Tag: Safest

These Are The 5 Safest Countries To Visit In Latin America Right Now

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Latin America and South America are growing in popularity as vacation destinations. This is particularly true among travelers looking for independent and adventurous travel.

The term Latin America is a loose one, but it is generally agreed that it is a term used to describe South America, Central America, Mexico, and many of the islands of the Caribbean. This is a huge area that includes a huge range of vacation destination options.

A new report from Nomad Capitalist used the Global Peace Index to calculate how safe it is to visit Latin America.

This index is published by the Institute for Economics and Peace and looks at the political stability, social unrest, and levels of violent crime in a country.

There are the 5 safest countries to visit in Latin America right now:

Costa Rica

Costa Rica tops the list as Latin America’s safest country.

As well as being a country of outstanding natural beauty Costa Rica boasts a peaceful political environment.

The government in the country is working hard to curb petty crime. They are also committed to taking measures to protect the environmental biodiversity of the country.

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For this reason, Costa Rica is often referred to as paradise on earth. Adventure tourism is incredibly popular here. Visitors here can join organized tours, but it is also a safe country to explore independently.

The U.S. government has currently issued a level 2 travel advisory for Costa Rica due to the risk of crime in the country.

Uruguay

In second place is Uruguay. The country is one of the most politically stable in the region, and its people are renowned for being welcoming to visitors from across the globe.

Its low risk of crime and ease of access means that Uruguay is often recommended as a great first stop for travelers new to exploring Latin America.

Uruguay is known for its beautiful coastline, rich history, and the quality of the beef produced here. It is the second smallest country in South America, but it still packs a punch.

From a political point of view, Uruguay offers its citizens free education, boasts a large middle-class population, and contributes more troops to UN peacekeeping missions than any other nation.

Some areas of the country are safer than others.

The U.S. government advises that crime is most prevalent in the Montevideo, Canelones, and Rivera departments. U.S. citizens should be alert and aware of their surroundings in these locations.

Chile

Chile is a country with a difficult past, but the current government is working hard to reduce violent crime and political corruption in the country. That’s why Chile is now considered the third safest country in Latin America.

Tourists are welcome across the country, and the capital city of Santiago is a hub of attractions and amenities for travelers.

Outside of the city, Chile is famous for its stunning natural beauty, which attracts nature and adventure tourists from across the world.

The U.S Government advisory level for Chile is level 2 due to the risk of street crime and demonstrations that periodically happen in the country.

Panama

Panama is considered to be one of the most cosmopolitan countries in Latin America. It has a large expat community that adds to its diversity.

The government is strong and stable in the country. This plays a significant role in ensuring that travelers feel safe here.

The most popular location for tourists is the capital Panama City. This is a unique city that balances new with old and modern with traditional. Nature travelers will also find a lot to enjoy in Panama.

Panama has a level 2 travel advisory in place from the U.S. government due to the risk of being a victim of crime in the country.

Argentina

Argentina is the second largest country in South America and the fifth safest country in Latin America.

One of the first things many people think about Argentina is its passion for soccer. But Argentina also offers its visitors a unique blend of modern cities, a traditional way of life, and breathtaking natural beauty. The country is famous for the quality of its food and wine.

The people of Argentina are friendly and welcoming to visitors. However, because street crime can be an occasional risk, you should be wary if you’re approached by strangers, particularly if you’re traveling alone.

Argentina has the lowest level of advisory from the U.S. government. Travelers to this level 1 country are advised to exercise normal precautions in Argentina.

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August 5, 2023
This Off The Beaten Path European Country Is One Of The Safest For Solo Female Travelers
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The often overlooked country of Slovenia lies in the shadow of three neighboring European fan favorites: Croatia, Austria, and Italy.

While its popular neighbors rake in the tourists, Slovenia remains off the beaten path, offering the most scenic and affordable stay in central Europe.

From the cobblestone streets of Ljubljana to the sapphire waters at Lake Bled, Slovenia feels like a fantastical dream.

Featuring crystal-clear alpine lakes, breathtaking mountains, and charming medieval cities, it’s no wonder that Slovenia was chosen as the filming location for the mythical kingdom of Narnia.

What does remain a wonder is why Slovenia isn’t yet the most popular destination for solo female travelers.

For better or for worse, when we talk about solo female travel, the first question is always about safety. Luckily, Slovenia is one of the safest destinations in the world for solo female travelers.

7th Safest Country In The World

Slovenia is one of the top seven safest countries in the world, according to the Global Peace Index. Slovenia even ranks above super-secure Singapore and Scandinavian favorites like Norway and Finland.

Other recent rankings list Slovenia as one of the top three safest travel destinations in the world.

Most notably, Slovenia leads the Central and Eastern European regions in Women’s Peace and Security.

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Top Pick for Solo Female Travelers

According to a recent BBC report, Slovenia is the best destination for women looking for a safe solo trip.

BBC based their rankings on:
- Georgetown University’s Women’s Peace And Security Index (WPS)
- World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap report and the Institute for Economics and Peace Global Peace Index (PGP),
- Interviews with women who traveled solo to the top-ranked countries
Solo female travelers who recently visited Slovenia explained to the BBC that they never felt unsafe or truly alone, whether getting lost in Ljubljana’s picturesque streets at midnight or hiking sunny alpine trails.

85% of Slovenian women feel safe walking alone at night. Slovenia also has one of the lowest rates of intimate partner violence in Europe.

