022 at 1:17 am

I love the list of travel destinations! I also think that the Nordic countries of Sweden,Norway, Denmark and Finland could/should be on it! 🤗 So please come and visit! You are most welcome!

Fatima Ahmed says

03/28/2022 at 2:41 am

Hi Kristin,

Great blog! Kudos to your solo travels all around the world, very inspiring too.

I would like to suggest a few more to the list. I would add Albania, Czechia, Canary Islands, Austria and Poland where one can easily travel solo, saying from personal experience 😉

Good luck on future travels.

Kind regards

03/30/2022 at 9:20 am

Thanks for the additions!

04/18/2022 at 2:59 am

South Korea is also a great country for first time travellers. Safe, convenient and there are more English signs compared to Japan. It’s also a small country, so you can cover most key places just within 2-3 weeks. I would also like to add Hong Kong (& Macau), Taiwan, Vietnam, the UK, Denmark, the Netherlands and New York.

04/18/2022 at 2:42 pm

Great suggestions!

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in asia.

From megacities to remote islands, Asia's top travel spots offer a hearty dose of adventure, ancient history and culture. And with most Asian destinations now fully open after years of pandemic restrictions, there has never been a better time to plan a trip. After considering local prices, accessibility and the variety of attractions in each destination, along with traveler feedback, U.S. News ranked the best places to visit in Asia. Contribute to next year's list by casting your vote below.

Sagarmatha National Park

Railay beach, guilin and lijiang river national park.

If your dream vacation involves posting up on a postcard-worthy beach, the Maldives is for you. This far-flung destination, which is located about 370 miles from civilization in the Indian Ocean, is made up of more than 1,100 idyllic islands (roughly 200 of which are inhabited). The Maldives feature lush tropical landscapes, unparalleled white sand beaches, crystal-clear ocean waters and coral reefs that prompt extensive exploration. The best way to experience this slice of paradise? Stay in one of many overwater bungalows , of course.

Tokyo is as fast-paced as cities come – it's the most populated city in the world, after all. Japan's capital features neon-lit skyscrapers and crowded streets that novice visitors may find dizzying, but its one-of-a-kind offerings can't be missed. Spend days touring quirky museums, exploring fascinating architecture or visiting Odaiba for its premier shopping scene. Or, take in some quieter, more peaceful moments at a holy site like the Meiji Shrine or Sensoji Temple. Tokyo's unrivaled gastronomic landscape (think: sushi, ramen, sky-high cocktail bars and more Michelin darlings than you could hope to visit) also makes it a bucket list destination for foodies.

Phuket, Thailand's elongated beaches and cerulean waters embody a paradise that few other Asian destinations can rival. Besides swimming and relaxing on the beach, visitors can take traditional, wooden longtail boat tours to James Bond Island in Phang Nga Bay to see the surreal limestone rock formations that rise from the sea. The towering Big Buddha statue is also a top attraction, while Phuket's buzzing beach clubs and nightlife options hold appeal for those looking to let loose. What's more, like most destinations in Thailand, travelers can find relatively affordable lodging options here.

This Nepalese national park is famous for housing the behemoth that is Mount Everest, the highest point on earth, and promises a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. However, it is important to know that Sagarmatha is not just Everest. The UNESCO-listed park also offers several other sky-high Himalayan peaks, as well as sweeping valleys, scenic glaciers, deep gorges and incredible wildlife, including snow leopards and red pandas. Just note, seeing the park's top attractions typically requires at least two weeks of trekking, and due to Sagarmatha's high elevation and rocky, steep terrain, a trip here isn't for the faint of heart.

A British colony until 1997, Hong Kong's strong Western influence sets it apart from China's mainland metropolises. Beyond Hong Kong's sleek, towering skyscrapers (best admired from Victoria Peak), visitors can find natural and cultural gems on the more than 250 outlying islands, such as Lantau Island, or shop the city's bustling street markets. Dim sum is a must, but Hong Kong's robust dining scene also offers everything from street food to Michelin-starred fine dining. And when the sun goes down, watch the Symphony of Lights laser show dazzle the skyline along Victoria Harbor.

Tucked among lush mountains in northwest Thailand, Chiang Mai offers a sized-down version of Bangkok's buzz paired with a tranquil culture and natural beauty. Your urban itinerary should include tuk-tuk rides, tours of breathtaking temples like Wat Chedi Luang Varavihara and Wat Phra Singh, trips to night markets and a cooking class to try your hand at pad Thai. Then, step outside of the city walls to visit an ethical elephant sanctuary or two and a wander through beautiful Doi Suthep-Pui National Park.

History lovers and Instagrammers alike will revel in the sites of Kyoto. The city, which used to be Japan's capital until imperial times, is awash with centuries-old shrines and temples, including the gilded Kinkakuji and Fushimi Inari Taisha, a shrine that dates back to A.D. 711. In addition to saving time for religious sites, be sure to visit the famous Philosopher's Path, preferably during cherry blossom season, and the mystical Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. When hunger strikes, treat yourself to kaiseki: a traditional multicourse meal native to Japan. For another essential Japanese experience, stay at one of the many ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) in Kyoto. 

