Top 6 Cities for Solo Travel in Asia

Many Americans are skipping out on European adventures to head to Asia.

Asia is an increasingly popular continent for solo travelers who want to drop off the map for a more mind-blowing and cultural experience.

Though you’re probably thinking about the tropical beaches of Thailand or the bustling markets in India, Asia is the world’s most populous continent—which means wonders really do abound.

Unlike a solo trip to Europe, you won’t have nearly as many options to hop on a train and land in a different country within a few hours. That means you need to be more selective when looking for a suitable solo travel destination.

With 49 countries to sift through, it’s a lot of work to find the perfect landing spot for solo travel in Asia.

That’s probably a good thing if you like to study up on potential new adventures—but it might be daunting if you’re looking for an easy adventure as a green solo traveler.

This massive continent has dozens of distinct cultural experiences waiting for you. If you’re heading out on your first solo trip around Asia, try out these destinations. They’re gorgeous, safe, and have well-trodden tourist tracks for you to hop on.

Best cities for solo travel in Asia at a glance

Best budget stop: Chiang Mai, Thailand
Splurge-worthy destination: Singapore
Best eats: Taipei, Taiwan
Most unexpected culture: Varanasi, India
Chillest vibes: Kyoto, Japan
Big-city wonders: Chongqing, China

Best cities for solo travel in Asia

Best budget stop: Chiang Mai, Thailand

Phra Singh Waramahavihan Temple in Chiang Mai (Getty)

Thailand is one of the most accessible destinations for solo travel in Asia thanks to its well-rounded tourist infrastructure.

Despite the fact that Thai culture, language, and customs are very different than Western sensibilities, locals are renowned for their patience and hospitality. You’ll notice that Chiang Mai has a particularly welcoming atmosphere and highly affordable prices that younger travelers will appreciate.

Despite its low prices, you’ll be able to put together the trip of a lifetime. From its dozens of temples to its wildlife sanctuaries to its traditional sak yant tattoo artists, you can sample the very best of Southeast Asia in this jungle outpost.

Just be prepared to trade off those tropical beaches—Chiang Mai is squarely landlocked. Despite the lack of beaches, I had a great time during my two-month stint in Chiang Mai.

Here’s where to stay in Chiang Mai and what to do.

Splurge-worthy destination: Singapore

Singapore is high on my bucket list—but I can never seem to wrap my mind around the nation-state’s soaring price tags. If you’re a solo traveler with money burning a hole in your pocket, look no further.

Singapore isn’t just Asia’s top destination for solo travelers—I think it’s one of the best in the world.

First, because the city is walkable. Second, it’s dotted with wonders like oxygen-producing tree sculptures and canals so clean that otters crisscross through them. Third, it’s also home to larger-than-life establishments like the Sands, which is home to the world’s highest rooftop infinity pool. Fourth, it’s a cultural mishmash that includes traditions from Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other groups. Five, it’s incredibly safe.

I could keep going with those highlights—just know that you’ll be paying a good amount to really dig into Singapore’s finest wonders.

Here’s where to stay in Singapore and what to do.

Best eats: Taipei, Taiwan

Just like in Singapore, you can expect a modern but traditional experience in Taipei. This city has a comprehensive public transportation system (which I was able to navigate despite not speaking or reading Mandarin), along with a safe and friendly atmosphere.

But you might be wondering how Taipei beats out other Asian cities in terms of food. That’s thanks to its extensive night markets, which offer products from cosmetics to bags. But the real star is street food galore.

While you can find delicious eats all around the island, Taipei’s night markets let you sample Chinese cuisine, Japanese delights, and indigenous favorites like smoked meats. Plus, all the best fusion foods you could dream of in East Asia.

Here’s where to stay in Taipei and what to do.

Most unexpected culture: Varanasi, India

Ancient Varanasi city architecture and Ganges river ghat at sunset (Getty)

I studied religion in India and didn’t make it to Varanasi—which is pretty criminal. I’ve always kicked myself for not making it up to Varanasi, which is located in Northeast India near Kolkata.

If you’re a solo traveler who wants to dive straight into the heart of Hinduism, head to Varanasi. As one of the world’s most popular spiritual destinations, you’ll be able to see the main sites easily, from the Ganges River to the Durga Temple.

