Solo female travel: the best destinations to visit in Asia

07.08.2024 - 19:38 / lonelyplanet.com

Aug 7, 2024 • 8 min read

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Once you are done exploring the ancient town – the center of the city – book yourself a fun cooking class, they usually include an introductory market tour. You will learn how to whip up a bowl of khao soi (a coconut curry noodle dish from Northern Thailand) while making new friends.