From the moment you touchdown at Singapore Changi Airport (a tourist destination in itself), Singapore shows off its futuristic embellishment. But this Southeast Asia jewel is also unique for its amalgamation of cultures. This fusion takes form in the city's colorful neighborhoods, eclectic culinary scene and overall modern atmosphere. After shopping on flashy Orchard Road and chowing down in cultural enclaves like Little India or Chinatown, head downtown to take in the towering skyscrapers from Merlion Park, the Singapore Flyer or the sky-high Gardens by the Bay.

The island nation of Sri Lanka, located off the southern tip of India, boasts rainforests, beaches and ruins without the tourist crowds of other popular Asian destinations. Despite its small footprint, Sri Lanka features 26 national parks, many of which are ideal for a safari excursion to encounter elephants, leopards and sloth bears. Meanwhile, ancient sites like Sigiriya, a 600-foot-high fortress, and the temples of Polonnaruwa hold their own appeal, and the palm-fringed golden beaches that line the shores are never too far away for those seeking a more laid-back vacation.

Hanoi is perfect for first-time Vietnam visitors, with tranquil lakes offsetting its fast-paced bustle and darting motorbikes. The country's capital offers plenty in the way of history, culture, shopping, dining and natural splendor. Start your day off with a Vietnamese coffee, then head to Hanoi's central Old Quarter for a stroll through the many narrow, colorful streets and a taste of mouthwatering street food. After that, check out one of the city's many temples, including the ancient Temple of Literature, which dates back to the 11th century, or head to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a must-visit for history buffs.

Bali's natural beauty is so profound, travelers have been known to refer to the Indonesian destination as "heaven on Earth." Here, lush rainforests, picturesque mountains, sweeping valleys and scenic beaches all sit side by side. You'll also find a handful of serene temples in this Southeast Asia hot spot, including Uluwatu and Tanah Lot temples – both excellent places to catch a sunset. And no first-time trip to Bali would be complete without on a visit to Ubud, Bali's cultural capital and home of the region's famous rice terraces.

Whether you visit in spring (for cherry blossoms), summer (for climbing), autumn (for foliage) or winter (for nearby ski resorts), Japan's highest peak and imposing attraction is sure to capture your attention. Mount Fuji lies about 60 miles southwest of Tokyo, perfect for a daytrip from the city or a glimpse from a train ride, but this active volcano is also worthy of deeper exploration. Base yourself in the Fuji Five Lakes area to enjoy picture-perfect views at Arakurayama Sengen Park or from one of Lake Kawaguchiko's onsens (hot springs), and don't leave without sampling local hoto noodles.  

If you only have time to go to one beach in Thailand, make it Railay Beach, one of the world's most beautiful beaches . Located in the country's Krabi province, Railay Beach features glistening white sands and is surrounded by limestone rock formations (covered in leafy green vegetation) that jut out from the sea. If you're feeling adventurous, explore the area's natural wonders with a rock climbing excursion or go for a nighttime kayak trip to see bioluminescent plankton. As if this beach destination couldn't get more alluring, you're only able to reach it by boat. Daytrips from nearby Ao Nang are popular among travelers.

Siem Reap is the home of Angkor Wat, an ornate Buddhist temple built in the 12th century that is believed to be the largest religious monument in the world. The impressive landmark is just one of many must-sees within Cambodia's UNESCO World Heritage Site of Angkor. The complex also includes the equally detailed Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm Temple. Because of the immense popularity of Angkor (the site receives millions of visitors per year), you may want to travel during a shoulder month like March or November to avoid bumping elbows with fellow travelers.

Travel to the capital of Indian state Rajasthan to marvel at the "Pink City's" incredible architecture. Hawa Mahal, a pink sandstone palace that was modeled after Hindu god Krishna's crown, is Jaipur's biggest claim to fame. The property's astounding 953 honeycomb-patterned windows allowed the original ladies of the royal family to view the comings and goings of the Indian city without being seen. Other structures worth seeing are the Jaigarh Fort, Panna Meena ka Kund and Jantar Mantar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that displays larger-than-life astronomical instruments.

Thailand's capital city is filled to the brim with eye-catching Hindu sites, nonstop nightlife and incredible Thai cuisine. Sacred sites like Wat Arun and Wat Pho are pockets of calm amidst Bangkok's skyscrapers. Shoppers can enjoy the Chatuchak Weekend Market, one of the world's largest street markets, or venture to one of the floating markets located outside the city. While in Bangkok, grab as much grub as possible from the street stalls, and at night, you won't want to miss the lofty views from one of the many rooftop bars.

This national park is so loved and respected, its image is featured on China's paper currency. Guilin and Lijiang River National Park is located in the Guangxi region in the southeastern part of China. The Lijiang River runs about 50 miles from Guilin to Yangshuo, passing stunning landscapes and towering green karsts (eroded limestone) along the way. The best way to take in the otherworldly scenery is by boat cruise, though you may want to splurge on a luxury option since the trip can take up to five hours. Tourists who prefer to travel on their own time can also hike or bike along the river.

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How To Solo Travel Southeast Asia

When it comes to solo travel, most people start in Southeast Asia.

