Southeast Asia Safety
Southeast Asia is one of the safest regions for travel in the world and even lone women need not feel threatened when on the road. Terrorism is a global threat nowadays, however, and the Bali bombings and recent Islamic upset in the south of Thailand is testament to this. It is worth remaining vigilant in remote areas of any country and keeping abreast of local and international news of where you are traveling is also advised.
Crime and safety: Violent crime against foreigners is rare in Southeast Asia although it is definitely on the up and vigilance is required when out and about after dark and when trekking in remote areas. Pickpockets and scam artists are the biggest crime threat for foreigners, with Bangkok and Manila having the worst reputations on this front. Thieves do tend to target tourist areas more. In the Philippines you need to be more alert to crime.
Regional Conflicts and terrorism: is a particular problem in the far southern reaches of Thailand and parts of Southern Philippines due to Islamic insurgency and should be avoided until the situation improves. There are no significant cross border conflicts in the region alhough East Timor remains unstable and Western looking tourists might be targeted in parts of Indonesia. Political uprisings and (and suppressions) remain a threat in Burma.
Adverse weather: monsoons during the wet season can see high winds and lots of rain and it is always wise to keep abreast of weather warnings. Although typhoons don't normally track across the Southeast Asian region, on occasion during the May to November wet season, the Philippines and Vietnam may be struck by a typhoon and Burma (Myanmar) is also prone.
Women travelers: women travelers usually experience very little in the way of annoyances when traveling in South East Asia, with the region being one of the safest in the world for female visitors. Women are however recommended to dress conservatively when traveling in rural areas where revealing flesh may be considered offensive, and are advised not to travel alone at night.
