Biggest Travelling Dangers In The World's Safest Countries

There are some countries that are undoubtedly safer to travel to than others. For globetrotters, travelling safely has been made easier thanks to a list produced earlier this year. It ranks the world’s countries in terms of their “safety and security”, by looking at statistics for crime, violence, terrorism and the reliance on police services. Precautions do need to be taken, however, even if you decide to travel to a country considered to be “safe”. No travel is entirely risk-free. So, what dangers can travellers face, even in the world’s top ten safest countries? Be sure to find out on the list below!

10. Qatar

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The first of many surprises on the list due to its location in the relatively troubled Middle East, travellers wanting to see Qatar’s expansive deserts and sandy beaches will be pleased to hear that it’s the tenth safest country in the world. Nevertheless, its proximity to other volatile gulf states, such as Yemen, means that there is a high terror attack risk in some public places. Furthermore, travellers should bear in mind cultural sensitivities relating to Qatar’s status as an Islamic country. Photography at certain military, religious and construction sites has led to the arrests of some tourists. If you find yourself wanting to take a picture in any of these settings, be sure to ask permission first.

9. Rwanda

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Though only some years ago Rwanda was embroiled in war and ethnic division, the landlocked African nation finds itself at number nine on the list of safest countries. With stunning mountainous landscapes and lush rainforest, it’s a perfect spot for tourists wanting to experience an authentic African safari or to go hiking and climbing. However, the area near the country’s border with the Democratic Republic Congo (DRC’s) in the west remains risky due to the DRC’s political instability. As well as keeping up to date with travel guidelines for DRC to decide if it’s safe to go near the border, there is always the risk of stray bullets and military invasion entering Rwanda from here.

8. Switzerland

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As a country with a long history of remaining neutral in times of conflict, it is perhaps less surprising to see this Alpine European nation on the list. That isn’t to say, however, that travel to Switzerland is entirely risk-free. If you’re going to take advantage of Switzerland’s ski slopes and outdoor recreational activities, you should be particularly careful. Any travel insurance taken out should be checked to ensure that it covers sporting activities, as well as mountain rescue and helicopter costs. You should also keep a keen ear out for weather forecasts in the local area, and be aware of any risks such as avalanches, landslides, flooding, and rockfalls.

7. Norway

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The tranquil and icy Scandinavian nation of Norway comes in at number 7. The homeland of Santa Claus not only has stunning fjords and lakes to boast about; its levels of petty crime, such as pick pocketing, are far lower than the rest of its European neighbours. If you plan to make a trip to visit Norway’s most famous resident in Lapland however, you’ll need to plan well. Contingency arrangements should be made ahead of any travel into the Arctic in case of difficulties. The remoteness of the region means medical attention may come from places several hours away; travellers with medical conditions should ensure they have all of their medication with them.

6. Singapore

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The prosperous East Asian nation comes in at number 6 on the list. Its modern hotels and casinos, Buddhist monasteries and excellent tropical climate mean the diverse island nation is fast becoming one of the world's most popular holiday destinations. Despite its high level of safety, however, Singapore is also becoming one of the world’s most polluted nations. Land clearance fires from Indonesia are creating a “haze” (air pollution) which affects air quality and can be detrimental to public health. Tourists should keep an eye on the pollutant standards index and take necessary precautions if pollutant levels are high. Furthermore, there is a year-round risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever. Travellers should ensure they’ve not only had all of the relevant vaccinations but also that they’re well prepared with materials such as nets, protective clothing and first aid packs.

5. Hong Kong

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Not too far away, Hong Kong is ranked as the fifth safest country in the world. Travellers should, however, bear in mind that the island has a typhoon season between April and October. As with Switzerland, keep an eye on local, national and international weather reports and take notice of any typhoon warnings. The World Meteorological Organisation and Hong Kong Observatory are usually the best resources for this information. The country also has a unique restriction on the export of powdered baby milk. Those leaving the territory are not allowed to take more than two cans of the formula with them. Though it may sound bizarre, the regulation is in place to combat shortages and severe penalties are in place for those who do not comply. Best, then, not to cry over spilt milk and to instead follow the law!

4. Oman

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Another surprise on the list of safest countries is the Arabian nation of Oman, which is located next to Yemen – a country against which all travel is advised. Nevertheless, trouble has not spread over into its neighbour, and most tourists to Oman find their visit to be trouble free. The Islamic country does, however, have strict laws and customs in relation to dress codes. Women should cover the tops of arms and legs in public places and swimwear should not be worn unless on a tourist beach or in swimming pools. Pornography is illegal and possession can lead to imprisonment while drug trafficking and possession – even for so-called “soft” drugs – can lead to the death penalty. It is also illegal for two people of the opposite sex to share a hotel room unless they are married or related; it may be worth having documentation as proof of your status.

3. Iceland

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The northernmost country on the list comes in at number three, making Iceland one of the safest places in the world to be. It’s no surprise, then, that travellers are flocking to the island to see its hot springs, gothic buildings and unparalleled natural beauty. Nevertheless, tourists should keep in mind that Iceland sits on a fault line, making it volcanically active and at risk of earthquakes. Travellers can leave their travel plans listed on the safe travel website in case assistance is needed, and the 112 emergency app for Iceland should be downloaded. The volcanoes are likely to be one of the highlights of your trip, but it is crucial to stay up to date with all relevant information.

2. United Arab Emirates

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Millions of tourists fly to the UAE every year, mostly to spend time on the stunning beaches of Dubai. It’s just as well, then, that it’s listed as the world’s second safest country. However, just like in Qatar and Oman, people should be aware that the UAE is a Muslim country with strict and specific laws and customs. Possession and importation/trafficking of any kind of drugs can lead to imprisonment or even the death penalty. The presence of such substances in the bloodstream is counted by authorities as possession, so don’t be tempted to bring in and take anything illegal. Sex outside of marriage is illegal, as is sharing a hotel room with someone of the opposite sex whom you are not married to, regardless of how your relationship is conducted elsewhere. On the whole, though private life is respected in the country, it’s best not to draw attention to such relationships in public.

1. Finland

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Finally, we arrive at the world’s safest country. Finland is well worth a visit not only because of its safety rating, but its medieval cities, stunning mountainous scenery and cosmopolitan museums. Along with Norway and Sweden, the north of the country falls into the Arctic Circle where one can witness the majesty of the Northern Lights. As mentioned in the section on Norway, you should take safety precautions if venturing into the Arctic. If driving, winter tyres are a legal requirement between 1st December and 28th February and with a relatively high level of road traffic deaths, one should be particularly cautious when driving in Finland’s icy conditions.