Solo travel to Southeast Asia is one of the best ways to break into a solo travel lifestyle because it’s safe, easy to get around, and the people are so friendly.

That being said, it’s true that being a solo female traveler is more challenging than travelling with a group or as a man.

You may face unwanted male attention and are sometimes seen as an easy target for touts in the street.

Some countries in Asia may have different attitudes towards women that you need to be aware of too.

However, the hard experiences will make you stronger as a person and reward you with many unique travel experiences and insights (and lots of funny travel stories too).

If you’re thinking of traveling in Asia as a solo female traveler, below you will find some practical tips on how to travel Southeast Asia solo.

Walk with confidence

Relax when you arrive in a new place, learn the language, let people know where you are at all times, don’t be alone, wear a smile on your face, arrive in new places in the daytime, carry a personal safety alarm, stay in safe accommodation, trust your gut instinct, have an itinerary.

• Join group tours if you're nervous
• Don't drink the tap water

Get a local sim card

Try the street food, check the visa requirements, other safety tips, best places to solo travel in southeast asia, final thoughts on solo travel in southeast asia, pin to save on pinterest:, solo female travel tips for southeast asia.

Despite how safe travel is in South East Asia , it’s always wise to take simple precautions to avoid getting into trouble.

Here are my tips for staying safe on the road as a female solo traveller, picked up from over six-months of full-time solo travel around Asia.

When you are travelling long term, you’ll arrive in new places all of the time.

For the first day or two in a new destination, you are particularly vulnerable to being seen as an easy target.

To avoid this, walk with an air of confidence in new places, even when you just arrive with your backpack on your back.

Stand up straight and if people hassle you pretend that you have somewhere to go. If you are seriously in trouble, walk up to another foreigner and pretend to be friends. 99% of the time they will understand and help you.

When you arrive in a new place, you are vulnerable and most likely stressed due to the swarms of tuk tuk drivers and people trying to escort you to their hotels.

Take a minute to adjust to the new place. Look around and acclimatise, maybe even buy a coffee and have time to adjust.

After a rest, you’ll be more alert and relaxed and be less vulnerable.

Many people have respect for you, when you make an effort to speak their language.

They may also think that you have a local husband so might go out of their way to be friendly and helpful.

Try to learn by downloading podcasts to listen to on long bus rides or by making friends with locals who speak English.

It doesn’t matter how much of the language you know; many people will be so proud and happy to hear you utter ‘Thank you ‘ in their mother tongue.

The more people who recognise you and know where you are going in your hostel, the more likely they are to worry about you if they don’t see you for a while.

I always make friends in the dorm and tell them what I will be doing on that day, hopefully they would spread the alarm if something happens to you and you’re not back at night.

I always try to update my Facebook as much as possible and let people at home know where I am and if I will be in an area with no internet for a while.

This seems like a hard task for a solo traveller, but most incidences of assault happen when the victim is alone. Try to be around other tourists on transport and when sight-seeing in the day.

Try not to walk in a secluded area at night. Women in foreign countries will usually be helpful in times of need if local men are harassing you.

Read : Why you’ll never be lonely when you travel alone

Many people in Asia react very strongly to people who become aggressive.

It’s hard to stay calm, when you have people surrounding you to sell you things.

Have a smile on your face, so people react more kindly to you and just say ‘no’ with a smile on your face and a shake of your head.

Read more : Are you smiling on your travels ?

I always try and avoid arriving in new places at night alone. It makes you more of a target and public transportation options may be limited.

If it’s impossible to arrive in the day, get a reputable taxi to your accommodation or try to travel with other travellers you meet on the way.

You’ll hopefully never need to use it, but carrying a safety alarm, such as a safety whistle, gives you an extra air of confidence and can make you feel safer when travelling solo.

Stay in places that have high ratings on sites, such as Hostelbookers, and those that have a reputation for being safe. If the room does not seem secure, don’t stay there.

Accommodation is plentiful and cheap in South East Asia so you are bound to find somewhere secure easily.

This is the best tip that I could ever give you. Trust your intuition and gut feelings at all times.

If you meet a friendly person on the bus who wants to share a room, but something just doesn’t feel right, don’t share a room.

If you need to get out of a situation just lie and make up an excuse.

The good thing about being a traveller is that you are anonymous, no one knows who you are and you should use that to your full advantage to lie if you need to get out of a bad situation.

When visiting Asian countries, you will find there is so much to see and do, from historic temples to diving trips to beaches and waterfalls.

It’s easy to get caught up and want to do everything.

My top tip for beginners to solo travel is to have a list of the best places to see and prioritize which ones are important to you.

If it’s your first solo trip, then stick to the tourist trail and don’t go off the beaten path.

Join group tours if you’re nervous

Group tours are a great way to ease into solo female travel life.

They allow you to meet people, and who knows, you may even meet some travel friends to travel with after.

They are a great way to get introduced to a country and a way of life.

Don’t drink the tap water

In some places, tap water is safe in SE Asia, but in others it’s really bad.

Wherever you go, play it safe and drink bottled water.

The best way to get connected is to get a local sim card.

You can get many different plans, but sim cards are really cheap and the coverage is good in SE Asia.