Let me be clear: Varanasi isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s a pilgrimage site for Hindus across the world—and there are just over one billion practicing Hindus out there, for context. It’s dirty and hectic, along with being highly sacred. As a student of culture, that’s a highly compelling combination for me.

Ready to unlearn everything the West taught you about faith? Varanasi has many hands-on lessons to teach you.

Here’s where to stay in Varanasi and what to do.

Chillest vibes: Kyoto, Japan

Did my description of Varanasi spook you? I hope not—along with Singapore, Varanasi is high on my bucket list. But if you’re not up for a paradigm shift, I understand.

If that’s the case, I suggest you head to Kyoto. Kyoto is considered Japan’s most traditional city. It’s home to over 2,000 temples, which curate a Zen-like atmosphere.

You can explore those temples at your own pace, along with actual Zen gardens and traditional experiences like tea ceremonies and lessons on kimonos. Nature lovers will also have plenty to enjoy, as Kyoto is known as the City of Flowers thanks to its irises, hydrangeas, and cherry trees.

Here’s where to stay in Kyoto and what to do.

Big-city wonders: Chongqing, China

Over the last year, I’ve seen more and more social media travel accounts covering the insane, Tron-like city of Chongqing. This massive city, located in the center of the country, is now the focal point of China’s largest municipality population with over 22 million inhabitants.

And how does the city manage such a massive population? Technology and gargantuan skyscrapers.

The city is basically a multi-level maze that I’ve seen described as a 3D city. There are mezzanine levels (or ‘ground floors’) that start at the ninth floor. Many skyscrapers have shops up until the 7^th floor, at which point they convert into residential buildings.

Though you’ll need to be comfortable getting around with some Mandarin (not many people speak English), you won’t forget this solo trip for the rest of your life. I guarantee it.

Here’s where to stay in Chongqing and what to do.

Step-by-Step Packing Guide for a Two-Week Trip (Carry-Ons Only!)

We tend to learn the most important packing lessons the hard way.

I’ve felt the sting a few times. From banking on being able to find contact lens solution at my destination to forgetting to pack extra-warm socks, those little mishaps can go a long way in tanking our vacation vibes.

To make things more complicated, every person needs to pack according to their specific needs and preferences.

For example, I’m perpetually cold, so I need to be careful about packing extra layers (and those fuzzy socks). I also pack extra cosmetics, which require special leak-free solutions like latex balloons.

Even as a minimalist packer with a set of tried-and-true hacks, I’m still prone to messing up my final packing list.

That’s not a huge deal for a weekend getaway—but for a week-long or two-week-long trip, those little mistakes can have a serious impact on our level of relaxation and joy.

Want to avoid (packing) disaster for your next trip? Use this step-by-step packing guide to nail your carry-on setup for those more trying two-week trips.

No wasted space. No unneeded items.

(If you’re looking for great travel products to add to your arsenal, start here.)

How many pairs of X, Y, and Z will I need?

Let me start off by saying this list won’t tell you how many pairs of pants, shirts, and panties to pack.

The goal of this list is to teach you how to think about packing from a holistic perspective. After all, you’ll need more than clothes. Using this advice, you can put together a crack packing list no matter the length of your trip or the size of your luggage.

For the purposes of this article, I’m sticking to a two-week trip with a single carry-on suitcase because that’s a pretty normal average for a traveler like me. Now onto the fun stuff!

Step-by-step packing guide for a two-week trip

Step #1: Research the weather

Just because you booked a trip to a tropical beach doesn’t mean Mother Nature will abide. The same is true in vice versa for skiing trips and Arctic adventures.

Don’t be fooled into thinking that you know what the temperature will be like based on what it should be—research weather forecasts for your actual travel dates.

If it anticipates rain, you need to pack for rain. The same for cold fronts, heat waves, and typhoons. Here’s my first packing guide rule: never pack your carry-on wishfully.

Step #2: After weather, focus on activities at your destination

From hiking to yoga classes to cooking courses, your final packing list should be guided by the weather and your immediate travel plans.

Even if you plan on taking it easy by visiting museums, exploring bars and restaurants, and otherwise soaking up culture, look into the traveler experience at your destination.

