Shootingstar is right, asians and non-asians are treated slightly differently. I think they can be more judgemental with the asians. in a 'what is this girl trying to do showing so much skin' kind of way, but once they figure u're not local... they label you as a crazy foreigner too and leave you alone.

In general in Southeast Asia, no one would harass you. It can be quite nice. I did a day-tour on a bicycle unsupported in vietnam once and it was a very lovely experience.

I still wanna do the east coast of malaysia in 2 weeks time.
My only problem right now is intense opposition from my mother. I'm trying to keep peace in the home so the touring might have to wait. She insists on a group of four, I don't really like travelling with more than 2, and I have not been able to find people who want to do it (that I can hang around with constantly for a week or more etc)

When holidaying in asia etc, I generally try to keep cleavage and legs covered. arms aren't so bad. the locals soon establish that you're not local and get curious, they'd ask where you're from etc, probably nothing different from any tourist.

I'm wondering about cambodia, but I think the main problem would be the dust and the lack of mechanical support on the way. (make yr mechanic ride with ya hahha) bad roads and speeding vehicles hmm.. heard good things about thailand..

On my ride in malaysia, I wore full length tights and a long sleeved shirt to protect from the sun. People tend to not give any trouble. men might look a little, but seriously, whats new?
In vietnam, it was just regular 3/4 length pants and a wide-necked t-shirt with bikini peeking out, but no problem there either. some guy on a motorbike did ride tut-tutting all the way up this steep slope next to my swiss friend though, trying to talk to her...

sigh... I guess I need to look more actively for more touring partners to make up this group i need....

D

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Quote Originally Posted by shootingstar View Post
Would be interested in hearing from deeiamond for those of us, who LOOK local or close to it, North Americans of Asian descent, how they are perceived in lycra on bikes. Meaning women. They are probably perceived as having "more" money.

I found her comments interesting (ie. perceived dangers from thieves, etc.) ...if I were to be cycling alone in Asia vs. a white woman-- would it be any different? Probably abit.

My instinctive reaction for Asia, is not to look too skimpily dressed when not on the beach. Of course, I seldom wear tank tops around home town....I wish to protect my skin across my back and front. And you won't find me downing a beer anywhere (I get drunk too easily and prefer wine)...so I would fit in real well among alot of Asian women there.