phuket - thailand

Solo Female Travelers

Today we will be discussing everything that a solo female traveler needs to know about traveling to Thailand, including answering questions like is Thailand safe for women, how are women treated in Thailand, and what to bring with you to Thailand.

Traveling to other countries as a solo female traveler is something everyone should experience at least once.

There’s something about exploring new cultures and terrains, trying different foods, and participating in thrilling activities like jungle trekking, rock climbing, white water rafting or learning to scuba dive in Thailand on its amazing coral reefs. It gives you an incredible adrenaline rush like no other and makes for highly memorable experiences to remember for a lifetime.

Traveling with friends and loved ones is great, but sometimes individuals need space and want to explore independently. It can also be a life-changing and healing experience for one to travel by themselves.

But many people have concerns when they hear that a woman is planning to travel to the country alone as a solo female traveler.

It may seem like an old-school mentality or mindset to worry about a woman traveling to a foreign country alone, but the truth is that women are more at risk than men are.

However, that fact should not scare or deter women from being solo female traveler. It can be an extraordinarily empowering experience, and there are plenty of safe places to travel alone as a woman.

We will also talk about where are the best places for solo female traveler to visit in Thailand and what they should do while they are there.

Additionally, we will be providing some things that every woman should know before their trip to Thailand and some safety tips to ensure a safe and optimal experience.


Is Thailand safe for women travelling alone?

Travelling to Asia for the first time can seem intimidating, especially for people going by themselves. But Thailand is one of the most optimal places to go on your first solo trip!

It is one of the safest locations in all of Asia, and Thailand has something for everyone, so whatever type of vacation you are looking to have, you will be able to achieve it here.

Thailand highly depends on tourism, so they are very welcoming to visitors. Thailand has many incredible cities and islands to explore, gorgeous resorts and beaches, divine restaurants and street food, excellent shopping, and exciting nightlife.

In addition, violent crimes targeted at tourists are infrequent, and petty crimes are more common but still not very likely. But in saying that, just like in any place, you still need to be aware of your surroundings, be alert, and follow a few tips that we’ll discuss later on.

Most foreign women who visit Thailand feel very comfortable and safe when visiting. As mentioned before, Thai people are very welcoming to tourists, especially if you are a woman by yourself.

Also, people speak at least a little bit of English, so it is easy to communicate with people. Additionally, although people are constantly partying in Thailand throughout the night, use common sense if walking back to your hotel at night.

How are women treated in Thailand?

For the most part, women are respected in Thailand and have many of the same rights as men.

But most would still consider Thailand a “man’s country,” and men have more privileges just like most places in Asia and numerous other countries. However, women have gained more rights and equality worldwide, including in Thailand.

Foreign women need not worry when visiting Thailand alone because since most people are Buddhists, they will conduct themselves in a respectful and friendly manner.

For example, Thai men rarely catcall or make sexualized comments toward women while walking in the street. If you do experience someone being disrespectful or trying to call you over, nine times out of ten, it will be a foreigner, not a local.


Where should you go in Thailand as a solo female traveler?

There are numerous unique places to go in Thailand! Depending on what you want to do and what kind of trip you are planning to have will determine which destination you pick.

Here are three of the best places for solo female travelers to visit on their journey to Thailand:

1. Bangkok

If you like the craziness and the hustle and bustle of a big city, Bangkok is the best place to visit! Bangkok is Thailand’s capital city and the most largely populated city in Thailand, with approximately 10.7 million residents.

People love Bangkok because you get to experience traditional Thai culture with a modern approach. The street life in Bangkok is an extraordinary experience unlike no other, and the food is to die for!

2. Phuket

Phuket is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations for good reasons too! Phuket is home to over 30 breathtaking beaches that will leave you speechless. Like Bangkok, Phuket has a famous nightlife scene with numerous bars, restaurants, clubs, and street markets all over the island.

They are also known for their out-of-this-world seafood and water activities such as Phuket scuba diving, snorkelling, and paddle-boarding. If you are a certified scuba diver then a trip to the world-famous Similan Islands is possible from Phuket, Thailand.

3. Chiang Mai

If you want to experience more of Thailand’s relaxing and historical parts, then Chiang Mai is your place! Chiang Mai is located in Northern Thailand, where it is a lot quieter, and you will see a lot more of the traditional Thai culture and history than partying and shopping. You can get an internal flight from Phuket Airport to Chiang Mai.

This city is recognized for its stunning mountains and impressive temples, and it is a great place to visit for a healing and traditional Thai experience.


What should you do in Thailand as a solo female traveler?

When it comes to activities to do in Thailand, the possibilities are endless! Trust me when we say you will never be bored anywhere in Thailand!

