Solo travel in Asia can be a fantastic experience – you get to immerse yourself in new cultures and see the world in a new way. You can explore the heartland of exciting Asian destinations without worrying about what your travel companions might think or feel.

There are, of course, solo travellers everywhere – but Asia is a magnificent continent for solo travel, as it’s generally very safe and easy to get around.

I remember the excitement and anxiety I had when leaving Australia alone to travel to Asia, not knowing anyone in any of the countries I was visiting.

Travelling solo means you can do whatever you want, whenever you want – but it also comes with challenges. Travelling Asia alone can be daunting, especially if you’re unsure where to start or the best ways to avoid trouble.

That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best places to go when you solo travel in Asia. We’ve included some of our favourite spots, as well as some lesser-known destinations that are worth exploring in the vast continent.

 

Are you looking for a hotel for one in Asia? Find excellent rates at Booking.com!

 

 

A few tips on solo travel in Asia

Before we get into a few of the best destinations to travel in Asia alone, let’s begin with a few essential tips on travelling alone.

Solo travel in Asia can be a great experience if you follow these simple tips:

• Do your research: travelling solo means you’re responsible for your safety and well-being. Be sure to do your research on any destination you’re considering and only visit places that are safe for solo travellers.
• Stay aware of your surroundings: solo travel can be liberating, but it’s also important to be mindful of your surroundings. Be sure to keep your valuables close to you, and trust your gut if something doesn’t feel right.
• Meet other solo travellers: one of the best things about solo travel is meeting other people doing the same thing. There are plenty of ways to meet other solo travellers, whether through hostels, tour groups or social media.
• Stay in crowded areas at night: if you’re solo travelling in Asia, it’s always best to stay in crowded areas at night. Although you don’t need to be too timid, most destinations you visit are relatively safe, but you never want to leave yourself vulnerable when travelling into the unknown.
• Keep in touch with home: Your loved ones are bound to worry about you, and connecting in the modern world is easy, so there’s no excuse to let them know you’re safe now and then.
• Research Booking.com for the best hotels for solo travellers: you can find plenty of solo-friendly hotels on Booking.com, whether you’re looking for a private room or an entire apartment.

Now that we’ve gone over a few solo travel tips let’s take a look at some of the best places in Asia for solo travellers.

 

 

The Best Places to Go When You Solo Travel in Asia

Let’s get into the exciting bit, the best places for solo travel in Asia. I am well travelled in the continent but haven’t seen it all. Therefore, the destinations on this list are those in Asia I have visited. Therefore I speak with experience.

If there are places you feel need to be on the list, by all means, add them in the comments. I solo travel to Asia quite often and am always keen to add new destinations to my list.

Some of the best places for solo travel in Asia are:

 

Tanjung Benoa in Bali

Tanjung Benoa is a lovely part of Bali known for its famous beach activities, such as jet skiing and parasailing. It’s also a great place to try your hand at scuba diving or snorkelling. The best part about solo travel in Tanjung Benoa is that there are plenty of other solo travellers around, so it’s easy to meet new people.

In the evening, Tanjung Benoa is pleasant, and the crowds from the beach have dispersed to their hotels in other parts of Bali. I like to walk the beach at sunset, go for a swim and then enjoy a solo dinner at one of the many warungs.

While the rest of Bali is more than suitable for solo travel, Tanjung Benoa brings a peaceful feel to your vacation.

Best hotels in Tanjung Benoa include:

– Sakala Resort Bali

– Holiday Inn Resort Bali Benoa

– The Samaya Bali

 

 

 

Nusa Lembongan in Indonesia

Off the mainland of Bali is Nusa Lembongan, an unspoiled island paradise. Although it’s only a short boat ride from Bali, Nusa Lembongan feels like a world away.

The best way to solo travel Nusa Lembongan is by renting a scooter, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace. Be sure to visit the beautiful beaches of Mangrove Beach and Dream Beach, and take a day trip to Nusa Penida for even more solo travel fun.

When night falls, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from in Lembongan Village. I recommend grabbing a bite at Warung Made for some delicious Indonesian food.

For solo travellers, Nusa Lembongan is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Some of the best hotels in Nusa Lembongan for solo travellers include:

– Mushroom Bay Beach Resort

– Bali Eco Deli & Bungalows

– Pondok Baruna Villa & Guesthouse

 

 

 

Vientiane in Laos

The Laos capital of Vientiane is one of my favourite Southeast Asian destinations. It’s a charming city with a relaxed vibe, beautiful temples and plenty of great restaurants.

For solo travellers, I recommend renting a bicycle and exploring the city at your own pace. Be sure to visit Wat Si Saket, one of the most important temples in Laos, and take a walk along the Mekong River.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from in the evening. I recommend grabbing a bite at one of the many street food stalls.

