safest tourism destination

This North American country tops the list of the safest countries for travelers

A new year means new destinations.

When looking at where to go, travelers will consider the usual factors such as weather, cost and available activities. This year, safety is also top of mind as more people want to go off the beaten path and take solo trips.

To help, travel insurance provider Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection just released its ninth annual State of Travel Insurance report, which includes the safest countries in the world for travelers.

"The definition of safe destination has evolved,” Carol Mueller, vice president at Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection, told USA TODAY in an email. "In our most recent survey, travelers lean in on countries they believe as safe destinations they can move about freely without discrimination or harassment."

To determine the list, the travel insurance provider surveyed 1,702 people on their own travel experiences in different countries and also pulled data from third-party resources that evaluate safety concerns such as terrorism, weather emergencies, health measures and the safety of underrepresented groups. This included the  Global Peace Index  and the State Department’s own  travel safety ratings .

Enjoy your worry-free vacation: Best travel insurance policies

While these countries are considered to be overall safe for people to visit, the company noted the report doesn't mean every part of the country is safe nor account for the possibility of natural disasters. And as always, don't let your guard down when it comes to petty theft against tourists.

'It's like your local bestie': This startup helps make solo travel as a woman feel safer

Read below to see the 15 countries determined to be the safest for all travelers.

The Great White North tops this year's list of safest countries in the world for travelers, thanks to its low violent crime and strict gun laws. Last year, the country, known for its high standard of living and political stability, made sixth on the list.

2. Switzerland

Known for its security and low crime rates, Switzerland made second place for the safest nations to visit. The country is known for its high quality of living and beautiful nature, such as Lake Geneva and Lake Zurich.

Besides having some of the best views of the dancing northern lights , Norway is also one of the safest places when it comes to crime rates, terrorist activity and violent demonstrations. According to the report, Oslo, the capital of Norway, was the country's safest area.

Those wanting to see Ireland's Cliffs of Moher or sip on some Guinness can rest assured in going through with those travel plans. The country had fewer homicides in 2022 than 16 U.S. cities, according to the report.

5. Netherlands

Last year, the Netherlands took the top spot for safest destinations to visit, and this year, it made fifth. Survey respondents repeatedly said they felt safe in the country and its capital Amsterdam. Just beware of the tourist tax increase as the city continues to crack down on reckless partiers.

6. United Kingdom

With a beautiful countryside and cities with low murder and theft rates, the United Kingdom is a safe bet for travelers. Unfortunately, the country is soon going to implement a fee to enter its borders .

7. Portugal

There's a reason digital nomads flock to this sunny coastal country, and it's not just the delicious seafood and wine. Portugal's cities are secure and orderly, and the rural areas are peaceful. In 2022, the country was determined to be one of the best places for solo female travelers too.

Last year, Denmark was the second safest country in the world for travelers, and its low crime rates continue to help it be a safe choice for travelers. The northern European country typically steals the spotlight for its happy residents and its politics.

Like its Nordic neighbor Denmark, Iceland is often regarded as the world's most gender-equal country and the safest country in the world when it comes to crime. To entice travelers even more, the country is home to otherworldly landscapes featuring glaciers, geysers, hot springs, waterfalls and volcanic terrain.

10. Australia

Rugged wilderness and cosmopolitan cities make Australia a desirable country for travelers, especially female solo travelers since the Land Down Under also has low homicide rates. In 2022, there were 377 recorded homicides, about half of what Chicago experienced, according to the report.

11. New Zealand

Although expensive, New Zealand is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts who want to explore its coastlines, mountains, fjords and more, or for those who are big "Lord of the Rings" fans. With low crime rates, the country is also considered to be quite peaceful and great for female solo travelers.

Along with low crime rates, Japan offers travelers a blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. Think robot servers in restaurants amongst ancient shrines. In Japanese culture, politeness and orderliness are also highly valued, making it a safe place for travelers, solo or not. However, the report doesn't consider natural disasters, such as the earthquakes that recently shook the western part of the island nation.

Home to the City of Light, France has stood the test of time as one of the world's most popular destinations. Thankfully, for travelers, the country has relatively safe transportation (well, minus petty theft, which is common on the metro) and safety from disease epidemics, according to the report. However, violent demonstrations mean travelers should be cautious and check local media for updates.

Another popular European destination, Spain is known for petty theft like pickpocketing. Overall, the Mediterranean country has a low crime rating for how heavily touristed it is, the report said. Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection recommends people especially watch out for passport thefts, so as always, travel cautiously.

This year, Brazil made the list of safe countries to visit. The survey respondents who identified as women, people of color and LGBTQ+ especially felt safe in the South American country, known for its beautiful beaches. However, Brazil's borders are notably dangerous for crime activity.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

• Mexico Travel News
• Seaweed Updates
• Hidden Travel Gems

12 SAFEST Countries To Travel Right Now In 2023 (According to GPI Rank)

Basic travel wisdom includes an awareness of the dangers and risks inherent in any destination. Countries with historically high terrorism, crime, and violence rates are less likely to be candidates for your next vacation.

The Institute for Economics & Peace is a non-profit international think tank dedicated to shifting the world’s focus to peace as a positive, achievable, and tangible measure of human well-being and progress. It has recently released the latest report in which they rank countries worldwide as the safest according to the Global Peace Index .

The index considers political and social stability, personal safety and security, public health, economic strength, and access to essential services.

The rankings from many public safety surveys are based on data collected over the past ten years. These surveys are conducted by IEP’s network of over 350 experienced researchers in the public, private and civil sectors. These researchers conduct the world’s most extensive surveys on global conflict, terrorism, militarism, organized crime, weapons proliferation, and corruption. To calculate the GPI, the researchers consider 23 indicators that cover the issues mentioned above.

The results are then compared to previous years’ results to identify and measure any critical changes in these indicators.

Here are the top 15 safest countries to visit according to IEP Global Peace Index Report 2022.

