With summer coming up, travel agencies and tour operators must be buzzing with requests from globetrotters. However, before deciding which country to cross off our travel bucket list next, several factors must be considered, such as the flights, budget, the weather, local events, and tourist attractions. Yet, the most important one is travel safety within your country of choice.
Just recently, the primary safety concern was the pandemic and the number of active cases. Although it's no longer the pivotal factor, there are many other aspects that help us decide which are the safest places to travel. The safety index is often a good indicator for determining the safest places to travel. Generally, the safest places to visit have a high safety index or, in the U.S., are listed under Level 1 travel advisory, which suggests exercising standard safety precautions. The determining factors that rule out the safest countries to travel in are often associated with risks, such as risks for pickpocketing, natural disasters, mugging, terrorism, and scams. The country's crime rate should also be considered. Generally, the safest travel destinations have low risks regarding all aspects. Thankfully, you often don't have to do individual research on all countries of interest to determine whether they are safe to travel to. Up-to-date information is usually already gathered by responsible government institutions. In the U.S., this is done by the Bureau of Consular Affairs (CA). And although CA's travel advisory is oriented toward U.S. citizens, the data can also be used as a guide for non-U.S. citizens, too.
Based on the data from CA's travel advisory and other trusted sources online, we've compiled a list of the safest places to travel right now. Whether you are looking for the safest places to travel alone or as a woman, the list below should prove you of great help. However, low risk doesn't mean there are none. And although the countries below are listed as safe travel destinations, one should always exercise necessary safety precautions and stay vigilant. Have you ever been to any of these countries? If so, share your experiences in the comments. Your opinion can greatly benefit someone debating whether to go there!
#21 French Polynesia
You probably know that Tahiti and Bora Bora are two top-rated holiday destinations for beachgoers, surfers, divers, and outdoor enthusiasts. However, you probably weren't aware that these islands are a part of French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France comprising over 100 islands. French Polynesia has a very low crime rate, making it a safe tourist destination. Petty crimes happen, but they're rare. Likewise, when they occur, they typically occur in the country's capital, Papeete. Hence, if you happen to be in Papeete at nighttime, avoid carrying a lot of cash, scuffling with people, or wearing pricey jewelry.
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#22 Lithuania
Renowned for its rich natural landscape, Lithuania is a great location to travel to and has much more to offer visitors than it first appears. Apart from its forests, the country also has a sandy coastline with massive dunes which face the Baltic Sea. Lithuania has a low crime rate, so it's generally a safe place to visit. There are no particularly risky neighborhoods, areas, or ghettos that you should avoid. Also, it's best to ask a trusted local, like the concierge at your hotel, which nightclubs and bars are the safest to visit and which ones to avoid.
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#23 Germany
The blend of the ancient and modern makes Germany a desirable travel destination. It's not just castles, art, and beer; it's so much more than that. When visiting Germany, pickpockets and con artists should be your only concerns. Also, bear in mind that there are beggars in some larger cities, and even though it's not a big deal, be careful and steer clear of altercations with aggressive beggars if they cross your path.
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#24 Costa Rica
Everything in this country that may be enjoyed, including wine, chocolate, coffee, and national parks, is pricey compared to what it costs in Western Europe and North America. However, combining this with its stunning beaches, tropical forests, high mountains, and marshy lowlands, you have a land worth the price. Costa Rica is typically regarded as safe for tourists. However, you should use caution when walking around city streets late at night. Also, be on the lookout for pickpockets and bag snatchers, and keep your valuables close to hand.
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#25 Fiji
It's all about unwinding in Fiji, home to over 300 islands. Here, you may choose from more popular to more secluded beaches where you can relax and feel the sand under your toes. Even though crime rates are low, you should still take all necessary precautions as a traveler to ensure you enjoy your trip without any unforeseen incidents. Also, avoiding walking around at night, especially in groups, is best. But, if this is unavoidable, behave like a local and hail a cab to safely take you to your hotel.
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#26 Aruba
Travelers seeking a Caribbean getaway are becoming increasingly interested in Aruba, mainly because of the pink flamingos that call the Renaissance Island their home. Although it is known that Aruba is among the safest in the Caribbean, keep in mind that low levels of crime do not mean no crime at all. This implies that you should be careful with both yourself and your possessions, even if the island is advertised as safe.
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#27 Greece
People from all over the world come to visit its beaches, revel in its pleasant climate and discover its historical sites. Greece is a very safe destination for travelers. It is unlikely that tourists will encounter any crime or violence. The main issue is street crime, but if you take the necessary safety precautions, your trip should go without a hitch.
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#28 British Virgin Islands
Many charter boats and ferry services make island hopping a breeze in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), one of the world's top sailing destinations. White sand beaches and the welcoming "Belongers" (BVI locals), who go above and beyond to welcome island visitors, never cease to attract tourists. While it's true that practically all trips to the BVI are trouble-free, serious accidents occasionally occur, which is why all travelers should always pay close attention.
