Since I’ve lived in Asia for many years, I always get asked ‘how safe is Southeast Asia for women’? People from the west, especially Americans, have this image that Asia is super dangerous and we live in huts with no electricity. People have actually asked me this lol. IT ISN’T TRUE btw.
Solo traveling as a woman can feel a bit nerve-wracking at first, but let me tell you—Southeast Asia is a dream when it comes to safety. When I moved to Chiang Mai, Thailand, at 22, I had no idea what to expect. But within weeks, I realized something absolutely wild: I felt safer here than I ever did in the U.S. I know safety is relative and can feel intangible, but the air in Southeast Asia is different for women: looser, more chill.
After two years of living in Thailand and traveling all over Southeast Asia, here’s my honest experience on the safety as a solo female traveler in Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Cambodia. Remember, these are my experiences and no one else’s. Maybe you had a different experience and that’s okay! But I’ve lived in Southeast Asia for years and can ultimately say it is very safe for women.
check out my one month Thailand itinerary & the best coffee shops in Chiang Mai
So, how safe is Southeast Asia for Women?
Thailand: The easiest place to feel safe
From day one living in Chiang Mai, I felt so at ease. I had intense culture shock at how respectful the men are in public, something I have never felt before living in the United States.
- No one has ever catcalled me.
- I live alone, ride my motorbike at night, and walk to 7/11 at 2 AM without a second thought.
- Thai culture is naturally respectful and non-confrontational, which makes a huge difference.
Even Bangkok, a bustling capital, feels chill. Sure, you stay a little more aware in big cities, but overall the vibes are SAFE.
check out my chill, holistic guide to Bangkok for a fun weekend in this crazy city
Why Thailand feels safe for solo women
- People mind their business—no one is out here harassing you, I’m not sure if this is from Buddhist values or if it’s how men were raised
- Low violent crime—petty theft happens, but overall, it’s way safer than most Western countries. I’ve never been robbed.
- Super convenient transport—Grab, tuk-tuks, vans from 12goasia… getting around is a breeze and totally safe.
Malaysia & Laos: Also extremely easy, relaxed & safe
Malaysia
- Kuala Lumpur? No issues. The city is modern, people are super friendly and love to talk (everyone speaks English)
- I had many wonderful conversations with Grab drivers, store clerks, hotel receptionists, etc.
- Because KL is a conservative and mostly Muslim city, I’ve heard stories about women feeling off put, but I personally didn’t experience any of that, and felt like everyone I talked to was super friendly and open
- KL is a super international huge city, so just like in Bangkok I felt super safe.
Laos
- Laos is next-level chill –it’s one of the most peaceful places I’ve been (and that’s saying a lot after living in the capital of chill, Thailand)
- The locals are so kind, and I never felt uncomfortable anywhere.
- If you go to Luang Prabang or Nong Khiaw, prepare to fall in love. And feel safe doing it.
Vietnam & Cambodia: Safe, but a bit more hustle-y
Okay, let me be clear—Vietnam and Cambodia are still safe, but they have a different energy.
Vietnam
- Northern Vietnam (Sapa, Ninh Binh, Ha Giang) Peaceful, stunning, and no safety concerns.
- Hanoi & Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue) Just a little chaotic. People can be pushy, especially vendors. Not dangerous, just… a lot.
- Pro tips:
- Ignore overly aggressive street vendors—just keep walking.
- Use Grab for rides instead of sketchy taxis.
- Watch your phone in crowded areas
check out my chill guide to Hoi An & stunning guide to Ninh Binh for more Vietnam content
Cambodia
- Phnom Penh felt a little off at times, mostly because it’s a very poor country and I felt a bit on edge and uncomfortable because of the poverty.
- That being said, I still took a tuk-tuk alone and felt totally fine. So, relative to Asia, it’s all good.
- Siem Reap is incredibly famous and well-visited so it’s a bit more structured for visitors and felt safer than Phnom Penh.
Southeast Asia vs. the U.S.
I have never felt as safe in any major U.S. city as I do in Thailand—or most of Southeast Asia, really. Trust me, you do not have to be concerned about safety when visiting SEA. Of course, be on guard, but you’re most likely to be harassed by other foreigners rather than locals.
Final Thoughts – How safe is Southeast Asia for women?
If you’re debating a solo trip to Southeast Asia—DO IT. Thailand, Malaysia, and Laos are gold, while Vietnam and Cambodia just require a little extra street smarts. But even then, this region is a million times safer than most Western cities.
Trust your gut, keep your wits about you, and enjoy the ride. Southeast Asia is waiting for you. xx Gracie
