While alarming travel stories flood the news, it would be easy to set your suitcase aside and stay home. But what fun is that? There’s an entire world to explore, and plenty of safe places to travel. If you’re concerned about leaving the country, let us put your mind at ease. The U.S. State Department assigns each country a travel advisory level from 1-4 (with 1 being the safest and 4 the most dangerous), and we used this data along with the Global Peace Index (GPI) to determine the safest places to travel. As Hans Christian Andersen said: “To travel is to live,” so pack your bags; here are the 10 safest places to travel around the world.
Iceland
According to the Global Peace Index Rating, Iceland was the most peaceful country in the world in 2018. Today, the Nordic Island nation continues to rank among the safest countries in the world. Iceland’s safety rating, glistening glaciers, and famed Northern lights earn this country a top spot on our list.
New Zealand
A number 2 spot on the GPI and a level 1 Travel Advisory makes New Zealand a great vacation choice. Hidden gems, like Salt Water Baths, Motueka, diverse landscapes and exotic wildlife equal amazing adventures.
Austria
The consulting firm, Mercer, names Vienna the city with the ‘best quality of life.’ Austria, as a whole, packs in the Tirolean Mountains, sounds of the Vienna Boys Choir and a culinary nirvana as well as a number 4 ranking on the GPI.
Ireland
Lush landscapes, friendly villages and of course The Blarney Stone, make the Emerald Isle a popular tourist destination. The State Department’s Travel Advisory Level 1 and a global peace rating of 10 makes the country as safe as it is beautiful.
Switzerland
From Alpine ski adventures to strolling old-world streets, Switzerland is not only visually stunning, it’s consistently ranked in the top 10 safest countries in the world. In fact, Zurich also ranks as one of the best cities in the world to live.
Portugal
Number 3 on the GPI and a “very high” safety rating adds to the lure of Portugal. Besides idyllic beaches, medieval castles and cobblestone villages, Portugal is an epicurean wonderland.
Slovenia
Located in southern central Europe, Slovenia often falls under the radar when it comes to vacation destinations. But, with a travel advisory of 1 and ranking 8th on the GPI, you may want to consider all the country has to offer, from swimming in the Adriatic Sea to visiting the second largest cave in the world.
Japan
The 9th safest country in the world according to the GPI, Japan offers a host of rich history and tranquil retreats. In addition, the latest data from The Economist ranks Tokyo the safest city in the world.
Canada
Canada’s vast range of natural beauty, from the rugged Rocky Mountains to the coastal beauty of its shores, lends way to a variety of adventures. Popular destinations such as Banff Natural Park, Alberta, and British Columbia along with number 6 spot on GPI make it a great vacation destination.
Singapore
Singapore moved up on the GPI Index from 9th to 7th in the last year. Viewed as one of the safest countries in Asia, it is also one of the cleanest and offers a mix of culture, history, and cuisine.
It’s important to stay on your toes wherever you travel; always make sure you follow these tips to stay safe while traveling abroad.
