The Ultimate Solo Female Safety Checklist

Exotik Traveller has outlined a list of safety checklists for guidance, but this is by no means exhaustive, as common sense must always prevail. This safety checklist is more than just a list of items; it’s about having a "safety-first" mindset. When travelling to exotic locations where cultural norms or infrastructure might be different from what you're used to, preparation is your best ally. You should not travel with a passport that is less than 6 months valid, but also plan your trip well ahead because some visa applications take time and also some vaccinations require multiple boosters that must be completed before you set off.

Digital & Documentation Prep

• Share Your Itinerary: use an App like Life360 or simply share your "Live Location" on WhatsApp with a trusted friend or family member.

• Cloud Copies: upload scans of your passport, visa, and insurance documents to a secure cloud folder (Google Drive or Dropbox) that you can access from any device. If you have Gmail, you have 15GB free cloud storage. It is also worth uploading scanned copies of all your vaccinations. Some countries will not let you in until you provide evidence of your vaccinations.

• Local Emergency Numbers: don’t assume it's "911." Program the local police, ambulance, and your nearest embassy number into your phone before you land. Having a hard copy backup would not be a bad idea, just in case you should part with your phone (God forbid).

• International SIM cards: while some Mobile Phone networks may have international coverage, it is worth noting that may not be the case for all Mobile networks. You may find an international SIM card that suits your needs here.

• Offline Maps: Download the city/region on Google Maps or Maps.me so you can navigate without needing a data connection.

Smart Packing & Tech

The "Door Stop" Trick: pack a lightweight rubber door wedge or a portable door alarm. Placing this under your hotel or bungalow door provides an extra layer of security and peace of mind at night.

Power Bank: never let your phone die. In remote areas, your phone is your map, your translator, and your lifeline. It would be ideal to get a solar rechargeable power bank.

Personal Safety Alarm: a small, high-decibel keychain alarm (like Birdie) is a non-lethal way to draw immediate attention if you feel threatened.

Privacy when Booking: when checking into hotels, use your first initial and last name (e.g., J. Smith) rather than "Miss" or "Mrs." to keep your marital status and gender discreet on public logs.

Travel first aid kit: this is essential because you may not find a hospital nearby, and in some cases, you are expected to provide needles and other items should you require medical assistance.

Other items you may need: portable water filter, malaria tablets (required for tropical climate destinations), diarrhea relief tablets, insect bite cream, portable solar lamp, rechargeable portable fan, and anti-slash backpack, body wipes, etc., are also essential.

Cultural & Social Awareness

• The "Wedding Ring" Strategy: in more conservative regions (like parts of the Middle East or North Africa), some solo travellers wear a simple band on their ring finger to deter unwanted advances. While it is possible to meet someone special on holiday, it is important to be aware of someone who is over-friendly.

• Dress to Blend: research local modesty standards. In many exotic destinations, covering shoulders and knees isn't just respectful; it reduces "outsider" attention.

• The "Confidence Walk": even if you’re lost, walk with purpose. If you need to check your map, step into a shop or cafe rather than stopping on a busy street corner.

• Arrive in Daylight: always try to schedule your flights or trains to arrive before sunset. Navigating a new, exotic city for the first time is significantly safer and less stressful in-the-light-of-day.

• Exotik Tip: trust your intuition. If a situation, a person, or a specific street feels "off," leave immediately. Your safety is always more important than being polite.

Pickpocketing & Scam Hotspots

Recent data for 2025 shows that petty theft is most common in high-density tourist "honeypots" where travellers are easily distracted for various reasons, including the huge crowd, traffic and other ongoing activities. For context, it is important to understand that the information on pickpocketing and & scams, is for all travellers and not female travellers alone.

Asia - Bangkok, Thailand (Grand Palace & Wat Pho), Delhi, India (Chandni Chowk): "Tuk-Tuk Scam" and high-speed phone snatching.

Europe - Paris, France (Eiffel Tower & Metro), Rome, Italy (Trevi Fountain), Barcelona, Spain (Las Ramblas): "Friendship bracelets," fake charity petitions, and "the spill" (where someone "accidentally" spills a drink on you).

High-speed phone and bag snatching is prevalent in some tourist hotspots in London, including Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Westminster. In 2024, about 120 thousand cases have been recorded.