Progressive Social Attitudes

Women traveling in Slovenia can expect a progressive environment, free from any judgment of their choice to travel alone or to pursue adventurous activities while on their trip.

In general, Slovenian society is quite gender equal. There is next to no discrimination against women working paid jobs, with 52% of Slovenian women employed in the workforce (equal to U.S. rates in 2021).

Slovenia’s Minister for Foreign and European Affairs even recently announced a “feminist foreign policy strategy” focusing on gender equality initiatives and empowerment across Europe.

While no country is without room for improvement when it comes to structural sexism, it’s safe to say that Slovenia is a country where solo female travelers are welcome and respected.

Positive Experiences

Women who have taken solo trips to Slovenia are quick to share their positive experiences with safety on social media and travel blogs.

Travel Ladies, an app that connects solo female travelers and locals to share destination information such as safety, gives Slovenia a 5-star safety rating based on real women’s solo adventures.

Over 80% of the experience reviews for Slovenia on Travel Ladies specifically mention feeling extremely safe.

Solo traveler Melissa shared that she felt very safe on her recent trip to Slovenia’s capital city Ljubljana. “Throughout my trip, I had no worries or questioned my safety,” she writes. “Safety is my top concern, and I felt protected and in my comfort zone.”

Full-time traveler Katie’s experience alone in the country was similarly carefree. “I arrived in Ljubljana well past midnight in the middle of a massive rain storm,” she explains. “Since the weather was so horrible, there was no one out on the streets, and I felt completely safe walking to the hostel… I never felt in danger.”

As the 7th safest country in the world and a top-rated pick for women, Slovenia has so much to offer on your next carefree solo trip to Europe.

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May 14, 2023
These Are The Safest Cities In Europe For Solo Female Travelers, According To A New Study
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Traveling with your friends and family is nice, but there is nothing quite like a solo trip where all your time is your own and you can come and go as you please.

Solo travel is trending this year, and the majority of those who are looking to travel on their own seem to be women.

According to booking.com, 84% of these solo travelers around the world are women, and Google data indicates that 55% of searches for ‘solo travel’ are coming from women, specifically millennial-age women.

We have covered some of the safest countries for solo female travel, as well as some of the safest cities around the world.

Here comes a new report from bag and luggage brand Kipling to indicate the safest European cities for solo female travelers.

Using data such as activity offerings, attractions, group activities, transport, safety, and gender equality, the figures were calculated to give each destination a ‘Solo Female Traveler City Index’.

Here are the top 5 safest cities in Europe for solo female travelers:

Hamburg, Germany

The top scorer on the Solo Female Traveler City Index is Germany’s second-largest city, Hamburg.

Known for its great nightlight and busy port seaside vibe, Hamburg ranks high for gender equality and things to do.

Visitors like to see many things here and all are easily accessible by foot or bicycle, although tours are plentiful as are the hostels and hotels for solo travelers.

And being Germany, public transportation is organized and efficient, meaning you are far less likely to get stranded anywhere.

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Munich, Germany

In case you have heard of a little thing called Oktoberfest, then you probably know about this Bavarian city.

Well connected via trams and buses, there’s a reason this city has been ranked one of the safest in the world for solo female travelers.

Ranking high for gender equality, the city makes women travelers feel safe and welcome. With no end of places to visit and German beers to sample, there’s always something to do and friends to be made.

Edinburgh, Scotland

The third city on Kipling’s Solo Female Traveller City Index takes us up to Scotland, to the charming medieval city of Edinburgh.

With a high score for group activities, attraction and accommodation, it’s likely that no solo traveler here will have trouble making friends.

Those who visit in the summer can experience Edinburgh’s famous Fringe Festival, where musical, comedy, and other acts take over stages across the city.

Prices are higher and accommodation can be difficult to find at this time though, so plan early if this is your kind of scene.

Faro, Portugal

Yes, Portugal is famous for its postcard-worthy cities of Lisbon and Porto, the latter of which also makes the list but lower down at number 12.

For the number four city on our list though, we head down south to the Algarve coast and find the city of Faro.

It might seem ironic that a city with a chapel made of skeletons of old monks is one of the safest for solo female travelers, but Faro ranks highly for many safety factors.

In addition to having beaches, a cozy old town, and great nightlife, the city is well connected as it has the only airport in the region, linking it to other major European cities, but also boat and ferry options to connect it to other coastal cities as well.

Dublin, Ireland

Coming in at number five on Kipling’s Solo Female Traveller City Index is Ireland’s capital city of Dublin.

With many tour options and accommodation catering to backpackers and solo travelers, those who come here alone are unlikely to stay that way long.

Day trips outside of the city to famed sites such as the Giant’s Causeway make solo travel easy to plan, not to mention the pub and music scene to take in after the day exploring.

Ireland itself has ranked as one of the safest countries in the world, and it’s no exception for solo female travelers.

To finish off the list, here are the rest of the top 20 safest cities in Europe for solo female travelers:
- 6. Prague, Czech Republic
- 7. Heraklion, Greece
- 8. Helsinki, Finland
- 9. Krakow, Poland
- 10. Zurich, Switzerland
- 11. Berlin, Germany
- 12. Porto, Portugal
- 13. Valencia, Spain
- 14. Vienna, Austria
- 15. Malaga, Spain
- 16. Stockholm, Sweden
- 17. Dusseldorf, Germany
- 18. Lisbon, Portugal
- 19. Geneva, Switzerland
- 20. Oslo, Norway
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April 18, 2023
These 5 Under The Radar European Cities Rank Among The Safest For Travelers
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Is there anything better than that feeling of arriving in a new city as a first-time traveler? The excitement and uncertainty have a way of washing over you and leaving you feeling curious, energized, and possibly a bit apprehensive (especially for solo travelers).

