As the world’s largest continent, Asia is the cradle of the most diverse cultures and cuisines. Climate is also amazing, with tropical countries in the southeast and winter wonderlands in the far east. There’s also an assortment of characters you can meet, but above all, Asian people are friendly and hospitable. That said, many of the world’s greatest adventures that await women are in Asia, and solo travel lets you experience both the smooth and the rough but always with the best memories to take back home.
If you’re planning for your next solo getaway, be sure to check off these best destinations for female solo travelers first.
South Korea
Given that a lot of women are bewitched by K-dramas and K-pop as well as beauty and fashion, South Korea is easily the best solo destination for the modern woman. Koreans, especially the elders, are some of the warmest people you’ll ever meet. Not only that, but the travel cost is relatively cheaper than other popular countries like Japan. Commuting is also very easy even in the more rural areas outside of Seoul. You can easily use Naver Map, and it’s much easier to get around when you know basic expressions in Korean.
Japan
Japan is another perfect destination for women who love fashion and shopping (go to Tokyo or Osaka) as well as fans of otaku culture. The complex network of subways and trains can be intimidating to navigate, but it doesn’t take a lot of getting used to. The country is extremely safe to explore. Even more daring ventures like trekking are easy to enjoy thanks to tourist-friendly infrastructures like road signs, trails, and rest areas.
Getting to the countryside—where the best onsens and natural scenery are—is a little more challenging but certainly not an issue if you’re prepared. As such, JR Pass and a stock of Japanese expressions are a must.
Singapore
Such a small country with so much to explore, Singapore is. The country has a very efficient transport network that can get you anywhere in the city. Double-decker buses are a cheaper and freer option than tourist buses, and the cable car ride to Sentosa is great for sightseeing as well. Despite the ease of commuting, walking is also a fun experience. Unless you have poor heat tolerance, that is. It can get hot and humid during the day, but you can easily counter that with light clothing, sun protection, and strategic routing through air-conditioned malls.
Taiwan
Taiwan is a highly developed little nation where, amazingly, nature is vast and quaint culture pervades the air. It’s hard not to feel sentimental riding a bus through the lush countryside. Traveling outside of Taipei is easy, and you’ve got a high-speed rail traversing the western region where most of the top attractions are. A bike-loving country, Taiwan has a lot of bike rental shops and beautiful cycling trails.
Language barrier can be a challenge especially when you go out of Taipei. Google Translate can help, but it’s best to take note of or learn basic Mandarin expressions especially for commuting and ordering food.
Thailand
Perfect for backpacking and budget travel, Thailand offers so much at a low cost. Getting around is cheap and easy, thanks to expansive bus and train networks. Bangkok is bustling and energetic, with extraordinary street food and nightlife scene. Temples and ancient sites in and out of the capital are also mystifying and spiritually curative.
If you’re up for the ultimate road and nature adventure, Thailand is also the perfect start for the famous Southeast Asia backpacking route, which includes Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Malaysia.
Vietnam
Vietnam is one of the most vibrant, colorful, and authentic in terms of local culture and sights. It used to be a French colony so you can also get that romantic aura, especially from the surviving French-colonial structures in Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh. Vietnam is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Hoi An and Ha Long Bay. There are many ways to go around the country, from the most efficient bus network and north-south railway to the more exciting cyclo (bicycle taxi) and motorbike.
Maldives
Popular as a honeymoon destination, the Maldives has risen as a solo getaway in recent years. It used to be extremely costly to get here, but the opening of more flights and economical guesthouses has opened up opportunities for solo travel. Women will love the solitude and exclusivity of the tiny islands in the archipelago, as well as being able to enjoy azure beaches and soft white sands. If you’re on a budget, it would be wise to choose resorts on islands close to the capital Male, such as Thulusdhoo and Maafushi.
Mongolia
It may not be everyone’s top of mind, but such a peaceful and hospitable country should be on every woman’s bucket list. Mongolia is the ultimate best destination for soul-searchers and outdoor adventurers. There aren’t a lot of modern amenities and conveniences outside the capital Ulaanbaatar, but the popular experience of homestays can make you feel right at home. Moreover, though Mongolians are nomadic and cultural, they are also very welcoming to travelers from more modern societies. To make your trip easier, there are tour providers you can easily find in the city.
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