Join our   Travel Advice & Support FB Group

Most dangerous countries in the World in 2023

This tiny island country in the North Atlantic Ocean is a favorite vacation destination for many Europeans.

Its capital city, Reykjavik, is geothermally active and is a popular tourist hot spot, especially among golf enthusiasts.

The country has a functioning and well-organized democracy. Its economy depends on fisheries, tourism, hydroelectric power generation, and aluminum smelting. Iceland has very low crime rates and high rankings in personal safety surveys.

Tourists can visit the famous Blue Lagoon geothermic spa or take advantage of the many hiking trails available. The northern lights are a popular attraction for star-gazers and photographers. Iceland also has a rich cultural heritage and hosts many festivals and concerts.

The people are friendly, easygoing, and welcoming.

2. New Zealand

New Zealand has a strong economy, with a small but growing population and a high standard of living.

Tourism is a significant contributor to the country’s economy. The number of visitors during the summer season is expected to increase significantly in the next few years. Personal safety is high in this country.

People feel safe even in urban areas. While its islands are secluded and beautiful, New Zealand can also be accessed by ferry or plane. It is a favorite vacation destination for many Australians and English couples.

The government is dedicated to protecting the rights of its citizens. Work is being done to improve the country’s infrastructure and prevent terrorism.

This western European country’s history dates back to the early Christian era. It has played a significant role in Western civilization. It has a stable democracy and high rankings on the Global Peace Index.

The country’s economy is among the fastest growing in Europe, thanks to its expanding technological sector, which includes pharmaceuticals and life science. Ireland’s main tourist attractions are the many castles dotting the landscape and historical sites like Newgrange. A passage tomb was built 5,200 years ago. T

ourists who enjoy the outdoors can hike in the Wicklow Mountains or view more than 1,000 plant species at the world-renowned Gardens of Ireland.

The friendly people and communities are havens for artists and musicians.

The crime rate is low, and the country has no history of internal conflict.

In Denmark, life is comfortable and peaceful. The country abolished its army to focus on developing social welfare programs, education, and cultural heritage. It has many protected national parks where you can enjoy scenic views or go hiking or biking.

One of its major attractions is the Scandinavian Contemporary Museum in Roskilde, which offers modern art and furniture exhibits.

Denmark also has a steady supply of fresh water and electricity. Law enforcement is effective, and there are few violent crimes, making it very safe.

This central European country is known for its diverse tourism options, including skiing, hiking, and horseback riding, as well as historical sites like the Great Alp Pipeline War and Salzkammergut Residency Palace. Its capital, Vienna, is a popular destination for European travelers.

According to the World Bank, people in Austria enjoy an excellent standard of living. The country has a modern infrastructure, including highways and a new high-speed rail line connecting Vienna to Berlin.

The country also has low crime rates, corruption, and economic control measures. The head of the state is the Federal President. The government has high rankings in personal safety and transparency.

6. Portugal

Portugal ‘s rich and diverse history dates back to the Ice Age. It is located in the West Europe region.

Portugal’s economy has recently been growing due to its expanding telecommunications, technology, clean energy industries, and functioning democracy.

It also has low levels of corruption and good political participation rates. Its main tourist attractions include the religious sites of Lisbon, a UNESCO world heritage site built by the Northern civilizations, such as crusaders and royal families over centuries.

Crime rates in the country are low, and people feel safe traveling in urban areas. There is no threat of terrorism, and the country is known for religious tolerance.

7. Slovenia

Slovenia has a vibrant society and an excellent quality of life. The economy is robust and has many financial institutions. Several universities with arts and sports facilities are free and open to the public.

The country has a strong record of respecting freedom of the press, religion, and political rights.

The capital is Ljubljana, a rich cultural hub that attracts tourists all year round. The city has been undergoing significant changes in terms of urban development. It is also a major center for research and development.

The country has excellent public services, including public health and education. Crime is low, and there are few reports of theft or personal violence.

8. The Czech Republic

The Czech Republic has a stable democratic government with a strong economy. It has many students and boasts the highest percentage of the OECD countries for tertiary enrollment.

The country has many natural landscapes to enjoy, including mountains and forests. Popular tourist destinations include Ostrava Salt Mines, Prague Castle, Karlovy Vary Spa City, and Cesky Krumlov Castle.

Prague has recently been voted one of the most livable cities in the world due to its low crime rates and modern infrastructure. It is also famous for its beer. The communities and societies in the country are safe, with social acceptance and high levels of personal freedom.

The best way to see this country is on foot or by bicycle.

9. Singapore

Singapore’s economy is one of the most diversified in the world. It has a modern infrastructure and facilities, including clean water, electricity, and reliable Internet connectivity. You can access online media and participate in online activities without restrictions or censorship.

The economy is growing rapidly because of its growing business sectors, especially technology-based service industries such as software design, management services, and digital.

The country has a very efficient government and excellent strategic management. Singapore has outstanding institutions of higher learning, with many internationally-recognized educational programs.

The government boasts a high standard of personal freedom, and people can make their voices heard. Terrorism is practically absent from the country, and there is no threat of war.

Japan has low crime rates, especially when compared to other Asian countries. The economy is also one of the most stable in Asia, with relatively low unemployment rates.

Tokyo is one of the most densely populated cities. The city has many museums and exhibitions, and its many international film festivals held annually also attract tourists worldwide.

The culturally rich cities of Kyoto, Nara, Nagoya, and Osaka are famous for their ancient shrines, UNESCO world heritage sites, and traditional Japanese gardens.

11. Switzerland

Switzerland is renowned for its wealth and high standard of living. Its population is a little over 7 million. Its economy centers on banking and finance investments in business services and management consultancy.

Switzerland is also famous for its jewelry and watch-making industry. Its major tourist attractions include the Alps, lakes and waterfalls, museums of science and technology, and several castles.

The Swiss people are often regarded as very friendly, open-minded, and easygoing. Financial services are among the best in the world, and the country is famous for its excellent treatment of workers.