High-Vigilance Areas for Women

While pickpocketing is a serious issue when you are away from home, there are some more serious crimes that solo female travellers need to be aware of.

Safety for solo women often involves navigating cultural expectations and varying levels of street harassment (catcalling, etc.).

• Egypt & Morocco: While breathtakingly exotic, solo women frequently report high levels of verbal harassment. It is advised to stay in well-lit, busy areas and consider "modest" local dress to minimise attention.

• India: Travellers should be wary in crowded transport hubs and markets. High-profile fraud and "fake guide" scams are common in Delhi and Agra.

• Central & South America: In cities like Buenos Aires or Quito, "express kidnappings" (forcing victims to withdraw money from ATMs) remain a risk in non-tourist neighbourhoods. As a mitigation, it is advisable to stick to verified rideshare Apps like Uber or Cabify rather than hailing taxis on the street.

Safe resorts for solo female exotic travellers

Japan

Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo

Why is Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo the ultimate sanctuary for solo female explorers?

At Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo, guests are expected to experience the perfect harmony of luxury, security, and Japanese heritage. Rising above the vibrant Shinjuku skyline, this iconic hotel is a premier choice for solo female travellers seeking an exotic yet safe retreat in the heart of Japan.

Why it’s a Solo-Traveller Favourite for 2026:

• Safe & Strategic Location: Situated in the secure skyscraper district of West Shinjuku, the hotel is just a 5-minute, well-lit walk from Shinjuku Station. Guests enjoy 24/7 security and a peaceful atmosphere away from the neon-lit bustle, ensuring total peace of mind during late-night returns.

• Cultural Immersion On-Site: You don’t have to leave the lobby to experience the allure of Japan. Keio Plaza offers exclusive tea ceremonies in their traditional "Sho-fu-an" room, authentic Kimono experiences, and rotating exhibits of Japanese art and pottery.

• Luxury Designed for One: For the ultimate upgrade, the Premier Grand Club Floors offer private check-in and access to a stunning 45th-floor lounge with panoramic city views, perfect for a secure, elegant evening drink alone.

• Convenience at Your Fingertips: With an on-site convenience store, over 15 world-class restaurants (ideal for the Japanese ohitorisama solo-dining culture), and direct Airport Limousine Bus service, every logistical stress is removed from your journey.

Nine Hours (Woman Only) Kyoto:
A Futuristic Zen Sanctuary

For the solo explorer who finds beauty in simplicity, Nine Hours (Woman Only) Kyoto offers a "resort" experience of a different kind: a high-tech, ultra-minimalist sanctuary designed entirely around the female traveller’s rhythm. This isn't just a place to sleep; it is a curated, architectural experience in the heart of Japan’s cultural capital.

The Allure of the Modern Pod:

• Total Psychological Security: As a 100% female-only property, the entire atmosphere is one of collective calm. From the elevator to the sleeping quarters, you can relax completely in a space designed exclusively for women, by architects who understand the need for privacy and peace.

• The "9h" Philosophy: The "resort" experience here is found in the ritual: 1 hour to shower, 7 hours to sleep, and 1 hour to rest. It is a digital detox for the soul, stripping away the noise of travel to focus on pure, restorative comfort.

• Futuristic Aesthetics: With its sleek, monochrome palette and sci-fi aesthetic, the property feels like a set from a luxury space-age film. It is an Instagrammable marvel that captures the "Cool Japan" vibe perfectly.

• Prime Gion Access: Located just minutes from the historic Gion District, you have the luxury of staying in a high-security, modern bubble while being steps away from ancient temples, geisha districts, and the exotic charm of old Kyoto

• Premium Amenities: Forget basic hostels; here you are treated to high-thread-count linens, designer loungewear, and premium Japanese skincare products in a spa-like shower environment.

Vietnam

Anantara Hoi An Resort: Colonial Elegance meets Riverside Security

Nestled on the lush banks of the Thu Bon River, Anantara Hoi An Resort is a masterclass in safe luxury for solo female travellers.

This French colonial-style sanctuary offers a seamless blend of historical allure and modern comfort, positioned just a short, picturesque stroll from the UNESCO World Heritage Ancient Town. For the 2026 traveler, it remains the ultimate "Safe Haven" in Vietnam.

Why it’s a Solo Female Traveller Favourite for 2026?

