Contrary to popular belief, traveling the world is safer than before
Increasing numbers of people are considering traveling beyond the borders of their home countries. This isn’t all too surprising.
We are becoming increasingly exposed to different landscapes, cultures, foods and languages, thanks to increased movement around the world and the prevalence of technology in our lives.
We come into contact with more people from different backgrounds to ourselves and we also see more of the world through social media, Pinterest and web pages on our smartphones, tablets, laptops and desktop computers.
Many of us are put off heading overseas, as we feel that our personal safety may be compromised. Every news story seems to scream out that terrible events are happening the world over and that nobody is safe from natural disasters, terrorist threats, and other incidents.
Believe it or not, the world is currently a safer place to explore than ever before.
Higher risk countries
Some countries are listed as higher risk than others. Sometimes this is due to harsher landscapes. Sometimes this is due to the presence of certain animals (mosquitoes in particular).
Sometimes this is due to poverty and lower standards of medical care or hygiene. Sometimes this is due to higher crime rates. However, most of these issues are surpassable.
- Harsh landscapes: If you are heading to a country with harsh landscapes, make sure to stick to the beaten track as much as possible. Straying could lead to you getting lost and struggling. If you want to stray, pair up with a local guide who knows their way around.
- Medical care and hygiene: Always make sure to have necessary vaccinations and immunizations when heading to other countries. This will help to protect you against diseases and conditions that you might not yet be immune to.
- Crime rates: Some countries simply have higher crime rates than others. Senegal is an example. However, you just have to take extra precautions when visiting these places. Individuals such as Yacoub Sidya of MSS Security are constantly working with non-governmental organisations in order to improve individual safety and reduce risk.
Low risk countries
If you want to travel and are looking for specifically low risk countries, here are a few places that you might like to head.
Iceland
Iceland has topped the safety index for ten years in a row. It has extremely low rates of crime, there are surprisingly few people in jail there and there are low acts of terror.
Just make sure to be careful if you rent a car. Driving Icelandic roads can be relatively confusing and the weather conditions paired with short days and lots of darkness can make driving difficult.
New Zealand
New Zealand ranks second on the safety index. You’re more likely to be shocked by the stunning scenery and landscapes than acts of violence or crime.
There are ways to travel the world with a low risk of problems developing. Don’t let fear put you off heading away.
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