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#29 Argentina
Argentina is famous for its vast natural landscapes, lush wetlands, breathtaking mountains, deserts, steppes, enormous ice fields, and thick woods. Topping it all off is the city bustle, particularly in Buenos Aires. Argentina is one of the safest countries in South America despite being a popular vacation spot swarming with tourists (and pickpockets along with them).
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#30 Taiwan
When visiting Taiwan, be prepared for an urban adventure in Taipei, the country's magnificent capital, brimming with vibrant culture, entertainment, cuisine, and modern clubs and bars. While traveling to Taiwan is generally safe, there are some risks. The primary issue is petty crimes on the streets. Still, as long as you take the necessary safety precautions, your journey should be incident-free.
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#31 Singapore
Singapore, one of the cleanest countries in Southeast Asia and a popular holiday destination for Westerners, is a very safe place to visit with little risk to travelers. There aren’t many “bad neighborhoods” here. Hence women and solitary visitors will likely feel secure exploring the country at any time of the day, night even! Part of Singapore’s overall safety can be attributed to its strict laws. And although it might be the safest country in Asia to travel to, there are risks there, too. The most common crime is petty theft, so exercise common sense and always keep your valuables close to hand.
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#32 Andorra
It's no surprise that millions of tourists visit Andorra each year. It's a highland wonderland nestled in the Pyrenees mountain range, with luxuriant green mountains and charming towns that have withstood the test of time. Although violent street crimes are rare, petty crimes like pickpocketing and purse snatching can occur. Hence, while there, always verify your possessions' safety, including your passport and other travel papers.
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#33 Hungary
It's no secret that Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is one of Europe's most charming capitals. However, Hungary is also home to many breathtaking sites outside of Budapest, including tranquil spa towns, untamed highlands, endearing Danube river outposts, ancient cities, and much more. Hungary is considered a safe destination for visitors. Except for pickpocketing and scams, there is seldom any crime that affects tourists.
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#34 Latvia
Another Baltic country with a stunning shoreline consisting mainly of white, soft sandy beaches is Latvia. However, the wild beauty of Latvia’s coastline is only one of the many gorgeous, largely natural elements this country offers. Traveling to Latvia is generally considered safe. It has a low crime rate, and even pickpockets are not that prevalent. However, it's advised that you always be on the lookout, especially in public places.
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#35 Romania
A mysterious and stunning jewel of a nation, Romania is located in the very north of the Balkan peninsula. It's divided from the other well-known Balkan countries by two mountain ranges: the Carpathian Mountains and the old Dobrogean Mountains. Generally speaking, Romania is a safe place to visit and is regarded as a pleasant and inviting tourism destination. However, if you’re a novice traveler, you might encounter petty crimes like pickpocketing, smaller thefts, or salespeople trying to con you.
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#36 Montenegro
Since many of Montenegro's natural areas offer canyoning, ziplining, and rafting, intrepid adventurers are right at home here. Montenegro is considered a safe country to visit, primarily because of its developed tourism sector. While organized crime does exist, tourists are rarely impacted. Only in tourist areas should you, as a traveler, be concerned about pickpockets. Other than that, Montenegrins are incredibly hospitable and friendly.
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#37 Spain
Spain is a fantastic choice if you're seeking a trip full of enjoyment. Generally, Spaniards are very kind people who support one another and their community. Also, they surely know how to dance and love having a good time! However, be cautious while visiting major cities like Barcelona, as pickpockets are prevalent in some locations. Other than that, tourists shouldn't run into any other issues.
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#38 Austria
Austria has some of the most breathtaking scenery, including vibrant forests, crystal-clear waters, and mesmerizing snow-capped mountains. Austria’s robbery, carjacking, and assault rates are among the lowest in the industrialized world. Violent crimes are rare, so it’s considered one of the safest travel destinations for solo travelers. Even though pickpockets are uncommon, they do exist, so be cautious in crowded areas.
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#39 Slovenia
Slovenia (not to be confused with Slovakia) has numerous slopes and hills that are excellent for hikers of all skill levels. In the winter, the mountains covered in snow are perfect for skiing. For those who want to be warm, Slovenia's coast offers picturesque medieval villages, a plunge in crystal-clear water, and stunning sunsets. Generally, it's a very safe destination for travelers. However, although violent crime is uncommon, keep an eye out for pickpockets and bag snatchers. These wrongdoers should be your primary safety concern when traveling in Slovenia.
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#40 Bhutan
Located within one of the most stunning mountain chains in the world, Bhutan offers astounding landscapes and an astonishing variety of flora and fauna. However, visitors to Bhutan must be prepared to splurge because the tourism sector is more suited toward a few high-paying tourists rather than attracting tourists with cheap deals. This could impact why Bhutan is a relatively safe country for travelers. Still, although the country's crime rate is low, travelers should exercise the same caution they would elsewhere.
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