Top Solo Travel Destinations for Women in Asia & the USA

Solo Traveling become more than just a trend and transformative journey. I have always been passionate about traveling alone, so I’ve explored vibrant cities whenever I have a chance. As a solo female traveler, it inspired and embraced the freedom of travel at my own pace by wandering through the buzzing street of
Singapore and exploring the culture and historic street of Washington D.C.

To tell the truth, every solo trip has shaped my confidence and love for the world, and also
the changes of my introvert style. Here’s my personal list of best solo travel destinations I’ve
explored and why they were worth every step alone.

Table of Contents

Singapore – Safe, Stylish, and So Clean

Best for: First-time solo travelers, food lovers, shopping, and city photography.
Tip: The EZ-Link card is a solo traveler’s best friend for getting around on MRT and
buses.

Honestly, Singapore was my first solo international trip—and I couldn’t have chosen a better destination. It’s incredibly safe, efficient, accessible and easy to explore at my own pace. Moreover, I stayed at Fragrance Oasis, a budget hotel near Balestier Road, which has a lot of food shops and 7eleven. I even visited Orchard Road where I indulged in shopping and hawker food.

A must-visit was Gardens by the Bay, where the Supertree Grove dazzled me at night
and don’t forget to explore Sentosa. Visit Singapore Official Website before you plan a trip.

Don’t Miss:

Marina Bay Sands SkyPark – The city view is unforgettable
Chinatown and Little India – Culture-rich areas for solo exploration
Sentosa Island – Solo beach time or Universal Studios fun

🇲🇾 Malaysia – Genting Highlands, Malacca & Kuala Lumpur

Best for: Culture, history, nature escapes, and solo retail therapy

As a Muslim, Malaysia was one of my travels while I was working in Singapore. Furthermore , Malaysia attracted me with diverse experiences and a variety of food in one country. In Kuala Lumpur, I loved exploring the Petronas Twin Towers and trying Nasi Lemak at Jalan Alor.

Next, I visited Malacca, which was my favorite for a peaceful solo walk along the riverside, where colonial history meets modern cafes. Then, I went on a day trip to Genting Highlands from Kula Lumpur. It was a refreshing escape from city heat, with a cool climate and cable car views.

Don’t Miss:

Batu Caves in KL
Jonker Street Night Market in Malacca
SkyAvenue Mall at Genting Highlands

🇮🇩 Batam, Indonesia – A Quick Island Getaway

Best for: short trips, spa retreats, and relaxing stays
Tip: Book your ferry tickets in advance for smoother immigration.

Just a short ferry ride from Singapore, Batam was my quick solo escape for relaxation, and it will give you tranquil moments. If you’re a seafood lover, it’s a MUST. I recommend having lunch at Golden Prawn restaurant.

I stayed at a Turi beach resort where I enjoyed ocean views, full-body massages, and seafood dinners—perfect for quiet me-time.

Don’t Miss:

Barelang Bridge
Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall
Traditional Indonesian spa treatments

🇻🇳 Vietnam – History, Nature & Cafes

Best for: Budget-friendly trips, rich culture, and Instagrammable streets
Tip: Join a group food tour to connect with fellow travelers!

I traveled solo across Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hue City, and Hoi An. I would say Ho Chi Minh City was the second solo trip from Singapore.

Visiting Vietnam gave me the confidence to travel further alone and inspired me a lot. The best thing about Vietnam is its coffee. From riding a scooter to sipping egg coffee, coconut coffee in a vintage café, I deeply fell in love with the culture. Frankly, Hoi An was magical at night with its lantern-lit streets.

Don’t Miss:

Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills
Ben Thanh Market
Coconut boat ride in Cam Thanh village

🇰🇭 Cambodia – Soulful Temples and Kind Locals

Best for: Spiritual retreats, history lovers, affordable travel

Exploring Siem Reap as a solo traveler was a spiritual experience and it was my third country to travel alone. While I planned ahead, I visit their Cambodia Tourism website to learn more about their culture before visiting Angkor Wat Temple. I spent a day exploring the majestic Angkor Wat and felt a deep connection to the energy of this ancient land.

