Travelling should be enjoyable, relaxing and fun, not scary. That's why I'm going to tell you about some of the safest countries to travel to around the world.
9min
Travelling and exploring the world is one of the best feelings ever but hey, it can be intimidating! If you're a solo traveller (especially travelling alone as a woman) or someone more vulnerable, you may have a few doubts about going on a trip which is understandable.
However, travelling should be enjoyable for everyone and should be relaxing and fun, not scary. That's why I'm going to tell you about some of the safest countries to travel for a worry-free trip.
This doesn't mean these are the only places you can travel safely, but they may be a good place to start to find your feet and then you can venture out a bit more.
So let's get into it. Here are 13 of the top safest countries to vist.
Ranked as the world's safest countries to travel to, Iceland is a top tier destination for a stress-free trip.
With it's gorgeous mountainous hills, interesting Nordic culture and friendly people, it truly is a travellers paradise and should definitely be on your bucket list.
One of the best things to do in Iceland includes trying to see the Northern Lights. Due to the countries' low light pollution, the night sky comes alive with stars and the lights take centre stage with their mesmerising dance of green and blue colours, magical!
Another must-do is going to a hot spring to take a dip in naturally heated water, whilst being surrounded by ice!
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Iceland like this position to volunteer in a beautiful Guest House with all meals included.
Home to a great quality of living, cleanliness and great chocolate, Switzerland is a great choice for those looking to find a peaceful trip away.
It's ranked as one of the safest countries to visit in Europe, especially for female solo travellers. If you're a fan of snow sports or hiking, you must make sure to visit the Swiss Alps - they're so beautiful you'll be speechless!
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Switzerland like this one to be a volunteer in an amazing mountain hostel helping out with reception and housekeeping.
The Danes are said to be the happiest people on Earth, and with the great country they live in, it's easy to see why. The capital city of Denmark, Copenhagen, is probably one of the best places to visit as a solo traveller.
Of course it has its more risky places like Norrebo, but as long as you stay vigilant, you're guaranteed to have a great time.
One of the best things about Denmark is how cycle-friendly it is, meaning you can explore the country at your own pace and feel safe whilst doing so.
Denmark is famously known for it's love of 'Hygge' (pronounced hoo-gah) which essentially sums up that cosy feeling you get when you sit by the fire with a warm drink, surrounded by good company. Wonderful.
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Denmark like this awesome Camping accepting volunteers to prepare and serve food in exchange of accommodation, meals and many other amenities!
Before travelling to Denmark, you should read Copenhagen on a budget: a backpacker's travel guide.
New Zealand has to be one of the most beautiful places on earth with the most luscious greenery, inviting coastal beaches and the kindest people. It's known as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, and also one of the least corrupt.
Unlike its neighbour Australia, New Zealand only has a very small number of dangerous animals and insects in the country so you don't have to check your shoes every time you put them on! A great place for those who love the outdoors and a bit of adventure - bungee jumping anyone?
Fun fact: Did you know about the ceremonial Haka dance of New Zealand's Māori people? If you didn't, it's a must-see. A performance of pure heart and soul.
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in New Zealand like this one to help an Eco Village with gardening where you can stay and explore nature for at least one week.
I'm sure it's no surprise that Canada is on this list. After all, it's well known for it's super friendly people, eh!
I've heard Canada described as almost a wonderland that barely feels real, that's probably partly due to being one of the safest countries to travel to.
The people there are very respectful of both native and travellers, so you can make yourself right at home. Full of incredible nature and beautiful wildlife, Canada is best for outdoor-lovers and adventure-seekers.
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Canada like this experience in the mountains where the hosts only need 12 hours per week of help and offer such good amenities to the volunteer.
Home to great food, warm weather and wonderful people, Spain is one of Europe's most loved tourist destinations.
Spaniards are all about helping their community and being there for one another and in general, are very kind people. They love to have a good time and certainly know how to dance! So if you're looking for a fun-filled trip, Spain is a great idea.
The country has a great variety of bustling cities, wonderful mountains and coastlines, but be cautious when visiting the busier cities like Barcelona as pit-pockets are quite common in some areas. Try traditional Spanish tapas, wash it down with some sangria and take a walk along the beach - bliss!
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Spain like this retreat needing help with web programming.
For somewhere much cheaper, but just as amazing, Portugal is a great destination. With beautiful coastlines, fun cities and warm weather, it has become a very popular tourist destination but yet remains one of the safest countries to travel to.
A good tip is to travel here outside of peak times to enjoy a quieter experience. Be sure to try the delicious Portuguese cuisine, relax on the beach or walk the streets of the cities like Lisbon and Porto.
Portugal is a great place for younger travellers who want an enjoyable, safe trip but without the high price tag.
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Portugal to have amazing experiences while helping with content and social media in a hostel in Lisbon, for example.
Ireland is a fantastic country to visit with some of the friendliest people with plenty of good craic (banter) to keep you entertained.
