Sisters Uncharted

Adventure, connection, and courage

Tag: southeast asia travel

Solo Travel in Ho Chi Minh City: My Honest Experience
I landed ready for solo travel in Ho Chi Minh City from Australia, totally knackered and already nervous. I’d read all the warnings about scams and late-night arrivals, so I played it safe and pre-booked a car through Booking.com. Honestly? I thought I was being clever. But nothing could have prepared me for that airport.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City: The Mayhem Begins

First off, immigration. No air con, endless queues, and a bizarre sense of order enforced by officers barking at us to stand in straight lines. We weren’t allowed to stand in groups to talk to each other, even though we were there for nearly two hours. I’ve been through a lot of airports, but this one felt next-level.

Once through, I had to find my baggage, which was no longer going around the carousel. Instead, it was dumped in a giant pile. Thankfully, my friends who’d landed earlier had warned me about this. Otherwise, I might’ve cried right there on the airport floor.

I eventually found my driver, it was definitely the safest and quickest option to book a driver at that late hour, again thank you Booking.com!. It was all very vague. Still, I made it to my place in District 2 – right in the heart of the noise. And I do mean noise. The air con had visible black mould surrounding it, and the traffic beeped nonstop. Still, I passed out from exhaustion and made it through the night.

Walking in Ho Chi Minh City (Don’t Do It)

The next morning, I made the very bad decision to walk to District 4 to meet friends. In Southeast Asia. During the day. With no useable pavements. What was I thinking?

I dodged stray dogs, dead rats, stepped into the road because every footpath was taken over by market stalls or street kitchens, and waded through thick, choking pollution. I don’t even like cities; which is funny, given I’m about to land in Mexico City. But anyway.

In contrast, my friends were staying in a gorgeous apartment with views across the river. We had food and coffee downstairs in a play area, and I eventually walked back; slightly more confident but still traumatised by the journey.

The famous Cafe Apartment in Ho Chi Minh City – every floor packed with quirky coffee shops, bars, and boutiques.

Learning to Cross the Road (Yes, It’s a Skill)

Crossing the road in Ho Chi Minh City isn’t something you do, it’s something you survive. It’s not pedestrian-friendly. The roads are rivers of mopeds and cars that never stop. My friend gave me the best advice: walk slowly and steadily, and they’ll go around you. Weirdly, they actually do. But the first few attempts feel like a death wish.

Grab is Your New Best Friend

After almost being flattened trying to walk everywhere, I learned the magic of Grab (Asia’s version of Uber). I got a Grab at one point that took nearly an hour to go a few miles, but walking would’ve been worse. My friend’s Grab didn’t even take her home at one point. It dumped her somewhere random and drove off. Drama. Always drama.

Still, I stand by this: in Vietnam, always Grab.

A Not-So-Glamorous River Cruise

At one point, we took a boat ride up the Saigon River. I couldn’t tell you why. It cost a fortune (well the onboard snacks did), the commentary was strange, and all we really saw was murky water and construction sites. If you’re thinking of doing it, don’t expect Venice. It was more like “pollution, but make it float.”

One of the many military vehicles on display at the War Remnants Museum, a must-visit during solo travel in Ho Chi Minh City.

Returning to Ho Chi Minh Solo: Again

After a stint in Phu Quoc (with classic VietJet delays), I had to return to Ho Chi Minh City en route to Cambodia. This time I stayed further out, big mistake. I was miles from anything, and walking into the city became impossible. At one point, I got stuck between 16 lanes of traffic and just turned back.

My apartment was clean but miserable. One of those windowless boxes that pretend they have windows. Depressing. I should’ve known better.

Doing the Things

Determined to make the most of it, I grabbed a ride back into the city and did the things. First stop: the War Remnants Museum. Everyone should go. It’s not easy. It’s emotional. It’s raw. There’s military equipment outside, like tanks and helicopters, but the real punch is inside. The personal stories. The photos. The peace movement displays. I cried. You probably will too.

After that, I was emotionally wiped. So I found a vegan café up the road Hum Dining (expensive but vibey) and took some time to decompress.

The Dog Attack at Western Union (Yes, Really)

The next day, I needed US dollars for my Cambodian taxi. I went to a Western Union that reviewers had literally warned about: “There’s a dog that might bite you.” I thought, surely not. But yes. Through a rubble-strewn construction site, a dog launched itself at me like I was the postman from hell. Terrifying. But I got my dollars.