With no shortage of beautiful destinations to visit, Europe is and will always be a huge draw for tourists, with essentially everything to see all in one diverse continent. With classic favorites such as Paris, Rome, and Barcelona all being popular draws, those who are looking for a bit less touristy still have lots of options.

One main factor to consider when traveling to a new city is the safety aspect, which applies to travelers of all ages and demographics. From solo female explorers to family vacations, everyone wants to feel safe when they arrive at their new destination.

A recent UK report has just compiled a list of the top 20 safest global tourist destinations, with cities from Japan to Norway and many places in between. While there is no shortage of articles to be found on the safest destinations, there are a few on this list that might pique the interest of travelers looking for some lesser-known European destinations.

The recent UK report compiles data and assigns each city a global holiday safety score, using the following metrics to determine the overall score:
- Homicide rate per 100,000 by country
- Global terrorism index
- Human freedom index/ reliability of police
- Human freedom index/ rule of city law
- % of people who feel safe walking one at night
- % of people worried about being mugged or robbed
- Numbeo crime index
- LGBT social acceptance
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Upon configuring this data, the following cities ranked in the top 5 of safest global tourist destinations:
1. Reykjavik, Iceland
2. Bern, Switzerland
3. Bergen, Norway
4. Kyoto, Japan
5. Taipei, Taiwan
While all these destinations are definitely deserving of their high score and their popularity amongst tourists, there are some on the list that might offer an option for a bit more unique holiday.

Here are 5 Under The Radar European Cities Rank Among The Safest For Travelers

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Coming in 10th on the list, we find the capital city of this underrated destination, with a global holiday safety score of 7.56/10. Ljubljana scores high marks since violent crime is rare, and the city is known to be very safe, as is the country of Slovenia in general.

Some have claimed this small city is the safest capital of the Eastern European countries, and visitors can walk around at night with no more than a normal level of awareness and precautions. The city’s old town, in general, has a reputation amongst traverses as being safe and welcoming, and those who visit can explore the streets and cafes even after the sun goes down.

Bern, Switzerland

This Swiss capital city ranked second on the list, making it one of the safest cities in the world for tourists, with an overall global holiday safety score of 8.64/10. While this city tends to get passed over by many tourists who flock to the more famous Swiss cities, there are plenty of reasons to explore safe and charming Bern.

The city scored high marks in particular for both the reliability of police and rule of law categories, as well as LGBT social acceptance. So, if you find yourself exploring Switzerland this year, don’t miss Bern! As if you needed another reason to visit this stunning country, there is also the new scenic train that has recently opened.

Tallinn, Estonia

While you might not need any more reasons to visit this underrated capital city, the high marks it received for its global holiday safety score might help to entice you to book the trip and explore this small Baltic gem. With a score of 7.16/10, Tallinn ranks 17 amongst the 100 destinations included in this study, making it considerably safer than many other European cities.

High marks for this city included a large percentage of people who feel safe walking alone at night (almost 70%) and a global terrorism index of 0. Tallinn is a city that gets into people’s hearts quite quickly, and travelers who go there often stay longer than expected. In fact, some make it a long-term base for traveling the nearby Baltic region.

Bruges, Belgium

Named one of the most beautiful medieval cities in Europe to visit, Bruges just made the top 20 list for safest holiday destinations. The city ties with Prague as number 19, both scoring 6.98/10 for a global holiday safety score. Bruges ranks high for LGBT acceptance and low for the percentage of people worried about being mugged or robbed.

While violent crime is very rare in this picturesque city, it’s important to remember that normal precautions should be then to avoid petty theft, as it is a tourist destination, after all. So sit back and drink some of the famous Belgium Beer in one of the many cafes tucked along the postcard-worthy canal-side streets as you watch the tour boats float by.

Salzburg, Austria

If a country has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, such as Austria, it should come as no surprise to see one of its cities on this list. Salzburg scores a 7.88/10 for this global holiday safety index, with high marks for both people feeling safe waking at night, as well as rule of law and the reliability of police.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is full of culture and beautiful sights. From beer gardens, museums, and riverside cafes, to Mozart and the Von Trapp family, there is so much to see and do in Salzburg. Many miss this city in favor of Vienna (which is understandable as Vienna is a fantastic destination in its own right), but those who are looking for a safe and culture-packed trip set amongst the Salzach River and the foothills of the Alps should check out Salzburg this year.

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March 5, 2023
This Is The Safest Destination For Americans In Southeast Asia

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Last Updated 19 hours ago

Chiang Mai has been named the safest destination for American travelers in Southeast Asia, beating the far more developed hubs of Singapore and Kuala Lumpur to the number one spot. A culture-filled, sprawling city in Northern Thailand, it is one of the region’s top attractions, known for its imperial grandeur and perfectly-preserved Old City.

Now that Thailand is open once again for tourism, following two years of strict border checks, Americans are returning to the country in droves, drawn to its pristine nature, paradisaical islands, and laid-back atmosphere. Safety remains a top priority for those traveling abroad, though, especially in destinations where they are prone to be scammed.