It has a progressive society, with female executives and a diverse religious community.

Canada is a developed country with modern facilities, including clean water and electricity. It is one of the most powerful democracies in the world, with a well-developed legal system. Its population is over 35 million, and it has low unemployment rates.

Canada has some of the largest gold deposits and petroleum and natural gas reserves.

The government ensures a free press, education, and religion. Ottawa is the capital of Canada, while Toronto and Montreal are the primary tourist destinations. The country has a health care system that is free and accessible to everyone, with public education and welfare.

Canadians are considered polite people who are welcoming to outsiders.

The 50 Most (& Least) Deadly Travel Destinations

Published on December 1, 2022 by Matthew H. Nash

One crucial factor when planning an international trip is safety. From homicide rates to natural disaster risk, some countries pose a greater threat to safety than others. Our research team crunched numbers on seven safety risk factors for 50 of the most-visited countries to create our “Travel Safety Index” .

Get notified when we publish new research studies

Stay in the loop with our cutting-edge data analyses

Ranking Factors

The 50 countries included in our study were selected based on how popular they are among tourists. To determine the deadliest places in the world for tourists, we looked at the following ranking factors:

Please note: Due to ongoing conflicts in the region, Russia and Ukraine were omitted from the study.

1. Homicide Rate (0-100 points) – The number of intentional homicides per 100,000 people.

Source: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime

2. Road Traffic Death Rate (0-100 points) – The estimated road traffic death rate per 100,000 people.

Source: World Health Organization

3. Poisoning Death Rate (0-100 points) –  The mortality rate attributed to unintentional poisonings per 100,000 people.

4. Unsanitary Conditions Mortality Rate (0-100 points) – The mortality rate that is attributed to unsafe sanitation, unsafe water, and a lack of proper hygiene per 100,000 people.

Source: World Bank

5. Life Years Lost Due to Communicable Diseases (0-100 points) – The number of life years lost due to infectious diseases (adjusted for disabilities) per 100,000 people.

Source: Our World in Data

6. Life Years Lost Due to Injury (0-100 points) – Age-standardized and disability-adjusted life years lost due to injuries (including conflict, violence, and self-harm) per 100,000 people.

7. Natural Disaster Risk (0-50 points) – An index created by the German non-profit Bündnis Entwicklung Hilft in partnership with the United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security, the World Risk Report scores countries based on the risk of a natural disaster such as earthquakes, floods, or cyclones as well as the ability of the country to handle a disaster should it occur.

Source: WorldRiskReport

Study Limitations

An individual’s exposure to risk while traveling largely depends on the type of travel they choose and which areas of a country they visit. For example, going to a destination and staying in an all-inclusive luxury resort will often carry significantly less risk of bodily harm than staying in an area known for high crime, injury, or natural disasters. It’s impossible to account for every variable that a traveler may experience when analyzing countries as a whole. This study attempts to aggregate data taking into account a variety of factors to determine a nations overall risk profile.

Where Are the Most Dangerous Places to Travel?

Below are the 20 deadliest travel destinations:

• South Africa
• Dominican Republic
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• United States

#1 Most Deadly Country: South Africa

South Africa is a beautiful and exceptionally biodiverse country that attract millions of international tourist each year. However, it also tops the list of the most deadly countries for tourists. Out of the 50 countries studied, South Africa has the highest homicide rate (36.40 per 100,000 people) and the highest number of life years lost due to communicable diseases (23,778 years per 100,000 people). The country also has the sixth-highest road traffic death rate (22.22 per 100,000 people).

South Africa scored an F in six of the seven factors used in our research study. The U.S. Department of State indicates:

“Violent crime, such as armed robbery, rape, carjacking, mugging, and ‘smash-and-grab’ attacks on vehicles, is common. There is a higher risk of violent crime in the central business districts of major cities after dark.

Demonstrations, protests, and strikes occur frequently. These can develop quickly without prior notification, often interrupting traffic, transportation, and other services; such events have the potential to turn violent.”

Why is South Africa so unsafe?

Approximately 68 people are murdered in South Africa every day. Why this occurs is a complicated question to answer, but many believe it boils down to the following reasons:

• Poverty and income inequality
• High amounts of gang violence and organized crime
• Weak, slow judicial system

Other factors like the prevalence of easy access to firearms, alcohol abuse, unemployment, and corruption have also been cited as causes for the extremely dangerous crime and hazardous living conditions within South Africa.

#2 Most Deadly Country: India

India is second on the list of most deadly countries for tourists. While the country has a relatively low homicide rate and poisoning death rate, they are the top country for deaths from poor hygiene conditions, at 18.6 per 100,000 people.

Not only is India extremely populated, but it is also has extreme income inequality, with a massive gap between the country’s richest and poorest citizens. This wealth gap means that many of India’s over 1.3 billion people live in poverty and dangerous living conditions, with an estimated 60% of its citizens surviving on little over $3 a day.

Shoddy infrastructure, substandard health, and sanitation conditions are just some of the issues that Indians face on a daily basis, with the lowest classes being forced to navigate the worst of it.

Most and least deadly by category

South Africa has the most documented incidents of homicide by a relatively large margin, with 36.4 homicides per 100,000. Mexico, the country with the second highest homicide rate, has 29.1 homicides per 100,000, and Brazil has 27.4 homicides per 100,000. The homicide rate drops significantly from there, with the remaining countries reporting 10.00 or fewer per 100,000. Notably, the US has the 7th highest rate of homicide when compared to these 50 countries.

The countries with the highest homicide death rates are:

Road Deaths

Vehicle transportation is unavoidable for most travelers, and unsafe road conditions can provide a considerable safety hazard in many countries. According to the CDC , 1.35 million people globally are killed in motor vehicle accidents every year, making this a real danger and a serious consideration when traveling to countries with more lax driving laws and poorly maintained infrastructure.

The Dominican Republic has a road death every two hours, which accounts for a significant portion of Dominican Republic deaths per year. Reasons for the dangerous road conditions are attributed to “a lethal mix of alcohol, speed and blatant disregard for traffic laws,” according to The San Diego Union-Tribune.

