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 the 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
Tips: 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
Tips: 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 star 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!
Places of interest: Sentosa, Gardens by the Bay, ArtScience Museum, Makansutra Gluttons Bay
Tips: Take a free walking tour, some Singapore companies offer free tours daily.
4. 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 star 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
Tips: Dress appropriately when visiting a temple and don’t forget to remove your shoes!
5. Maldives
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
Tips: 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.
6. 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 in the island for 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.
Places of interest: Naked Island, Sohotan Lagoon, Magpupungko Swimming Hole
Tips: Rent a bike to explore or get lost in the island
7. Nepal
If you want to go off the grid and escape the noise of the 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
Tips: Make sure to exchange all your Nepalese money before leaving – they are not exchanged anywhere outside of Nepal.
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I will have this in my bucket list for 2018. Definitely a place to see with my family.