Summary

• Singapore is the safest destination in Southeast Asia, ranking high in the safety index compared to other nations. Popular tourist attractions include Universal Studios and Marina Bay Sands Hotel.
• The Philippines is the most dangerous country in Southeast Asia, with high levels of crime, terrorism, and civil unrest. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and avoid certain areas.
• Malaysia is the second-safest country in Southeast Asia and is known for its anti-sexual harassment laws. Kuala Lumpur is a popular destination for shopping, and the country has beautiful rainforests and beaches.

Southeast Asia is home to some of the world’s most fascinating tourist destinations. While some Southeast Asian countries are extremely safe, others are statistically quite dangerous for travelers. Keep reading to discover which Southeast Asian destinations are safe and which are the most dangerous. There are plenty of bucket list places worth seeing in Asia, although not all will be as laid-back and safe-feeling as the others. As long as you practice safety, all should be well, although sometimes avoiding entire cities and regions is best.

UPDATE: 2023/11/08 11:47 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Vietnam Is Yet Another Safe Southeast Asian Country Worth Visiting

This post has been refreshed with a new, safe city, Vietnam! This country offers many hidden gems, as well as nice people. The only main safety concern is theft, so try to keep everything close by or in a bag. Have fun!

Singapore Is The Safest Destination In Southeast Asia

According to the Global Safety Index, Singapore is the safest destination in Southeast Asia. Coming in at number seven on the list, Singapore is in the top 10 safest countries. In the areas of ongoing domestic conflict, societal safety and security, militarization, political instability, the potential for terrorist acts, the number of homicides, and military expenditure, Singapore performed well compared with other nations.

Along with being the safest destination in Southeast Asia, Singapore is one of the most popular places for international tourists. The International Changi Airport is a major transportation hub, with many tourists stopping for a few days in Singapore before continuing to their final destinations.

Singapore, technically an island city-state, is a global financial center and home to various landmarks and attractions. Many tourists flock to sites such as Universal Studios, the Statue of Merlion, and the incredible Marina Bay Sands Hotel.

• Is it safe: Yes

The Philippines Is The Most Dangerous Country In Southeast Asia

According to the Global Safety Index, Southeast Asia's most dangerous country is the Philippines. The U.S. Department of State advises all American travelers to the Philippines to exercise increased caution due to crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and a measles outbreak.

Some areas within the Philippines are more dangerous than others. The U.S. Government suggests that travelers reconsider their need to travel to Mindanao and completely avoid traveling to the Sulu Archipelago and Marawi City.

There is an increased risk of terrorism in the Philippines, and many terrorist groups tend to target tourist areas such as shopping malls and markets. Those who travel to the Philippines are advised to avoid public demonstrations and monitor the local media for breaking news.

Con games and pickpocketing are also common in the Philippines, and safety standards that you’d expect from tour groups and guides aren’t always met, particularly with potentially dangerous activities like diving.

• Is it safe: No

Here are some amazing Japanese experiences to check out while in the Philippines.

Malaysia Is The Second-Safest Country In Southeast Asia

Situated close to Singapore, Malaysia is the second-safest country in Southeast Asia. Occupying parts of the Malay Peninsula, the country also ranks as one of the safest countries for women due to its anti-sexual harassment laws.

The capital city of Kuala Lumpur is one of the most popular destinations in the country and is particularly popular among travelers who enjoy shopping. The city is home to a selection of busy shopping districts and a stunning skyline.

Beyond the cities, Malaysia is known for its lush rainforests and tropical beaches. Another beloved tourist landmark is Mount Kinabalu. Many travelers also enjoy visiting the Batu Caves. Some of the most popular islands to visit around Malaysia include Sipadan Island, Redang Island, and the Perhentian Islands.

• Is it safe: Yes

Related: Tips Every Backpacker Going To Asia Needs To Remember

Myanmar Has Zero Covid-19 Cases But Is Still One Of The Most Dangerous Southeast Asian Countries

The nation formerly known as Burma currently has no confirmed cases of COVID-19, but that doesn’t mean it’s an overly safe destination to visit. Myanmar is the second-most dangerous country in Southeast Asia.

U.S. travelers are advised to exercise increased caution in Myanmar due to areas of civil unrest and armed conflict. Tourists may also need to be vaccinated against yellow fever if arriving from certain countries. The areas that are affected by the conflict in Myanmar may contain hidden landmines, resulting in some areas of the country receiving a Level 4 travel ban by the U.S. Government.

Entering Myanmar can be difficult as the government tightly controls access to the country. U.S. travelers will need a passport with at least six months of validity left and a visa that should be obtained before arriving.

• Is it safe: No

These ten cities with the smallest population in Asia might be worth exploring.

Indonesia Is Safer Than The United Kingdom

Home to the extremely popular tourist hotspot of Bali, Indonesia is the third safest country in Southeast Asia. Although it doesn’t make the top 10 safest countries in the world, it is safer than a number of popular tourist destinations around the planet, including the United Kingdom.

Indonesia boasts more than 17,000 islands, of which 6,000 are inhabited. The most popular is undoubtedly Bali, although Java, Sumatra, Lombok, and Sulawesi are also commonly frequented by tourists. The islands of Indonesia are known for idyllic tropical beaches, relaxing resorts, and green vegetation.

Although Indonesia is technically one of the safest countries in Southeast Asia, it also practices some very strict laws. Foreign tourists have often found themselves facing lengthy jail sentences or even the death penalty for breaking the law in places like Bali. Here are some of the biggest mistakes tourists make when visiting the city.

• Is it safe: Yes

Vietnam Rings In As Another Safe Destination For Travelers

Although not always seen this way, Vietnam continues to be a fairly safe Southeastern Asian country to explore. Here, people tend to be very laid-back and respectful to tourists, as well as each other. Vietnam ranks as one of the less violent Southeastern Asian countries, with even big cities seeing fewer aggravated cases. However, the main safety concern for solo travelers in Vietnam is pickpocketing, theft, and bag snatching. As long as you keep your things secured on your person, this should not become a problem.

It's always better to keep phones, cameras, and other valuable items nearby in larger Vietnamese cities, as drive-by theft is what most people report.

Regardless, there are many hidden gems to discover in Vietnam, many off the beaten path.

• Is it safe: Yes