(TITC) - World renowned travel guide Lonely Planet revealed the list of 7 of the best places in Southeast Asia for solo travellers, with the capital city Ha Noi and the central city of Da Nang in Vietnam making the cut.
The criteria for selecting a destination was based on a low crime rate, safety, affordability, diverse landscapes, an amazing and immediately noticeable culture upon arrival, and cuisine with enticing flavours which offer a sense of daily triumph through delicious dishes.
Third position went to Da Nang, which represents the best choice for an idyllic coastal escape and gateway to varied experiences.
Dragon Bridge (Photo: Collection)
Da Nang's graceful arc of a coastline is as stunning as it gets, punctuated at the end by the majestic Avalokitesvara Buddha statue on the Son Tra peninsula. It is choices of hotels with great views to stay and enjoy the endless blue therapy. Solo travellers on a budget can worry free with the varied options of low-cost hotels around the city. Solo travellers who love to connect with locals can experience live catches by local fishers.
Avalokitesvara Buddha statue on the Son Tra peninsula (Photo: Collection)
On the way, travellers can pass by Hoi An Ancient Town to absorb their peacefulness or the ancient imperial citadel complex of Hue less than two hours to the north to track back to the royalty era.
Elsewhere, the travel guide placed Ha Noi at sixth place, noting the Vietnamese capital is one of the few cities in the region which has remained relatively unchanged by its popularity.
Hoan Kiem Lake (Photo: Collection)
Locals can go about their daily lives with a genuine, unpretentious spirit which keeps Ha Noi feeling refreshingly authentic. It is this unvarnished appeal that has won its fans, including from the late Anthony Bourdain, Lonely Planet shared. Mastering the traffic crossing before wandering through Old Quarter to enjoy specialty coffee of Ha Noi. Then take a short walk to Hoan Kiem Lake to witness the vibrant city. Neighbouring places to experience are Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, Ninh Binh’s picturesque mountains and hidden caves or Sa Pa for a cooler climate, breathtaking rice terraces, and local ethnic groups like the Hmong.
Topping the list was Singapore, which is famous for both its magnificent attractions and eye-watering price tag. Others making the list were Penang in Malaysia, Siem Reap in Cambodia, Bangkok in Thailand, and Bali in Indonesia.
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