Ha Noi, Da Nang among Southeast Asia’s best places for solo travelers

Da Nang was ranked third while Ha Noi was ranked sixth in the list, according to Lonely Planet - Australia-based travel guide book publisher.

The beaches in Da Nang are free of touts and particularly good for hassle-free solo strolls. It's also a great stretch for people watching, with the odd chance to witness live catches by local fishers.

Solo travelers who love to connect with locals will find them especially amenable to sharing their stories here–and sometimes even their bounty. Otherwise, the southern stretch invites one to linger with its food trucks and photogenic spots.

This year, Da Nang aims to welcome 8.4 million tourists, including 2.5 million international visitors. So far, the city has already welcomed over 2 million international visitors.

Meanwhile, in Ha Noi, the travel magazine suggests visitors take a break at one of the local cafes and order a strong coffee with condensed milk, best enjoyed on a short stool as you watch the world go by or hover around Hoan Kiem Lake, especially on the weekends.

The total number of foreign arrivals to Ha Noi in the first six months of 2024 was estimated to reach 3.14 million, an increase of 52.6 percent over the same period in 2023.

The criteria for selecting a destination are based on a low crime rate, safety, affordability, diverse landscapes, an "amazing" and immediately noticeable culture upon arrival, and cuisine with enticing flavors that offer a sense of daily triumph with delicious dishes.

The ranking criteria are based on low crime rates, safety, affordability, diverse cultures and landscapes, and delicious foods with enticing flavors.

Besides, cities must have a dense network of flights, trains and buses, which give travelers access to the smallest of provinces, encouraging free-spirited exploration. Strong and widespread Wi-Fi coverage is also considered a significant advantage./.