Southeast Asia (SEA) is an excellent destination to consider traveling alone. The warm weather, friendly locals, easy transportation and inexpensive prices are just a few reasons. However, many Southeast Asians are unaccustomed to seeing single travelers, particularly single women travelers. Most attention, from the occasional stares or quizzical questions, will generally be out of harmless curiosity. However, it is always best to avoid unwanted attention by taking certain precautions in order to enjoy the journey safely.
Things You'll Need
- Important document copies
- Guide book
- Backpack
- Modest clothing
Instructions
Preparing For the Trip
- 1Make copies of important documents: flight itinerary; accommodation contact information; passport; birth certificate; vaccinations; banking information and credit cards. Bring one copy with you and leave the other with a family or friend.
- 2Pack essential items: mosquito net, mosquito repellent, sunscreen and cotton clothing. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that all of SEA is within the malaria zone. SEA has tropical temperatures; wearing sunscreen and loose, moisture-absorbing clothes prevent heatstroke and sunburn.
- 3Buy a guide book that discusses the issues of traveling alone. The Lonely Planet guide books about South East Asia are excellent references that list recommendations for solo travelers.
Traveling
- 4Stay in accommodations that are near the main road. The dark, winding alley of Pha Ngu Lao in Saigon is popular, but consider one of the numerous budget accommodations along the main street of Bui Vien.
- 5Stay in dorms to meet other solo travelers. Be sure to always lock your backpack and never leave any valuable items out since dorms are always unlocked and there is a large number of people going in and out.
- 6Let your hostel know where you will be going for the day, especially if you are exploring by yourself.
- 7Stay connected with your family and friends back home. Frequently, let them know the next city or country you will be visiting and contact them when you arrive.
Respect the Customs and Stay Safe
- 8Respect the customs and dress modestly. Southeast Asians equate modest dressing as a sign of respect. In places like Banda Aceh, Aceh, Indonesia, the Muslim Sharia laws exist, which restrict some activities, including drinking alcohol. Even on the beaches of Thailand, sunbathing topless is frowned upon. Modest clothing usually includes below-the-knee skirts or pants and loose and high-neckline, sleeved tops.
- 9Learn the basic language to help communicate with locals. Although many people in places like Singapore and Bali speak English, they will appreciate your effort.
- 10Watch your food and drink and keep them close to you. Occasional drugging by locals and other backpackers occur, particularly in large cities like Bangkok
- 11Only carry essential items while exploring the city. Always wear your backpack in the front of your body when riding the bus or trains to prevent pick-pocketing.
- 12Hide a small amount of emergency money, passport and credit cards in a discreet money belt.
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