The countries with the highest road traffic death rates are:

Poisoning Deaths

Romania, China, and South Africa are all outliers when it comes to poisoning deaths. According one study by the NIH , China had 16,179 unintentional poisoning deaths in 2016 which made up 31% of the world’s total of 52,077 poisoning deaths that year. The details and causes of poisoning incidents in China is scattered which suggests these numbers may be underreported.

The countries with the highest poisoning death rates are:

Mortality Rate from Unsanitary Conditions

Anyone who has had traveler’s diarrhea or another food-borne illness will know how vital sanitation is when it comes to a vacation. There are ways to prevent illness from unsanitary conditions, but it’s not entirely possible to eradicate the threat of sickness in all regions.

While India is a developing country and is modernizing quickly, there’s still much progress to be made in terms of general hygiene. An estimated one in ten deaths in India is attributed to poor hygiene conditions. Similarly, South Africa is having significant issues with clean water access and available sanitation services for its citizens, though this does appear to be improving.

The countries with the highest death rates from poor hygiene:

• South Korea

Communicable Disease Deaths

Covid-19 has shown us that infectious diseases are extremely serious, but many other diseases around the world also have devastating impacts and cause countless deaths every year. These include diseases like dengue fever, malaria, measles, cholera, typhoid, yellow fever, and more. It’s always a good idea to check with your medical provider before traveling to a new region because they will have data available to ensure you are immunized against local diseases as much as possible and can take other preventative measures such as wearing insect repellant.

South Africa has over double the number of life years lost due to communicable diseases as India. Some of the diseases affecting South Africans include HIV, tuberculosis, respiratory infections, and more, according to the CDC.

The countries with the highest number of years lost from communicable diseases:

Life Years Lost to Injury

Injury in life is inevitable. You can’t prevent a broken arm or a sprained ankle anywhere in the world, but some regions are more prone to accidents or injury. This can be for various reasons, including infrastructure problems, inaccessible walkways, poorly maintained hiking paths, and much more.

South Africa has the highest years of life lost due to injuries, with many of those injuries coming from interpersonal violence and road traffic incidents. Saudi Arabia likewise reports many injuries, with most reported injuries affecting young males. These injuries were largely traffic-related.

The countries with the highest number of life years lost to injury are:

• United Arab Emirates

World Risk Index

Natural disasters are increasingly becoming a regular part of our modern life due to the impacts of climate change , and it would be unwise to fail to consider the likelihood of natural disasters when picking a travel destination. Not only should the location be factored in, but also the season. For example, many counties have significant and deadly monsoon and hurricane seasons, which can threaten tourists and locals alike.

The most dangerous country when it comes to natural disaster risk and readiness response is the Philippines, according to the annual World Risk Index. The Philippines garnered a score of 46.8. The second and third most dangerous countries are India and Indonesia, followed by Mexico and China. Notably the US and Australia ranked 7th and 8th respectively.

The countries with the highest natural disaster risk:

What Are the Safest Countries for Tourists to Visit?

Based on data for 50 of the most-visited countries in the world, these are the fifteen safest countries for tourists and their Travel Safety Index scores:

• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Czech Republic

#1 Safest Country: Singapore

According to our index, Singapore is the least deadly country for tourists. With a very low homicide rate, road death rate, and natural disaster risk, Singapore is an excellent choice for travelers in terms of safety.

What makes Singapore so safe? Well, crime does not pay in Singapore. The consequences for committing crimes in Singapore are incredibly high, even for “smaller” crimes. This, combined with high surveillance and police presence, makes Singapore the world’s safest country for travel.

This, of course, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still take universal safety precautions, even in Singapore. For some top travel safety tips, see the end of the article.

#2 Safest Country: Denmark

Denmark’s high safety ranking likely won’t come as a surprise to those familiar with Denmark’s reputation. The low crime rate is often attributed to strong social safety nets that keep its citizens out of poverty, which decreases petty crimes like theft and pickpocketing. Denmark also has a robust police presence, a (relatively) transparent government, and high-quality technological surveillance, which makes Denmark an uncommonly safe place to live and travel.

This level of safety and community trust made Denmark go viral recently when people on social media discovered footage of Danish mothers and fathers leaving their newborns outside to sleep in their strollers while the parents go into shops and cafés. This is a common practice and is often believed to help babies and infants sleep comfortably and develop better immune systems. The idea of trusting the general public with an infant seems like madness in many other parts of the world. This goes to show the level of safety and transparency within Denmark.

