Is Asia Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Asiain general, has both very safe and considerably less safe areas. Countries like Japan, Singapore, South Korea tend to be incredibly safe for solo female travelers due to their strict laws and low crime rates. On the other hand, there are regions where extra precautions are necessary due to cultural differences, stricter societies or higher crime rates. It's crucial to research both the cultural customs and latest travel advisories of your specific destinations before embarking on your journey.

Safety rating

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How safe is Asia?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Moderate

Safety in Asia at night can vary greatly depending on the region and city. While certain areas are generally safe with well-lit streets, busy night markets, and continuous police presence, others may be more secluded, with poorly lit streets, which can increase potential risks. As a solo female traveler, it is always crucial to research your specific location's neighborhood and follow local safety advice. Remain alert, aware of your surroundings, and avoid getting isolated especially during late hours.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Asia tends to be reliable and somewhat comfortable to travel in for solo female travelers. In most cities and populated areas, the system is organized, efficient, and regular in service. Buses, trains, subways, and ferries are mostly safe, well maintained, and surveyed through CCTV cameras. However, it is still advisable to stay cautious, especially during late hours or in less crowded areas. Some problems could arise from cultural misunderstandings or language barriers, but overall, traveling through public transport should not pose a significant problem.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Moderate

The level of street harassment in Asia often varies by country and can fluctuate between regions within those countries. Some areas are quite respectful and you'll rarely experience any form of harassment at all, while in others you might encounter mild to moderate cases of stares or unwelcome comments. Additionally, cultural norms and societal attitudes towards women differ widely across this large and diverse continent. However, the majority of these experiences are non-threatening and easily avoided by maintaining awareness of your surroundings, avoiding less crowded places at night, and dressing modestly in respect of local customs.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Moderate

Asia is vast and its crime rate varies from country to country. Petty crimes like pickpocketing or purse-snatching are not uncommon especially in crowded tourist areas. However, most parts of Asia are generally safe if you are cautious and follow travel advisories and local laws. It's advisable to keep your belongings secured and be aware of your surroundings. Use common sense when at markets, crowded places or while using public transport.

Is Asia worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.6 /5

based on 7 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4/5

Food

4.6/5

Budget-friendly

2.3/5

Solo travel

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

Posted: November 19, 2022
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Group travel

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

Posted: November 12, 2022
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Solo travel

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

Posted: November 11, 2022
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Solo travel

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

Posted: August 31, 2022
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Solo travel

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

Posted: July 7, 2022
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Solo travel

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

Posted: June 22, 2022
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Meet locals in Asia

Nitumoni

Nitumoni

About Me

From Guwahati, Assam, India, currently pursuing my Masters in Economics from New Delhi. Looking to travel more this year as my postgrad comes to a good end.

Speaking

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Rutuja

Rutuja

About Me

When I am not working you can find me petting cats and dogs or dreaming about my next adventure. I enjoy trying new cuisine and learning about different cultures. I am here to explore the world of solo travelling. I would like to travel internationally more, while Tango-ing wherever I can and connect with like minded people.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in Asia

Rutuja

Rutuja

Hyderabad

Can host for:

3 days

About me

When I am not working you can find me petting cats and dogs or dreaming about my next adventure. I enjoy trying new cuisine and learning about different cultures. I am here to explore the world of solo travelling. I would like to travel internationally more, while Tango-ing wherever I can and connect with like minded people.

Speaking

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serra

serra

Blitar

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Im Serra, and im living in the village actually, but i know a lot of Blitar's corner, so if u want to know something interesting in Blitar, come to me and ill show you everything i know.

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to Asia

Carissa

Carissa

About Me

Hi, I'm Carissa, I'm 32, and my pronouns are she/her. I love to travel and see less of the touristy things. Although I'm really big on history, architecture, learning how things are made, and food when it comes to travel. I have two cute Yorkies (hypoallergenic) at home that I love dearly, but I am allergic to animal dander. I tend to be on the quieter side, but I love getting to hear other people's stories and try to learn as much as I can wherever I go. I value meeting people, dancing, laughing, eating new things and enjoying magical moments that travel has to offer. I love talking about physical and mental health, food from both historical and socio-economic perspectives, cultural norms, and family systems. You could also find me talking about dance, movies, music, art and fashion. I love it all.

Speaking

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Julieta

Julieta

About Me

こんいちわ。 I'm a Spanish girl currently solo traveling around Japan — from now until the end of September! Right now I’m in Kyoto until Friday, May 1, so if you’re around and up to meet, I’d love to! I’m super friendly and love making new friends. I speak Spanish, Catalan, English, a bit of Korean, and I’m learning Japanese! I’m a huge foodie 🍜 always down to try new foodie experiences, and I never say no to karaoke 🎤 Let’s connect, chat, and maybe make some fun memories together! So happy to share this journey with this amazing community ✨

Speaking

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Safety in Asia