Riding Solo: Sutapa’s Journey to Self-Discovery in Malaysia
“Sometimes, all you need is a little courage and a ticket to anywhere.”
Growing up in a bustling joint family in New Delhi, privacy was a foreign concept, and “me-time” was practically a myth. Every corner of my house carried echoes of conversations, arguments over TV remotes, and laughter during endless chai sessions.
Don’t get me wrong—I loved the chaos. But as a software engineer, the monotony of screens and deadlines started weighing me down, and I craved something different, something just for me.
It was over a casual chai conversation when my cousin, an avid solo traveller, shared stories of her escapades across Southeast Asia. Her words planted a tiny seed of inspiration. But could I do it too? A solo trip? As a woman? The questions lingered until one impulsive evening when I found myself scrolling through travel packages.
That’s when Thrillophilia’s “Malaysia – A Solo Wanderer’s Paradise” popped up. I took a deep breath, clicked book, and thus began my journey of stepping out of the familiar and into the unknown.
Lights, Heights, and Little Moments
Touching down in Kuala Lumpur, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement bubbling within me. But the Thrillophilia team had everything under control. From the airport pickup to the hotel check-in, the process was so smooth that I immediately felt at ease. Even the welcome drink at the hotel seemed like a warm pat on the back for choosing this adventure.
The city tour that followed was an absolute treat. The Petronas Twin Towers stood tall like glimmering sentinels of ambition. Standing beneath them, I felt dwarfed, not just by their size but by the magnitude of stepping out of my comfort zone.
Later, a small interaction with a local vendor selling keychains at the base of the towers stuck with me. He complimented my courage for travelling alone and handed me a free keychain with a soft “Good luck.” It wasn’t just a trinket—it was encouragement in disguise.
The next day whisked me away to Genting Highlands, where a thrilling cable car ride gave me panoramic views of lush green valleys and misty skies. I sat quietly, letting the serene beauty seep into my soul.
Returning, the Batu Caves greeted me with a splash of golden sunlight reflecting off the towering Lord Murugan statue. Climbing the 272 steps wasn’t easy, but the sight of the intricate caves made it worthwhile. The friendly banter of other travellers kept me company, reminding me that even solo journeys are rarely lonely.
An Island That Heals the Soul
Langkawi was the highlight of my trip—a place where time slowed, and the weight of everyday life lifted. My birthday coincided with my stay here, and the complimentary drink at the hotel wasn’t just a thoughtful gesture; it was a reminder that joy often lies in the smallest moments.
Exploring the island was like flipping through a vibrant storybook. I rented a bicycle and cycled through quaint villages with wooden houses perched on stilts. Children played on dusty roads, their laughter blending harmoniously with the chirping of tropical birds. Locals waved and smiled, their kindness filling the air like a balm for the soul.
One of my most cherished moments was sitting by the mangroves, listening to a guide narrate folk tales about Langkawi’s past. His stories of ancient curses, star-crossed lovers, and the enduring spirit of the island were both fascinating and haunting. Later, at Eagle Square, I sat beneath the massive eagle statue, letting the sea breeze tousle my hair while I reflected on how far I’d come—not just geographically but emotionally.
Food became my gateway to deeper connections with the culture. I couldn’t get enough of Nasi lemak and char kway teow, and every hawker centre meal was an adventure in itself. One friendly vendor taught me how to eat laksa without splashing it everywhere—a skill I proudly mastered after much trial and error.
Lessons, Bonds, and Empowerment
This trip wasn’t just a vacation; it was an education. It taught me that fear melts away in the warmth of genuine human interactions. From the helpful concierge who shared tips on avoiding tourist traps to the elderly woman on the Langkawi ferry who gifted me a handmade bracelet for “good fortune,” the people I met reaffirmed my faith in the kindness of strangers.
I also realized how empowering solo travel can be. Walking into unfamiliar territories alone made me more confident and resilient. As a woman travelling solo, I was often asked if I ever felt unsafe.
Honestly, I didn’t. Thrillophilia’s impeccable planning and Malaysia’s welcoming vibe made me feel supported throughout. Of course, I took precautions—staying aware of my surroundings, trusting my instincts, and sticking to well-lit areas at night.
Advice for Solo Female Travelers
If you’re a solo female traveller hesitant about taking that first step, I can’t recommend Malaysia enough. Here’s why:
- It’s safe. The locals are incredibly warm, and I never felt out of place, even during late evenings.
- The Thrillophilia package is perfect for easing into solo travel—everything was well-organized, leaving no room for worry.
A personal suggestion? Keep a mix of planned tours and spontaneous moments. While I loved the structure of city tours, it was those unplanned bicycle rides through Langkawi’s villages that left the deepest impressions. And always carry a lightweight scarf—it’s not just practical for covering up at sacred sites but also a wonderful conversation starter with locals who often complimented mine.
Travelling solo as a woman might feel daunting at first, but trust me, it’s the most liberating experience you can gift yourself. So, if you’re reading this and considering a solo trip, just go for it. You’ll come back not just with memories, but with a stronger, braver version of yourself.
Read more: Thrillophilia Malaysia Reviews