Page 70 - 101+ Tips for Solo Women Travelers

16 Don’t be a scofflaw in Singapore.

Singapore is a terrific city for women to travel solo. Aside from its
intrinsic, multi-cultural allure, Singapore is modern, clean, has free Wifi nearly
everywhere, and has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, so you’ll feel
perfectly safe. But do remember to mind your Ps and Qs. . . . Singaporeans expect
you to be as law-abiding as they are, and things like littering, chewing gum, eating
on public transport, or jaywalking do carry fines.

What our travelers say:
17 Crafts in Kyoto.

The Kyoto Handicra Center (17 Shogoin Entomi-cho, Sanyo-ku,

Kyoto 606-8323) has EVERYTHING you could possibly need. I bought beautiful
yakutas, t-shirts, and jewelry. Plus, there is excellent pottery, crazy expensive
secret boxes, silk kimonos, swords, wood block painting and many other items

that will dazzle you. It was a wonderful experience. They even o er chairs for
the non-shopper/one who waits.
—Judi Nordman, 15-time traveler, Towaco, NJ

18 In Thailand, do not touch the monks.

You will see many monks in Thailand because the branch of Buddhism
that is practiced there (Theravada) requires all men to spend a period of time as a
monk before the age of 20. People view monks with great respect, and there are
certain protocols. For one, physical contact with women is forbidden for monks,
so be sure not to touch or give anything directly to them. Instead, set it on the
ground in front of them or give it to a man to hand over. Similarly, women should
not sit next to monks on public transportation, nor should you enter the monk-
only areas that are sometimes set aside in waiting rooms. If you pass a monk on
the street, it is considered polite to stop and let him pass by you first.
19 Do not disparage the Thai royal family.

The Thai people revere their monarchs and you will see images of them
displayed in many shops and all public buildings. Engaging in negative talk about
them is not only considered bad form, it’s illegal and can land you in jail. So as the
saying goes, “if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing.”

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