Sisters Uncharted

Adventure, connection, and courage

Tag: travel tips for women

Safest Places in Cambodia for Solo Female Travellers (2025)
I’ve spent time in Cambodia, and while it wasn’t my favourite destination on a personal level, it had nothing to do with safety. I picked up a respiratory virus while I was there, and the pollution in places like Phnom Penh hit me hard. The air quality index was worse than Delhi while I was there. That definitely coloured how I felt about it, but not the safety itself.

Because when it comes to solo female travel, I actually felt very safe in Cambodia. I walked around on my own during the day, explored unfamiliar towns, and never had an issue. The people are warm, the history is deep and complex, and there’s a quiet strength to the country that stays with you. It doesn’t try to impress you, it just is. And that’s part of what makes it so compelling.

So if you’re thinking of heading to Cambodia, here’s a list of the safest places for solo female travellers, based on experience, research, and the reality of what it’s like on the ground.

General Safety Tips for Solo Travel in Cambodia

While I was travelling solo in Cambodia, these were the things I did to feel safe:
- Didn’t go out alone at night
- Stuck to drinks that were opened in front of me
- Booked tuk tuks or taxis through my accommodation or used trusted apps
- Read accommodation reviews carefully, especially from other solo travellers
- Felt fine walking around during the day, just stayed aware of my surroundings
- Kept valuables in a zipped cross-body bag and split my cash between bags or pockets
- Shared my location with a friend and checked in regularly while I was there
Safest Places in Cambodia for Solo Female Travellers

1. Siem Reap

Type of place: Cultural city and gateway to Angkor Wat

Safety summary: One of the safest and most tourist-friendly cities in Cambodia. Walkable, relaxed, and full of cafés, markets, and temples

Best for: Exploring Angkor Wat, night markets, the Kulen Mountains, and solo city wandering

2. Battambang

Type of place: Small riverside town with a local vibe

Safety summary: Feels quiet and authentic. First impressions can be a bit intimidating, but it’s generally very safe and welcoming once you settle in

Best for: The Killing Caves, the bat caves at dusk, Phare Circus, and a glimpse of everyday Cambodian life

3. Phnom Penh

Type of place: Capital city with heavy traffic and history

Safety summary: Busy and a bit overwhelming, but not unsafe in tourist areas. Petty theft happens, so stay aware, especially at night or on tuk tuks

Best for: Museums, recent history, city atmosphere

4. Kampot

Type of place: Laid-back riverside town

Safety summary: Calm, slow-paced, and popular with long-term travellers. Safe to walk around during the day, and people are friendly and helpful

Best for: River views, pepper farms, local markets

5. Kep

Type of place: Small seaside town near Kampot

Safety summary: Very quiet and extremely low-crime. Great for a peaceful stop, especially if you want to escape the cities

Best for: Seafood, coastal walks, national park hiking

Monkeys perch above the plains near Battambang with dramatic views and surreal little encounters along the way

6. Koh Rong Samloem

Type of place: Island escape with basic infrastructure

Safety summary: Much quieter than Koh Rong. No major crime concerns, though power cuts and limited services mean you need to be self-reliant

Best for: Beaches, digital detox, hammocks and sunsets

7. Koh Rong

Type of place: More developed island with a party scene

Safety summary: Generally safe but busier than Koh Rong Samloem. Stay in quieter areas if you’re not into the party crowd

Best for: Beach parties, snorkelling, nightlife

8. Kratie

Type of place: Mekong riverside town

Safety summary: Very quiet and safe. Known for the Irrawaddy dolphins and a more local feel. Great for solo travellers who like slow travel

Best for: Dolphin watching, sunsets, rural cycling

9. Sen Monorom (Mondulkiri Province)

Type of place: Mountainous jungle town in the east

Safety summary: Very safe and community-based. Eco-tourism and ethical elephant projects are the main draw. Roads can be rough, but the vibe is calm

Best for: Nature, trekking, ethical wildlife experiences

10. Banlung (Ratanakiri Province)

Type of place: Remote jungle town

Safety summary: One of the most remote places on the list, but considered safe if you’re used to basic travel. Homestays are common and welcoming

Best for: Crater lakes, waterfalls, local markets

11. Preah Vihear

Type of place: Northern temple complex

Safety summary: Not overly visited, but safe for solo travellers. Best accessed with a tour or private guide. Basic infrastructure

Best for: Temple exploring, off-the-path travel, historical interest

12. Bokor Hill Station (near Kampot)

Type of place: Abandoned colonial site in the hills

Safety summary: Safe for day trips. Can feel eerie if you’re solo, but not unsafe. Popular with domestic tourists

