Going solo

When travelling around in the country, its worth paying that bit extra to go on first class carriages on trains and buses. Leave the hitchhiking on the backs of cattle trucks for when you feel more confident!
blue_gal

As a woman you will probably find that you will get some unwanted attention from the locals. The difference is that they mean no harm; they just want a good look at you! This can take a bit of getting used to, but soon you will find that you no longer notice it.
blue_gal

English speaking venues
Most of the dive centres in Thailand are run by English speakers, and Southern Thailand has loads of backpackers and travellers of all ages and backgrounds. I would definitely recommend that you do Southern Thailand first, and then, when you feel more confident, head North of Bangkok. You will get a far more accurate insight into the Thai history and culture.
sirren_xx

Stay in youth hostels where you can. They're not chic, but if you're alone for the first time, you'll find them a great place to meet other lone travellers, and you'll find people surprisingly friendly. Don't eat out in a restaurant alone until you are no longer conscious of being on your own - it'll only make you miserable! cl-cocktailprincess

I am a 23 and have travelled to lots of places on my own, including America, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, Switzerland, France, Sweden and Norway. I've never been a victim of crime abroad, and the worst thing that's happened is a couple of turbulent flights. Youth hostels are great places for meeting other single travellers to talk to, especially if you are in non-English speaking countries, which can get lonely if you can't find people to communicate with! I did a PADI learn to dive course in Australia and it was fantastic. I highly recommend it. Make sure you are well insured. Places like STA travel do good insurance packages for backpackers.
zoeb2000

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