Thinking of booking your next travel adventure? With 195 countries on this glorious planet of ours, each with its own unique culture and environment, it can be difficult to know where to start. Of course, one of the first things you always want to consider – is safety.
7 Safest Countries To Visit in 2024
So, what makes a place deemed “safe” to travel? The list below compiles the 7 safest countries to visit based on their lack of terrorism and disease outbreaks, and the possibility of traveling freely without discrimination or harassment. When traveling to the seven countries below, you can rest assured knowing you’ll have an adventure without worry.
1. Canada
Out of all the countries in the world, Canada is known to be one of the safest. The colder climate and low population density play a role in making it a safe destination for travelers.
According to NationMaster, Canada’s crime rate is 43% lower than the United States. As for violent crimes, Canada has three times fewer incidences than the United States. The biggest safety risk in Canada is the possibility of wildfires – causing potential respiratory issues in sensitive tourists who are visiting during fire season.
English is the national language, so if you’re a native English speaker, communication is simple and easy. The infrastructure in Canada is solid and modern, so traveling within the country carries very low risk.
2. United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Located in the breathtaking Arabian Gulf, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is secure, sound, and safe for all travelers. The world-class infrastructure is unbeatable and their political environment is stable.
The crime rate in the UAE is four times less than in the U.S.A., with violent crimes recorded as being four times lower as well. Even in the large city of Abu Dhabi, you can feel safe while strolling through streets lined with some of the largest skyscrapers in the world.
The UAE invites safe and smart travelers from all over the globe to experience its rich culture, luxurious resorts, and welcoming environment. Always be sure to check travel warnings before heading to the Middle East, in case of a changing political situation.
3. Norway
The picturesque Scandinavian country of Norway is one of the safest to explore. In fact, the crime rate in Oslo, the largest city, was 39 per 1,000 in 2021, making it the safest area in the country.
Comparatively, Norway’s overall crime rate is 87% lower than the United States average. Violent crimes are three times less likely to happen in Norway than in the U.S.A.
The most common crime amongst tourists that all travelers should be aware of is pickpocketing – specifically in the Oslo Central train station. Otherwise, feel free to travel freely to explore their stunning fjords, colorful architecture, and unique history.
4. Croatia
One of the most beautiful countries I’ve been able to visit is Croatia – and it also happens to make the list of the safest countries in the world. This gem of a country is home to crystal clear waters, lush green mountains, and a rich culture.
Overall crime rates in Croatia are three times lower than in the United States. In addition, violent crimes are four times less likely to happen in Croatia than in the U.S.A. Petty crime is the most common type of crime amongst tourists – with pickpocketing and purse-snatching topping the list; you just might want to invest in a body-strap type of wallet and/or passport holder.
The vibrant cities of Dubrovnik and Split are perfectly safe for travelers. So, feel stress-free while booking your ticket to this captivating country.
5. Ireland
Ireland is another fantastic and safe option for international travelers. Its lush, green, rolling landscape and oceanside cliffs are a must-add to any wanderer’s bucket list.
For total crimes, including petty crimes, the United States has a whopping 146 times the amount. As for violence, you’re ten times more likely to be involved in a crime in the U.S. than in Ireland. This is most likely due to strict gun laws.
For personal safety, Ireland is known to have narrow and windy coastal roads which can be difficult to navigate. What looks to be an hour away on the map can often be three or more – so, drive slowly and be vigilant about your surroundings.
6. Singapore
Singapore is known to be one of the safest, cleanest, most advanced countries in the world. This makes it an ideal travel destination for tourists from any country.
The overall crime rate is four times higher in the United States compared to Singapore, but it’s the violent crime rates that are most shocking; you’re 178 times more likely to be involved in a violent crime in the States than in this southern Asian country.
Singapore has very strict laws regarding any type of crime – including things like littering and loitering, and the penalties for all crimes are especially high. Because of this, crime rates are consistently one of the lowest in the world.
7. Netherlands
According to a survey of Americans by Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, Amsterdam was named one of the world’s safest cities. Those same travelers named the entire country of the Netherlands as being the safest country in the world.
NationMaster reports that overall crime is 8 times higher in the United States than in the Netherlands. Violent crime rates in the Netherlands are astonishingly low. In fact, violent crime is 23 times more likely to happen in the U.S.A. than in the Netherlands.
The biggest threat that tourists should be aware of is “tag team” thieves. Often working in pairs, one thief will be used as a distraction while the other snags unguarded property. Keep any valuables close to your person or in a locked safe.
In Conclusion
There are dozens of countries that are perfectly safe to visit – and these seven countries top the list. With low crime rates and rare occasions of violence, you can feel secure while trekking through these foreign countries.
When traveling to any new or foreign country, it’s important to do your research beforehand. You can sign up for travel advisories on the U.S. Department of State website.