• Secluded yet Central: while the vibrant markets and lantern-lit alleys of Hoi An are only minutes away, the resort itself feels like a private island. It features gated security and a peaceful riverside promenade, allowing you to enjoy the exotic atmosphere without the overwhelm of the city crowds.

• Cultural Immersion without the Stress: Anantara brings Vietnam to you. From on-site Vietnamese language classes and traditional lantern-making to the renowned Spice Spoons cooking school, you can dive into the local culture in a secure, curated environment.

• The "Solo-Safe" Explorer Programme: the resort provides complimentary bicycles allowing guests to explore the "Ancient Town" and "Street Gurus" (vetted local guides) who ensure your solo walking tours through the hidden back streets of Hoi An are both authentic and completely secure.

• Wellness & Restoration: the award-winning Anantara Spa and daily riverside yoga sessions provide a safe space to "recharge your batteries." The split-level suites are designed with private porches and daybeds, perfect for watching the river life glide by in total privacy.

• Impeccable Logistics: with 24/7 concierge support and reliable private airport transfers to Da Nang, every detail of your solo journey is handled with professional care.

  The Anantara Hoi An Resort encapsulates the exotic charm of Vietnam.

Little Hoi An. A Boutique Hotel & Spa:
Your Intimate Vietnamese Home-Away-From-Home

For the solo female traveler who values a personalized, boutique touch, Little Hoi An. A Boutique Hotel & Spa is a rare gem. Perfectly situated on the quiet banks of the Hoai River, this 30-room sanctuary offers the privacy of a luxury residence with the professional security of a top-tier resort. It is the ideal choice for those seeking a "Safe Exotic" experience that feels deeply authentic and effortlessly comfortable.

Why it’s a Solo-Traveller Favorite for 2026:

• Boutique Security & Intimacy: With only 30 rooms, the staff at Little Hoi An are renowned for their personalised care, often greeting guests by name. For a solo traveler, this creates a protective, "inner-circle" environment where you are always looked after, from the moment you check in to your 24-hour security-monitored departure.

• The Perfection of Location: Nestled in the tranquil Minh An district, you are just a 5-minute walk from the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Ancient Town. This allows you to explore the vibrant night markets and return to a peaceful, well-lit haven in minutes, avoiding any stressful late-night commutes.

• Immersive Wellness Rituals: The on-site Little Ozone Spa provides a secure, female-friendly space to experience traditional Vietnamese body treatments. After a day of exploring, the indoor tranquil pool offers a private sanctuary to unwind away from the tropical heat.

• Curated Cultural Connections: The hotel specialises in making the exotic accessible. Join an intimate lantern-making workshop or an authentic Vietnamese cooking class right at the resort. These small-group settings are perfect for meeting fellow solo travelers in a safe, social atmosphere.

• Complimentary Exploration: Leverage the hotel’s free bicycle hire to explore the surrounding rice fields or take their private shuttle bus to a secluded, secure beach area—giving you the freedom to explore without the logistical headache.

• Vietnamese cultural heritage meets modern peace of mind: Little Hoi An is where Vietnamese cultural heritage meets modern peace of mind. It is a masterclass in boutique luxury, proving that sometimes the safest way to travel is to stay small, stay local, and stay in style. Exotik Traveller suggest that guests should request a River View Suite because there is something uniquely calming about having a private balcony overlooking the traditional boats of the Hoai River;it allows you to soak in the Vietnamese atmosphere from the comfort of your own room.

The United Arab Emirates

Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, Abu Dhabi

Why Saadiyat Rotana is the Perfect Sanctuary for Solo Female TravelLers?

Unmatched Safety and Peace of Mind: Abu Dhabi consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in the world, making it a top-tier destination for women travelling alone.

24/7 Professional Security: discrete but vigilant staff ensure a private and secure environment throughout the resort.

• Safe Connectivity: effortless access to female-friendly transportation, including the Careem and Uber apps, or the resort’s private limousine service.

• Respectful Hospitality: Experience the world-renowned Emirati hospitality where solo guests are treated with the utmost respect and personalized care.

• Luxurious Comfort with an Exotic Twist: nestled on a 9km stretch of pristine white sand, the resort offers a "beach-house" aesthetic that balances high-end elegance with relaxed island vibes.