For example, Porto, Portugal is one of the most popular European destinations for American travelers—but the city isn’t the most walkable thanks to its unique stone sidewalks. Those cute flats or more formal loafers might not be a good match, even if they’re normally comfortable.

Step #3: Splurge on space for your true necessities

I don’t go anywhere without my little travel pillow. (It’s technically a plushie, but we don’t need to get into that.) I won’t sleep unless I have the pillow, and there’s no point in going on a trip if I’ll be an insomnia-ridden zombie for most of it.

Before you start tossing aside your favorite pieces of clothing, be honest with yourself about what items are absolutely necessary for your trip to be a physical success.

For example, a sleep apnea apparatus should be your prime focus if you need one to sleep. Or if you’re a remote worker like me, maybe that’s a laptop stand that lets you work from anywhere.

Step #4: Don’t forget about your bag

Are you starting to pick up on my (packing) drift? Clothes might be the last thing you think of when packing, and that’s totally fine.

Along with your necessities (from pillows to laptop stands), think about what you’ll use as a day bag—this apparatus will be your war pony as you explore cities, cruise the seas on catamarans, and more.

My partner and I usually split one bag between us (and he packs it into his carry-on, ahem) that we know is the right size and is comfortable.

I recommend going with backpacks because they’re more comfortable for long days spent walking and you can switch them between you and your partner. Baggu is also one of my go-to’s because they’re tiny foldable totes that let you expand your carrying space when in a jam.

Step #5: Pack your most basic and comfortable pieces

Basic? And comfortable? That might not sound like the most attractive packing list for someone who has been planning their getaway for months and months. That’s doubly true if you’re heading to a fashion capital like Hong Kong or Milan.

Still, I recommend refining your wardrobe down to the most basic and comfortable pieces. No, they don’t need to be boring or low-quality. But they do need to be mix-and-matchable so that you can optimize your clothing combinations. And they must be comfortable if you want to look good while also feeling good.

Remember, the farther from home you wander, the less likely you’ll have the energy to put together Carrie Bradshaw-caliber looks every day. (You’ll probably be battling jet lag and constipation.)

Step #6: Choose ONE nice piece—you don’t need any more

I know I just recommended sticking to your most basic and comfortable pieces, but that doesn’t mean you need to look like a ragamuffin.

Keep it casual for those normal travel days, but also pack that one special piece in your carry-on. You’ll wear it more than once on a two-week trip—and, I promise, it’s okay to re-wear things on vacation.

Here’s my logic. First, that nice piece doesn’t need to be a full outfit. It might be a swanky pair of boots or a nice overcoat. (I also pack a tiny vial of my nicest perfume—that’ll church up any outfit.) The goal is to have some flair without using up too much precious carry-on space. Second, it’ll give you the freedom to buy something nicer at your destination, and then show it off for a dinner date or show.

Step #7: Pack three times to eliminate the unneeded items

This is my personal packing guide take for two-week trips: keep at it. The first round of packing will inevitably have some dead weight. You’ll probably take away a few unnecessary items during the second round of packing.

But, as they say, the third time is the charm. That third packing round is usually when I get cut-throat about my final list—and it’s rarely done me wrong.

7 Tips to Avoid Car Rental Scams Abroad from a Rental Expert

Want to rent a car on your next vacation?

Buckle up—the process isn’t nearly as intuitive as you’d think.

While booking a car rental in the United States isn’t usually too confusing, that’s not the case when we leave the country. Those contract terms become even more lengthy and complicated. The fine print gets really tiny. Sometimes, we can’t even communicate properly with car rental agencies due to language barriers.

I’ve lived through a reel of car rental misfortune, from failing to get the keys out of a busted self-rental kiosk in Bergen, Norway to facing a no-show at the rental kiosk in Warsaw, Poland.

Once, my partner and I parked our rental moto in an illegal spot… only to have it towed away by the rental company in Formentera, Spain.

That last one was our fault—but not the first two examples. In those cases from Norway and Poland, we faced a few obstacles before we finally got the keys to our rentals. Those small delays didn’t have a resounding impact on the trip aside from a few headaches.

In reality, the biggest danger when renting cars abroad is a long contract with a few scams hidden inside, which are designed to overcharge the unsuspecting renter.

If you feel a little nervous about renting a car on your next vacation, you’re not alone. If you want to minimize the surprises you face and avoid car rental scams, keep reading.