Scamming and petty crimes are common across a number of Thai cities, but risks seem to be lower in Chiang Mai in particular:

Chiang Mai Is The Highest-Peaking Southeast Asian City On A Safety Perception Index

Every year, the leading crowd-sourced database for quality of life worldwide Numbeo publishes its Crime and Safety Indices by City, with crime rates compiled across 416 cities. According to the ranking, the city of Chiang Mai is one of the top 40 safest in the world, charting at number 32, and the highest-peaking in Southeast Asia (SEA).

Although Singapore is often regarded as the subcontinent’s most developed and ‘Westernized’, and thus less risky city, the overall perception of urban safety is slightly lower than Chiang Mai’s (70.8 against 75.5). It even topples Tokyo, Japan, ranking one slot lower at number 33, and in the wider East Asia it is only surpassed by Hong Kong at number 17.

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When it comes to crime, the index averaged 24.5, considered ‘low’: a majority of tourists will feel safe in Chiang Mai, and most will not run into any trouble walking alone in daylight or nighttime. To draw a comparison, Bangkok’s crime index was a much higher 40.5, while safety levels were lower at 59.5 – still high enough to make it the 7th safest destination in SEA.

Three Thai Cities Feature In The Ranking

Anucha Burapachaisri, the Prime Minister’s Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs, was quoted saying, ‘Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha is glad to see several cities in Thailand cited as having a high level of safety‘, and that the Government’s determination to eradicate crimes has created confidence among foreigners who want to travel to Thailand.

In total, three Thai cities are cited on the Numbeo list, the third being Pattaya (number 210), sharing the same crime rates as Windsor in Canada. Overall, Thailand is incredibly safe for tourists: the U.S. Department of State considers it a Level 1 destination, advising Americans to exercise ‘normal precautions’ when visiting.

The only regions where travel is strongly advised against are Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, and Songkhla, due to the ‘ongoing insurgent activities’. These insurgencies are mostly centered in the southernmost provinces of mainland Thailand, where public dissatisfaction with the current government is notably higher.

Thailand’s Incredibly Affordable Cultural Capital

Chiang Mai is one of the most sought-after city breaks in Thailand, and a city brimming with History and imposing structures at every corner. Originally founded in the late 13th century, it replaced neighboring Chiang Rai as the capital of the historical Lanna Kingdom, a position it held until 1558, when its importance as a political center declined.

Still to this day, remnants of the bygone era are scattered around the concrete jungle, with a series of defensive walls and moats, and the Wat Phra Singh and Wat Chedi Luang temples standing among the most easily recognized landmarks. On top of its historical relevance and reinforced security, Chiang Mai is incredibly affordable:

Numbeo estimates that a single person’s monthly costs are US$518.30 without rent, about 25.6% and 10.9% lower than the capital (Bangkok) and Phuket City, two competing hubs within Thailand. Compared to the States, in order to maintain the same standards of living in Chiang Mai as you would earning US$9,000 in New York, US$2,302.70 a month would suffice.

Less crime, a higher quality of life, and significantly cheaper: it’s no wonder Thailand as a whole is the trendiest spot for young adventurers right now.

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January 31, 2023
These Are The Safest Countries In Eastern Europe For Tourists
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Eastern Europe is one of the most underrated, yet fascinating regions to explore as a tourist. Sadly, misinformation regarding safety levels, and the notion that Eastern countries are a hotbed of wars, with weak democracies, and where pickpockets run amok have certainly not helped their cause – but to which extent are these beliefs true? In other words, where in Eastern Europe tourists will be the safest?

What Is The Exact Definition Of A Safe Country?

According to the United Nations (UN), there are 23 countries in Eastern Europe (EE), which begins somewhere along the former Soviet border, and extends as far East as Western Russia. Out of those, 13 have been deemed completely safe to travel by the U.S. Department of State – more specifically, they were awarded the lowest-possible Level 1 badge on the entity’s Travel Advisory listings.

This means that, when visiting Level 1 states, Americans do not face heightened safety threats, or any particular health risk unrelated to the ongoing Covid pandemic. In fact, some of these destinations are much safer than the United States even, enjoying significantly lower rates of petty crimes, armed robbery and murder, and a high human development index.

Since the fall of the Berlin Wall, numerous EE nations made great strides in their quest for peace, tilting Westward, at least when it comes to foreign policy, and joining intergovernment military alliances like NATO, and the European Union (EU). Thanks to their efforts, the times when Eastern Europe was an obscure landmass where crime was rampant, and civil liberties curbed is but a distant memory.

Interestingly, Eastern countries that have assimilated into Western institutions form a majority among those classed as ‘safe’ by the U.S., with the complete list seen below:

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Eastern European Countries In Level 1
- Bulgaria
- Croatia
- Czech Republic
- Estonia
- Georgia
- Hungary
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Montenegro
- North Macedonia
- Poland
- Romania
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
Out of those, only Georgia is neither in NATO, nor the EU. Others like Montenegro and North Macedonia have not yet succeeded in finalizing their EU accession talks, but they have been NATO members since 2017 and 2020, respectively. All countries listed under the Level 1 category are perceived as ‘low-risk’ destinations.

Which Eastern European States Travelers Should Avoid?

Sadly, not all former Soviet Eastern countries have managed to shake off the ghosts of communism, and their dark past as easily as others, becoming authoritarian regimes where the rule of law is only loosely enforced, or at best, fragile democracies with widespread urban violence and a poor record of upholding human rights.

It’s a widely-known fact large swathes of Europe’s Far East are either engulfed by war, or facing huge democratic backslidings. This has led many tourists to wonder whether now is the right time to visit, especially when the invasion of Ukraine has shown no signs of slowing down, and tensions remain high.