Best for: Day exploring, misty mountain views, abandoned buildings

13. Tonle Sap Lake (floating villages)

Type of place: Vast lake with stilted and floating homes

Safety summary: Boat tours are safe when booked through reputable guides. Very tourist-oriented in parts like Chong Kneas, so expect some touting

Best for: Water-based culture, photography, unique experiences

14. Otres Beach (near Sihanoukville)

Type of place: Coastal beach area south of Sihanoukville

Safety summary: Sihanoukville itself has changed drastically and is best avoided, but Otres Beach remains a safe and chilled alternative

Best for: Quiet beaches, budget bungalows, calm sunsets

Hiking through the Phnom Kulen Mountains is peaceful, scenic, and a great solo escape just outside Siem Reap

Final Thoughts on Solo Female Safety in Cambodia

Cambodia might not have been my favourite place personally, but it’s still one of the most fascinating countries I’ve been to. It’s not trying to sell itself to you with perfection. It’s layered, sometimes confronting, but filled with heart. And while the pollution and a respiratory virus hit me hard, safety was never the issue.

As a solo female traveller, I never felt threatened. I didn’t go out at night, and I kept to the usual safety habits, but I walked alone, took buses, explored new cities, and always felt okay doing so.

If you’re thinking of visiting, Cambodia is absolutely worth your time. The history runs deep, the temples are unforgettable, and the people are quietly brilliant. Just be prepared for the rawness, go in with respect, and you’ll come out with stories you wouldn’t trade.

I hope this post on the safest places in Cambodia for solo female travellers helps you feel more confident about planning your trip. If you want to talk through routes or get advice while you’re travelling, check out the Solo Travel Lifeline.

If you’re vegan and reading this (or just interested in the food side of travel), I run a whole blog for that over at Vegan Verity. It’s where I put all the good eats, product finds, and tips for plant-based life on the move.

Before You Go…

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.

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.

If you’re planning a solo trip to Southeast Asia take a look at my safest places to stain Thailand and Vietnam.

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
May 26, 2025
Safest Places in Thailand for Solo Female Travellers (2025)
I’m currently in Latin America, but I spent a lot of time in Southeast Asia over the past year, including a month in Thailand. Thailand generally felt like a very safe place to travel solo as a woman. I wanted to put together a post on some of the safest places in Thailand for solo female travellers. This guide is based on that experience and solid research.

If this is your first time travelling alone as a woman, Thailand is a brilliant place to start. It’s safe, it’s well set up for tourists, and the people are incredibly kind. Violent crime isn’t something you really need to worry about, petty theft is the main issue, and even that’s not something I’ve heard happen often. As long as you use a bit of common sense, it’s an easy country to navigate on your own.

I always travel with a cross-body bag that zips up, I don’t carry loads of cash, and I never leave valuables unattended, even for a second. If you’re staying in guesthouses or hostels, use the lockers or safes. I avoid flashing anything that looks expensive and I stay in places with plenty of reviews. These small habits make a big difference, no matter where you are.

General Safety Tips for Solo Travel in Thailand
- I don’t go out after dark alone. It’s not that you can’t, I just don’t.
- I stick to drinks that are opened in front of me, and I avoid cocktails or buckets.
- I always read reviews before booking accommodation and check the location on Google Maps.
- I keep things low-key, no flashy jewellery, no big camera gear.
- I use Grab or pre-arranged taxis instead of hopping on random motorbikes or tuk tuks.
- I don’t post my exact location on social media until after I’ve moved on.
- I have my location permanently shared with a friend via Apple Watch, and people check in on me daily on WhatsApp or Messenger.
Safest Places in Thailand for Solo Female Travellers

1. Bangkok

Type of place: Massive, lively, full of energy

Safety summary: Central Bangkok is safe and easy to navigate, especially in areas like Sukhumvit, Silom, and Siam. It’s busy but not threatening. Petty theft can happen, especially in markets, but violent crime is rare.

Best for: First-time travellers, shopping, temples, good public transport.

2. Chiang Mai

Type of place: Calm city with a creative vibe

Safety summary: Very popular with solo travellers. Low crime, walkable centre, and a welcoming atmosphere. A bit cooler than the south.

Best for: Markets, cafés, temples, slow travel.

3. Pai

Type of place: Small mountain town, backpacker favourite

Safety summary: Laid-back, friendly, and generally considered very safe. It’s a slower pace, and you’ll see plenty of solo travellers just taking it easy.

Best for: Nature, rest days, hot springs, and chilled-out cafés.

4. Koh Lanta

Type of place: Quiet island without the party scene

Safety summary: Safe, calm, and great for solo travel. People leave you alone here.

Best for: Beaches, peace, a slower island vibe.

5. Koh Samui

Type of place: Big island with a bit of everything

Safety summary: It’s more developed than some islands, but areas like Lamai and Bophut are calm and considered safe. Chaweng is more full-on and party-focused.