You can get a sim card from most 7-Eleven stores, or look for telecom providers in that city and go to a shop.

Don’t get a sim card from the airport, if possible, it’s ridiculously overpriced.

The best option if you have an unlocked phone, is to purchase an eSim . It’s easy, and automatic, and you don’t need to run around the destination trying to find a sim and then understand how it works. Airalo is our preferred esim provider.

Street food in Asia is a way of life. You might think that it’s unclean and you’re going to get sick, but you honestly won’t if you know what to look for.

When trying street food, make sure you follow these tips:

• Make sure the food is piping hot
• Pick a place that has lots of people
• Pick a place where you sit outside on little stools
• Make sure they are cooking on an open fire
• If the chef is an old woman, you know it’s going to be good.
• Look out for flies. If there are a lot of flies over the meat, it’s probably not good.

Check out these places to eat street food in Bangkok

Most countries need a visa for Vietnam and Laos, so make sure you have the documentation and everything you need prepared weeks in advance!

I had to extend my trip in Laos because I had to wait for my Vietnam visa to be approved.

Make sure you have all the documents exactly how they wanted it.

The first time I applied for a Vietnam visa, the photo wasn’t clear enough so they declined it.

The immigration officers are incredibly picky, so save yourself some time and make sure all your application steps are perfect.

Here are some tips that you may have heard many times before. It’s always good to have a recap once in a while though:

• Don’t flash your valuables about
• Try not to walk alone late at night
• Don’t accept drinks from strangers in bars
• Lock your valuables in lockers when you can
• Wear your bag over your body to avoid bag snatchers
• Wear clothes that are appropriate to the country you are visiting
• If you rent a scooter, test the breaks thoroughly. Most bikes in SE Asia are not well maintained.

If you’re not sure where to start your solo travel adventures in Southeast Asia, here are some places I recommend:

• Singapore – it’s expensive, and there’s not much to see and do, but the culture is not too far off what you might find in Europe or the United States, so it’s a great first destination to get used to the climate and fast-paced Asia life without being too culture shocked.
• Siem Reap, Cambodia – this is the gateway to the famous Angkor Wat and is a relaxing, chilled city with friendly locals and a backpacker vibe. Phnom Penh is great for museums and learning about the country’s history, but Siem Reap has a special vibe. Here are things to know before visiting Cambodia .
• Luang Prabang, Laos – this is a small city with a river running through it. Like Siam Reap, it has a small backpacker vibe with a relaxed atmosphere.
• El Nido, Palawan, The Philippine s – you won’t find nature anywhere in the world more stunning. Plus, there are lots of travelers here to meet.
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – it’s a bit like Singapore in the way that it’s quite modernized, so it makes a great first stop for first time solo travelers who might be nervous.
• Bali, Indonesia – you will either love or hate Bali. It’s overrun with tourists nowadays, but it’s still undeniably beautiful. If you want to meet other travelers, you will have to try very hard not to meet people in Bali.
• Taiwan – this is a very safe, very small country that’s really easy to get around. It’s not the cheapest country in SE Asia, but it has a very unique culture and is very easy to feel at home in.
• Chiang Mai, Thailand – this is another popular place in SE Asia to meet people. Northern Thailand has some of the most beautiful nature, and unlike Bangkok, it’s a lot more chill. In fact, Pai is a backpacker’s haven.
• Hoi An, Vietnam – Vietnam can be chaotic, especially in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi where scooters drive on any path they find. Hoi An is a lot more chilled and relaxing, but still cheap and pretty. Hue is also a great city for solo female travelers as it has lots to see and do and places to meet people.
• Flores, Indonesia – if you like island life, Flores is for you. It’s laid-back and peaceful, and not quite as overcrowded as Bali. Lombok is also a cool island with volcanoes, hikes and a breathtaking landscape.

There is always a lot of scare mongering whenever people talk about solo traveling, especially as a woman, but don’t let them put you off travelling solo.

It’s one of the greatest things that I have ever done in my life and has changed my personality for the better.

After you have travelled solo you can do anything.

Keep alert and stay safe to ensure that your trip is memorable for the right reasons!

Bio: Pearlsandpassports is a solo female travel blog that will tell you the realities of travelling solo through Asia and Oceania. At 26 Stephanie embarked on the trip of a lifetime after securing a sabbatical from her high stress job. She has one goal: to discover her passion in life. Six months and Eight countries later Stephanie has a wealth of travel stories and advice that will help and inspire new or experienced backpackers. Follow Stephanie on her adventures as she learns about herself and the world around her.

What’s your best tip for solo female travel in South East Asia? Let us know in the comments.

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.

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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Diverse Cultures and Shared Experiences Shape Asian American Identities

About six-in-ten feel connected to other asians in the u.s., table of contents.

