Is cycle touring safe in Southeast Asia?

SHORT ANSWER: In all my years and the rides I have completed I have never felt unsafe. Whilst backpacking, before my riding career, I was robbed at guest houses twice. This has not occurred whilst cycling, but you should take appropriate precautions.

LONG ANSWER: People often ask about the safety aspect of cycling in South East Asia. I have never been in a situation where I was overly concerned about my safety - the only problem I have had is through my own stupidity by getting dehydrated. My anecdotal experience is that cycling in the region is safe. I had many more problems cycling around London than I have cycling around Bangkok (the traffic is flowing quicker in London and is a bit more deadly. There are concerns from newcomers about the safety of traffic in the large metropolises and the safety of certain places, for Example Cambodia. I have always found that with some basic precautions things are never unsafe and I feel comfortable and relaxed whilst touring around the region.

In Cambodia I have seen minefields, however these tend to be well marked and are well off the beaten track. The locals are extremely good at signage and telling you if you are heading for danger. UXO (unexploded Ordinance) in Laos is an issue, but again, it tends to be well of the beaten tracks. There are other risks and hazards around, but genuinely the risks are low and with simple mitigation you can have a wonderful ride.

Here are a few basic tips: -

1) When handling money, keep the money hidden from view as much as possible
2) Always keep your money split up on your bike in case of robbery
3) Tell people (via e-mail or phone) where you are going each day and when you should arrive
4) Tell people when you should contact them next, they will worry if you are late in the contact
5) Be cautious of everyone around you, including other tourists. In my experience tourists are as likely to rob you as locals are
6) When cycling outside of the main tourist areas keep on marked roads and paths - there is still a huge amount of UXO and mines out there
7) Always ask before taking photos of people
8) Always wear a hat, it's hot as hell out there!
9) Only drink bottled or purified water, do not take some of the water offered to you (many people will offer you there water) until you have verified the source
10) Take a first aid kit
11) Cycle at the side of the road and close to the bail-out line

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