I’m sharing seven key pieces of advice from the rental authorities at Rental Center Crete, which has been around since 1975 and is currently headed by CEO Harry Anapliotos.

Not only will these tips help you avoid scams before signing up for a rental contract, but they’ll also help you spot a good rental company from a dud.

7 tips on how to avoid car rental scams abroad

Tip #1: Don’t pick up your rental at the airport

Just like with exchanging dollars for another currency, you’re going to overpay at the airport. from additional fees to tax hikes. If you’re flying someplace remote, you might not have much recourse—especially if the nearest car rental agency is fifty miles away.

But if you’re heading to a city or more suburban area, you should be able to find a car rental agency nearby. At best, you can take a shuttle to find a rental agency that doesn’t have those airport fees.

But even if you pay for a taxi ride to the nearest agency, you still might save more than you would if you picked up from the airport.

**Tip #2: Know your insurance options—at the rental company and beyond**

I almost always pay for the heftiest insurance policy because I’m a bit of a worry wart. That being said, Anapliotos advises taking a close look at what the rental policies cover.

Though the coverage might be good, the prices might be exorbitant compared to other options.

Before you pay an arm and a leg for a mid-range policy, check to see if your credit card provider or your personal car insurance offers rental coverage. Anapliotos also recommends looking into third-party insurance policies—just do so ahead of time so you’re not stressing out at the rental counter.

Tip #3: If you’re driving long distances, check your mileage limitations

Always, always, always look for a mileage cap. Even if you plan on staying in a relatively small area for the duration of your trip, you might be excited to learn about a day trip.

But taking a longer drive could result in added charges. My partner and I almost exclusively opt for policies that include unlimited mileage because it helps us stay mobile in case we get excited about a destination that’s farther away.

Tip #4: Go for the full-to-full fuel policy

On top of opting for unlimited mileage, I also recommend going for the full-to-full policy. Anapliotos explains that this is usually the fairest policy in that it only requires you to pay for the fuel that you’ll use.

By contrast, full-to-empty policies usually involve hefty add-on charges because an agent needs to ‘service’ the car by refilling the tank.

Tip #5: Ask about add-on fees—they’re more common than you think

While we’re on the topic of add-ons that you shouldn’t pay for (like extra mileage and an empty fuel tank), Anapliotos recommends looking into add-on fees. These are sometimes added on arbitrarily and are usually a sign of a rip-off, from charging more for a GPS system or for additional drivers.

Before you sign your rental contract, ask the agent what types of add-on fees will be charged. These really run the gamut, from young drivers to child seats.

Tip #6: Inspect your car like it’s your job

This should go without saying, but you could be held responsible for any damage from the previous driver that went unnoticed. The best way to avoid car rental scams abroad is to not pay for someone else’s bad behavior.

Always make sure to inspect your car like you’re being paid to do it. I recommend taking a close look at the interior, as well—I’ve found more nicks inside than outside my rental cars.

Do the same for things like dog hair and cigarette smoke. You could be charged for having a pet in the car (which you usually need to pay extra for) or for smoking in the car (which is usually forbidden).

Tip #7: Always book in advance

This tip should also go without saying—but you really need to book your car in advance. First, this ensures that there’s a car in the lot for you to drive away. Second, it lets you pick out the right car for your needs. Lastly, you’ll get a much better price.

According to Anapliotos, prices rise the closer to the date that you book, just like flights.

Should You Still Visit Los Angeles After the Wildfires?

It’s been almost one month since extensive wildfires devastated Los Angeles.

In the wake of the disaster, families in affected areas have slowly begun to pick up the pieces. Though the work is far from over, the City of Angels looks primed for a strong recovery. And unlike Lahaina, which was similarly affected by wildfires, there has been no official declaration asking tourists to stay away.

Still, if you have tickets to Los Angeles and plan to explore the city this spring, you might be wondering what to do about your plans.

Should you cancel your reservations with plans to come back when the city isn’t recovering from a major natural disaster?

Or is it better to funnel your tourist dollars toward those who might need it more than ever before?

While it’s usually helpful for tourists to keep their plans in cities that rely on tourist dollars, you might be paying a premium to explore a city that’s visibly reeling.

Unfortunately, I can’t make that decision for you. But I can point you in the right direction. These are the considerations you should keep in mind before deciding either way.

