Solo Travel in Cambodia as a Woman

When I told people I was going to Cambodia alone, the reactions ranged from excitement to concern. "Is it safe?" was the question I heard most. Three weeks later, I can say without hesitation: Cambodia was one of the safest and most welcoming countries I've ever visited as a solo female traveler.

I started in Phnom Penh, deliberately choosing a social hostel. Within my first evening, I'd joined a group heading to a rooftop bar overlooking the city. This became the pattern throughout my trip — Cambodia's backpacker scene is incredibly social and welcoming.

Battambang was the surprise of my trip. This small colonial city has an arts scene that rivals anywhere in Southeast Asia. I took the famous bamboo train (now rebuilt as a tourist attraction), explored ancient temples with barely another tourist in sight, and joined a cooking class where I learned to make Khmer curry from scratch.

The journey from Battambang to Siem Reap by boat along the Tonle Sap was one of the most memorable travel days of my life. Floating villages, fishermen casting nets, and the vast expanse of Southeast Asia's largest freshwater lake stretching to the horizon.

In Kampot, I rented a scooter and explored the pepper plantations and Bokor Hill Station. The countryside around Kampot is gorgeous — limestone karsts, green rice paddies, and friendly waves from children in every village. I felt completely safe riding alone through rural areas.

The biggest lesson? Cambodia's people are its greatest asset. From the tuk-tuk driver who waited two hours for me at a temple (without being asked) to the guesthouse owner who insisted on driving me to the bus station at 5 AM, the kindness was overwhelming and genuine.