Tips for staying safe while traveling, no matter the destination

• Never travel without doing your research – Each destination, from the most to the least deadly, will have its share of challenges and hurdles. Looking up common scams in your destination city or country will help you stay sharp and mindful of dangerous tactics.
• Check the natural disaster risk for your region – Many places around the world, from Louisiana to Mumbai, are more prone to natural disasters at certain times of the year. Knowing if your destination is experiencing monsoon season, hurricane season, extreme heat or cold, and other potentially dangerous natural disasters will keep you and your family stay safe and help you avoid potentially high-risk areas.
• Practice universal safety precautions – Just because you might be in a “safe” country, don’t let your guard down. Crime, unsanitary conditions, and injuries can happen anywhere, and tourists are often targeted everywhere in the world.
• Invest in high-quality safety travel gear – Things like RFID neck wallets, money belts, and sturdy luggage locks will help keep you and your family’s items safe around pickpockets.
• Register your trip with your local embassy – Your government having a way to find you and help remove you from a dangerous situation is incredibly important. If you plan to travel internationally, see if your country has a way to report your trip before embarking on your adventure. The United States has STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program), Canada has Registration of Canadians Abroad, and other countries have equivalent programs for their citizens.
• Save your embassy’s information – Speaking of embassies, know your country’s embassy information before traveling internationally. Whether you write down the embassy phone number and address on a piece of paper or add it to your phone’s cloud service, having a way to access your country’s representative embassy while traveling abroad could be lifesaving in the event of an emergency.
• Travel with a friend or family member – Solo travel can be a fun, freeing activity. But it can also open you up to more potential risks. Traveling with friends and family is often a safer alternative to solo travel.
• Don’t keep all of your cash in one place – Having all your funds in a central location could be disastrous should an emergency arise. If you get robbed, your wallet goes missing, or you get separated from the rest of your group, it’s essential to have emergency money to fall back on. Keeping extra cash in your phone case, in your shoe, or somewhere else inconspicuous may seem silly, but it could bail you out in a pinch.
• Be careful where you eat – Not all countries enforce strict sanitation standards regarding food and beverages. Check reviews, go to restaurants suggested by friends and family, and practice precautions when eating out (particularly when it comes to street food).
• Know the risks of your destination and travel accordingly – If, for example, you do some research and find that your destination may not have the safest water, you can bring a Grayl or filter bottle. Knowing what to expect by planning ahead can save money (and discomfort) during the trip.
• Have your medical information (securely) available – Nobody wants to think about the possibility of hospitalization or injury while on vacation, but it can and does happen. Memorizing your blood type, having a list of your medications and dosages, as well as any allergies and other pertinent medical info available for medical professionals to review is critical should an emergency arise.
• Hire a guide – While guides can’t reasonably protect you from all danger, they can use their local knowledge of the country to keep you safe. Many guides will provide translation services, ensure you eat in safe restaurants, and can help you avoid dangerous neighborhoods.
• Keep a family member or friend aware of your travel plans – Having a friend or family member back home know your travel itinerary could be incredibly helpful if something goes wrong.
• Listen to your intuition – If something doesn’t feel safe, seems too good to be true, or otherwise sets off “alarm bells” while traveling, trust your instincts and remove yourself if it is safe to do so.
• Always travel with insurance – You never know what can happen while traveling. Whether you’re traveling domestically or across the world, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Travel insurance is often fairly inexpensive ( often costing less than $100 for a two-week trip ) and can save thousands in emergency expenses. See some of our guides here: Antartica , Belize , Costa Rica , Cruise , Dubai , and Europe .
• United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
• World Health Organization
• Our World in Data
• WorldRiskReport
• CNN: Seeing the new India through the eyes of an invisible woman
• Business Tech: New data shows shocking rise in violent crime in South Africa
• CNET: India spent $30 billion to fix its broken sanitation. It ended up with more problems
• The Economist: Why it is so hard to fix India’s sanitation
• Borgen Project: 10 Facts about Sanitation in South Africa
• National Library of Medicine: The high burden of injuries in South Africa
• National Library of Medicine: Burden of traumatic injuries in Saudi Arabia

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

The 8 Safest Places in Mexico for Travelers

Ed Hewitt started traveling with his family at the age of 10 and has since visited dozens of countries on six continents. He wrote for IndependentTraveler.com for more than 20 years, producing hundreds of columns on travel and offering his expertise on radio and television. He is now a regular contributor to SmarterTravel.

An avid surfer and rower, Ed has written about and photographed rowing competitions around the world, including the last five Olympic Games.

He's passing his love of travel on to the next generation; his 10-year-old son has flown some 200,000 miles already.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

“Is my destination safe?” It’s a question many American travelers have asked themselves as they pour over the State Department’s travel advisories and color-coded maps .

Mexico is a vast country, with heaps of beautiful and interesting places to see, and some 28 million Americans safely travel there each year. To help you plan your own trip, I’ve gathered some of the safest places to visit in Mexico, complete with information on why you should go and where to stay.

The Safest Places in Mexico

Keep in mind that incidents can happen even in the safest places in Mexico, and destinations that don’t appear on this list could still be great spots for a vacation. No matter where you go while traveling abroad, you’ll want to follow common-sense rules such as drinking only in moderation, getting a cab instead of wandering around after dark, and leaving your valuables at home.

Mexico City

Despite a longstanding reputation as a dangerous city to visit, Mexico City only has an advisory to exercise increased caution, and for good reason; the downtown core in particular is considered quite safe, and the city has numerous attractions for visitors—including street art, colorful markets, and more than 150 museums.

Where to Stay: The small, beautifully decorated Nima Local House Hotel is one of the best luxury hotel options in the city. For a more affordable option, consider the Chillout Flat Bed & Breakfast , which earns plaudits for friendly service and homemade granola.

Nima Local House

Chillout Flat B&B

The 5 Best Things to Do in Mexico City

As Playa del Carmen has been the site of some troubling violence in the past, the coastal town of Tulum to the south may be a safer alternative. It is also less touristy than other resort towns on the Yucatan Peninsula, offering well-preserved ruins of the former Mayan city walls and other historic structures right in town. The State Department has explicitly stated there are no restrictions on travel to Tulum or to Chichen Itza, the magnificent archaeological site just an hour up the road.

Where to Stay: Guests appreciate the clean, comfortable rooms and fast Wi-Fi at the centrally located Posada Luna del Sur .

A beach town located in Oaxaca to the southwest of Puerto Escondido, Huatulco offers tons of water activities such as snorkeling and scuba diving, some nearby surf spots, and tours of coffee farms to boot. Huatulco is considered one of the safest places in Mexico.

Where to Stay: For an indulgent resort experience you can’t do much better than Secrets Huatulco Resort & Spa , where amenities include multiple swimming pools and tennis courts, yoga classes, watersports, and nine restaurants.

Merida and Valladolid

Gerardo Tanaka Pacheco, Senior Account Executive for MSL Group, the public relations firm for VisitMexico.com , recommends these two towns as great alternatives to other nearby tourist hot spots. “A lot of people go to Playa del Carmen and Tulum, but on the Yucatan Peninsula there are these two beautiful colonial cities that are so welcoming, colorful, and full of traditions that travelers won’t regret visiting them,” he says.