I stayed at Saem Siem Reap Hotel, which I highly recommend for solo travelers—affordable luxury with friendly service.

Don’t Miss:

Angkor Wat sunrise tour
Pub Street nightlife
Tonle Sap floating village

🇵🇭 The Philippines – Island Vibes and Friendly Faces

Best for: Beaches, nature adventures, English-speaking locals
Tip: Always check boat schedules and weather forecasts in advance.

My solo travel in the Philippines were full of sun, smiles, and sea. Whether in Cebu, Boracay, or Manila, the people were incredibly friendly. I loved visiting Manila bay and enjoy the stunning view from there.

Don’t Miss:

Kawasan Falls in Cebu
Island hopping in El Nido or Coron
Intramuros walking tour in Manila

🇹🇭 Thailand – Easy, Energizing & Delicious

Best for: First timers in Southeast Asia, foodies, culture and nightlife
Tip: Respect temple dress codes; carry a shawl or sarong.

Thailand is a solo travel paradise. I explored Bangkok’s temples, Chiang Mai’s old town, and even Phuket’s beaches on my own. The street food alone was worth the trip!

Don’t Miss:

Wat Pho and Grand Palace in Bangkok
Night bazaar in Chiang Mai
Phuket sunset boat tour

🇹🇼 Taiwan – A Hidden Gem for Solo Explorers

Best for: Solo female safety, night markets, and cultural mix
Tip ” Don’t leave without trying beef noodle soup and bubble tea.

Taiwan surprised me popular tourist spots! From the buzz of Taipei’s night markets to the scenic Taroko Gorge, I felt secure and inspired as a solo female traveler.

Don’t Miss:

Shilin Night Market in Taipei
Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall
Jiufen village – Studio Ghibli vibes!

🇺🇸 New York City – Big Dreams, Bold Moves

Best for: Arts, diversity, fast-paced adventures
Tip: Wear layers—the weather changes fast!

Exploring New York City alone was on my bucket list for years. Seeing the Liberty Statue from the ferry is my dream. Firstly, I completed all my wishes this year. Secondly, I had a chance to visit iconic landmarks like Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan and the Empire State Building. Finally, I even visited Washington DC and captured the photo of the White House.

Also, Riding the subway and walking the Brooklyn Bridge gave me the feeling of being in a movie. I also enjoyed solo café stops in SoHo and museums like MoMA. Don’t forget to check NYC Official Tourism Site for the further information.

Don’t Miss:

Statue of Liberty ferry tour
Broadway show solo night
High Line sunset walk

🇺🇸 San Francisco – Cool, Cultural & Coastal

Best for: Solo photographers, artists, and LGBTQ+ friendly travel
Tip: Wear layers—the weather changes fast!

San Francisco gave me empowerment and the freedom to be myself. I visited the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, where I always wanted to capture the photo while enjoying the breathtaking view. I also wandered through Chinatown, and enjoyed solo brunch at a hip café in the Mission District.

Don’t Miss:

Painted Ladies at Alamo Square
Castro District for its LGBTQ+ history
Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

🌟 Why I Recommend Solo Travel for Women

Solo travel isn’t just about ticking off destinations—it’s a journey into your independence and self-discovery. I found myself again while traveling solo, but safety is very crucial. I’ve learned how to be street-smart, how to connect with people , confident, and deeply appreciative of different cultures. Each of these places taught me something new—from trusting locals in Cambodia to finding peace in Taiwan’s night trains.

If you’re a woman thinking of going on a solo trip—do it right now. Start with safer, well-connected countries like Singapore or Thailand, and then slowly move to larger cities like New York or more cultural destinations like Vietnam.

Final Thoughts

I hope this solo travel guide inspires you to explore the world with courage and curiosity. Whether you’re planning your first solo female trip or adding a new country to your passport, know that every solo step you take brings you closer to who you are.

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