Skyline View – Ho Chi Minh City from Above

The Final Tourist Blitz

After surviving the dog, I powered through. I went up the Bitexco Financial Tower (the one with the sky deck, although you’re not allowed on the actual deck – go figure). Great views, though.

I also visited the Saigon Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, or at least tried to. The cathedral was under scaffolding. The post office? Honestly? Felt like a hectic indoor market, super confusing!

On my way, I passed the Independence Palace, which was closed off, but I did enjoy watching people in stunning dresses having photoshoots on the grounds.

The Worst Airport I’ve Ever Been To

Let me just say it: Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the worst airport I’ve ever flown through. Check-in took over an hour. Security? Nearly two. I needed the loo so badly I almost cried. I had to change money in a panic because no one would break my $100 bill. Then I sprinted to my gate. The flight? Delayed. Obviously.

People say Bangkok Airport is bad, but it’s actually smooth sailing compared to this.

Final Thoughts on Solo Female Travel in Ho Chi Minh City

Would I go back to Ho Chi Minh City solo? Probably not. But I’m glad I experienced it. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me things; about myself, about Vietnam, and about the limits of human patience in airport queues.

Tips for solo female travellers:
- Pre-book your airport transfer I used Booking.com
- Stay somewhere central; traffic is not your friend
- Use Grab for everything, and don’t bother walking
- Learn to cross the road like a local (slow and steady)
- Go to the War Museum, but give yourself time to recover afterward
- Trust Western Union reviews that warn about dogs, take them seriously
- Avoid late-night flights if you can help it, and brace yourself for the airport experience
Ho Chi Minh City isn’t for the faint of heart, but it is unforgettable.

Before you Go…

Thinking about Vietnam? I spotted some great deals for South East Asia from Travel Up, check them out HERE!!

If you’re planning your own solo trip my Solo Travel Lifeline might come in handy. It’s like having a travel buddy in your pocket – without the awkward small talk.

Need a ready-made plan? Check out my 3-day travel itineraries for popular destinations – they’re packed with tips and can save you a lot of guesswork. If you want something more personalised, I also offer custom itinerary planning to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Need a place to stay? I’ve got some handy affiliate links for Booking.com and Expedia to make planning a bit easier. If you book through them.

Looking for more travel options? Consider using platforms like eSky International for flight and hotel packages, or Enjoy Travel if you are looking to rent a car for your adventure.

And if you want real time action, follow me on Instagram, TikToK or join the Sisterhood of Solo Travellers on Facebook for tips, stories, and the occasional travel mishap.

If you’re interested in Southeast Asia, you might also enjoy my posts about Battambang and Siem Reap.

If you’re planning a big trip, don’t miss my guide on how to survive long-haul flights in economy—it’s painfully honest and full of hard-earned wisdom.

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April 19, 2025
Solo Travel in Battambang, Cambodia: Not Quite Bliss, But Definitely a Story

After two weeks in Siem Reap, I was ready to move on and travel solo in Battambang. Not because I’d had enough, but because my hotel was booked out for Chinese New Year and I had to leave. I’d been ill, I’d seen a lot, and although I probably could’ve wandered Angkor Wat for another month, it was time. Phnom Penh was my end goal, but Battambang felt like a stop I shouldn’t skip, mainly for the Killing Caves.

Getting there wasn’t awful, just not straightforward. I wasn’t well enough to navigate coaches, especially with most options running through Phnom Penh first. That seemed pointless, so I booked a taxi. It cost £60 and took about three and a half hours. The driver stopped so I could go to the loo halfway, which is common in Cambodia. There’s always somewhere to stop, usually near someone’s cousin’s café.

The Hostel I Ended Up In (And Shouldn’t Have)

Accommodation was tricky because of Chinese New Year. The only place I could find with a pool, which is important to me especially in cities, was a hostel. I’d never stayed in one before. The moment we started driving there, I knew I’d made a mistake. It wasn’t in the main part of Battambang but tucked away down rough streets full of stray dogs and kids setting off firecrackers.

The hostel itself had a good atmosphere and I used the pool every day, which was probably the best thing about it. But I was absolutely convinced they had bedbugs. They didn’t offer any vegan food, and no one really knew what vegan meant. There was a fully vegan place in town, but the food was honestly dreadful. I did later discover that the gym café next door to the hostel could make something vegan-ish, but I had no idea it was there at first. It was very random.

