Thailand has become a top destination for solo women travellers, ranking among the world’s top five destinations for the second year in a row.
Thailand is a perennial favourite for tourists from all over the world. It offers exciting activities and an affordable exchange rate.
Furthermore, it is a visa-free destination for South Africans.
Thailand for solo travel
While Thailand ticks many of the boxes for so many travellers, it is becoming increasingly attractive to solo women travellers.
Solo travel offers women the opportunity to explore, foster introspection and self-discovery.
It also boosts confidence and provides an opportunity to develop life skills and autonomy.
Safety for solo travellers
The country has accessible and safe public transport for solo travellers.
Importantly, travelling in Thailand offers a high degree of safety for solo women travellers.
Options like the Bangkok BTS Skytrain, buses, tuk-tuks, and taxis offer reliable and enjoyable ways for women to navigate the cities on their own.
Solo women travellers choose Thailand
In the past two years, the tourism sector has seen some technological shifts. These have impacted how women access information and share their travel experiences.
From catering to the unique travel needs of women to exploring how they make decisions, understanding what women want has become big business.
As reported in Sustainability in the Sky, the Director of the Tourism Authority of Thailand, for the Middle East and Africa Chaiwat Tamthai, says, “When we reopened our borders after lockdown, we found that the way women view the world and their motivations for travelling had changed.”
The pursuit of joy
Another emerging trend is ‘joy therapy,’ where women seek experiences that provide a break from daily stress and responsibilities.
Inspired by Marie Kondo‘s concept of pursuing what ‘sparks joy,’ more women are indulging in travel experiences that are meaningful and rejuvenating.
Thailand offers numerous opportunities for joy therapy, including immersive cultural experiences.
Workshops on traditional crafts like mandala painting, garland making, weaving, and pottery also provide enriching experiences for women.
Solo travel on the rise
A notable travel trend is indeed the increase in solo travel among women.
Searches for ‘solo female travel’ have therefore surged by over 60% in the past three years.
The 2024 Solo Female Travel Survey reveals that women choose to travel alone for freedom, flexibility, and personal growth.
When it comes to travel, women now have more options, more access, and more tools at their disposal to shape the future of travel.