For solo travellers, Vientiane is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Some of the best hotels in Vientiane for solo travellers include:

– Settha Palace Hotel

– Vayakorn House

– Lao Heritage Hotel

 

 

 

Kathmandu in Nepal

Don’t doubt it for a second; Kathmandu will be daunting upon arrival. Many locals will confront you to go on hikes, buy this, buy that, and it will appear as if solo travel in Nepal is impossible. But it is. I know from experience.

There are different charges for admission depending on your country of origin. I recommend getting a local SIM card and mapping out where you want to go for the day. I also recommend travelling with a photocopy of your passport as many tourist places in Kathmandu will require it.

Kathmandu solo travel requires time and patience due to the chaos on the roads, but it’s doable. And once you get used to it, you’ll travel solo like a pro.

Some of the best places to solo travel in Kathmandu are Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple), Boudhanath Stupa, Pashupatinath Temple and Durbar Square.

However, it is in the Thamel part of Kathmandu where you’ll appreciate the most, with great shopping and many hotels situated in the district.

Some of the best hotels in Thamel for solo travellers include:

– Hotel SI am looking– Gokarna Forest Resort

– Dwarika’s Hotel

 

 

 

Dalat in Vietnam

From one chaos to another, although a little less so, Dalat in Vietnam is solo traveller friendly. The best way to solo travel to Dalat is by scooter, as it’s a great way to get around and see the sights.

Some of the best places to solo travel in Dalat are Xuan Huong Lake, Valley of Love, Bao Dai’s Summer Palace and Datanla Falls.

For solo travellers, Dalat is the perfect place to relax and unwind. You’ll also find fantastic markets for shopping and affordable restaurants.

Some of the best hotels in Dalat for solo travellers include:

– Hotel De L’Opera Dalat

– Ana Mandara Villas Resort & Spa Dalat

– Sofitel Dalat Palace

 

 

 

Kyoto in Japan

Kyoto is a city you fall in love with at first sight, and solo travelling here is an experience you’ll never forget. The best way to solo travel to Kyoto is by bicycle or walk, as it’s a great way to get around and see the sights.

Some of the best places to solo travel in Kyoto are Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kinkaku-Ji Temple, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove and Gion.

For solo travellers, Kyoto is the perfect place to relax and unwind. You’ll also find fantastic markets for shopping and affordable restaurants while on your tour of the magnificent Japanese city.

Some of the best hotels in Kyoto for solo travellers include:

– The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

– Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto

– Hyatt Regency Kyoto

 

 

 

 

Seoul in South Korea

Along with Kyoto, Seoul is one of my favourite cities worldwide. It is a solo traveller’s dream, with plenty to see and do in artificial that gives life to plenty of natural and manufactured tourist attractions. A city I have visited frequently, but still not enough. The best way to solo travel to Seoul is by using the excellent public transport system, which includes a great metro system.

Some of the best places to solo travel in Seoul are Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Park, Myeong-dong and Hongdae.

For solo travellers, Seoul is the perfect place to relax and unwind. You can also get around quickly as the Seoul train system is fantastic, even a little confusing until you get the just of it.

Food is paradise in Seoul; who doesn’t love a good Korean BBQ? Not only that, but the street food is to die for, with various street food merchants readily available along the streets.

If you love shopping, you’ll love the underground shopping malls connected to almost every metro station.

Some of the best hotels in Seoul for solo travellers include:

– The Shilla Seoul

– Lotte HThel World

– JW Marriott Dongdaemun Square Seoul

 

 

Khao Lak in Thailand

With all the stunning beach resorts associated with Khao Lak, you could be forgiven the Thai destination is more of a lover’s paradise. Perhaps there is truth in that thinking. However, solo travellers will find this place just as welcoming.

The best way to solo travel to Khao Lak is by scooter, as it’s a great way to get around and see the sights.

Some of the best places to solo travel in Khao Lak are Nang Thong Beach, Bang Niang Beach, Laem Pakarang Beach and Khao Lak National Park.

For solo travellers, Khao Lak is the perfect place to relax and unwind along the white sandy beaches, with many hidden markets and restaurants to explore.

Some of the best hotels in Khao Lak for solo travellers include:

– Ramada by Wyndham Khao Lak

– Khaolak Laguna Resort 

– Merit Laeh Phang Nga

 

 

 

 

Kuching in Borneo, Malaysia

The Sarawak State of Borneo is fortunate to have two fantastic cities for Solo travel in Asia, but let’s begin with Kuching.

Kuching is solo traveller friendly as it’s small, and you can quickly get around on foot as the paths will take you far and wide in the city. There are plenty of sights to see in Kuching, including the Sarawak Museum, Islamic Heritage Museum, Semenggoh Nature Reserve and the Cat Statue.

Kuching is also a great place for shopping as there are many good-sized malls such as The Spring, Boulevard and Main Bazaar.

Some of the best places to solo travel in Kuching are Sarawak Museum, Islamic Heritage Museum, Semenggoh Nature Reserve and the Cat Statue.