Looking up from inside the Killing Caves in Battambang. This opening at the top of the cave was where victims were thrown during the Khmer Rouge era.

Phare Ponleu Selpak : The Circus With a Story

The circus was a real highlight. It’s not the main one you see in Siem Reap. This is the original school where the performers are trained. It was founded by a French woman and Cambodian refugees after the Khmer Rouge, to give kids access to education, creativity, and a different kind of future.

The show I saw was called Red, and it was about the Khmer Rouge. It was powerful and emotional. There was no narration, just raw physical storytelling. I had a vague idea of what was happening, but even without full context, you could feel the weight of it.

Just a heads-up: The next photo shows human remains from Cambodia’s Killing Caves.

A sobering memorial at the Killing Caves of Battambang. A stark reminder of Cambodia’s dark past under the Khmer Rouge.

The Killing Caves: Confusing, Sad, but Worth It

This was the main reason I went to Battambang. My tuk-tuk driver dropped me at the bottom of a mountain, pointed vaguely to the top, and said, “Come back down those steps for 5 o’clock to see the bats.” That was the extent of the plan.

So up I went, completely unguided. I had no idea which caves were which. There were multiple temples, shrines, and detours. At one point, I found a cave that I was definitely sure was a killing cave. There was a glass cabinet filled with skulls, which made it very clear.

This cave was one of the Killing Caves, used by the Khmer Rouge during their regime (1975 to 1979). Prisoners were taken to the top of the mountain and thrown through a hole in the roof to die below. Some were killed beforehand, others were beaten and left to fall. Their remains were later collected and placed in the cabinet I’d just seen. The cave felt quiet, confusing, eerie, and overwhelmingly sad. I wasn’t prepared for how it would feel to stand in a place where something so horrific had happened: it was hard to process.

I left, walked up further and came across a disused temple at the top of the mountain, which offered a lovely view and had monkeys everywhere. There were stalls selling drinks, insects, and snacks, but nothing vegan. I was thirsty and tired, so I bought a drink and wandered for a bit.

Eventually I found what I think was the actual cave temple. It was beautiful, peaceful, and one I’d really wanted to see. But I rushed through it, thinking I had to get down the steps for 5pm sharp.

The Bats (Eventually)

I flew down the stairs thinking I was about to miss something amazing. The tuk-tuk driver had stationed himself far from the action, at what I suspect was his friend’s beer stall. I sat with him because I didn’t know any better, until around 7pm when someone finally shouted, “The bats are coming out!”

I ran over and managed to catch them, just. It wasn’t quite the spectacular moment I’d expected. It was pitch dark, you couldn’t really see much, and the smell coming out of the cave was absolutely vile. Still, it was an experience.

Wandering Battambang

I spent the next day or two walking around. The river didn’t have the charm of Siem Reap’s. Battambang felt hectic and heavily polluted. I was still sick, which made it harder to enjoy, and Chinese New Year meant karaoke, fireworks, and pigs laid out as offerings on tables everywhere. There were some interesting statues on roundabouts, and I wandered around to look at a few. I’m sure there were other things to do, but I didn’t find them.

I skipped the bamboo train. It just sounded like a tourist trap and not in a fun way.

A quiet moment at the temple viewpoint above the Killing Caves. Monkeys wandered freely as the city of Battambang stretched out in the distance.

Getting to Phnom Penh

When it was time to leave, I booked a cheap ticket, about five or six pounds. A tuk-tuk picked me up and took me somewhere vague where a tiny minivan turned up, already packed. They squeezed in all of us and our bags, and off we went.

The trip took hours and stopped constantly. By the time we arrived in Phnom Penh, I was exhausted and the air was thick. I tried to use Grab but realised I should’ve just taken a local tuk-tuk after a 40 minute wait. The pollution was overwhelming. At the time, Phnom Penh had a higher air pollution rating than Delhi. You could feel it in your lungs the second you stepped outside.

Ta Dambong Wat Pith: Battambang’s iconic guardian statue at the heart of the city.

Final Thoughts

Solo travel in Battambang wasn’t the easiest part of my Cambodia trip. I’m glad I went, but I wouldn’t rush back. If you go, take a guide for the Killing Caves, don’t expect much in the way of food if you are vegan, and be ready for vague instructions and unexpected smells. But sometimes, that’s just part of the story.