Should you still visit Los Angeles this spring? 3 topics to consider

Air quality

Wildfires wreak havoc on air quality. That’s an important factor to consider given Los Angeles already has one of the worst air quality indexes of any global destination. If you don’t have the best lung health or struggle with asthma, you might want to reschedule your trip to Los Angeles.

If you’re unsure about the air quality, you can find live updates on IQ Air. You can share the air quality status with your doctor to ask for advice.

Tourism infrastructure

In response to the wildfires, Airbnb partnered with local hosts to help house locals who were evacuated from their homes. A handful of hotels also opened their doors to evacuees.

Though the wildfires have since been contained, many rentals and hotels are still offering shelter to those affected.

I recommend calling your hotel or contacting your private rental host to see if your stay will be affected. Though the wildfires have been contained for weeks, some hospitality groups might still be playing catch-up in terms of notifying visitors with reservations for the coming months.

The affected areas

No major Los Angeles tourist destinations were affected by the wildfires. From the Hollywood Sign to Warner Bros. Studio. The vast majority of the damage affected residences in the Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and Malibu.

Still, dozens of cultural institutions beloved by locals have been lost.

While a tourist might not notice a major change to their itinerary, the fact that tens of thousands of locals are still coping with the reality of the widespread loss and panic will likely be tangible. Similarly, visitors are likely to notice an abundance of wildfire aid projects around the city.

6 Things to Do in Florida’s Hidden Gem: Lake City

When I think of Florida, I think about sunshine and beaches. From the tropical beaches stretching along the Gulf of Mexico to the more rugged Atlantic coastlines, Florida has a beach for every mood.

But not all of the Sunshine State’s top destinations are located on the coast.

In fact, you can find hidden gems located further inland off the beaten path—and some of them offer unexpected delights that don’t cost an arm and a leg.

In Lake City, Florida, you can swap busy downtown areas and hefty price tags for untouched forests and natural springs, along with camping and RVing spots that are surrounded by lush greenery.

Nestled in the middle of Florida’s northern border, you’ll be able to drop off the map in one of the US’s most populated states.

Ready to swap the sand and sunburn for hiking trails and crystal-clear springs while also saving money? Head to Lake City, Florida—and don’t miss out on these activities.

Best things to do in Lake City, Florida

Swim in Ichetucknee Springs

The Itchetucknee River inches through a healthy, lush forest—and you can swim in its natural springs during cooler months. If swimming isn’t your thing, you can also kayak and canoe down the winding, crystal-clear waters in the state park.

While you do so, you might spot the area’s healthy, abundant wildlife, including otters, beavers, turtles, wild turkeys, and more. But the real star is those springs, including the famous Blue Hole.

Hike around Alligator Lake

Just outside Lake City, you can explore Alligator Lake. This gorgeous wetland area was once drained and used for agriculture in the 1950s and 60s but has since been converted into a park in 2002.

Today, it’s popular for hikers thanks to the extensive hiking trails that loop around the water. Fishers also spend a lot of time at the lake, though you need special permission. The most popular trail is the Montgomery Trail, which rounds the entire lake.

You can also bring a canoe and explore the water, spotting species like herons. Just make sure to stay away from the shoreline—like the name of the lake hints, there are gators in the water!

Explore the caves of Wes Skiles Peacock Springs

Wes Skiles Peacock Springs State Park, Florida (Getty)

Peacock Springs is home to a handful of underwater cave systems, which makes this a popular spot for divers. That being said, you’ll enjoy a visit even if you don’t have your scuba certification.

Signs dot the park, explaining a bit about the cave system’s nine entrances. Today, only three are used by divers, many of whom are helping map the spring systems to help preserve them.

Go birdwatching along the Florida Birding Trail

O’Leno State Park (Courtesy of Lake City)

If you enjoy birdwatching, then you have one great option near Lake City: O’Leno State Park. Both are part of the Great Florida Birding Trail, which runs for over 2,000 miles through the state.

It’s an important tourist destination, especially for birdwatchers who want to catch a glimpse of wild turkeys, barred owls, red-headed woodpeckers, and Bachman’s sparrows.

