Welcome everyone,

During my time in Asia, I traveled mostly alone (even by motorbike) and I want to share my experience with you guys.

So let me start off by telling you that traveling in South-East Asia is pretty safe. Of course, there are certain neighborhoods in for example Jakarta that you shouldn’t go to. But as a tourist, you will not accidentally find yourself there. Just think logically and you will already eliminate 90% of the danger. I personally felt safer in South-East Asia than in Amsterdam, Paris or Londen. The people are nicer, more open and more willing to help you out.

First of all, you probably heard this one a zillion times but it’s true; don’t trust people too fast. As you will experience people during your travels, locals and tourists will often strike up a conversation with you.  This is fine, go ahead and enjoy a conversation with that person. Be kind, but don’t be naive. People can be very nice, but you don’t know these people. Listen to your own feeling and don’t do anything that doesn’t feel right. Don’t go off with alone with strangers too quickly, especially further away or in quieter places. Especially if you are a woman, be careful about this. As for example people in Indonesia are overall very kind people but don’t make the mistake of thinking there are no bad people out there or good people that do good things. If I would go out, local people at my hostel would always say: ‘Be careful’, and I would be like: ‘Don’t worry, I’ll be okay’. They would respond and say: ‘Yes I know, but you never know’. And they’re right.

Another important way to stay safe is to learn about the culture of the country you’re in and adjust appropriately to the culture’s norms and values. Of course, you are free to think whatever you want. But be aware that you are a guest in their country. Your culture may be very different from theirs and you will probably not be aware of certain cultural things in that country. So read up on the culture of the country you are going to. Also, observe the people around you in the country you are in. How do they dress? How do they interact? At what volume do they speak? Be respectful of the country you’re in and the people will treat you with respect as well.

It also brings fun things trying to integrate into another culture. You may find out that certain things that are considered rude in your culture may not be offensive in the country that you find yourself in. So go ahead chew loudly, eat with your hands, and take that call while hanging out with your local friends! Also, ask for some info about the culture of the country you are in to local people. Maybe ask the staff of your hostel! They will be more than willing to help as you show sincere interest in their culture.

One of the most important ways to respect the culture of the country you’re in is to dress appropriately. This counts for men and for women. You will not only feel more comfortable in the country you are in but you will also feel more respected by local people. Especially in Asia dressing in a fashionable and conservative manner is perceived as the right way to do things. You will see that people who are rich/are from a high class will treat you good, maybe they will even invite you to join them for drinks or dinner. If you are in an environment with local people, especially for girls dress conservatively. Don’t wear dresses or shorts that are short and don’t wear low-cut tops or crop tops. Also just to be sure, carry around a sarong (scarf), to cover up a bit if needed. You can wear it over your shoulders or use it to make your dress a bit longer. A sarong is very versatile and it has been a life saver for me at times. For instance, when I didn’t plan on going to a temple or when I all of the sudden found myself in extremely conservative part of the island where I felt more comfortable with a sarong over my shoulders.

I have to say that there are certain exceptions. If you find yourself in extremely touristy places like Gili T or Canggu in Indonesia there are fewer rules as to what you can wear. However, I hope that you will also visit the less known and less touristy places and discover what the country you are in is really like. And the more local it gets, the more conservative it usually gets, according to my experience in Asia anyways. Also be careful when you go swimming in a non-tourist area. Maybe wearing that cute new white bikini isn’t the best of ideas!

And then finally the most important of all, don’t let yourself get out of control. I understand you may very well be on the other side of the world and you may feel like having a few drinks and going out dancing. That’s fine, have your fun and enjoy your time. But please be cautious. Don’t go buying alcoholic drinks right and left on the street for incredibly cheap prices from some shady guy. Buy them in shops or at the bar/club. Don’t overdo it. Don’t get shitfaced, especially if you travel alone. Maybe you’re out with a group of friends you just met at your hostel and you feel safe with them. But don’t expect them to take care of you when you can’t anymore. Always be in control and be able to take care of yourself. You are far away from home and in an unknown country. Where rules and the police can be very different. Don’t get yourself in situations where you (with your sober head) wouldn’t want to be in. Be responsible. Also with drinking and driving on your scooter. You may think you are still capable, but listen to the people around you and listen to your own instincts. Be honest with yourself, if you feel like you can’t drive it’s fine. Leave your scooter, get a taxi and drive it back tomorrow.

And then one final warning; be careful with drugs. Especially if you are in Indonesia or Malaysia, they have really harsh sentences here. You don’t know if you can trust the person you bought them from, you don’t know if they are ‘good’ drugs. Especially avoid taking them if you’re inexperienced.

Okay well, that was the end of my little rant. But to be honest guys Asia is pretty fucking safe, it ain’t South-America. Just think ahead and don’t be stupid!

Feel good during your trip and don’t forget to take care of yourself. People will feel your positive energy and will be inclined to talk to you. Also feel confident. If you radiance confidence people want to be around you. They will be attracted by your glow. Give what you want and you’ll receive what you desire!

Enjoy your time, no worries:)

Thank you for reading my story and have a wonderful day guys!