Visit the rugged coastlines and be taken aback by the scenery, walk the Giants Causeway in Belfast (Northern Ireland is in the UK, but for this blog's sake, we're keeping them together!) or find a good local pub in the heart of Dublin. It may not always have the best weather, but it has some great accents, beautiful views and a good spirit.
Top tip: whether you're in Northern or Southern Ireland, it's best not to bring up the other side of the country because of history. Most will be fine with it, but you don't want to get on the wrong side of somebody.
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Ireland to seer one of the most beautiful scenery in Europe while helping. This Guest House by the beach is looking for recepcionit, cleaners and housekeepers.
Japan is one of the safest Asian countries to travel to with it's highly respectful community and very low crime rates.
It's fairy-tale-like gardens and futuristic high-tech cities make this country one of the most interesting to visit.
It is important when visiting Japan that you respect their culture and abide by any rules when in public places, as they can be quite particular about this. Other than that, it is an incredible country to visit and is a must on your bucket list.
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Japan. There are available positions for every kind of taste. This one makes you experience country life while volunteer in a farm.
Discover Japan off the beaten path: 6 unique non-touristy destinations.
A small, but wonderful country that has an amazing range of activities for all the adventurers out there. The Finnish people are also incredibly kind and welcoming, making the country one of the best places to travel alone.
Another great thing about Finland and other Scandinavian countries is that they are role models in sustainability and eco-friendly living so if you're trying to be greener and learn more about how to help the planet then you won't be disappointed with a trip here.
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Finland. This host needs childcare, homecare and animal care and offers accommodation with all meals included.
Austria is not only very solo-traveller friendly and safe, but has some of the most beautiful scenery from vibrant forests, clear waters and snowy mountains that are truly mesmerising.
The perfect place for anyone who likes to ski, hike or even just sight-see with its stunning architecture and art. Austria is also famously known for it's beautiful bodies of water so if you're a fan of wild swims, then this is the perfect location for you.
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Austria. This position in a camp is great for people who love children and nature.
And don't miss out The best Austrian mountains to visit and how to get there.
With a large majority of the countries' culture being Buddhist, this makes it a pretty safe place to travel as their mannerisms tend to be calm and welcoming.
Sigiriya is a must-visit when travelling Sri Lanka - an enigmatic summit with remains of an ancient palace at the top? Who wouldn't want to see that!
Overall, there are some incredible top-destinations in Sri Lanka, but it's recommended to go off the beaten path and discover it for yourself.
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in Sri Lanka. If you have sports skills this Yoga Studio host is ideal for you.
The UK is quite divided and whilst the bigger cities like London, Glasgow and Cardiff are a lot busier and potentially less safe, the more rural areas are a great alternative and often get swept under the rug!
Take a road trip round to the North Coast 500 of Scotland and discover some of the most beautiful mountains and coastlines.
Go surfing and get your relaxation on somewhere like Devon in South West England or visit Pembrokeshire in Wales and be surrounded by nature whilst trying something new like coasteering!
Make sure to check out Worldpackers work exchange and volunteer programs in the United Kingdom like this hostel on the banks of Loch Ness that only requires 18h a week of working.
Keep reading: How to travel with autism in an independent and safe way
Remember staying vigilant and being a little cautious is never a bad idea.
Travelling is super fun and exciting but for some, a little daunting. Check out this blog on 15 simple travel safety tips everyone should know to help get you started on your travel journey!
And if you're looking for some awesome places to see, check the Top 35 iconic places in the world: famous landmarks worth visiting.
Which country are you eager to go to? Let me know in the comments!
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Andro
Feb 24, 2022
Either you are Crazy or you are a Great Stupid. You mentioned portugal is the safest country and in number 7! are you portuguese???
I visited and stayed more 11 Eu countries. portugal is the country where a female faces domestic violence and even often they are beated on the road by men! portuguese are very rude and also they are poor and dirty appearance.
Sanath
Oct 20, 2022
I am surprised that you have included Sri Lanka in your list. Sri Lanka may be safe for men but not for women. The local women, let alone tourists, get sexually asssulated in public transporation every day. The most of the rapes, specially in rural villages, do not get reported.
According to The Herald (Scotland):
"Sri Lanka has had a history of rapes and attacks on foreigners, with emblematic cases such as the murder after the British aid worker Khuram Shaikh was shot and stabbed whilst on holiday, whilst his Russian girlfriend was raped by a Sri Lankan politican."
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office states that “there have been an increasing number of reports of sexual offences including on minors”.
“There has been an increase in sexual attacks against females in tourist areas,” it added. “Women should take particular care when travelling alone or in small groups, and carry a personal alarm.”
A Glasgow woman was raped a a hotel worker at a Sri Lankan hotel, Club Bentota Hotel, in 2010. She won a lawsuit at the UK Supreme Court in 2021, against the tour operator, Kuoni. The women became pregnant as a result of the rape.
Why are you so ignorant of sexual assults of female tourists in Sri Lanka? All you had to do is a simple Google search on the subject. Your article gives a false sense of security to women who would travel to Sri Lanka.