Before You Go…

If you’re planning your own solo trip my Solo Travel Lifeline might come in handy. It’s like having a travel buddy in your pocket – without the awkward small talk.

Need a ready-made plan? Check out my 3-day travel itineraries for popular destinations – they’re packed with tips and can save you a lot of guesswork. If you want something more personalised, I also offer custom itinerary planning to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Need a place to stay? I’ve got some handy affiliate links for Booking.com and Expedia to make planning a bit easier. If you book through them.

And if you want real time action, follow me on Instagram, TikToK or join the Sisterhood of Solo Travellers on Facebook for tips, stories, and the occasional travel mishap.

If you’re interested in Southeast Asia, you might also enjoy my posts about Koh Lanta and Phu Quoc.

If you’re planning a big trip, don’t miss my guide on how to survive long-haul flights in economy—it’s painfully honest and full of hard-earned wisdom.

Want to stay in the loop? Subscribe below for the latest from Sisters Uncharted – straight to your inbox!

Email Address *
I agree to receive emails from Sisters Uncharted *Yes

April 4, 2025
One Month on Koh Lanta: My Experience on Thailand’s Most Relaxed Island

When I first arrived on Koh Lanta, I had no idea I’d end up staying for nearly a month. What was supposed to be just another stop on my Southeast Asia journey turned into one of my most relaxing and memorable experiences.

Unlike the more famous Thai islands, Koh Lanta doesn’t have a crazy party scene or an overcrowded feel – it’s laid-back, friendly, and effortlessly beautiful. I found myself slipping into a slower rhythm, making unexpected friendships, and discovering some of my favorite food spots along the way.

If you’re looking for an island that’s solo traveler-friendly, relaxed, and full of hidden surprises, here’s what my time on Koh Lanta looked like.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

Arriving in Koh Lanta

I arrived in Koh Lanta after taking a taxi from Krabi, driven by the loveliest lady who made the journey even more enjoyable. She spoke English really well, was incredibly helpful, and even picked me up again when I was leaving. If anyone needs a reliable taxi driver for Krabi, Koh Lanta, or even Phuket, send me a message – I’ll happily pass on her contact details. She’d be so happy for the business!

The trip itself was easy, and before I knew it, I was settling into my bungalow Airbnb – a cozy little space I’d call home for the next few weeks.

The listing had mentioned a shared kitchen, but that turned out to be… not exactly true. Still, the bungalow itself was comfortable, and the best part? The people. The other guests in nearby bungalows became my friends, and some of us even met up again later in Vietnam. One of those friends was @world.schooling.family – an amazing traveling family I met in Koh Lanta who are living an adventurous, worldschooling lifestyle. If you’re curious about long-term family travel, definitely check out their journey on Instagram!

Life on the Island: Walks, Tuk-Tuks & Beaches

My bungalow was about a 20-minute walk to Long Beach, one of the most popular beaches on the island, and about a 30-minute walk to Beautiful Beach, which, true to its name, was absolutely stunning.

Unlike many travelers in Thailand, I didn’t rent a scooter – I got around by walking and if that wasn’t an option by taxis and tuk-tuks instead. Koh Lanta is very relaxed and easy to navigate, and while a scooter might be more convenient, I found I was never in a rush to get anywhere.

While I stayed in an Airbnb, there are plenty of great hotel and guesthouse options on Koh Lanta. Check out the best places to stay on Booking.com!

My Favorite Food Spots in Koh Lanta

One of the best parts of my stay was discovering some of my all-time favorite food spots. If you ever find yourself on Koh Lanta, Yawee is a must-visit – it’s a favorite among both locals and travelers, and for good reason. The food is fresh, delicious, and perfect for anyone looking to eat well on the island.

There were plenty of other great spots, but Yawee had a special charm, and everyone in the area seemed to love it just as much as I did.

I loved it so much that I wrote a full blog post about it on Vegan Verity! You can read all about my experience here.

Things I Did on Koh Lanta

Visiting the Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

I made a trip to Following Giants Elephant Sanctuary, which was one of the most ethical wildlife experiences I’ve had in Thailand. The sanctuary focuses on observation rather than interaction, ensuring the elephants are treated with respect. I’ve written a full blog post about it here, so if you’re considering visiting, definitely check it out.