That is the case with Belarus and Russia, commonly referred as Europe’s last-surviving dictatorships, and the hostile agents in the latest invasion of Ukraine. Due to the conflict, all three countries – Belarus, Russia and Ukraine – are considered no-go zones, being singled out as the only Level 4 destinations in the entire continent.

At Level 4, U.S. citizens are warned to refrain from traveling due to serious threat to life or health, the highest possible, ‘least safe’ level a country can reach. Luckily, a majority of EE destinations that have failed to qualify for Level 1 are instead a Level 2: essentially, visitors must maintain a higher situational awareness, but tourism is not discouraged:

EE Countries That Are Still Safe, But Where Increased Caution Is Advised

Eastern European Countries In Level 2
- Albania
- Armenia
- Azerbaijan
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Kosovo*
- Moldova
- Serbia
*Kosovo is recognized as a sovereign country by the United States, but wider UN recognition is limited; it is however included here.

Out of those listed above, Americans must do extensive research, and be particularly vigilant when touring Kosovo, a partially-recognized territory in the Balkan Peninsula, due to Kosovo’s strained relations with Serbia, which lays claim to the area. Conflicts in border zones have been known to erupt without warning, and cross-border travel between both may have its limitations.

Armenia and Azerbaijan are yet another pair at loggerheads over the status of a number of provinces, and they are extremely unlikely to re-establish diplomatic ties anytime soon. For that reason, Americans must not travel to the Armenian-Azerbaijani border, as well as the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Armenia ‘due to recent hostilities’.

Lastly, Moldova is widely regarded as safe, with the exception of Transnistria, a breakaway state sponsored by Russia, where Moldovan law and authority does not apply de facto. Most Americans visiting Transnistria will not encounter any problems, but the Department of State urges them to ‘reconsider travel’ now there’s a war in neighboring Ukraine.

Contrary To Popular Belief, Nearly 90% Of Eastern Europe Is Safe For Travel

In total, 58% of EE countries are at a tourist-friendly Level 1, while a further 87.5% are at either Level 1 or Level 2. There are no Level 3 destinations (where travel plans should be reconsiderered) in Eastern Europe, proving it is just as safe, if not safer, than these far more popular Western European hubs.

Of course, crime can still occur anywhere, and traveling abroad to countries where the culture is foreign, and the language is unfamiliar, Americans should make sure they take the necessary measures to improve their own security and reduce risks of being robbed, scammed, or finding themselves in dangerous situations.

Official advice for individual destinations can be found here.

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January 5, 2023
These 8 Airlines Are Rated The Safest In The World
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The last thing anyone wants to worry about when traveling is whether or not they will make it safely to their destination. However, the truth is that traveling does come with risks. Therefore, when planning a vacation there are plenty of things tourists can do to minimize those risks. One easy thing travelers can do is choose a safe airline. Luckily, there are resources to help determine which airlines are the safest to fly with.

AirlineRatings.com has released its annual ranking of the safest airlines in the world. Since 2013, AirlineRatings.com has monitored and assessed the safety, in-flight product, and COVID compliance of the top 385 airlines. The rankings are compiled by the website’s editorial team.

To determine which airlines are deemed “safest” experts look at metrics including:
- Number of crashes over the past 5 years
- Serious incidents over the past 2 years
- Audits from within the industry
- The average age of the aircraft fleet
- Evaluation of pilot training programs
- COVID protocols
Editor-in-Chief Geoffrey Thomas explained how “all airlines have incidents every day and many are aircraft or engine manufacture issues, not airline operational problems. It is the way the flight crew handles these incidents that determines a good airline from an unsafe one.”

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8. Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines is the only U.S.-based airline to crack the top 8. The airline has been in operation for 90 years and has over 44 million customers annually. Alaska Airlines has the 7^th largest fleet in the U.S. with 329 aircraft in operation. Those planes whisk passengers to 120 destinations across 5 countries. Recently, the airline made headlines for two new programs – they are the first U.S. carrier to issue electronic bag tags, and recently formed a partnership that allows customers to earn miles when they travel with Lyft.

7. Emirates

Dubai-based Emirates is often considered one of the best airlines in the world. With 152 destinations across six continents, it typically serves 19 million passengers each year. In 2022 the airline announced an investment of over 2 billion U.S. dollars for onboard improvements. Those upgrades include new menus, specialized training for cabin crew, and upgraded cabin interiors.

6. TAP Air Portugal

Passengers who choose to fly with TAP Air Portugal will not only be flying on one of the safest airlines, but they’ll also be eligible for a free city layover. Travelers can stay for up to 5 days in Lisbon or Porto when their flights connect through one of those cities.

5. Singapore Airlines

Last year, Singapore Airlines gained another superlative from AirlineRatings. In July, the airline was deemed the 5^th best airline in the world. After looking at innovation, comfort, service, and safety, experts determined Singapore Airlines to be among the best in the world.

4. Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is no stranger to accolades. The Middle Eastern airline has been named “Airline of the Year” for 7 of the past 12 years at the World Airline Awards and is known for its exceptional business class. Passengers who fly with Qatar Airways and have a minimum transit time of 12 hours can book a hotel at a deep discount (starting at $14/night). Tourists who want to explore the small country of Qatar can opt to stay for up to 4 nights at no extra cost.