• The making of Asian American identity and knowledge of Asian history in the U.S.
• Immigrant ties shape Asian Americans' identities and their life in the U.S.
• Asians in the U.S. share similar views among themselves and with the U.S. public on what it means to be American
• How Asians in the U.S. describe their identity
• Asian adults and the general public agree: U.S. Asians have many different cultures
• Whom do U.S. Asians consider Asian?
• A majority of Asian adults say others would describe them as Asian when walking past them on the street
• For many Asian adults, where they were born shapes friendships formed in the U.S.
• Most Asian adults are comfortable with intermarriage
• Some Asians say they have hidden their heritage
• Connections with other Asian Americans, politics and political parties
• Need for a national leader advancing the concerns of Asian Americans
• Asian American registered voters and political party
• About one-quarter of Asian adults say they are informed about U.S. Asian history
• What being ‘truly American’ means to U.S. Asians
• Fewer than half of U.S. Asians consider themselves typical Americans
• What do Asian Americans view as important for the American dream?
• Most Asian adults say the American dream is within reach, but about a quarter say they will never achieve it
• Acknowledgments
• Sample design
• Data collection
• Weighting and variance estimation
• Largest origin groups
• Educational attainment
• Immigration status
• Length of time living in the U.S. among immigrants
• Citizenship status among immigrants

Pew Research Center conducted this analysis to understand the rich diversity of people of Asian origin or ancestry living in the United States and their views of identity. The study is part of the Center’s multiyear, comprehensive, in-depth quantitative and qualitative research effort focused on the nation’s Asian population. Its centerpiece is this nationally representative survey of 7,006 Asian adults exploring the experiences, attitudes and views of Asians living in the U.S. The survey sampled U.S. adults who self-identify as Asian, either alone or in combination with other races or Hispanic ethnicity. It was offered in six languages: Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), English, Hindi, Korean, Tagalog and Vietnamese. Responses were collected from July 5, 2022, to Jan. 27, 2023, by Westat on behalf of Pew Research Center.

The Center recruited a large sample to examine the diversity of the U.S. Asian population, with oversamples of the Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Korean and Vietnamese populations. These are the five largest origin groups among Asian Americans. The survey also includes a large enough sample of self-identified Japanese adults, making findings about them reportable. In this report, the six largest ethnic groups include those who identify with one Asian ethnicity only, either alone or in combination with a non-Asian race or ethnicity. Together, these six groups constitute 81% of all U.S. Asian adults, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of the Census Bureau’s 2021 American Community Survey (ACS), and are the six groups whose attitudes and opinions are highlighted throughout the report. Survey respondents were drawn from a national sample of residential mailing addresses, which included addresses from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Specialized surnames list frames maintained by the Marketing Systems Group were used to supplement the sample. Those eligible to complete the survey were offered the opportunity to do so online or by mail with a paper questionnaire. For more details, see the Methodology . For questions used in this analysis, see the Topline Questionnaire .

The survey research plan and questionnaire were reviewed and approved by Westat’s institutional review board (IRB), which is an external and independent committee of experts specializing in protecting the rights of research participants.

Even though the U.S. Asian population was the fastest growing racial and ethnic group in the country from 2000 to 2019 , it is still a relatively small population. According to the 2021 American Community Survey, the country’s Asian population constitutes 7% of the U.S. population (of all ages) and 7% of adults (those ages 18 and older).

Pew Research Center designed this study with these details in mind to be as inclusive as possible of the diversity of Asian American experiences. Even so, survey research is limited when it comes to documenting the views and attitudes of the less populous Asian origin groups in the U.S. To address this, the survey was complemented by 66 pre-survey focus groups of Asian adults , conducted from Aug. 4 to Oct. 14, 2021, with 264 recruited participants from 18 Asian origin groups. Focus group discussions were conducted in 18 different languages and moderated by members of their origin groups.

Findings for less populous Asian origin groups in the U.S., those who are not among the six largest Asian origin groups, are grouped under the category “Other” in this report and are included in the overall Asian adult findings in the report. These ethnic origin groups each make up about 2% or less of the Asian population in the U.S., making it challenging to recruit nationally representative samples for each origin group. The group “Other” includes those who identify with one Asian ethnicity only, either alone or in combination with a non-Asian race or Hispanic ethnicity. Findings for those who identify with two or more Asian ethnicities are not presented by themselves in this report but are included in the overall Asian adult findings.

To learn more about how members of less populous Asian origin groups in the U.S. identify, see the quote sorter based on our focus group discussions. There, you can read how participants describe their identity in their own words.

For this analysis, an additional national survey of 5,132 U.S. adults was conducted from Dec. 5 to 11, 2022, using Pew Research Center’s American Trends Panel . The survey of U.S. adults was conducted in English and Spanish. Respondents are recruited through national, random sampling of residential addresses.

Pew Research Center has conducted multiple studies that focus on Asian Americans. Previous demographic studies examined the diversity of origins , key facts , and rising income inequality among Asians living in the U.S. and key findings about U.S. immigrants. Qualitative studies have focused on what it means to be Asian in America as well as barriers to English language learning among Asian immigrants. Previous surveys have focused on concerns over discrimination and violence against Asian Americans, as well as studies about their religious beliefs . Find these publications and more on the Center’s Asian Americans topic page .

