Phnom Penh, Cambodia
What 90% of solo women don't know about staying safe in Phnom Penh.
Bassac Lane has the trendy restaurant and cocktail scene. More local feel than BKK1, safer than Riverside. Bars close at 11pm due to nearby residents. Good for eating alone somewhere with atmosphere.
Southeast of BKK1, Bassac Lane (Street 308) has become the trendy dining and bar area. Smaller than BKK1 with more local character. You'll find micro cocktail bars, craft beer gardens like Botanico, and restaurants doing everything from dumplings to fusion. Most bars close at 11pm since it's partly residential, so the atmosphere skews older than backpacker party zones. Popular with younger Cambodians with money and expats tired of the usual tourist spots. Good lighting and enough foot traffic to feel safe walking around in the evening. Eating alone fits in easily at the casual spots. Downsides: smaller area means fewer choices, and weekend nights get crowded.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
LowPublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
ModerateScam Risk
LowPolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
GoodEvening Venues
GoodSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
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"Loved the vibe here - felt local but still welcoming to foreigners"
"Great bar scene without the aggressive party atmosphere"
"Felt safe walking around in the evening"
"Perfect for solo dining at casual spots"
"Smaller area than BKK1 but more interesting restaurants"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
The expat district with international restaurants and trendy cafes. Safest area with English everywhere, but more expensive and less authentically Cambodian.
Real neighborhood built around a local market. Has trendy cafes that digital nomads like. Less English than tourist areas. Quiet at night. Good if you want authentic feel without being completely isolated.
Main tourist strip with historic sites and river views. Good during the day, but has the city's highest petty crime rate after dark. Use tuk-tuks at night.
Help other women stay safe in Tonle Bassac
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.