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Month: June 2025

  • Exploring Metro Manila: Day Trips and Hidden Neighbourhoods

    Exploring Metro Manila: Day Trips and Hidden Neighbourhoods

    If you’re planning to take a solo trip to the Philippines, chances are you’ll be flying into Manila especially if you’re flying with Philippine Airlines.

    Having been to Manila solo, there are so many areas within Metro Manila that you may be unsure of where to go.

    The crowded streets and tall skyscrapers may seem overwhelming but you’ll soon see that the this capital is more than just highways and malls. It combines the old and the new, and there are some quiet spots to be found in the city. In this article I cover where to go when exploring Metro Manila. 

    Where To Go in Manila

    While popular spots like Rizal Park, Intramuros, and the glitzy Venice Grand Canal Mall are definitely worth a visit, Manila has so many underrated gems that rarely make it into the travel guides. It’s the hidden places such as a friendly sari-sari shop in Poblacion, a peaceful park in Las Piñas, or a cosy couple-run coffee shop in Quezon City that really give Manila its charm.

    Makati’s Poblacion

    Makati used to be a sleepy old neighbourhood that is now brimming with life, especially at night. There are rooftop bars next to art cafes and tiny galleries hidden behind people’s homes. But you don’t have to come here at night to explore its warm ambience. Spending an afternoon exploring the area will reveal everything from independent bookstores to street food vendors.

    Binondo, Manila

    If you love Chinese food and fancy buying a lucky waving cat, head to Binondo. Apparently it is the oldest Chinatown in the world! You’ll find family-run bakeries, herbal stores, and temples lining the winding streets. And you grab a bite to eat ‘Chinese-style’ obviously.

    Maginhawa Street, Quezon City

    For the foodie solo, Maginhawa has affordable dining options making it popular with the student crowd. But don’t let that fool you as it isn’t just cheap boring eats here as you can find a ton of creative food options that will even make Heston Blumenthal smile. Try one of the meatless burgers or a Philippine rice bowl with a unique twist.

    Kapitolyo, Pasig

    Kapitolyo may be small but it has a lot of personality and delicious food with trendy places to dine. Restaurants seem more like someone’s kitchen than a place of business, and you can’t miss the street vendors too. Capitol Drive is where you’ll find many of the restaurants and if you’re craving comfort food and cool drinks, you’ll feel right at home here. It’s also a good spot for digital nomads as you can find co-working spaces to work from too.

    Las Piñas

    If you need somewhere even slower, you can find some peace and quiet in Las Pinas, which feels more like a small town. One great reason for going here is to see the Bamboo Organ, a real organ made mostly of bamboo. It’s not something you see every day, so going to a concert here is like listening to music from a different era.

    Outside of Manila

    Just because you fly into Manila, doesn’t mean that you have to stay there. When the hustle and bustle of Manila gets to be too much, here are some alternatives for a change of Philippine scenery.

    Tagaytay

    With its fresh food, cooler air, and views of the Taal Volcano, Tagaytay is a popular weekend getaway spot. Even though it’s only a few hours away, it feels like a different world. It’s the place to sip coffee on the cliff’s edge or buy fresh fruit and jams from the local market.

    Antipolo

    One for the cultural and historical solo. Antipolo will not let you down if you value art in peaceful surroundings. Visit the Pinto Art Museum or the Casa Santa Museum if you love Christmas and want to see figurines of Father Christmas.

    Antipolo is mainly a destination for pilgrimage, and is home to the Mystical Cave where you can see holy images inside! People also come here to visit the Antipolo Cathedral which is home to a statue of the Virgin Mary that dates back to the 17th century.

    Pampanga

    Pampanga is the place to go to indulge your inner child. You can see dinosaurs (yes, I did say dinosaurs) at Dinosaurs Island or cool off at Aqua Planet, one of the country’s modern water parks. But the main reason for coming here is yet again to enjoy the food. As the culinary capital north of Manila, you can indulge in delicacies such as the creamy halo-halo or the crunchy sisig.