Pew Research Center is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts, its primary funder. The Center’s Asian American portfolio was funded by The Pew Charitable Trusts, with generous support from The Asian American Foundation; Chan Zuckerberg Initiative DAF, an advised fund of the Silicon Valley Community Foundation; the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation; the Henry Luce Foundation; the Doris Duke Foundation; The Wallace H. Coulter Foundation; The Dirk and Charlene Kabcenell Foundation; The Long Family Foundation; Lu-Hebert Fund; Gee Family Foundation; Joseph Cotchett; the Julian Abdey and Sabrina Moyle Charitable Fund; and Nanci Nishimura.

We would also like to thank the Leaders Forum for its thought leadership and valuable assistance in helping make this survey possible.

The strategic communications campaign used to promote the research was made possible with generous support from the Doris Duke Foundation.

The terms Asian, Asians living in the United States , U.S. Asian population and Asian Americans are used interchangeably throughout this report to refer to U.S. adults who self-identify as Asian, either alone or in combination with other races or Hispanic identity.

Ethnicity and ethnic origin labels, such as Chinese and Chinese origin, are used interchangeably in this report for findings for ethnic origin groups, such as Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Japanese, Korean or Vietnamese. For this report, ethnicity is not nationality. For example, Chinese in this report are those self-identifying as of Chinese ethnicity, rather than necessarily being a current or former citizen of the People’s Republic of China. Ethnic origin groups in this report include those who self-identify as one Asian ethnicity only, either alone or in combination with a non-Asian race or ethnicity.

Less populous Asian origin groups in this report are those who self-identify with ethnic origin groups that are not among the six largest Asian origin groups. The term includes those who identify with only one Asian ethnicity. These ethnic origin groups each represent about 2% or less of the overall Asian population in the U.S. For example, those who identify as Burmese, Hmong or Pakistani are included in this category. These groups are unreportable on their own due to small sample sizes, but collectively they are reportable under this category.

The terms Asian origins and Asian origin groups are used interchangeably throughout this report to describe ethnic origin groups.

Immigrants in this report are people who were not U.S. citizens at birth – in other words, those born outside the U.S., Puerto Rico or other U.S. territories to parents who are not U.S. citizens. I mmigrant , first generation and foreign born are used interchangeably to refer to this group.  

Naturalized citizens are immigrants who are lawful permanent residents who have fulfilled the length of stay and other requirements to become U.S. citizens and who have taken the oath of citizenship.

U.S. born refers to people born in the 50 U.S. states or the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico or other U.S. territories.

Second generation refers to people born in the 50 states or the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico or other U.S. territories with at least one first-generation (immigrant) parent.

Third or higher generation refers to people born in the 50 states or the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico or other U.S. territories with both parents born in the 50 states, D.C., Puerto Rico or other U.S. territories.

The nation’s Asian population is fast growing and diverse. Numbering more than 23 million, the population has ancestral roots across the vast, ethnically and culturally rich Asian continent. For Asians living in the United States, this diversity is reflected in how they describe their own identity. According to a new, nationwide, comprehensive survey of Asian adults living in the U.S., 52% say they most often use ethnic labels that reflect their heritage and family roots, either alone or together with “American,” to describe themselves. Chinese or Chinese American, Filipino or Filipino American, and Indian or Indian American are examples of these variations.

There are other ways in which Asians living in the U.S. describe their identity. About half (51%) of Asian adults say they use American on its own (10%), together with their ethnicity (25%) or together with “Asian” as Asian American (16%) when describing their identity, highlighting their links to the U.S.

And while pan-ethnic labels such as Asian and Asian American are commonly used to describe this diverse population broadly, the new survey shows that when describing themselves, just 28% use the label Asian (12%) on its own or the label Asian American (16%).

The survey also finds that other labels are used by Asian Americans. Some 6% say they most often prefer regional terms such as South Asian and Southeast Asian when describing themselves.

Asian adults see more cultural differences than commonalities across their group as well. When asked to choose between two statements – that Asians in the U.S. share a common culture, or that Asians in the U.S. have many different cultures – nearly all (90%) say U.S. Asians have many different cultures. Just 9% say Asians living in the U.S. share a common culture. This view is widely held across many demographic groups among Asian Americans, according to the survey.

The view that Asian Americans have many different cultures is also one held by the general public, according to another Pew Research Center survey of U.S. adults, conducted in December 2022. Among all U.S. adults, 80% say Asians in the U.S. have many different cultures, while 18% say they share a common culture. 1

Though Asian Americans’ identities reflect their diverse cultures and origins, Asian adults also report certain shared experiences. A majority (60%) say most people would describe them as “Asian” while walking past them on the street, indicating most Asian adults feel they are seen by others as a single group, despite the population’s diversity. One-in-five say they have hidden a part of their heritage (their ethnic food, cultural practices, ethnic clothing or religious practices) from others who are not Asian, in some cases out of fear of embarrassment or discrimination. Notably, Asian adults ages 18 to 29 are more likely to say they have done this than Asians 65 and older (39% vs. 5%).

Asian adults in the U.S. also feel connected with other Asian Americans. About six-in-ten (59%) say that what happens to Asians in the U.S. affects their own lives, at least to some extent. 2 And about two-thirds (68%) of Asian Americans say it is extremely or very important to have a national leader advocating for the concerns and needs of the Asian population in the U.S.

The new survey also shows that large majorities of Asian adults share similar views on what it takes to be considered truly American. And they consider many of the same factors to be important in their views of the American dream.

