TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A holiday in other countries is a dream for many people in the world. Traveling abroad opens up opportunities to learn new cultures, traditions, and languages.

There are many things to consider before booking a plane ticket and traveling overseas. Aside from budget planning, the security of the destination is critical, since no one wants to visit a country with a high number of crimes. So, what are the safest countries to visit?

Safest countries to travel in 2024

North America-based travel insurance company, Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP) released a list of 15 countries that are safe for foreign tourists to visit in 2024.

The list is obtained from a survey the agency conducted supplemented with other information including the Global Peace Index and travel safety rankings published by the Department of State. The top 10 safest countries for holidays in 2024 are as follows:

1. Canada

The cold weather and low population density make traveling in Canada safer than most. Additionally, crime and violence in this are comparatively low. Its vast expanse of natural beauty, such as glaciers and mountains, also makes Canada a dream tourist destination for many people.

2. Switzerland

Tourists visiting Switzerland can do various exciting activities, such as skiing. Crime and violence on this side of Europe are rare. The local Department of Foreign Affairs notes that the only dangers you need to be aware of are related to natural phenomena, such as avalanches and blizzards.

3. Norway

Norway is considered a paradise for solo travelers from various countries around the globe. According to local state statistics, the crime rate in Oslo was only 39 per 1,000 inhabitants in 2021, making it the safest region in Norway. However, tourists still need to be wary of pickpockets often found near the Oslo Central train station.

4. Ireland

More than 10 million international tourists visit Ireland every year, with few complaints of crimes. In fact, according to the World Economic Forum's Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report, Ireland was ranked 26th out of 140 countries in terms of safety and security in 2019.

5. Netherlands

The Netherlands is one of the safest countries for holidays with its historical landmarks and beautiful canals. However, some businesses in the Netherlands normally close at 06:00 p.m., making it less suitable for those who enjoy nighttime activities.

6. United Kingdom

The crime rate in Great Britain fell by 15 percent in 2022, with low murder and theft rates. However, you need to be wary of people driving under the influence in the UK.

7. Portugal

With beautiful natural landscapes, stretches of sandy beaches, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is one of top destinations for tourists. According to the 2023 Global Peace Index (GPI), the country was ranked 7th as the safest country in the world.

8. Denmark

Denmark is known as a tolerant country with a low crime percentage. Since the report on the happiest countries in the world was published in 2012, Denmark has consistently topped the rankings.

9. Iceland

Iceland has been named one of the safest countries in the world in 2023 based on a report published by GPI from the Institute of Economics and Peace. According to Your Friend in Reykjavik, the average crime incident in Iceland is 82 per day. This is less than most major cities in the United States experience in an hour.

10. Australia

Australia is also one of the safest countries to travel. This country has a relatively stable political system and low crime rates. Australia is also a comfortable country for disabled travelers because it provides special services for people with disabilities.

MELYNDA DWI PUSPITA

Editor’s Choice: India's Gita Sabharwal Appointed as UN Resident Coordinator in Indonesia

Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News