    Getting Around Manila

    There are a few ways to get around the city depending on where you’re going. Make sure to download Sakay.ph. It shows the best public transport routes and makes getting around easier.

    The Pasig River Ferry is a scenic and traffic-free option that runs along the Pasig River, connecting key areas like Intramuros, Makati, Mandaluyong, and Pasig. I took the ferry and it was such a peaceful way to see the city from a different angle, floating past colonial buildings and local neighbourhoods. Fares are cheap and key stops like Escolta, Lawton, Guadalupe, and Sta. Ana make it a handy way to reach some off-the-beaten-path spots.

    The traffic can get busy in Manila especially during rush hour so make sure to leave enough time to get to your destination. I used the Grab app when I was here which was really easy to download and made ordering a taxi so much easier and safer than just hailing one on the street. Especially because you get to put your location into the app. But people here do speak English.

    The EDSA Carousel is the bus system that you can use with a Beep card, which also works on trains and ferries. They also have a train system: the MRT and LRT trains which are good ways to avoid traffic. 

    Then there are the local jeepneys which are the local colourful transport (like the blue one in the photo above). UV Express vans are faster but can be cramped.

    Depending on what area you are staying in, you can walk around some of the areas but just be careful at night.

    Conclusion

    These are just a few of the best areas to visit in Manila, but make sure to visit other places in the country too! I recommend the island of Palawan where I spent a week exploring solo. Philippine Airlines has daily flights to other destinations in the Philippines. Find out how to solo travel in the Philippines here. 

  • Solo Travel in Ladakh

    Solo Travel in Ladakh

    There are some places that feel like they belong to another world. Ladakh is one of them. Tucked away in the far north of India, between the peaks of the Himalayas and the Karakoram range, this high-altitude region is like nowhere else. Wide open skies, quiet villages, snow-capped mountains and clear rivers set the scene for a very different kind of journey.

    If you are thinking of exploring India on your own, Ladakh offers a peaceful and unforgettable experience. It may be remote, but it is also welcoming and easy to explore with the right planning.

    Solo Travel in Ladakh

    Arriving in Leh

    Most trips to Ladakh begin in Leh, the main town and gateway to the region. You can fly in from Delhi in just over an hour, but be prepared for the altitude. Leh sits at around 3,500 metres above sea level, so make sure that your first few days are slow and quiet to get acclimatised. 

    Just walking around town is enough in the beginning. Many guesthouses are family-run and offer a calm place to rest while you get used to the thinner air. You’ll find small cafes, bakeries, local shops and travel agencies for planning your onward journey. Spend your first day or two reading, drinking tea, and watching life pass by.

    Is Ladakh Safe for Solo Women?

    Yes, Ladakh is considered one of the safest regions in India. The people here are warm and respectful, and the pace of life is relaxed. You may still draw attention as a foreign visitor, but it is usually out of curiosity. Simple gestures like greeting people with a smile or a “Julley” (hello in Ladakhi) go a long way.

    That said, Ladakh is remote and not the place for spontaneous solo trekking. Mobile coverage is limited outside towns, and conditions can change quickly in the mountains. If you plan to go into the more remote valleys or on a multi-day hike, it is best to join a group or go with a guide.

    Pangong Lake

    Exploring the Region

    After resting in Leh, you can start to explore a bit further. There are several day trips that are easy to arrange through local agencies or your guesthouse.

    Nubra Valley: Known for its sand dunes, double-humped camels and mountain passes, this valley is reached via Khardung La, one of the highest motorable roads in the world. Many travellers stay in the villages of Hunder or Diskit.

    Pangong Lake: The changing colours of this high-altitude lake are famous for a reason. A day trip is possible, but staying overnight is better if you want to enjoy the peace and the stars.

    Tso Moriri: Less visited than Pangong, this lake is quieter and even more remote. It is home to nomadic Changpa communities and plenty of birdlife.

    These journeys often involve rough roads and long drives, so having your own car and driver makes things easier. You can share costs with other travellers, and most agencies are happy to help with arranging this.