These are among the key findings from Pew Research Center’s new survey of Asian American adults, conducted by mail and online from July 5, 2022, to Jan. 27, 2023. This is the largest nationally representative survey of its kind to date that focused on Asian Americans. The survey was conducted in English and five Asian languages, among a representative sample of 7,006 Asian adults living in the United States. 

Asian Americans are 7% of the U.S. population, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of the 2021 American Community Survey. Their population is diverse, with roots in more than 20 countries in East Asia, Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. About 54% of the national Asian population are immigrants. The six largest origin groups (Chinese, Filipino, Indian, Japanese, Korean and Vietnamese), a focus of this survey and report, together account for 79% of all Asian Americans.

Overall, about 34% of Asian Americans are the U.S.-born children of immigrant parents, and another 14% are of third or higher generation (meaning their parents were born in the U.S. as well), according to a Pew Research Center analysis of the 2022 Current Population Survey, March Annual Social and Economic Supplement.

This survey and report focus on Asian adults in the U.S. The six largest origin groups together account for 81% of Asian adults. And 68% of Asian American adults are immigrants, according to Center analysis of the 2021 American Community Survey. Additionally, 25% are the U.S.-born children of immigrant parents and 10% are of third or higher generation, according to Center analysis of government data.

The pan-ethnic term “Asian American” emerged in Berkeley, California, in the 1960s as part of a political movement to organize the diverse U.S. Asian population. The creation of an Asian American identity was in reaction to a long history of exclusion of Asians in the country, including the 1882 Chinese Exclusion Act and a pair of Supreme Court cases in the 1920s clarifying that Asians, including South Asians, are not “free White persons” and therefore were excluded from becoming naturalized U.S. citizens. 3 Subsequently, the term was adopted by the federal government and today is the principal identity label used by media, academics, researchers and others to describe today’s diverse Asian American population.

In most cases today, someone is considered Asian or Asian American if they self-identify as such. But Asian Americans do not necessarily agree on which regional or ethnic groups from the Asian continent they consider to be Asian, according to the new survey. The vast majority of Asian adults say they consider those from East Asia, such as Chinese or Koreans (89%); Southeast Asia, such as Vietnamese or Filipinos (88%); and to a lesser extent South Asia such as Indians or Pakistanis (67%) to be Asian.

But Asian adults are split on whether they consider Central Asians such as Afghans or Kazakhs to be Asian (43% of Asian adults say they are). While about half of Indian adults (56%) say they would include Central Asians in the category Asian, fewer than half of Filipino (40%), Chinese (39%), Japanese (34%), Korean (32%) and Vietnamese (30%) adults consider them Asian.

Few Asians say they are knowledgeable about U.S. Asian history

Asian Americans have a long history in the United States. From Chinese laborers who helped build the first transcontinental railroad, to Japanese immigrants who arrived as plantation workers in what is now the state of Hawaii, to the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II, to Filipinos being treated as U.S. nationals while the Philippines was a U.S. territory, the Asian American experience has been a part of U.S. history.

With the passage of the landmark Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, a new wave of immigrants from Asia began arriving in the United States, creating a new, contemporary U.S. Asian history. The Vietnam War and other conflicts in Southeast Asia brought Vietnamese and other Southeast Asian refugees to the U.S. , first with the passage of the 1975 Indochina Migration and Refugee Assistance Act and then with the Refugee Act of 1980. The 1990 Immigration Act raised immigration ceilings and set in place processes that allowed the flows of Asian immigrants, particularly of high-skilled immigrants, to continue and expand. The U.S. technology boom of the 1990s and 2000s attracted many high-skilled immigrants, particularly from India and China, to tech centers around the country.

This rich history, however, is little-known to Asian adults, according to the new survey. One-in-four (24%) say they are very or extremely informed about history of Asians in the United States, while an equal share (24%) say they are little or not at all informed.

The majority of those very or extremely informed about the history of Asians in the U.S. say they learned about this history through informal channels: internet (82%), media (76%) and family and friends (70%). In contrast, 49% learned about it from college or university courses and 39% from elementary through high school.

Immigrant ties shape Asian Americans’ identities and their life in the U.S.

Immigration experiences, connections with home countries, and how long someone has lived in the U.S. shape many Asian Americans’ identities. Among Asian adults in the U.S., immigrants are more likely than those who are U.S. born to describe their identity most often with their ethnic labels, either alone or together with the label American (56% vs. 41%).

Meanwhile, Asian immigrants are less likely than U.S.-born Asians (46% vs. 65%) to say they most often describe themselves as American in some way – whether by their ethnic label combined with American, as Asian American, or simply as American. Still, nearly half of Asian immigrants describe themselves in one of these three ways.

When it comes to identifying with the label Asian – either alone or as Asian American – immigrant and U.S.-born Asians are about equally likely to say they do so (28% and 29% respectively). Immigrant Asians are less likely than U.S.-born Asians to identify most often as Asian American (14% vs. 21%).

On the question of seeing themselves more as a “typical American” or “very different from a typical American,” Asian immigrant adults are far less likely than those born in the U.S. to think of themselves as a typical American (37% vs. 69%).