3. Etihad Airways

Etihad Airways, the UAE’s second-largest airline (after Emirates), was ranked the 3^rd best airline by AirlineRatings in 2022. The airline is consistently recognized for pushing the envelope. They were the first airline to vaccinate all of its crew and has been recognized for innovative solutions to reduce its environmental impact.

2. Air New Zealand

Auckland-based Air New Zealand has dropped a spot. Last year they were ranked as the safest airline in the world by AirlineRatings, but come in second this year. Air New Zealand flies to 18 countries including to Los Angeles and San Francisco in the U.S.

1. Qantas

Australia’s flag carrier Qantas has officially been ranked as the safest airline in the world. Qantas is the world’s oldest continuously operating airline means that it is also the world’s most experienced airline. All that experience has served them well – they’ve had no fatal crashes in over 70 years.

Where Are All The U.S. Airlines?

While Alaska Airlines is the only U.S.-based carrier in the top 8, that doesn’t mean other U.S. airlines aren’t safe. AirlineRatings has said that the margins between carriers in the top 20 are very slim, meaning that all airlines in the top 20 are very safe. U.S. airlines that are in the top 20 include Hawaiian Airlines (#12), Southwest (#13), Delta (#14), American (#15), and United (#20). Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines were the only U.S. carriers on 2021’s list.

Top 20 Safest Low-Cost Airlines

In addition to ranking the top airlines, AirlineRatings.com also compiles a list of the safest low-cost airlines. Rather than a ranked list, the top 20 safest low-cost airlines are presented in alphabetical order. 2022’s safest low-cost airlines were:
- Air Arabia
- Air Asia Group
- Allegiant
- Air Baltic
- Easyjet
- FlyDubai
- Frontier
- Jetstar Group
- Jetblue
- Indigo
- Ryanair
- Scoot
- Southwest
- Spicejet
- Spirit
- Vueling
- Vietjet
- Volaris
- Westjet
- Wizz
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January 5, 2023
These Are The 93 Safest Countries To Visit In 2023
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Now that COVID-19 measures and entry requirements have been removed from most countries across the world, travelers are reverting back to considering more traditional safety concerns regarding their next travel destination.

According to the U.S. State Department, there are 93 countries on “Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions”, the lowest advisory status for safety and security risk, meaning travelers can explore these destinations without worry.

These are the 93 safest countries to visit next year:

Aruba

If you are looking for white sand beaches, the warm and turquoise Caribbean Sea, and a fascinating culture for your next vacation, Aruba is a great option! This Dutch island is not only beautiful and safe, but there are also so many things to do: from exploring caves to visiting a donkey sanctuary to snorkeling at its gorgeous beaches. Its special architecture, people, and natural beauty will charm any traveler.

Canada

You don’t have to travel too far to discover amazing destinations. Now that there are finally more flight options available and the direct train connecting New York to Montreal is coming back, U.S. travelers have the perfect opportunity to visit this spectacular country. From the CN tower in Toronto to the Notre Dame Basilica of Montreal to the famous Banff National Park, there are iconic destinations for all kinds of travelers.

Croatia

Now that this country is joining the Schengen Zone and adopting the Euro in January 2023, visitors can easily include this destination on their next Europe trip. This country has it all, impressive cities, fascinating coasts, beautiful landscapes, and unique architecture. Tourists shouldn’t miss its fascinating city Dubrovnik, an incredibly well-preserved medieval city.

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Greece

This country was one of the most popular destinations this summer. People from all over the world visited its beaches, enjoyed its nice weather and nightlife, and explored its historic monuments. Besides visiting the iconic Mykonos and Santorini, travelers can also explore off-the-beaten-path destination towns in Greece like Kavala or Ioannina.

Portugal

Digital nomads and expats are flocking to Portugal for a reason. This safe and charming country has been offering international travelers the best of Europe—landscapes, history, culture, food, wines, and more— for a better price than its neighboring countries. It was recently recognized as the best country in the world by Condé Nast and should definitely be on any traveler’s bucket list.

Switzerland

This country is known for its luxury, impressive Alps, delicious chocolate and cheeses, and scenic trains. Switzerland is considered the safest country in the world and offers travelers adventures and unique experiences. Zürich, the financial district (also known among travelers as a very expensive city), is a great base to explore the central region of this country.

South Korea

This country’s pop culture has spread across the world, and now many travelers are interested in visiting South Korea for its popular music (K-pop) and TV shows. Despite its proximity to North Korea, this country has very safe borders and very low crime rates. Travelers can explore its Buddhist temples and fascinating cities and taste its flavorful and healthy cuisine.

Japan

Since the U.S. dollar got stronger than many other currencies this year, travelers are interested in taking advantage of this opportunity to visit Japan. Visitors can attend the Cherry blossom festival, visit Tokyo and Kyoto, and, of course, take amazing photos of the fascinating temples and castles across the country. Japan and its culture offer travelers unique and unforgettable experiences.