    Trekking in Ladakh

    Ladakh is a paradise for trekking. The landscape is dry and dramatic, with high passes, deep valleys and small villages connected by ancient trails. Some of the best treks in Ladakh can be done in under a week, while others take ten days or more.

    Here are a few popular options:

    Markha Valley Trek: One of the most well-known treks in the region. It takes you through small villages, over high passes, and past monasteries. Homestays are available along the way, which makes the experience more personal.

    Sham Valley Trek: A short and easier route, perfect if you are low on time or want something less intense. It is also called the “baby trek” because of its gentle trails and shorter distances.

    Stok Kangri: For experienced trekkers, this used to be a popular summit trek, but it has been closed in recent years for conservation. Kang Yatse is an excellent alternative.

    Trekking solo is not recommended unless you are highly experienced. Joining a small group or hiring a guide is the best way to stay safe and enjoy the landscape without worrying about logistics. Many treks include food, tents and transport, so you can just focus on walking and soaking up the views.

    The Best Time to Go

    The best time to visit Ladakh is between June and September. This is when the roads are open, the weather is dry, and trekking routes are accessible. Outside these months, snow can block the mountain passes, and many guesthouses shut for the season.

    If you want to avoid the busiest period, try visiting in June or late September. The weather is still good, and there are fewer visitors. July and August are warmer and great for longer treks.

    Tips for Solo Travel in Ladakh

    • Acclimatise properly: Give yourself at least two days to adjust before doing anything active.
    • Dress in layers: The weather can change fast. It may be warm in the sun but freezing in the shade or at night.
    • Carry cash: ATMs can be unreliable outside Leh, so withdraw what you need before heading out.
    • Be respectful: Ladakh is home to Tibetan Buddhist communities. Dress modestly and be mindful when visiting monasteries or local homes.
    • Travel light: Most guesthouses offer laundry and basic facilities. You do not need to pack too much.
    • Get your Inner Line Permit: If you plan to visit areas like Nubra Valley, Pangong Lake or Tso Moriri, you will need an Inner Line Permit. It is easy to arrange in Leh through a travel agency or online, but do not forget to carry multiple photocopies for checkpoints.

    Finally…

    Ladakh has a way of slowing you down. Maybe it is the altitude, or the silence of the valleys, or the kindness of the people who live here. Traveling solo in this region is less about ticking off sights and more about being present in the moment.

    From your first cup of tea in Leh to your final view of the mountains, Ladakh stays with you. Whether you come for the landscapes, the treks or the quiet, it is a place that gives back more than you expect and is perfect for solo travellers looking for nature and plenty of solitude. 

  • Solo Travel North India: Delhi, Agra and Rajasthan

    Solo Travel North India: Delhi, Agra and Rajasthan

    North India is full of contrasts. One minute you are crossing a busy street in Delhi, and the next you are watching the sun rise over the Taj Mahal. The region brings together history, colour, chaos, and calm. If you are travelling on your own, there is something special about discovering this part of India at your own pace.

    For solo travellers, North India can be a good place to start. The main destinations are well-connected, and many travellers follow similar routes, which means it is easy to meet others along the way if you want company. I’ve included the best destinations to solo travel North India below.

    Delhi

    Delhi: Fast-Paced and Fascinating

    Delhi is often the starting point for a trip to India. It is busy, full of people and traffic, and at first, it can feel like a lot. But once you find your rhythm, it becomes easier to enjoy. The key is to take it slow and focus on one area at a time.

    Old Delhi is known for its narrow lanes, local markets and Mughal-era buildings. You can explore Chandni Chowk, visit the Jama Masjid, and try local street food such as paratha or jalebi. If you are not confident going alone, you can join a walking tour or hire a guide to show you around the main sites. 

    New Delhi is more open and organised than Old Delhi. You can visit India Gate, Humayun’s Tomb, or walk through Lodhi Gardens. Connaught Place is a central area with plenty of cafes, bookstores and restaurants.

    For solo travellers, areas like South Delhi, Hauz Khas or near Connaught Place are good options for areas to stay. Make sure to read the reviews for local guesthouses or hotels to see which one is a good fit for you to stay at. 