However, the best place to be in the evening is the Kuching Waterfront, where you can watch the sunset and enjoy the views of the Sarawak River.

Some of the best hotels in Kuching for solo travellers include:

– Dorset Boutique Hotel

– Hilton Kuching

– Riverside Majestic Hotel

 

 

 

Miri in Borneo Malaysia

Now for the second and further laidback city of the Sarawak State in Miri.

Miri is solo traveller friendly as it’s small, laid back and a pleasant beachside City. You can conveniently get around by Grab or taxi or take leisurely walks to each tourist attraction. If you wish to explore the region further, there are plenty of sights to see in Miri, including the Niah National Park, Mulu Caves and the Grand Mosque.

You can visit many fabulous tourist attractions within the Miri City region, such as Canada Hill, Miri Fish Market, Coco Cabana, and the Miri City Fan Recreational Park. 

The best time to solo travel to Miri is during the Sarawak Regatta Festival in September, where you can enjoy a wide range of water sports and cultural performances.

Some of the best hotels in Miri for solo travellers include:

– Hilton Miri Resort

– ParkCity Everly Hotel Miri

– Grand Palace Hotel Miri

 

 

In Conclusion, on Solo travel in Asia.

It’s a thorough list that takes you through Southeast, East and Central Asia. And there’s sure to be a solo travel destination for everyone ready to step into the daunting task and travel alone to incredible cities of the continent.

Think about what you’re looking for in travelling Asia alone and select your destination wisely. Whatever your decision, you’re bound to have a memorable time you’ll never forget. 

Have you been solo travelling in Asia? Where was your favourite place to go? Let us know in the comments below.

Happy solo travels!

 

Contributed to Fair Dinkum Traveller

There is no doubt that planning a big trip to Asia can be extremely daunting if you have never set foot on the continent before. So, to help alleviate your nerves and up your excitement levels, you should make sure to do plenty of preparation so that you feel totally ready for your trip of a lifetime.

Check out this checklist of some of the most important tasks that you need to accomplish before embarking on your Asian adventure.

 

Find Crazy Cheap Hotels in Asia with Booking.com when you’re preparing to go travelling!

 

 

Asian Adventure Preparation Before You Go Into the Continent

 

 

Visit a Travel Clinic

Give yourself plenty of time before heading out on your trip to visit your doctor and have all the necessary shots that you need to get before you go. Some vaccinations such as hepatitis require a series of shots several months apart in order to achieve immunity. You may not need some of the inoculations if you are only planning on staying in Asia for a short period of time, but a travel doctor will give you the most detailed and up to date information.

 

Apply for Travel Visas

The visa situation varies from country to country, as well as your home nation. Some are available free of charge, some can be applied for at the airport and others should be applied for before you arrive. With all this information to sort through and applications to file, you need to give yourself the longest possible time to make sure that you get them all. It is worth getting your information directly from the consulate to get the latest details.

 

Book Your Flight

While it may be commonly held the knowledge that you will get the best deal on your flight if you book a long time in advance, this doesn’t always ring true. In fact, around two months before the trip may actually be a better time to do it. And if you are flexible with departure dates and airports, you are much more likely to save yourself some money this way. Try leaving from a city which is a major hub as they are more likely to have deals which you can take advantage of.

 

Fly the Asian SkiesPhoto Credit

 

Get Travel Insurance

While travel insurance may seem like just another expense to add to an already long list, having peace of mind when you are travelling around Asia is invaluable. The right insurance for travel to choose depends on how long you will be going, what you need to be covered and what activities you plan on doing. Before you travel, it is a good idea to make copies of receipts, record numbers etc for all your expensive electronics.

 

Plan Your Trip

Now that we have gotten past some of the admin-based tasks, now is the time to get onto the fun part – planning the trip. Probably the biggest and most common mistake that you can make is to pack too much into a short space of time. However, transportation isn’t always going to be as straightforward in these vast and developing nations as what you are used to. Check the weather before you decide to visit a country.

Many parts of the continent tend to have clearly defined wet and dry seasons, and it is certainly worth avoiding travelling in the former if you can! Research any festival dates which may be taking place while you are there and pushing the prices up significantly. Don’t worry too much about the language barrier beyond learning a couple of basic words and phrases to be friendly. The most tourist-friendly parts of the continent are used to receiving tourists and you will find that English is widely-spoken.

 

 

Hit the Ground Running

When you arrive, you want to get settled into the Asian way of life at the earliest possible opportunity. You are likely to arrive a little jet-lagged, so it is worth checking out some common remedies before you get there. Check out the currency exchange rates before you get there to avoid being ripped off on the road. Contact your bank to let them know that you will be travelling so that they don’t start to get suspicious about the strange charges that you are racking up! Pack light and you can take advantage of the cheap shopping opportunities that you have here.

This checklist covers many of the main things that you should do before you get going on your trip of a lifetime to ensure that it goes as smoothly as possible and you avoid complications that could damage your enjoyment of your adventure.