• Sophisticated Accommodations: Choose from 327 elegant rooms or upgrade to a Beach Villa with a private plunge pool for total seclusion.

• Zen the Spa: indulge in traditional Moroccan and Turkish Hammams or Himalayan-inspired rituals, the perfect way to reconnect with yourself.

• Club Rotana Privileges: for solo travellers, the Club Rotana lounge provides a boutique "hotel-within-a-hotel" experience, offering a quiet space for breakfast, afternoon tea, and evening canapés.

• The Cultural Heart of the UAE

  Saadiyat Rotana is more than a beach escape; it is your gateway to the Saadiyat Cultural District, the region’s most ambitious artistic hub.

  • Louvre Abu Dhabi: Just a 5-minute drive away, explore this architectural marvel under its iconic "rain of light" dome.

  • Spiritual Wonders: Visit the nearby Abrahamic Family House, a unique space for reflection and interfaith harmony.

  • Nature at Your Doorstep: Share your morning walk with the indigenous Hawksbill turtles that nest on the resort's protected beach.

Safety of solo female travellers in Abu Dhabi and UAE

Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE are frequently cited by international travellers and global safety indices as some of the safest destinations in the world for women (Numbeo Safety Index).

Female-Focused Infrastructure: the UAE provides specific services designed for the comfort and privacy of women:

• Ladies' Taxis: recognisable by their "pink roofs", these taxis are driven by women and are available for female passengers and their families only.

• Solo female travellers to UAE are advised to download the Careem App that make it easy for them to request "pink-roof taxis".

• Public Transport: the Abu Dhabi metros and public buses often feature women-only sections to ensure personal space during peak hours.

• Cultural Etiquette & Respect: UAE is a Muslim country but also multucural. Sexual harassment behaviours such as catcalling, and "wolf-whistling" are extremely rare and legally punished.

Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, Dubai

Discover a sanctuary of silence and safety at Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, Dubai. Perfectly tailored for the solo female traveller, this legendary "Gateway to the Sun" offers an exotic escape where luxury meets the soul of the Arabian desert, all within a 45-minute drive from downtown Dubai.

The Bab Al Shams Desert Resort is a safe haven in the golden dunes. In terms of safety and privacy, Dubai is globally recognized for its safety, and Bab Al Shams elevates this with a dedicated focus on the solo guest experience.

• Secluded security: designed as a fortified Arabian village, the resort offers a self-contained, high-security environment that feels like a private oasis.

• Professional chauffeur services: for solo arrivals, the resort provides premium, tracked private transfers between the resort and the Dubai International Airport (DXB-Dubai Intl.) about an hour away, ensuring you never have to navigate the desert roads alone.

• Women-only wellness: Enjoy the Desert Spa, featuring private treatment rooms and traditional Hammams where female therapists provide a culturally respectful and deeply relaxing environment. An infinity pool with adult-only section and a swim-up bar is also available at the resort.

• Bab Al Shams blends traditional "low-rise" architecture with ultramodern comfort to create a 5-start service second to none. Guests can choose from Terrace Suites overlooking the Al Marmoom desert conservation reserve, offering total privacy for morning meditation or stargazing.

• Fine dining for one: From the Pan-Asian rooftop vibes of Anwā to the rustic Levantine flavours of Zala, the resort’s restaurants are welcoming to solo diners, offering intimate seating with panoramic views.

The Bab Al Shams Desert Resort and desert safari, offer a safe desert luxury and cultural travel experience for independent and solo female travellers seeking peace, relaxation, wellness and cultural immersion.

• Immersive cultural allure on site: guests experience the real UAE without leaving the safety of the resort grounds. The Al Hadheerah dining theatre offers travellers a legendary open-air desert experience, dining under the stars while watching live falconry displays, camel processions, and traditional dancers, a safe way to experience local heritage.

• Desert activities away from site: away from the site, guests can discover the Dubai International Endurance City (5 minutes’ drive), Dubai Mall (50 minutes’ drive) and Burj Khalifa (51 minutes away). Travellers can also join small, guided groups for camel trekking, horse riding, or nature walks to spot the endangered Arabian Oryx and gazelles.

• Stargazing: end your evening with a guided astronomy session, reflecting on the vastness of the desert in a safe, tranquil atmosphere.