    For getting around I recommend using app-based taxis like Uber or Ola for easier and safer transport, especially in the evening.

    Agra

    Agra

    From Delhi, you can take a train or taxi to Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. Most people visit for the Taj, and it is definitely worth it. Try to go early in the morning when it is quieter and the light is soft. It is one of those places that really does match the hype and is magical. 

    Agra Fort is another highlight. Built by the Mughals, it offers great views and less crowded courtyards. If you have time, go to Mehtab Bagh, a garden across the river that gives you a different view of the Taj Mahal at sunset.

    Agra is very touristy, so be prepared for people to approach you to offer services. Just be polite but clear. Having your transport arranged ahead of time makes the visit easier, especially if you are on your own. One night in Agra is usually enough to see the main sites.

    Rajasthan

    Rajasthan is a great place to explore solo. The cities are well-connected, there are plenty of guesthouses and hostels, and the mix of culture, food, and history keeps things interesting. Here are some of the best places to visit in Rajasthan if you are planning a route through the state.

    Jaipur

    Jaipur

    Jaipur is the capital and often the first stop in Rajasthan. Called the Pink City, it is known for its royal history and old palaces. Amber Fort, Hawa Mahal and the City Palace are popular spots. The bazaars are full of colourful textiles, silver jewellery and handmade crafts. There are also rooftop cafes where you can take a break and enjoy the view.

    Jodhpur

    Known as the Blue City, Jodhpur has narrow lanes and houses painted in soft blue shades. The main attraction is Mehrangarh Fort, which offers panoramic views. The city has a relaxed feel and is easy to walk around, especially near the clock tower area.

    Udaipur

    Udaipur

    Udaipur is built around lakes and has a quieter pace. You can visit the City Palace, take a boat ride, and watch traditional dance at Bagore Ki Haveli. Many solo travellers stop here for a few days to slow down and recharge.

    Pushkar

    Pushkar is a small town with a holy lake at its centre. It is known for its temples, street markets, and chilled-out vibe. Travellers come here for yoga, vegetarian food and to experience calm mornings by the water.

    Using this tourist map of Rajasthan can help you plan your route and decide how long to stay in each place. Distances are not huge, and you can travel by train, bus, or book a car and driver. Having a driver is more comfortable and gives you freedom to stop on the way, which is useful when traveling solo.

    Travel Tips For Solo Travel North India

    • Dress simply and comfortably. Cotton clothes, loose trousers and scarves are a good choice.
    • Book accommodations with strong reviews from other travellers.
    • Carry a local SIM card to stay connected and be able to use maps.
    • Eat local, but go easy the first few days. Stick to cooked food and bottled water.
    • Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it probably is.

    Final thoughts…

    Traveling through North India is not always smooth, but it is full of rewards. From the rush of Delhi to the beauty of the Taj Mahal and the desert colours of Rajasthan, each place has its own character. If you are on your own, you have the freedom to move at your own pace and change plans as you go.

    You may encounter a few challenges, but also small moments of peace, surprise and connection. Whether it is chatting with a local vendor, watching the sunset from a fort, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of chai, North India offers a travel experience that stays with you. With a bit of planning and a flexible mindset, it is a journey worth taking.

  • Travelling The Stans

    Travelling The Stans

    Travelling The Stans

    Types of Girl about the Globes (GatG) – Budget GatG, Cultural GatG, History GatG, Nature GatG, Sightseeing GatG, Spiritual GatG

    If you’re looking at solo travel in Asia, Central Asia is an interesting region to explore. This article covers everything you need for travelling the Stans

    Central Asia was once part of the ancient Silk Road and is now popular for Silk Road travel with an increased interest in this historic period. The Silk Road is an ancient trade route, linking China with the West where goods were transported between Europe and China. Silk went westward, and wools, gold, and silver travelled east.

    This region also formed part of former Soviet Union and still has Soviet statues within its capital cities. It is full of history, beautiful mountains and masouleums and is a cheap region to explore. The countries are also known for their dictatorships so visiting this part of the world is definitely an education.