Nativity is also tied to how Asians in the U.S. develop their friendships. Those who immigrated to the U.S. are more likely to have friends who are Asian or of the same ethnicity as them than are U.S.-born Asians (56% vs. 38%).

Asian immigrants (15%) are also less likely than U.S.-born Asians (32%) to have ever hidden a part of their heritage from people who are not Asian. When asked in an open-ended question to explain why they hide aspects of their culture, some U.S.-born respondents mentioned phrases such as “fear of discrimination,” “being teased” and “embarrassing.”

Views of identity among Asian American immigrants are often tied to time spent in the U.S.

How long Asian immigrants have lived in the U.S. also shapes their identity and experiences. Those who arrived in the U.S. in the past 10 years are more likely than those who arrived more than 20 years ago to say they most often use their ethnicity, such as Filipino or Vietnamese, to describe themselves. And about two-thirds (65%) of those who arrived in the U.S. in the past decade describe their identity most often with their ethnicity’s name, either alone or combined with American, compared with 54% among those who have been in the country for more than two decades.

Roughly half (54%) of those who have arrived in the past 10 years say they most often use only their ethnicity to describe themselves, compared with just 21% of those who arrived more than two decades ago who say the same.

On the other hand, just 17% of Asian immigrants who arrived in the country in the past 10 years describe themselves most often as American, by their ethnic label combined with American, or as Asian American, while 59% of those who arrived more than 20 years ago do so.

When it comes to their circle of friends, 60% of Asian immigrants who arrived in the past 10 years say most or all of their friends are also Asian Americans, while 50% of those who arrived more than 20 years ago say the same.

And when asked if they think of themselves as typical Americans or not, Asian immigrants who arrived in the U.S. in the past decade are substantially less likely than those who arrived more than two decades ago to say they are typical Americans (20% vs. 48%).

The new survey also explored the views Asian Americans have about traits that make one “truly American.” Overall, Asian Americans and the general U.S. population share similar views of what it means to be American. Nearly all Asian adults and U.S. adults say that accepting people of diverse racial and religious backgrounds (94% and 91%), believing in individual freedoms (92% and 94%) and respecting U.S. political institutions and laws (89% and 87%) are important for being truly American.

Similarly, Asian Americans and the U.S. general population share in their views about the American dream. They say having freedom of choice in how to live one’s life (96% and 97% respectively), having a good family life (96% and 94%), retiring comfortably (96% and 94%) and owning a home (both 86%) are important to their view of the American dream. Smaller shares of Asian and U.S. adults (30% and 27%) say owning a business is important to their view of the American dream.

Here are other survey findings highlighting the diverse views and attitudes of Asian adults living in the U.S.:

• Indian adults are the most likely of the six largest Asian origin groups to say they most often use their ethnicity, without the addition of “American,” to describe themselves. About four-in-ten Indian adults (41%) say they do this. By comparison, smaller shares of Korean (30%), Filipino (29%), Chinese (26%) and Vietnamese (23%) adults do the same. Japanese adults (14%) are the least likely among the largest groups to use their ethnic identity term alone.
• Japanese adults are the least likely among the largest Asian origin groups to say they have friendships with other Asians. About one-in-three Japanese adults (34%) say most or all their friends share their own ethnicity or are otherwise Asian. By contrast, about half of all Indian (55%), Vietnamese (55%), Chinese (51%), Korean (50%) and Filipino (48%) respondents say the same.
• One-in-four Korean adults (25%) say they have hidden part of their heritage from people who are not Asian. Some 20% of Indian, 19% of Chinese, 18% of Vietnamese, 16% of Filipino and 14% of Japanese adults say they have done the same.
• Across the largest ethnic groups, about half or more say that what happens to Asians in the U.S. affects what happens in their own lives. About two-thirds of Korean (67%) and Chinese (65%) adults say this. By comparison, 61% of Japanese, 54% of Filipino, 55% of Indian and 52% of Vietnamese adults say they are impacted by what happens to Asians nationally.
• Most Asian adults among the largest ethnic origin groups say a national leader advancing the U.S. Asian community’s concerns is important. Roughly three-in-four Filipino (74%) and Chinese (73%) adults say it is very or extremely important to for the U.S. Asian community to have a national leader advancing its concerns. A majority of Vietnamese (69%), Korean (66%), Japanese (63%) and Indian adults (62%) says the same.  
• About half of Vietnamese registered voters (51%) identify with or lean to the Republican Party. In contrast, about two-thirds of Indian (68%), Filipino (68%) and Korean (67%) registered voters identify with or lean toward the Democratic Party. And 56% of Chinese registered voters also associate with the Democratic Party. 
• This finding is from a nationally representative survey of 5,132 U.S. adults conducted by Pew Research Center from Dec. 5 to 11, 2022, using the Center’s American Trends Panel . ↩
• In recent years, a major source of concern and fear among many Asian adults in the U.S. has been the rise in reported violence against Asian Americans . ↩
• For more on the history of the creation of an Asian American identity, see Lee, Jennifer and Karthick Ramakrishnan. 2019. “ Who counts as Asian .” Ethnic and Racial Studies. ↩

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