Travelling is a great way to get out of your comfort zone and expose yourself to different cultures and ways of life. However, it’s always important to consider safety before going anywhere new. The world is a crazy, beautiful place and you need to be aware of what you’re getting into before embarking on your next trek. Here are 10 of the safest places you can visit, as well as 10 places you should avoid for the time being.
1. Iceland
Consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, Iceland is a tremendous place to visit. Home to some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes (including the Northern Lights), Iceland also boasts a low crime rate and an extremely friendly and welcoming population.
2. New Zealand
Known for its hospitality and characteristically low crime rate, New Zealand should definitely be on your list of places to visit. Peaceful and loaded with natural beauty, this large island country is just begging to be explored (if you can withstand the trek there, that is).
3. Japan
Japan’s unique blend of ancient tradition and cutting-edge technology makes it a safe haven for travellers looking to go somewhere worry-free. Boasting clean streets, low crime rates, and a deeply ingrained culture of respect and politeness, Japan is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to go somewhere new.
4. Switzerland
Switzerland’s reputation is as pristine as the plethora of natural beauty contained within it. A country with cities and towns as beautiful as its lakes and mountainous landscapes, Switzerland is known for its low crime rate and excellent public services — making it an excellent choice for travellers looking to feel safe and secure in their travels.
5. Finland
Boasting a high standard of living and shockingly low crime rates, it’s no wonder that Finland regularly ranks atop the list of happiest countries in the world. From Helsinki to the country’s breathtaking countryside, there is no shortage of things to do in this welcoming and safe travel destination.
6. Canada
As the world’s second-largest country, Canada is home to several vibrant and bustling cities, as well as some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes you can find. From Toronto to Banff, Canada’s long-standing reputation as a safe and welcoming place extends to every corner of the massive country.
7. Norway
Safety and beauty abound in this Nordic wonderland. From its breathtaking fjords to its quaint cities and towns, Norway's impressively low crime rate and natural beauty make it the perfect spot for travellers seeking peace of mind.
8. Singapore
Although home to some of the strictest laws and cleanliness measures out there, Singapore has a lot to show for it as a culture-rich, worry-free hub for tourists. A model for safety, Singapore’s low crime rate and highly effective public services make it a great place to visit.
9. Slovenia
Known for its stunning landscapes and remarkable safety record, Slovenia is a hidden gem in Central Europe. With a low crime rate and welcoming locals, Slovenia is the perfect place to explore a rich culture and breathtaking scenery.
10. South Korea
Whether it’s the bustling city streets of Seoul or the serene countryside, South Korea is a vibrant nation just waiting to be explored. The country’s low crime rate ensures a worry-free experience for those looking to visit this must-see destination.
1. Afghanistan
Due to political instability and a high risk of terrorism, Afghanistan is easily one of the most dangerous destinations to visit in the entire world. It is universally advised that all tourists avoid travelling to Afghanistan due to the risk of attacks on civilian populations, as well as kidnapping and imprisonment.
2. Syria
Heightened political instability and an ongoing civil war have rendered Syria a no-go zone for tourists. Despite numerous attempts to quell the situation, Syria is rife with bombings, kidnappings, and persistent military operations, meaning that tourists should avoid this destination at all costs.
3. Yemen
As a nation deep in the throes of a brutal military conflict and devastating humanitarian crisis, Yemen should be avoided at all costs. The risks posed by political instability, armed terrorist and criminal groups, as well as scarcity of essential goods and services, make Yemen one of the most dangerous places on Earth.
4. Somalia
As a defacto failed state for several decades now, Somalia faces significant challenges with terrorism, piracy and civil unrest. Due to the general lack of governing authority, Somalia is rife with lawlessness that manifests itself in a variety of dangerous ways that pose great risk to all potential visitors.
5. South Sudan
Caught in the midst of a brutal civil conflict and increased ethnic violence, South Sudan is far from habitable for its own population let alone tourists. A general lack of security and infrastructure has made this East African republic a highly dangerous and volatile area that no one should travel to until matters improve.
6. Central African Republic
Suffering persistent violence and political instability for nearly two decades now, the Central African Republic is rife with violence and other potential dangers. Additionally, many armed groups have taken hold of large swaths of the country, making it increasingly unsafe for prospective tourists.
Alllexxxis on Wikimedia Commons
7. Iraq
Due to a devastating war and the ensuing civil conflict, Iraq still remains one of the most dangerous nations on Earth. Despite seeing some improvements over the years, the often cited “cradle of civilization” is rife with terrorism and political instability and should be avoided until conditions improve significantly.
8. Libya
Since 2011, Libya has been stricken with debilitating political instability and sectarian violence. As a defacto failed state, Libya’s lawlessness and lack of governing authority have made it a hotbed for terrorism, crime, and a myriad of other destabilizing problems, making it an extremely dangerous destination that tourists should avoid.
9. Venezuela
High crime rates and persistent social unrest have made kidnappings, robberies, and shortages of basic goods and services a fixture of everyday life in Venezuela. Hyperinflation, extreme poverty, and untenable politcal turmoil have rendered this bastion of tropical beauty a place that potential travellers should strongly consider avoiding.
10. Nigeria
Unfortunately, due to risks posed by armed terrorist organizations like Boko Haram, many travellers won't be able to experience the beauty of this West African republic. Although not the entire country, several areas of Nigeria should be avoided at all costs due to high risk of crime and terrorism — most travellers should forgo any non-essential travel to Nigeria for the time being.