    This article includes a summary of each country, the must-sees and how to get around. Read the relevant section or scroll down for the whole article.

    Contents

    Travelling The Stans

    Travelling in Central Asia

    This area is commonly referred to as “The 5 Stans.” If you choose to visit the Stans independently you may feel a bit lonely as this region doesn’t see many travellers. Knowing a bit of Russian will help you to get by.

    Krygyzstan is one of the friendliest in Central Asia and as women were independent in the Soviet Union, you won’t find yourself hassled here but you could find yourself getting overcharged for goods in Uzbekistan.

    I travelled to this region and spent nearly three weeks here, starting and ending in Almaty. I flew in and out of Almaty. My time here was definitely an education and I recommend travelling here if you enjoy rustic travelling.

    I have listed the countries below with what to do in each one, how to get around and how to travel from each country. 

    What countries are in Central Asia?

    Kazakhstan – Ancient Kazakh nomads, mountains, glaciers, rock canyons.

    Kyrgyzstan – Alpine lake, Tien Shan Mountains, walnut forests, Osh Bazaar.

    Tajikistan – Pamir Highway, Mountains, Buzhashi (a Central Asian sport).

    Turkmenistan – The Gate of Hell (Darvaza gas crater), desert, UNESCO cities.

    Uzbekistan – Ancient cities, mausoleums, The Registan, The Silk Road.

    Travelling The Stans

    Planning Your Central Asia Travel

    Kazakhstan – 3 stars

    Kazakhstan is the largest of the Central Asian states and is relatively poor and underdeveloped but is home to welcoming locals, the oldest nature reserve, and Buddhist rock carvings. Flying into Almaty is just stunning with the mountains surrounding the city. The people here are friendly and welcoming and even offered me Russian vodka and food on my day tour.

    If you’ve never heard of Kazakhstan, then maybe you remember the film, Borat, in which Sacha Baron Cohen played a fictional character from the country? The reality of the country is very different from the movie. Take Astana for example; this futuristic-style capital with a panoramic Baiterek Tower resembles a mini Dubai.

    Distances in Kazakstan are vast although there are buses, trains and mini-buses for the bigger cities. Almaty is the closest city to the Kryrgystan border and has a bus connection to Bishkek, the capital city. Getting around Almaty is easy and cheap with trolley buses. You just pay the driver 150 Kazakhstani tenge as you board the bus.

    Taxis are metered and sometimes the metre is on their mobile phone. Take an official taxi when you leave the airport and don’t pay any more than $10. Similar to Mongolia anyone can be a taxi so get your accommodation to book you one as they will give you the number plate of the car.

    Kazakhstan is really interesting and Almaty has lots of monuments and statues to see. The country is cheap and feels very safe for solos. The only downside is that tours are only available on the weekends so make sure you pre-book before you arrive. I took a tour which was in Russian but it was a great way to get to Charyn Canyon. Websites generally have a contact page where you have to leave your phone number so ask your accommodation to book for you or better still, book a group tour to see this country instead.

    Check availability, prices and tour itineraries for Kazakhstan

    Must-sees in Kazakhstan

    • Kok Tope gondola
    • Panfilov Park
    • Charyn Canyon (the country’s rival to the Grand Canyon),
    • The Nur Astana Mosque
    • Bayterek Tower and Ak Orda Palace
    • Buddhist rock carvings at Tamgaly Tas
    • Bayanaul National Park
    • Take the cable car in Almaty
    • Kolsai Lakes
    • Kaindy Lake’s sunken forest

    Kazakhstan to Tajikistan

    Getting around this region can be a bit tricky so from Almaty it was easier to take a flight to Tajikistan. My flight cost £84 with Air Astana and took two hours to Dushanbe. Find flights through Skyscanner.

    Travelling The Stans

    Tajikistan – 2 stars

    Tajikistan borders Afghanistan and is known for its mountains and snow-capped peaks. This country oozes nature and the main attraction is the Pamir Highway, a road trip through the Pamir Mountains near the Kyrgyzstan border. Tajikistan offers incredible nature and hiking and is perfect for the nature and adventurous GatG. It does have high altitudes though so be prepared if you suffer from altitude sickness.