Merida is a walking-friendly town that is connected to Chichen Itza by a toll road, which is considered the safest way to travel in Mexico if you are driving. The Mayan influence remains strong here, and the area has its own style of cuisine that diverges considerably from what you will find in other parts of Mexico.

Midway between Merida and Cancun is Valladolid, a colorful and friendly city that’s within easy driving distance of several beautiful cenotes.

Where to Stay: In Merida, consider snagging a poolside room at the Luz En Yucatan . In Valladolid, you can’t go wrong at the centrally located Hotel Posada San Juan .

Luz En Yucatan

Hotel Posada San Juan

10 Travel Safety Mishaps and How to Avoid Them

Pacheco says that Bacalar, also on the Yucatan Peninsula, is “an amazing place, kind of unknown and definitely uncrowded. This is one of my favorite secrets spots in Mexico; the lagoon there is unbelievable.”

Called the Lake of Seven Colors, the lagoon stretches for 42 kilometers and is fed by underground rivers. Like Todos Santos mentioned below, Bacalar holds the official designation as a “Pueblo Magico,” or Magical Town, due in large part to the lagoon. In addition to being one of the safest places in Mexico, Bacalar is also very affordable.

Where to Stay: At the Bacalar Lagoon Resort , you can get a view of the lake right from your cabana.

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the western coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, Campeche is a walled Spanish colonial city that has been superbly restored. The walled center is somewhat of a museum piece, but the life of the town surrounding it might even be the main attraction. There are also significant Mayan ruins in the state of Campeche, of which the city is the capital; these aren’t as well known as the famous ruins to the east, and as such they’re less crowded.

Where to Stay: Try for a balcony room or suite at the modestly priced Hotel Socaire .

Queretaro’s streets are a wondrous mix of old and very old, as grid-like Spanish streets connect to the pre-Hispanic winding lanes from the time of the Otomi. From rock climbing and art galleries to architecture sightseeing, there is a ton to do in this central Mexican city.

Where to Stay: La Casa del Atrio , across from the Museo de Arte , is both popular and affordable.

Is Cabo San Lucas Safe? Swimming Dangers, Drinking Water, and More

Todos Santos

This surf town in Baja California Sur features world-class waves and lots of natural beauty—and it’s just far enough north of touristy Cabo San Lucas to offer respite from the crowds. Todos Santos is slowly becoming more popular, but its stone streets and uncrowded beaches have earned it the official Pueblo Magico designation.

Where to Stay: La Poza Boutique Hotel & Spa has a fantastic oceanfront location at very reasonable rates.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

Amalfi Coast: 7-Nt, Active Family Tour...

Exodus Adventure Travels

16-Night Hawaiian Islands Cruise Over Christmas...

Princess Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

🇲🇽 30 Safest Cities in Mexico for Travelers & Expats in 2024

Looking for the safest places in Mexico to travel?

You’re in the right place! I’ve lived in Mexico since 2018 , and have traveled to more than half the states in the country (most as a solo female traveler) — and I’m about to share my knowledge of the safest cities in Mexico with you.

Mexico is a big country, with an even bigger reputation. While many mislabel the entire country as unsafe, you’re about to discover that that’s simply untrue.

In fact, there are A LOT of safe places in Mexico — and this article will highlight the Top 10 safest cities in Mexico, and Top 20 safest beaches in Mexico, and the #1 safest city in Mexico.

Ready to discover the safest places to travel in Mexico? Let’s get to it!

After you see the Mexico safest cities list, don’t miss the Mexico Travel Safety FAQ at the end of the article where we do a deep dive into questions like Is it safe to travel to Mexico?

The 30 Safest Cities in Mexico to Visit 2024

1. merida — safest city in mexico & latin america.

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula , one of the safest parts of Mexico, Merida consistently ranks as the safest place to travel in Mexico.

In fact, Merida is considered the safest place in Mexico to vacation in the entire peninsula.

It is the capital of Yucatán state, which is one of the Mexico states that seems to never have U.S. State Department travel warnings .

Further still, many say Merida is definitively the safest place to live in Mexico (or one of the safe places to live in Mexico).

As someone who lived in Merida for many years , I know this to be true first-hand.

For years, Merida flew under the tourist radar. However, thanks to great press like what you see below, more travelers began to discover Merida.

• In 2019, CEOWorld Magazine declared it the second safest city on the entire Americas Continent.
• In 2021, CEOWorld Magazine readers also voted Merida #3 on their Best Small Cities in the World list.
• In 2022, Merida was named the #4 Best City in the World by Conde Nast Traveller Magazine readers.

Now, this colorful colonial city is fast becoming a top Mexico travel destination.

There are so many amazing things to do in Merida , which is a great city to explore Mexico’s rich Mayan history and traditions.

⚠️ What are the Crime Rates in Merida Mexico?

Wondering, What city in Mexico is considered safest with the lowest crime rate? It’s Merida, hands down.

Merida is known as many things, including the Cultural Capital of Yucatan , and the safest Mexican city.

It consistently ranks as both the safest city to visit in Mexico, and safest place for expats to live in Mexico.

As you can see in the infographic above, there’s not much crime in Merida, though of course, crimes of opportunity can happen.

You’ll want to be mindful of your belongings at all times, just as you would anywhere else.

✈️ Ready to book your Merida trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to the safest town in Mexico:

• Book the Best Merida Hotels here
• Find the Best Merida Tours here
• For more info, check out Is Merida Mexico Safe for Travelers?

2. Puerto Vallarta — Safest Mexico Beach City

Puerto Vallarta is considered one of the safest resort towns in Mexico, and safest beach towns in Mexico.

While it has these amazing Puerto Vallarta all inclusive resorts , you can of course stay-off resort and best just as safe.

Though it’s one of the best Mexican resort towns , many prefer the colorful homes and local charm in the Puerto Vallarta Zona Romantica, where the locals live.

