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Ko Phangan

Is Ko Phangan safe for solo female travelers?

Ko Phangan is generally a safe destination for solo female travelers. Like anywhere, one must always be cautious and aware of their surroundings, but this tropical paradise is known for its friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere. The island is well-settled and developed with tourism as the primary industry, so locals are helpful and protective towards tourists. The most popular events like the Full Moon Party can get crowded and are known for pickpockets, so it's important to keep your belongings secure. Usually, violent crime is very low. However, women should be careful when alone at night, especially on deserted beaches or less populated areas. Using common sense and basic precautions will make your stay quite safe and enjoyable.

Safety rating

3.1 /5

Based on 3 travel experiences

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is Ko Phangan?

Safety at night:Moderate

Ko Phangan is generally safe, with locals being friendly, hospitable, and respectful towards foreigners. However, it is advised for a solo female traveler to be cautious especially at night. Dark alleyways should be avoided and always try to stick to well-lighted areas. The island is notorious for its full moon parties and at these times, it might be crowded with tourists giving rise to the potential for petty crimes like pickpocketing. It's essential to ensure your drinks are not spiked in bars. Walking alone at night is okay in busy areas, but it's always recommended to use a reputable taxi service where possible.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Ko Phangan, is considered generally safe for solo female travelers. The island has a variety of public transportation options available, including taxis, tuk-tuks, and shared vans. However, it is recommended to negotiate prices before commencing the journey to avoid any unexpected charges. Nighttime travel may require extra precautions. Always keep personal belongings close and stay alert in crowded areas.

Street harassment:Low

Ko Phangan in Thailand is generally a friendly destination for solo female travelers. Harassment on the streets is not a common issue as the locals are respectful and the island's establishments are accustomed to seeing women travelers. However, like any tourist destination, it is recommended to stay vigilant, especially during the full moon parties.

Petty crimes:Low

Ko Phangan, known for its enchanting beaches and Full Moon party, is generally a safe place for solo female travelers. Petty crimes are not common, but some instances of bag-snatching or pickpocketing may occur, especially in crowded areas or during large gatherings. Therefore, it's always wise to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuable objects too openly.

Tap water:Unsafe

Tap water in Ko Phangan is generally not recommended for consumption. Despite it being used for cleaning and bathing, drinking it may increase the risk of getting travellers' diarrhea or other waterborne illnesses. To stay safe and healthy, it's better to opt for bottled water, make sure it's sealed, or use purification methods like boiling or using a quality water filter.

Is Ko Phangan safe to travel?

3.1 /5

Based on 3 experiences

Sophia (17)

Israel

Solo travel experience

Ko phangan is amazing, honestly I didn't go to the full moon and half moon parties that the island is known for because it's not my style but there are also many attractions if that's what you're into, I went a lot to the beautiful beaches and lakes and the Saturday and Sunday food markets are to die for. The best way to move around in ko phangan is with a motorcycle that you can rent really cheap, there is no public transportation, there are open taxis but I think in the end it turns out much more expensive. I didn't have a motorcycle so I walked a lot, almost every day I took a taxi once, nice experience but wouldn't do again and my mom drove me if she could. I stayed at my mom's house, so I traveled alone most of my time but still had company. I felt very safe walking around the island alone, the locals are so nice and friendly, even though most don't know english and there are so many tourists. I personally loved it

Posted: April 21, 2024Experienced: August, 2023

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Is Ko Phangan safe right now?

Before your visit to Ko Phangan, it's essential to check travel advisories for Thailand, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.

🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryTake normal security precautions

The United States Government advises exercising normal precautions in Thailand, though some areas may pose an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: July 24, 2023

🇨🇦

Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises: Exercise a high degree of caution in Thailand due to ongoing political tensions and sporadic demonstrations in Bangkok and elsewhere in the country. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: April 16, 2024

🇦🇺

Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Thailand overall due to security and safety risks. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: April 23, 2024

Is Ko Phangan worth visiting?

Overall rating

2.9 /5

based on 3 experiences

Solo travel experience

I didn’t feel like a place for solo travelers, a bit expensive for what offers to you. It’s all about money, people are not friendly as we think. The food is all about lemon grass, all have this flavor or curry.

Posted: November 6, 2023

Things to do: 2/5Food: 2/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 1/5

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nicole

Thailand

Solo travel experience

I was volunteering in a hotel for 12 days. I didn’t really enjoy the working experience but I loved the island, there is so much to see! I also didn’t go to the parties as much as I wanted to because I travel as a backpacker and therefore I have a low budget.

Posted: October 30, 2023

Things to do: 5/5Food: 5/5Budget-friendly: 5/5Safety: 5/5