    Lenin Peak is also a mecca for climbers and those looking to hike and camp in the mountains. Dushanbe is the country’s capital. It’s definitely worth spending at least 2 nights here (if not three) to walk around.

    Dushanbe, the capital is surprisingly beautiful with monuments and parks amongst tree-lined avenues. It’s an interesting mix of Soviet and modern architecture. And it’s so incredibly clean. Just walking around the city you’ll see women sweeping the parks.

    People are really welcoming and drivers even stop their cars to allow you to cross the road. If people do look at you it’s out of curiosity as there aren’t used to many tourists. As lovely as this country is, it is one of the most difficult to get around. Although people come here for the Pamir Mountains, public transport is virtually non-existent so you need a car.

    Most people book car rental (either self-drive or with a driver) which can be pricey. Depending on where you are staying the capital city is walkable. The taxis are also good here compared to the rest of the region and cheap, starting at 10,000 increasing by 1,000 for every 3 km.

    Check availability, prices and tour itineraries for Tajikistan

    Must-sees in Tajikistan

    • The Pamir Mountains
    • Kuk Gumbaz Mosque in Istaravshan (an example of Timurid architecture)
    • Iskanderkul Lake
    • The UNESCO site of Sarazm
    • Bibi Fatima Hot Springs
    • Fort Qahqaha

    Tajikistan to Uzbekistan

    From Dushanbe bus station you can take a shared or private taxi to the Uzbekistan border for approximately $25 (for a private taxi). Just go to the bus station and wait for a taxi to sill up.

    Travelling The Stans

    Uzbekistan – 4 stars

    If you only had time to visit one country in the region then this country is the one. Uzbekistan tourism means that the country has good infrastructure and is the most geared up for tourism. Compared to the other Stans, Uzbekistan travel is the easiest in the region and it also had the best food especially for vegetarians (you can find salads here).

    Uzbekistan was once a core destination for the ancient Silk Road and has many preserved monuments from this era. Many of the beautiful mausoleums are now Islamic schools. Bukhara is one of the holiest places on Earth. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with many beautiful mosques and shrines to see. Visit the Ark of Bukhara, an ancient fortress, or watch artists mastering their crafts in the trading domes as you feel as though you have stepped back in time. If you don’t get a chance to visit the city of Khiva with its historical palace, minaret and Kuhha Ark then Bukhara is a great alternative.

    One of the most magnificent attractions in Uzbekistan is the Registan, a stunning piece of Islamic architecture located in Samarkand. There are so many stunning pieces of architecture to see here from Bibi-Khanym Mosque, to Shah-i-Zinda, and Gur-e-Amir Mausoleum. You could easily spend three days in the city just walking around.

    Tashkent is the capital city with parks, fountains and monuments. Independence Square is located in the centre of the city and is a good place to begin exploring. See the symbol of Mother-Motherland and walk from Independence monument to the colonnade. Browse around Alay Bazaar, one of Tashkent’s oldest bazaars or explore the hustle and bustle of Chorus Market before seeing the beautiful Teleshayakh Mosque. The city has a good metro system to get around.

    Uzbekistan is definitely to easiest to travel through. There are high-speed trains on the main routes such as Bukhara to Samarkand. Buy your ticket at the train station beforehand to ensure that you have a seat. If you do hire a car, be prepared for security checks along the roads in Uzbekistan but this is definitely the best country in terms of infrastructure to visit here.

    Check availability, prices and tour itineraries for Uzbekistan

    Travelling The Stans

    Must-Sees in Uzbekistan

    • The Registan. Samarkhand
    • Amir Temur Museum in Tashkent
    • The Fergana Valley
    • The minaret of Islam Hodja in Kiva (you can climb to the top too!)
    • Ark Fortress in Bukhara
    • See petroglyphs at the Nurata Mountains
    • Kyzylkum Desert
    • Gulkam Canyon
    • A Silk Factory in Margilan (Yodgorlik Silk Factory is recommended)

    Uzbekistan to Kyrgyzstan

    I took the train from Tashkent to Andijan which cost £12 and took 6 hours. From Andijan there are taxis to the Kyrgyzstan border where you can take a local bus the other side to the city of Osh for 10 Som (it takes an hour).