In fact, when I visit Puerto Vallarta I stay here because it’s so charming 😍

Puerto Vallarta is famous for its beautiful, sandy beaches, and of course, most of the best things to do in Puerto Vallarta involve the beach, the Pacific Ocean, or Banderas Bay.

When planning your Puerto Vallarta itinerary , schedule plenty of beach time.

To catch all the beachy highlights, you can go parasailing , jet skiing, horseback riding on the beach and snorkeling around Los Arcos and get a massage on the beach .

You can spend a good deal of time walking on the best beaches in Puerto Vallarta, like Playa los Muertos, and the famous Malecon (Boardwalk) — but don’t miss the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta at Pancho’s Takos .

⚠️ What are the Crime Rates in Puerto Vallarta Mexico?

Overall, Puerto Vallarta has very little crime. Of course, this is still a tourist town, so remain vigilant of your belongings at all times.

For such a big city in Mexico though, you have a very low probability of a crime happening to you here.

✈️ Ready to book your Puerto Vallarta trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the safest beaches Mexico has:

• Book the Best Puerto Vallarta Hotels here
• Find the Best Puerto Vallarta Tours here
• For more info, check out Renting a Car in Puerto Vallarta: Everything You Need to Know

3. La Paz — Safest Mexico Beach Town

Wondering, What is the safest beach in Mexico ? The up-and-coming town of La Paz Mexico just may be it.

This small town has virtually no violent crime, and isn’t a hub for criminal organizations like the drug cartels.

This a fun little city is in the beautiful state of Baja California Sur, located on Mexico’s west coast. In general, the entire Baja Peninsula is among the safest parts of Mexico; La Paz included.

While the city itself is fairly flat, it’s surrounded by the Sierra de la Laguna mountain range.

Located on the Gulf of California, La Paz is one of the best coastal cities in Mexico, with stunning views from both the beaches and the parts in the mountains at a higher elevation.

Hands down, the best thing to do is to check out one of the best beaches near La Paz .

Balandra Beach is the most popular by far, and in fact, is known as one of the best beaches in Mexico because of its calm, blue waters and photogenic appeal.

However, Tecolote Beach, located a few miles down the road, gives Playa Balandra a run for its money.

Similarly, so does Isla Espiritu Santo Island , which is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

⚠️ What are the crime rates in La Paz Mexico?

As one of the safest places in Mexico to vacation, La Paz has a low crime rate, and the town and beaches are regularly patrolled by police.

Visitors generally only have to worry about petty theft, which is common in any tourist city.

What makes La Paz special compared to other Mexico beaches in Baja, like Cabo San Lucas , Los Cabos, Todos Santos and San Jose del Cabo , is that it has retained an authentic Mexican cultural feel.

While La Paz is known to be exceptionally safe, in general, Baja California is one of the safest states to visit in Mexico (and best places to live).

✈️ Ready to book your La Paz trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the safe beaches in Mexico:

• Book the Best La Paz Hotels here
• Find the Best La Paz Tours here
• For more info, check out Renting a Car in La Paz: What You Need to Know

4. Sayulita

The small town of Sayulita is located in Nayarit state on Mexico’s Pacific Coast. It is just one hour north of Puerto Vallarta by rental car or bus.

Over the years, the beach town of Sayulita transitioned from a sleepy fishing village to a small town beloved by artists, yogis, hippies and surfers.

Today, the Sayulita pueblo magico (magic town) thrives as a trendy hotspot where tourists, surfers and expats all get to enjoy one of the most beautiful Mexican beach towns.

For those lucky enough to call Sayulita home, it is considered one of the safest places in Mexico to live.

The overall vibe is young and laid-back, and the town is colorful and welcoming with its festive papel picado flags hanging from one side of the street to the other.

Sayulita’s quaint streets are full of bars, restaurants, boutique shops and outdoor mercados (markets), creating a fun atmosphere.

Of course, the best things to do in Sayulita involve being on the beach or in the ocean. For surfing in Sayulita, there are waves in all sizes, perfect for all levels.

If you’ve never surfed before, there are plenty of surf lessons in Sayulita , most located on the town’s main beach, Playa Sayulita.

Spiritual travelers, nature lovers and adventure seekers can enjoy beachfront yoga sessions , jungle hikes (like the famous Monkey Mountain hike), horseback rides, zip lines, in addition to the epic surf in Sayulita.

✈️ Ready to book your Sayulita trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the friendliest cities in Mexico:

• Book the Best Sayulita Hotels here
• Find the Best Sayulita Tours here
• For more info, check out Is Sayulita Safe for Travelers?

5. San Miguel de Allende

Located in Central Mexico, San Miguel de Allende is a charming city with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets that usually makes any “Best in Mexico” list.

In the last few decades, this Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site in Guanajuato State has become extremely popular with American retirees.

Those who live there are known to say it’s the safest place to retire in Mexico.

Foodies also flock to San Miguel de Allende, and Top Chef filed there during Season 12.

Among the best restaurants in San Miguel de Allende, don’t miss Aperi led by Omar Henriquez, one of the best Mexican chefs .

With a large population of expats, and English widely spoken, it’s one of the easiest places in Mexico for beginner travelers since you can get by without speaking Spanish.

However, don’t pass up the chance to immerse yourself in Mexican culture, visiting local markets, shopping for handmade crafts and exploring the colorful back streets and alleyways.

Beautiful San Miguel is one of the prettiest cities in Mexico, so make sure your phone camera (or regular camera ) is fully charged!

The best way to experience it all is to just take some leisurely strolls around town.

While walking, don’t miss the Biblioteca Pública (San Miguel de Allende Library), Mercado de Artesanias (Artisan Market), and Parroquia de San Miguel Arcángel , which is the famous San Miguel de Allende church.

There is no airport in San Miguel de Allende, and most people will travel there via Mexico City.

It is easy to get to San Miguel de Allende from Mexico City by rental car or bus, as it’s only about a four hour drive.

You can also arrive by bus from other cities in Mexico, or fly into Guanajuato International Airport (code: BJX).