Exploring the National Park

At the southern tip of the island, Mu Ko Lanta National Park offers stunning coastal views, jungle trails, and a beautiful lighthouse. It’s a great place to spend a few hours if you enjoy hiking and nature, though be prepared for the humidity!

Mangroves by Boat

One of the highlights of my month on Koh Lanta was taking a boat tour through the mangroves. It was a peaceful and scenic experience, offering a different side of the island beyond its beaches. The tour had a lovely mix of people, making it a great opportunity to connect with fellow travelers while soaking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Gliding through the calm waters, we passed through dense mangrove forests teeming with wildlife. The real surprise of the day, though, was when a monkey swam into the boat – with her baby clinging to her! It was one of those magical, unexpected moments that made the tour even more special. Watching the mother’s confidence in the water and the tiny baby holding on tight was a reminder of just how adaptable nature can be.

If you’re on Koh Lanta for a while, I’d definitely recommend adding a mangrove boat tour to your itinerary. It’s a relaxing way to experience the island’s quieter, more untouched landscapes.

The Four-Island Snorkeling Tour Disaster (A.K.A. My Worst Travel Decision)

I’m all for adventure, but somehow, I found myself on a speedboat for a four-island snorkeling tour, which turned into one of the worst travel experiences of my life.

I don’t know if there are other options, but the one I ended up on was a bumpy, chaotic, seasickness-inducing nightmare. The first hour of the trip started off okay – everyone was laughing as the boat bounced violently over the waves. But as time went on, the mood shifted.

Slowly, people started getting seasick. Then, more people. Nearly every single person on that boat ended up throwing up into plastic bags. The bins were overflowing with them. It was like a horror movie for anyone with motion sickness.

By the time we arrived at the first island, I felt awful. I tried to snorkel, but I was shaking and felt so ill that I could barely enjoy it. By the next stop, I was so done that I asked to be dropped off at the beach while the rest of the group went snorkeling again.

Thankfully, at some point, a kind stranger gave me a travel sickness pill, and by the time we reached the final snorkel spot, I was actually able to enjoy it. Ironically, I hadn’t even wanted to do that island tour – I had planned to visit the Emerald Pool, but apparently, you can only go when the waves are calm since you have to swim into a cave to reach it.

Lesson learned: if you’re prone to motion sickness, think carefully before agreeing to an island tour on a speedboat.

The Vibe: Friendly, Laid-Back & No Party Pressure

Koh Lanta is not a party island, which was part of its charm for me. It’s social, welcoming, and easygoing, but without the chaos of some other Thai destinations. You can have a great time meeting people, exploring, and enjoying the beaches, all without feeling like you need to keep up with an intense nightlife scene.

One of my favorite places to relax and unwind was Lanta Lily, where you can use their swimming pool for free as long as you buy a drink. It became a bit of a regular spot for me – an easy place to chill out in between my island adventures.

Final Thoughts: Would I Go Back?

Absolutely. Koh Lanta has this effortless charm that makes you slow down, appreciate the small things, and truly enjoy island life. Whether you’re looking for beaches, good food, relaxed vibes, or new friendships, this island has it all.

If you’re planning a trip to Koh Lanta and have any questions, drop them in the comments! Have you been before? I’d love to hear about your experience. And if you need the number for that amazing taxi driver, just send me a message – I’ll happily share her details!

Before You Go…

If you’re planning your own solo trip my Solo Travel Lifeline might come in handy. It’s like having a travel buddy in your pocket – without the awkward small talk.

Need a ready-made plan? Check out my 3-day travel itineraries for popular destinations – they’re packed with tips and can save you a lot of guesswork. If you want something more personalised, I also offer custom itinerary planning to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Need a place to stay? I’ve got some handy affiliate links for Booking.com and Expedia to make planning a bit easier. If you book through them, I may earn a small commision – at no extra cost to you – so you’d be helping a fellow traveller out.

And if you want real time action, follow me on Instagram, TikToK or join the Sisterhood of Solo Travellers on Facebook for tips, stories, and the occasional travel mishap.

If you’re interested in Southeast Asia, you might also enjoy my posts about Phu Quoc and Siem Reap.

Want to stay in the loop? Subscribe below for the latest from Sisters Uncharted – straight to your inbox!

Email Address *
I agree to receive emails from Sisters Uncharted *Yes

February 19, 2025