    Travelling The Stans

    Kyrgyzstan – 2 stars

    Kyrgyzstan may not have the mausoleums and stunning architecture that Uzbekistan offers but what it does have is stunning nature. The country is dominated by the Tian Shan mountains which are also part of the old trading route, and the capital city, Bishkek is one of the greenest cities within the region.

    Kyrgyzstan is known for hiking and has been described as the “Switzerland of Central Asia,” because of its untouched nature and lakes.

    Its capital, Bishkek has less than one million people and several museums, as well as former Soviet monuments and a Monument to the Martyrs of the Revolution. There are over 20 parks to explore including Oak Park with interesting sculptures.

    The Victory Monument is one of the most stunning in Bishkek. It represent a yurt with a sculpture of mother with a cup in her hands, standing under tunduk near the eternal flame, awaiting the return of her husband and sons from war. Away from the capital is Ala Archa gorge where you can hike and camp overnight. Near the border with Uzbekistan is the old city of Osh, an important city during the Silk Road with a vibrant bazaar.

    The people here are friendly and welcoming and you won’t encounter any stares but it can be difficult to get around. There is hardly any public transport in Kyrgyzstan so you need to either hire a car or a private driver get around. You can fly from Osh To Bishkek really cheaply on an internal flight from just $25.

    Check availability, prices and tour itineraries for Kyrgyzstan

    Must-Sees in Kyrgyzstan

    • Osh
    • Ala Archa National Park
    • Issyk Kul Lake
    • Tash Rabat

    Kyrgyzstan to Kazakhstan

    From Bishkek I took a minibus from the bus terminal across the border to Kazakhstan. It took approximately 5 hours back to Almaty and cost 400 Som (take bus number 5).

    Travelling The Stans

    Photo by Yang Jing on Unsplash

    Turkmenistan – 1 star

    Turkmenistan still remains a bit of an enigma. Turkmenistan is the most difficult to enter with the government rejecting visas. If you get accepted for a visa you may only have 5 days to see all of it (on a transit visa). You can take a cargo boat from Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan if you are travelling from Baku. Turkmenistan is famously known for The Gate of Hell (Darvaza gas crater), desert, and UNESCO cities.

    The country doesn’t seem to be very open to tourism and due to the strict visa requirements I wasn’t able to visit here. I would definitely consider a group tour for this country. The other four countries are definitely easier to visit independently as they are either visa-free or require an eVisa.

    Must-sees in Turkmenistan

    • Darvaza Gas Crater 
    • Fossilised dinosaur tracks
    • Yangi-Kala Canyon.

    Check availability, prices and tour itineraries for Turkmenistan

    Travelling The Stans

    Best Central Asia Tours & Silk Road Tours

    There is a reason that solos tend to take a group tour here. Backpacking Central Asia, travelling overland and trying to see more than one country can be challenging. Although I travelled to this region independently it took a lot of planning including looking into group tours before I decided to take the plunge.

    This area can be a bit challenging to travel around independently if you don’t hire a car so if you get the chance, take a Silk Road Tour to learn more about this fascinating region. All of the following tour companies have been recommended by our Girls about the Globe Facebook community and come with our solo female-friendly guarantee.

    Travelling The Stans

    G Adventures Central Asia

    G Adventures is a responsible tour company which mainly caters towards budget travellers. Most tours have an average of 10 people and there is no upper age limit. Once you book your trip you pay extra for any excursions you want to do when you’re there. I’ve listed the best tours starting from 10 days to 23 days.

    Highlights of Uzbekistan: 10 Days

    This ‘Stan’ definitely has the most sights to see and if you only have time to visit one, I recommend Uzbekistan. You only need a week and a half to see this fascinating country. See the awe-inspiring mausoleums in ancient Bukhara, the Registan in Samarkand and the Tomb of the Prophet Daniel. Experience a trip to the desert to see the remains of Alexander the Great and spend the evening in a traditional yurt (ger) whilst listening to Kazakh song.

