happy2travel

I had planned to go to the above destinations with a travel companion, but the companion backed out. I'd still love to go, but only if it's safe. I would appreciate your input. I have to make definite travel plans within the next couple of days. Thanks.

quietplague

Cambodia and Malaysia for me was pretty safe. I hear Vietnam was pretty safe as well. I haven't heard too much about India but my take is that southeast asia is a pretty safe area to travel on one's own. Use common sense, do your research regarding local scams, and use safety tips regarding traveling.

suze

Have you traveled solo before in the more 'exotic' parts of the world.

I ask because I believe safety is often as much about your own travel skills as the locale you choose to visit.

If it is a first time my advice would be more cautious. If you are an old hand trapsing around the world on your own, I'd say go for it.

Bethwhitwa

Cambodia and Vietnam will be very safe. The locals are fabulous and you'll meet lots of other travelers. India will be tough but is do-able. Many men will regard you with disdain. Wear conservative clothing and don't draw a lot of attention to yourself. I can't speak to Malaysia - haven't been but I imagine that because of it's Muslim community, you'll want to dress conservatively there as well.

TravelTwiddle

I'm Christian and I live in Malaysia. Contrary to common belief, the population here isn't entirely Moslems. And if one stumble into one, don't expect the Moslem here to cover up like the Arabs or Afghan. The Islam here is a progressive one; CEO of highest ranking university in Malaysia is a women. I'd say there are 30-40% non-Moslem living in Malaysia.

For 1st timer, I suggest you keep to Singapore-Malacca-Kuala Lumpur-Ipoh-Penang route. These cities are populated by lots of non-Moslem, if it makes you comfortable.

If you need help, post your questions on this thread.

Tere

I would travel alone to all those countries except to India. I just got back from Goa, it's safe there and people are friendly, as long as you don't venture in the streets at night but we (me and my daughter) spent some hours at Mumbai airport and not only the people in the airport were unfriendly but looking at the outside of the airport was scaring!

suze

That was my thought as well, that India is not in the same category as the other three countries (in regards to the questions you asked).

Can you change your trip a little bit, to take into account the fact you'll be traveling solo?

thursdaysd

I traveled solo in India for two and a half months, mostly by train, and aside from the area around Mumbai train station at night I never felt unsafe. Hassled, yes. Unsafe, no. (I'm female, early fifties at the time.)