The Complete List Of The Safest Countries To Visit In 2023:
- Andorra
- Angola
- Anguilla
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Argentina
- Aruba
- Australia
- Austria
- Barbados
- Bermuda
- Bonaire
- Botswana
- British Virgin Islands
- Brunei
- Bulgaria
- Buthan
- Canada
- Cabo Verde
- Cambodia
- Comoros
- Croatia
- Curacao
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Dominica
- Equatorial Guinea
- Estonia
- Fiji
- Finland
- French Guiana
- French Polynesia
- French West Indies
- Gabon
- Georgia
- Greece
- Grenada
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Japan
- Kuwait
- Latvia
- Lesotho
- Liechtenstein
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Mongolia
- Montenegro
- Montserrat
- Namibia
- Nauru
- New Caledonia
- New Zealand
- North Macedonia
- Norway
- Palau
- Paraguay
- Poland
- Portugal
- Qatar
- Romania
- Rwanda
- Saba
- Saint Kitts
- Saint Lucia
- Saint Vincent and The Grenadines
- Samoa
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Senegal
- Seychelles
- Singapore
- Sint Eustatius
- Sint Maarten
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Korea
- Suriname
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- The Gambia
- The Kyrgyz Republic
- Togo
- Tonga
- Uzbekistan
- Vietnam
- Zambia
- Vanuatu
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December 26, 2022
This Is One Of The Safest Destinations In Southeast Asia For American Travelers

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Safety is a major concern for American travelers country-hopping in Southeast Asia, and understandably so. Overall, the rates of petty crimes tend to be higher than those in the U.S. or Europe, and cultural and language barriers make it more difficult for foreigners to feel truly at ease, but there is one destination in particular where crime rates are far lower.

According to Global Guardian, an American security company, this country’s stable political situation, absence of civil unrest, nationwide violent protests, and lack of terrorist threats makes it only ‘moderately’ risky, in contrast with Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand and Cambodia, that have been deemed ‘not fully secure’.

Interestingly, prior to reaching a state of peace, it provided the stage for one of the bloodiest conflicts of the 20th century:

Vietnam Is Safer Than Malaysia And The Philippines

In publishing their yearly Risk Assessment Map, which categorizes different countries based on their safety levels and that may, or may not, overlap with the U.S. Department of State’s own travel alerts, the Global Guardian classified risks in Vietnam as ‘Moderate’, making it one of the safest destinations in Southeast Asia.

As the map shows, a majority of states in the region has been listed under the ‘Medium Risk’ category, one level higher, where the presence of ‘political instability’ is noted alongside an inability to enforce laws. Editors at the Global Guardian add that ‘Medium’ countries are highly susceptible to significant criminality and ‘sporadic unrest’.

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In a sense, the map corroborates our earlier findings on the unstable situation in Colombia, over in South America, where murder rates and violent crimes affecting tourists have been rising steadily. Colombia has been enlisted under the ‘Medium’ group, similarly to Brazil, one of the least tourist-friendly destinations in the Global South.

Back to Southeast Asia, only Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam were awarded a ‘Low’ or ‘Moderate Risk’ badge, with the luxurious city-state of Singapore being the only green, or low-risk destination out of those. In other words, roughly 36% of members in the geopolitical group are well-equipped to manage security crises.

The U.S. Considers Vietnam a Level 1 Destination

Vietnam has come a long way since the 1970s conflict, having reintegrated into local economy and politics, in spite of its unitary socialist government. Violent crime and weapon-facilitated assaults are also rare, and due to the widespread social well-being, U.S. citizens should exercise ‘normal precautions’ traveling to Vietnam.

When it comes to the U.S. Department of State’s classification, it diverges slightly from Global South in the sense that the latter still does not consider Vietnam extremely safe. The official entity has included Vietnam in its Level 1 category, the lowest any country could aim for, while the private company stopped short of adding it to its green-colored ‘Low’ category.

Nevertheless, they judge Vietnam to be at a par with the United States, Spain, France, the United Kingdom, and numerous other countries of the Western World in terms of safety. In any of these, authorities are perfectly able to manage ‘most crises and threats to personal security’ despite some level of criminal activity, terrorism and/or natural disasters.

Vietnam Is Packed With Natural And Man-Made Wonders

Vietnam is a small country rich in culture, home to breathtaking landscapes and with fast-developing urban centers. Among some of the most iconic sights, tourists will find Buddhist pagodas, monumental Communist-era buildings, a bucolic countryside where rice terraces and meandering rivers can be spotted, and of course, War History museums.

The city of Ho Chi Minh, previously known as Saigon, is famous for its French colonial heritage and distinct Western feel, making it a sought-after attraction. On the other hand, Hanoi, the country’s capital and busiest hub, is a cultural melting pot full of centuries-old Buddhist shrines, Gothic cathedrals and other European-inspired buildings, and flea-markets.

Luckily, all of these natural and man-made wonders are once again open to the public. Earlier this year, Vietnam became one of the first countries in Southeast Asia to scrap all of its pandemic-related entry requirements and reinstate normal tourism. Effectively, Americans are not subject to health checks prior to, or arriving in Vietnam.

They can visit without presenting a vaccine certificate, undergoing testing, or observing quarantine, making Vietnam one of the easiest to enter in a restrictive Asia. On top of that, flying there has never been easier, after the first-ever direct flights from the United States, specifically San Francisco, to Ho Chi Minh launched in late 2021.

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December 10, 2022
These Are The 16 Safest Countries To Visit In Africa Right Now
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Home to savanna forests, paradisaical beaches, and majestic mountains, Africa has a lot to offer to nature lovers and those hoping to escape the Western World, but how actually safe is it to visit? In this article, we bring you the 16 safest African countries for tourists, other destinations that may require extra vigilance, and which ones you should avoid.

Millions of Americans have been bitten by the travel bug and are eager to explore new countries now that Covid has been largely controlled. Interestingly, slow travel and ecotourism are taking precedence over city breaks and multi-destination trips, as nearly 60% of travelers look to ‘totally unplug’ and ‘get back to nature’.