    Check itinerary, prices and dates: Highlights of Uzbekistan

    Central Asia – Best of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan: 14 Days

    If you have two weeks then this tour is ideal. Starting in Bishkek and ending in Tashkent you spend a 12 day packed itinerary horse riding through valleys, trekking through Jeti-Oguz, and staying overnight in a yurt (ger). You get to experience the hospitality and home-cooked traditional meals on this cultural tour that travels through Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan.

    Check itinerary, prices and dates: Best of Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan

    Multi-Stan Adventure – Bishkek to Tashkent: 23 days

    This adventure is perfect for seeing 4 of the ‘Stans.’ Starting in Bishkek you travel through Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan staying in yers (gers), hiking, horse riding, taking part in traditional craft workshops and indulging in local cuisine. Explore the sunken forest, learn about this region in the museums and meet on the locals on this multi-Stan adventure that gives you the best of the region.

    Check itinerary, prices and dates: Multi Stan Adventure

    Travelling The Stans

    Burana Tower

    Intrepid Travel Silk Road Tour

    Intrepid Travel is similar to G Adventures with an average of 12 people on each tour. Over 50% of people who book their trips are solo travellers. They tend to use hotels instead of hostels and have a more comfortable style of accommodation hence the trips can appear a bit more than G Adventures. With both tour companies you share a room with someone of the same gender or you can pay extra for your own room. I’ve chosen the best tours for travelling in Central Asia ranging from 14 days to an epic 32 days covering multi-countries.

    Kazakhstan Adventure: 14 Days

    If you only have two weeks, this Kazakhstan Adventure shows you the highlights of both Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. Starting in Astana, Kazakhstan’s capital city, you visit the Nur-Astana Mosque and Palace of Peace & Reconciliation before moving onto the desert steppe at Baikonur. Experience a Central Asian overnight sleeper train, visit Burial Mounds and stay in simple guesthouses where you can interact with the locals. This tour includes breathtaking landscapes, canyons and waterfalls, all in two weeks!

    Check itinerary, prices and dates: Kazakhstan Adventure

    Central Asia Explorer: 17 Days

    This Central Asia Explorer is perfect for exploring Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan. If you are planning to visit Central Asia I definitely recommend including Uzbekistan in your itinerary. Seeing the Registan in Samarkhand is one of the regions’ must-sees as well as the Ark Fortress and the Ismail Samani Mausoleum, one of Central Asia’s oldest buildings. The tour finishes in Tashkent and also includes a ceramics workshop and a visit to a Women’s Felt Co-operative. It’s ideal for the adventurous GatG who wants to see a lot in one trip.

    Check itinerary, prices and dates: Central Asia Explorer

    The Great Silk Road: 32 Days

    This Silk Road tour has to be the ultimate Silk Road tour. Starting in Beijing this epic journey follows the route of the ancient Silk Road and takes you through China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan. See the UNESCO rainbow-coloured site of Zhangye, the Hanyangling Mausoleum in Xian, and Silk Road must-sees in Samarkand and Central Asia. It’s a great way to travel through this region just be prepared for long journeys and rough terrain.

    Check itinerary, prices and dates: The Great Silk Road

    Travelling The Stans

    Ala Archa Gorge

    Travel Insurance for Central Asia

    The Stans are an interesting region to explore but I definitely recommend taking travel insurance, especially if you are suffer from altitude sickness or are planning to trek or cycle here.

    I recommend True Traveller for UK and European residents, and World Nomads for U.S. and worldwide citizens. Both companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road, and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover.

    Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller

    Travelling The Stans

    My Verdict

    Is Central Asia good for solos? I was accompanied by a friend for this trip so I wasn’t solo but I met an amazing solo traveller who had navigated this region alone for her tips. Central Asia takes a lot of planning and as an experienced traveller I would have still found parts of this region challenging. Uzbekistan is the easiest for solos but if you want to see more than one country I recommend taking a tour due to the language barrier and lack of public transport.