Shop the boutiques in downtown Lake City

Lake City is the perfect jumping-off point for all types of outdoor adventures—but you’ll also have access to the city’s quaint downtown district. There, you can enjoy boutique shopping that includes galleries, clothing stores, and jewelers.

Explore the Gateway Art Gallery, Southern Sisters Boutique and Embroidery, plus unique chains like Belk. There’s also a popular thrifting spot, Webb’s Antique Mall, too.

Or have a beer at Halpatter Brewing Company

If you’re looking to unwind after hiking around Alligator Lake and exploring the caves at Peacock Springs, you can head into town for an indie brew at Halpatter Brewing Company. This local institution is highly rated and casual, letting you sample some of the area’s tastiest beers while snacking on classic bar fare.

3 Lake Como Alternatives You Can Reach from Milan

Last September, I met part of my family in Milan.

One of our goals was to head north into Switzerland to explore the town where my dad’s family immigrated from. After a short train ride from the center of Milan, we reached the banks of Lake Maggiore at the foot of the Swiss Alps in a town called Locarno.

It was heaven on earth, to put it lightly.

And this little town isn’t the only jaw-dropping village worth exploring in the area. On the train ride up, we passed the hotspot of Como (where about half the train cleared out) before cruising north into more remote and stunning territory.

As the famous abode of George Clooney becomes a more popular destination for day-trippers from Milan and similar hotspots in Northern Italy, I’d like to offer you three Lake Como alternatives: Locarno, Paradiso, and Riva San Vitale.

All three locales are located in the Italian-speaking area of southeastern Switzerland, where dramatic Alpine views meld with Italian and Swiss sensibilities.

Not only will they let you skip out on the crowds of Como without skimping on those gorgeous lakeside views, but they’ll also take you into Switzerland’s canton of Ticino—which is one of the most beautiful places on the planet, in my humble opinion.

3 Lake Como alternatives in Switzerland

Riva San Vitale

Located on the shores of Lake Lugano, this quaint village sits in the shadow of two large mountains, providing some of the most dramatic views in Ticino.

When you’re done soaking up the vistas from lakeside cafes, you can wander through the village. It’s home to Switzerland’s oldest preserved brick building, which served as a baptistery dedicated to Saint John for centuries. In fact, the octagonal foundation might even date back to the Roman era.

You can also explore medieval architecture like the Santa Croce church and more modern feats like the 1973 home known as Casa Bianchi.

Here’s where to stay and what to do in Riva San Vitale.

Paradiso

Just in case you haven’t put it together, Paradiso translates to paradise in Italian. This outpost is located on the edge of Lugano, one of the largest cities in the area; you might see it listed as Paradiso-Lugano.

That means you’ve got all the quiet wonder of Paradiso’s lakeside streets along with all the fun from nearby Lugano, including a long list of cultural events, from film festivals to climate talks. In terms of Lake Como alternatives, this is the largest.

Aside from more city-centric activities, it’s also a great jumping-off point for all types of Ticino adventures. That includes camping trips, boat rides, and even outdoor escape games. Just lookout for those price tags. While it’s more affordable than Como, it’s still Switzerland.

Here’s where to stay and what to do in Paradiso.

Locarno

With its mild climate, you can expect a slightly different experience on Lake Maggiore. The city’s vast central plaza offers plenty of ways to soak up the calming atmosphere and historical significance.

There are castles to explore, too, and a larger-than-life church and monastery known as Madonna del Sasso. You also have access to nearby Verzasca Valley, which is an idyllic place to hike in summer and stop for a picnic.

If nature if on your agenda, then head to Locarno. You’ll have plenty of options at your fingertips.

Here’s where to stay and what to do in Locarno.

How can you get to all three Lake Como alternatives?

You can reach all three destinations as a day trip from Milan by train. I’d recommend spending one night in the area just to get a stronger feel for the atmosphere—but if you’re short on time, you can get in and get out in a single day.

You can reach Riva San Vitale, Paradiso, and Locarno via bus or train. Flixbus operates routes all around the area, but I recommend getting the train via Trenitalia.

It’ll be pretty busy up until Como, then the cars will empty. Additionally, the train is a better option for anyone who struggles with motion sickness. Remember—you’re heading to the foothills of the Swiss Alps.

Most people in Riva San Vitale, Paradiso, and Locarno speak Italian. Many also speak German.