9 Best Destinations in Asia for Solo Travel

There’s something exhilarating about the freedom of discovering a new place on your own. At the same time, the experience could also get a little nerve-wracking for first-timers. So, if you’re planning your next escape and decided to drop the baggage of an extra person, here’s a list of where to solo travel in:

1. Siem Reap, Cambodia

You’re probably visiting Siem Reap to see Angkor Wat, the largest religious site in the world, but the town has so much more to offer. You can explore over a thousand other temples surrounding the UNESCO heritage site, and see where the original Tomb Raider was shot.

Once you’ve had your dose of history, it’s always good to unwind in one of the town’s many quaint restaurants and cafes.

• Places of interest: Angkor Wat, Terraces of the Leper King, Pub Street
• Attractions/Activities: Angkor National Museum, Angkor Wat Helium Balloon Ride
• Tip: Hire one tuk-tuk driver to take you around the city for your whole stay.

2. Phuket, Thailand

Thailand’s paradise island boasts of amazing beaches, warm waters, and a world-famous party scene. It’s a great place to catch up on some me-time without worrying about getting lonely.

Much different from other Asian island destinations, Phuket’s well-developed roads and highways make it easy to get around. And just like the country’s capital, you won’t run out of delicious street food, and bargain shopping all over the island.

• Places of interest: Patong Beach, Phuket Fantasea, Big Buddha, Phi Phi Island
• Attractions/Activities: Dolphin Bay, The UpsideDown House, Phuket Trickeye Museum
• Tip: Try out an authentic Muay Thai class.

3. Singapore

The Lion City is famous for being one of the cleanest, safest, and most efficient countries in the world.

Despite being fairly small, Singapore has a lot of must-visit places: from Michelin-starred restaurants to hawker food centers, a world-famous theme park, high-end shopping centers and more—you’ll never run out of things to do in Singapore!

If you can splurge on accommodation, how about booking a room at Marina Bay Sands? This hotel in Singapore is an attraction itself because of its infinity rooftop pool with amazing views.

• Places of interest: Sentosa, Gardens by the Bay, ArtScience Museum, Makansutra Gluttons Bay
• Attractions/Activities: S.E.A. Aquarium, Singapore River Safari, Universal Studios
• Tip: Take a free walking tour. Some Singapore companies offer free tours daily.

Read Fun 3D/2N Singapore Itinerary: Where to Go & What to Do
 

4. Hong Kong

Home to one of the world’s best airports and an internationally renowned theme park, Hong Kong remains to be a dream destination for many.

Solo travelers can expect an iconic skyline, delectable grub, and colorful cultural scene should they visit this vibrant city that’s pulsating with energy.

Hong Kong is ideal for lone travelers who are into challenges. Only few locals know how to speak English, so visiting Hong Kong by yourself can be extra challenging yet fun. You’ll eventually learn to cope with the situation and possibly meet new friends—who are also solo travelers—during your stay.

After conquering Hong Kong, you can easily conquer other parts of the world.

• Places of interest: Victoria Peak, Tsim Sha Tsui, Lantau Island, Mong Kok
• Attractions/Activities: Ngong Ping 360, Peak Tram, Madame Tussauds, SKY 100
• Tip: Buy an Octopus card for easier access to Hong Kong’s transport system.

5. Taiwan

Taiwan’s tourism got a boost after the country’s local government allowed Filipinos to enter without need for a visa (The privilege takes effect until July 31, 2019 only).

This little island country, just above the Philippines on the map ,consistently ranks as one of the safest and cleanest countries in Asia—adding more reasons for solo travelers to visit this country.

While you’re at Yehliu Geopark, you can easily ask for a stranger to take your photo as you strike a pose beside the interesting rock formations. Couples and partners may be flocking at Jiufen to release love lanterns, but you are most welcome to release your own #selflove lantern there.

And if you’re looking for budget-friendly yet quality accommodation, there are many interesting hostels in Taipei City under PHP1,000 that you can book.

• Places of interest: Taipei 101, Taroko National Park, Chimei Museum, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall
• Attractions/Activities: Taipei 101 Observatory, Yehliu Geopark, National Palace Museum
• Tip: Taiwan has a superb and straightforward mass transport system. Practically, you can easily get around by riding the train—take advantage of it.

6. Osaka, Japan

If food is your life, then Osaka has to be on your list of where to solo travel in Asia. The birthplace of takoyaki is the hailing culinary capital of the world with its multiple little ramen bars, Michelin-starred restaurants, and okonomiyaki stalls.

What’s best is that it’s extremely tourist friendly and slightly more affordable than the Japanese capital.

• Places of interest: Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, Tsutenkaku
• Attractions/Activities: Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan, Harukas 300 Observatory Deck
• Tip: Dress appropriately when visiting a temple and don’t forget to remove your shoes!

7. Maldives

The Maldives has always been labeled a honeymoon destination, but who says it can’t be on your list of where to solo travel in Asia? The country is everything you’d want from a tropical vacation—white sand, palm trees, clear water, and awesome diving spots.

If you’re not up to breaking the bank, the recent increase of tourists has pushed the government to open more affordable accommodations and modest guest houses where you can enjoy the island’s beauty just the same.

• Places of interest: Old Friday Mosque, Tsunami Monument
• Tip: Pay with US Dollars. Though the country has its own currency, most establishments accept USD as payment. They say you even get a better price when you pay in dollars.

8. Siargao, Philippines

It’s not surprising to hear about a first-time Siargao visitor who ends up staying there forever. Many people decide to stay on the island for a good reason—it’s paradise.

Far from the smoggy skies of the city and framed with aqua blue waters, the surfing capital’s charm is unmistakable. Surfer or not, you have to make the trip.

Be sure to book your hotel in Siargao in advance to avoid the hassle especially if you’re visiting during peak season.

• Places of interest: Naked Island, Sohotan Lagoon, Magpupungko Swimming Hole
• Attractions/Activities: 1-Day Jeepney Road Tour, Tri-Island Hopping Tour, Siargao Wakepark
• Tip: Rent a bike to explore or get lost on the island.

Read Top 8 Places in the Philippines for Solo Female Travelers
 

9. Nepal

If you want to go off the grid and escape the noise of urban life, a trip to Nepal will recharge you. As cliché as it sounds, you can’t get any closer to an Eat, Pray, Love experience than when you’re in Kathmandu.

With the view of the Himalayas and the rich green nature, you almost can’t help but meditate on the spot.

• Places of interest: Bhaktapur Durbar Square, Poon Hill, 55 Window Palace
• Tip: Make sure to exchange all your Nepalese money before leaving; they are not exchanged anywhere outside of Nepal.

Head over to one or all of these destinations with Traveloka. Book now and enjoy great savings on your hotels!