Best for: A mix of nightlife, beaches, and comfort.

6. Ayutthaya

Type of place: Historical town, popular day trip from Bangkok

Safety summary: Very relaxed and walkable. Bike rental is the best way to get around, and it feels extremely low-risk.

Best for: Ruins, temples, peaceful wandering.

7. Phuket

Type of place: Big, beachy, touristy

Safety summary: Despite the party reputation, Phuket is still a safe place for solo travellers. Some areas can feel a bit hectic or overpriced, but places like Kata or Karon are quieter and more chilled. Stay away from Patong if you don’t want the club scene.

Best for: Beach holidays, snorkelling, spa days, and nightlife if you want it.

Solo sunsets are seriously underrated. Thailand makes it easy to feel safe and relaxed while travelling alone

8. Hua Hin

Type of place: Coastal town that’s not quite a beach island

Safety summary: Quiet, calm, and low-key. It’s not a big backpacker spot, but that can be a plus. Very few safety concerns and generally full of local Thai tourists or expats.

Best for: A more local-feeling trip, chilled beach walks, and fewer crowds.

9. Krabi Town / Ao Nang

Type of place: Mainland beach area with island access

Safety summary: Ao Nang is a popular place for solo travellers, with easy access to islands like Railay Beach. Well-travelled, fairly safe, and good infrastructure.

Best for: Boat trips, beach days, and a bit of adventure.

10. Kanchanaburi

Type of place: Historical riverside town

Safety summary: Known for the Death Railway and Erawan waterfalls, it’s quiet and laid-back. Feels safe and is often visited by solo travellers looking to escape the bigger cities.

Best for: History, waterfalls, day trips from Bangkok.

11. Sukhothai

Type of place: Ancient ruins, much quieter than Ayutthaya

Safety summary: Very peaceful, often overlooked. Perfect if you want to avoid crowds. Biking through the historical park is easy and solo-friendly.

Best for: History, cycling, off-the-beaten-path vibes.

12. Koh Tao

Type of place: Small island popular for scuba diving

Safety summary: Gets mixed reviews due to sensational headlines in the past, but thousands of travellers go every year without issues. Safe in well-reviewed accommodations and during the day.

Best for: Diving, snorkelling, and chilled island life.

13. Koh Phangan

Type of place: Party island with hidden quiet spots

Safety summary: Famous for the Full Moon Party, but the north of the island is calm and peaceful. Great for solo travellers who want both nature and nightlife, just avoid the beach after the party if you’re alone.

Best for: Yoga retreats, beaches, parties if you’re into it.

14. Railay Beach

Type of place: Peninsula that feels like an island

Safety summary: Only accessible by boat, so it feels more secluded. Safe and popular for rock climbing and sunsets. Very walkable and easy-going.

Best for: Beaches, cliffs, nature, and postcard views.

Final Thoughts on Solo Female Safety in Thailand

Thailand really is one of the easiest countries for solo travel. It’s set up for tourists, but not in an overwhelming way. You’ll find it’s easy to move around, most people speak a bit of English, and things like ATMs, SIM cards, and transport all work without too much drama.

If you’re sensible and trust your gut, you’ll likely have a brilliant time. Thailand is friendly, welcoming, and just chaotic enough to feel like an adventure, without feeling unsafe.

I hope you found this post on the safest places in Thailand for solo female travellers useful. If you’re planning a trip and want help figuring out where to go or how to stay connected while you travel, you can always reach out or check out the Solo Travel Lifeline.

Before You Go…

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.

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 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
May 25, 2025
Safest Places in Mexico for Solo Female Travellers (2025)
I’m in Mexico right now. I’ve just left Mexico City and I’ve been spending time in San Cristóbal de las Casas, a mountain town with cobbled streets, colourful walls, one of the safest places in Mexico for solo female travellers.

So far? I’ve felt very safe travelling solo in Mexico.

That doesn’t mean I’ve been out partying at 2am or staggering home drunk (that’s never really been my style anyway). But I have been walking around during the day, eating out alone, riding buses, staying in budget-friendly Airbnbs and the odd hotel — and none of it has felt sketchy.

I always read the reviews, I check the maps, and I trust my gut. I drink beer that’s opened in front of me, I keep my bag zipped, and I don’t flash anything expensive. That’s not just Mexico, that’s how I travel everywhere.

This list isn’t sugarcoated, but it is honest. These are the places in Mexico where I’ve either personally felt safe or done enough research that they’ve stayed on my “yes” list as a solo female traveller.