Here are ten activities that every solo female traveler should partake in on their Thai vacation:

  • Go island hopping.
  • Learn to scuba dive.
  • Go to a spa.
  • Visit the temples.
  • Check out the night markets.
  • Visit an animal sanctuary.
  • Eat at a rooftop Phuket restaurant at sunset.
  • Shop until you drop!
  • Have round of golf.
  • Visit a floating market.

What should a solo female traveler bring to Thailand?

A great thing about Thailand is that it is pretty easy to purchase anything you need. But there are some essentials that every woman should bring with her to Thailand. These items include:

  • Cover-ups to wear over bathing suits.
  • Modest clothing if you want to go to the temples.
  • Warmer clothes for the cooler nights.
  • Sunscreen.
  • A water bottle.
  • Waterproof makeup.
  • Flip flops.
  • Comfortable shoes.
  • A bag or purse with a proper zipper.
  • A portable safe.


What are some important things every woman who travels to Thailand should know?

Thailand is a very safe country for women to travel alone. Still, there are certain things that every solo female traveler needs to know for not only safety reasons and cultural respect, but just information that is good to be aware of and could be helpful. 

1. Feminine products and condoms are readily available

In certain countries, especially in Asia, feminine products such as tampons can be impossible to find. Luckily you can buy both feminine products and condoms at most stores.

However, many tampons in Thailand don’t have applicators, so if this is an issue for you, you should bring your own or use another option.

2. Many skin care products contain bleach

Skin bleaching, while unhealthy, is common in many countries, and it is prevalent in Asia. Many products in Thailand, such as soaps, deodorants, and lotions, contain bleach.

If you don’t want to apply bleach to your skin, check the labels on any skincare products before you use them.

3. Women aren’t allowed to touch monks

If you visit a temple on your trip or encounter a monk, it is essential to know that you mustn’t touch them, even by accident. This is because monks must remain celibate, so physical contact or even coming within close proximities is not allowed.

So if you do encounter a monk, do not get too close to them or sit beside them. If you need to give them something, then place it in front of them and allow them to pick it up themselves to avoid any contact.

Places to visit in Thailand Vs. Vietnam
monks at a thai temple

4. Dress more on the modest side

Thai women typically dress very modestly, so covering up a bit more than usual is good. You want to avoid drawing much attention to yourself, or being disrespectful.

This is why cover-ups are great to wear over the top of your bathing suit. Also, you shouldn’t wear your bathing suit anywhere but the beach or pool, and if you go to the temples, you must be conservative.

5. Respect Thai culture

When visiting another country, you must respect their country and culture. Certain things that may not seem like a big deal to foreigners can be disrespectful to the locals. For example, it isn’t polite to take pictures in front of a Buddha statue or not stand up during the national anthem.

Any disrespect towards the royal family can get you arrested. So before going to any country, you should research customs and the culture beforehand.

Sunset in Phuket on the beach
Food market in Phuket's nightlife


Safety tips for a solo female traveler.

Traveling alone is a great experience and should not be something to fear. But women, in particular, are more at risk than men and need to be careful and take some safety precautions when traveling by themselves.

Here are some need-to-know safety tips for a solo female traveler:

  • Always be aware of all of your surroundings and use your common sense.
  • Walk around confidently.
  • Observe situations and listen carefully.
  • When walking around, don’t wear headphones or earbuds; it makes you less aware.
  • Leave any valuables at home.
  • Don’t wear a lot of jewelry.
  • Don’t bring a lot of money with you when you go out.
  • Keep valuables locked up in a safe at your hotel.
  • Don’t brag about your belongings or try to be a showoff.
  • Don’t take any drugs.
  • Don’t overindulge in alcohol to the point where you can’t take care of or control yourself.
  • Never leave your drink unattended.
  • Don’t share drinks with people.
  • Be smart and trust your instincts.
  • Don’t be afraid to speak what is on your mind or say no in an uncomfortable situation.
  • If you are uncomfortable around certain individuals or in a specific place, leave.
  • Invest in a handbag with a zipper instead of a button.
  • Try to avoid public transit at night.
  • When walking at night, avoid dark areas without people. Stay somewhere light.
  • Do your research on the country before going there.


Final thoughts

Traveling is one of the best ways to learn about new cultures, cuisines, and history. It can also be enlightening and empowering for many and make memories you will remember for a lifetime.

Being a solo female traveler should not be something hostile, dangerous, or scary. As long as you are aware, using common sense, and doing a little research beforehand, you should have no issues traveling alone. So if you are a woman and have been considering going on a solo trip, you definitely should!

Not only will you have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore a new place, but you may get a confidence boost and a sense of greater independence you may be seeking.

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