For some of them, the obvious answer is Africa. It is particularly famous for its vast natural resources, and contrary to popular belief, it’s perfectly safe for tourists – for the most part:

What Is The Definition Of A Safe Country?

The United States categorizes different countries between Levels 1 and 4, taking into account not only safety but the internal sociopolitical climate. At Level 1, Americans do not face any heightened threat pertaining to crime, violent demonstrations, or other social disturbances. In Europe, 28 nations have been listed as Level 1, including Portugal, Greece, and Ireland.

In comparison, Level 2 destinations are still relatively safe, but they might have higher crime or scam rates compared to the previous group (Brazil, Mexico, Turkey) or be targeted by terrorist organizations (France, Italy, Germany). Moving down to Level 3, travel is normally discouraged, normally due to increased urban insecurity and/or civil unrest.

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Lastly, Level 4 countries should be avoided at all costs, according to the State Department. This status is normally bestowed upon failing democracies, dictatorships, places where consular assistance is limited, demonstrations have led to civil war, death, and other tragedies, and states at war. That is the case with Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, Europe’s current no-go zone.

With this information in mind, where does the African continent stand in terms of safety?

The 16 Safest African Countries For Tourists

The complete list of Level 1 destinations in Africa, as defined by the U.S. Department of State, is the following:

Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions)
- Angola
- Botswana
- Cape Verde
- Comoros
- Equatorial Guinea
- Gabon
- Gambia
- Lesotho
- Mauritius
- Namibia
- Rwanda
- Sao Tome and Principe
- Senegal
- Seychelles
- Togo
- Zambia
In total, 16 African nations have made it to Level 1. Among them is the vacation hotspot of Cape Verde, an archipelago off the coast of West Africa and a highly sought-after winter sun destination. The country enjoys a tropical climate all year round, and its pearl-white sand beaches and crystal-clear seas are evocative of the Maldives.

Seychelles, one of Africa’s most developed nations, is yet another insular African country boasting a pristine coastline, breathtaking views, and world-class all-inclusive resorts. Traveling to both Cape Verde and Seychelles, Americans must exercise ‘normal precautions’, though some areas may have an ‘increased risk’.

In Cape Verde, for instance, sun-seekers should maintain a high situational awareness visiting Praia, the capital island, due to crime, though all other islands in the collective are safe for foreigners. Perhaps surprisingly, countries like Angola, Rwanda, and Zambia, and the lesser-known Botswana and Togo, only to name a few, are also relatively safe.

In Angola, Americans are simply advised to be cautious walking in urban areas as ‘crime and kidnapping’ are supposedly common. Still, this does not mean you will be harassed or be a victim of violence staying in Angola – one should bear in mind several states in Mexico have been issued similar travel advisories, and a majority of visits are trouble-free.

Over in Rwanda, where the landmark Nyungwe National Park is located, U.S. citizens are warned to steer clear of the Rwanda-Burundi and Rwanda-Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) borders, where armed conflict can erupt any minute due to unresolved ethnic disputes. Other than the border areas, the country is free from danger.

What About The Tourist Hotspots Of Egypt, Morocco, And South Africa?

Separate lists for Level 2 and Level 3 African countries can be found below:

Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution)
- Algeria
- Benin
- Cameroon
- Congo, Republic of
- Djibouti
- Eritrea
- Eswatini
- Ghana
- Guinea
- Kenya
- Liberia
- Madagascar
- Malawi
- Morocco
- Mozambique
- Sierra Leone
- South Africa
- Tanzania
- Tunisia
- Zimbabwe
Level 3 (Reconsider Travel)
- Burundi
- Chad
- Congo, Democratic Republic of
- Cote d’Ivoire
- Egypt
- Ethiopia
- Guinea-Bissau
- Mauritania
- Niger
- Nigeria
- Uganda
Africa’s leading hubs, including Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa, have all been classed as Level 2 or 3. When it comes to Egypt specifically, a bucket list destination for many due to its pyramids, archaeological zones, and rich ancient heritage, travel should be reconsidered as terrorist attacks can be carried out.

The U.S. expressly discourages its citizens from touring the Sinai Peninsula, except those traveling via air to resorts in Sharm El-Sheikh, the Western Desert, and militarized zones along the borders with the Palestinian territory of the Gaza Strip, Israel, and Jordan. Likewise, Moroccan cities suffer from occasional acts of terrorism.

Below the Saharan divide, on the extreme south of the continent, South Africa is not usually targeted by extremists, but the Department of States still notes crime remains a concern, as does civil unrest. In summary, ‘armed robbery, rape, carjacking, mugging, and smash-and-grab attacks on vehicles is common‘, especially in central business districts after dark.

In spite of the risks, demand for South Africa keeps growing as more Americans become fascinated with the nation’s multi-ethnic composition, recent Apartheid History, and stunning nature. This year, a triangular South African route was launched by Delta, connecting Atlanta to both Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Which African Countries Should Be Avoided?

Out of 54 countries, only 7 are considered off-limits by U.S. authorities, proving Africa is indeed safe, if not moderately:

Level 4 (Do Not Travel)
- Burkina Faso
- Central African Republic
- Libya
- Mali
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
Unlike the developing nations of Seychelles or South Africa or others in Africa that have experienced more stability in recent years, Level 4 states are plagued by widespread poverty, a low Human Rights score, and incessant political turmoils. Unless their travel is deemed essential, Americans should refrain from visiting all of the above.

To access country-specific travel advisories, please visit this page.

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November 29, 2022