General Safety Tips for Travelling in Mexico

Before we get into the list, here’s what I do as a solo traveller in Mexico to stay safe:
- I don’t go out after dark alone. You absolutely can, and many people do, but I just don’t. It’s not worth the gamble.
- I don’t drink spirits or cocktails, just beer or wine that’s opened in front of me.
- I always read reviews when booking accommodation, especially on Airbnb. If I get even one gut-feeling red flag, I skip it.
- I use Google Street View to check out a location before booking. If the area looks isolated or rundown, I’ll look elsewhere.
- I avoid flashy jewellery, handbags, or camera gear.
- I stick to Uber or pre-booked taxis in cities instead of just hailing one off the street.
- I keep my location private on Instagram and don’t post in real time unless I’ve already left that place.
- I have my location permanently shared with a friend via Apple Find MY and a couple of people check in on me daily on WhatsApp or Messenger.
This might sound cautious, but it’s what makes me feel relaxed enough to enjoy the trip.

Eating solo but definitely not suffering. This was one of the best vegan meals I’ve had in Mexico so far.

Safest Places in Mexico for Solo Female Travellers

1. Mexico City (Roma Norte, Condesa, Coyoacán)

Safety summary: Roma Norte is widely regarded as one of the safer neighbourhoods in CDMX, tree-lined streets, craft coffee, restaurants, and a mostly relaxed, creative vibe. Avoid areas like Tepito and Iztapalapa.

My tip: I stayed in Roma Norte, which felt calm and walkable, almost like London, but sunnier. I walked during daylight, used Uber to get around, and booked places with lots of solid reviews. The first subway car is women-only (if you need it), but I avoided transit at peak times. Always check the street and building on Google Street View before booking.

2. San Cristóbal de las Casas

Safety summary: Small, walkable, and laid-back. Tourism is well established. Visible police presence, but I never felt unsafe.

My tip: It’s cool in the evenings, so bring layers. I stayed just outside the very centre and walked into town during the day, felt totally fine. Just don’t wander too far into the outskirts and be mindful if there are local protests or roadblocks. They’re usually peaceful, but they do pop up.

3. Oaxaca City

Safety summary: Generally considered safe and culturally rich. Stick to central neighbourhoods like Jalatlaco or Centro.

My tip: I haven’t been yet, but it’s high on my list. Other solo travellers have told me the food scene is brilliant and it’s easy to meet people. Use your usual awareness in busy markets or during festivals. I’d stay somewhere with solid reviews, in walking distance to the centre.

4. Valladolid

Safety summary: Safe, small town in the Yucatán. Very walkable and not chaotic like the big tourist hubs.

My tip: This is a great alternative to the madness of Cancún. It’s a good base for exploring cenotes and ruins without having to deal with the party crowd. You’ll still want a secure place to stay, I’d go for something near the centre with reviews mentioning solo female stays.

5. Mérida

Safety summary: Repeatedly ranked one of the safest cities in Mexico. Ideal for solo travel, especially if you prefer slower-paced trips.

My tip: It’s hot. Like, drink-your-weight-in-electrolytes hot. But it’s safe, calm, and full of culture. I’d go for a place with air con and walking distance to the squares. Locals are kind, and it doesn’t feel intense or overwhelming.

6. Puerto Escondido (La Punta)

Safety summary: Popular surf town with a mellow vibe. La Punta is often recommended as the calmest and safest neighbourhood for solo travellers. Like any beach destination, exercise caution after dark and don’t walk alone along the shoreline at night.

My tip: I haven’t been to Puerto Escondido yet, but I’ve kept it on my radar. If I do go, I’ll stick to La Punta, arrive during the day, and book somewhere with a long trail of detailed reviews from other solo women. As always, I’d avoid anywhere that has vague safety comments or no reviews at all, that’s not a place-specific rule, that’s just how I travel.

Street art in San Cristóbal de las Casas. Playful, bold, and full of character, just like the town.

Final Thoughts on Solo Female Safety (Everywhere)

Mexico gets a bad rep in the media, but it’s not the Wild West. It’s just like anywhere, some places are safer than others, and how you travel makes a difference.

For me, the key to safe solo travel is doing what makes you feel secure. I don’t drink heavily. I avoid night-time wandering. I over-research every place I stay. I don’t share my location in real time. I wear what I like, but I do think about how I’ll be perceived, especially in rural areas.

You don’t have to follow all the same rules. You might love a rooftop bar at midnight. I’ll probably be home by then, watching Netflix in my PJs with a beer. Both are valid. Just travel in a way that works for you.

And honestly? Mexico’s been great. People have been welcoming, transport has been smooth, and I’ve felt more relaxed here than I did in parts of Europe. I hope you enjoyed this post on the safest places in Mexico for solo female travellers.

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.

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.

You might also find my post on Backpack Security for Solo Travellers useful.

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico take a look at how I planned mine here.

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
May 24, 2025