BJX Guanajuato Airport is the closest airport to San Miguel de Allende. It is located near Guanajuato City , and about 1.5 hours from San Miguel de Allende by car.

✈️ Ready to book your San Miguel de Allende trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the safest Mexico destinations:

• Book the Best San Miguel de Allende Hotels here
• Find the Best San Miguel de Allende Tours here

6. Huatulco

Bahías de Huatulco , which means Bays of Huatulco, is located in the state of Oaxaca on the southern coast of Mexico. It sits on the Pacific Ocean.

Usually just called Huatulco, the town is known as one of the best beach cities in Mexico . It has an astounding nine bays and 36 beaches to explore.

The best things to do in Huatulco involve being in and around the water.

Popular activities at the beaches include swimming, snorkeling and diving, as well as just laying around and watching the area’s epic sunsets at the many beaches in Huatulco .

Those looking for a little adventure can book a rafting trip on the Copalita River or swim in the Copalitilla Waterfalls, which is one of the most popular Huatulco tours .

Huatulco National Park is also a popular place to visit.

One of the largest protected areas in Mexico, Huatulco National Park spans 29,400 acres (11,890 hectares) of land and water space.

The park is located just a few minutes west of La Crucecita (AKA Downtown Huatulco), and is the perfect place for hiking, nature walks, snorkeling, and to rent a bike or ATV.

Wondering, Is Huatulco Mexico safe? or even, What are the safest cities in Mexico for American expats? Huatulco certainly ranks high atop that list.

Not only is it safe, but there’s great weather and plenty of Huatulco things to do , especially for beach lovers and scuba divers.

It has a large expat population from the United States and Canada, and many who come to Huatulco for the winter to escape the cold.

In fact, winter is the Huatulco busy season, and prices increase A LOT — so plan accordingly.

As it’s very safe with great infrastructure and gorgeous beaches, many consider Huatulco one of the best cities in Mexico to live. 

With its small town feel, travelers will find Huatulco to be a very safe and welcoming place to visit.

✈️ Want to check it out?

There are a lot of nice Huatulco resorts and hotels that aren’t very expensive, and you can fly directly into the city at Bahías de Huatulco International Airport (code: HUX).

✈️ Ready to book your Huatulco trip

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the safe places in Mexico to vacation:

• Book the Best Huatulco Hotels here
• Find the Best Huatulco Tours here
• For more info, check out Oaxaca to Huatulco: 4 Best Transportation Options

7. Puebla de Zaragoza (Puebla City)

Though it’s one of the biggest cities in Mexico — the fifth largest by population, in fact — Puebla City is among the safest vacation spots in Mexico.

Puebla City is the capital of Puebla State , and a Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Puebla is one of those great travel destinations, with lots of history, colorful colonial architecture and amazing cuisine. It also has Mexico’s largest Cinco de Mayo celebration.

Just two hours drive from Mexico City, Puebla has a completely different vibe worth exploring.

Though it’s the lesser-visited of the two cities, Puebla is a gorgeous colonial town that you’ll want to add to your Mexico itinerary — even if only as a weekend or day trip from Mexico City . 

Start your exploration in the beautiful Zocalo (Main Square), where you’ll spot the impressive Puebla Cathedral.

Another church to visit is Iglesia Santo Domingo; though there are beautiful churches all over Puebla, and in fact, this city is known for its abundance of churches.

Beyond sightseeing, one of the best things to do in Puebla is eat — as it’s one of Mexico’s culinary capitals.

Puebla’s local Poblano cuisine is revered throughout Mexico, and there are plenty of local specialties to try like cemitas (giant sandwiches), tacos arabes, mole poblano , and chile en nogada .

While you might not have heard of it, chile en nogada is the national dish of Mexico!

This unique dish consists of a stuffed poblano pepper that’s smothered in a walnut cream sauce (white), and topped with pomegranate seeds (red) and parsley (green).

The colors in this patriotic dish mimic the colors in the Mexican flag 🇲🇽 and it’s typically only made around Mexican Independence Day on September 16th.

When in Puebla City, don’t miss seeing the neighboring towns of Atlixco Puebla, and Cholula pueblo magico (magic town) — two of the best cities in Puebla, Mexico.

Cholula is not only colorful, historic and charming, it’s also home to the largest pyramid on Earth by volume, the Great Pyramid of Cholula.

✈️ Ready to book your Puebla trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the safe vacation places in Mexico:

• Book the Best Puebla Hotels here
• Find the Best Puebla Tours here

8. Isla Holbox Island

Isla Holbox (pronounced hole-bosh) is located a few hours from Cancun, but feels like it’s a world away from all its hustle and bustle.

Holbox is a Mexican Caribbean island, and a beautiful place to visit for all types of travelers, especially beach and nature lovers, and those looking for serenity. 

The laid-back Mexico island is definitely worth a visit.

With its semi-remote, off the beaten path location, it’s not uncommon for Holbox to be labeled as the safest destination in Mexico.

Wondering how to get to Holbox Island? It is only accessible by a ferry boat in Chiquila Mexico, located two hours west of Cancun. Head to this Ultimate Cancun to Holbox Mexico guide for more info.

The island’s roads are “paved” in beach sand, and the best way to get around is by bike or golf cart. In fact, there are no cars allowed on the island.

If you’re traveling by rental car , you will have to leave it overnight in one of the paid lots next to the Chiquila ferry dock .

The lots have security guards, and cost about $7 USD per day per car.

Holbox Island has a small town feel, but also a bit of a lively side at night with a few restaurants and bars that stay open late into the evening.

However, this is not the place to come for all night parties and the same nightlife you’d expect in nearby Cancun , Playa del Carmen or Tulum .

Isla Holbox is among the safest beach cities in Mexico, with a close-knit local community. People in Holbox are helpful and friendly, and you’ll always feel welcomed.

It is a much less touristy place than islands like Cozumel or Isla Mujeres , so safety is basically never an issue in this sleepy town with virtually nonexistent levels of crime.

Holbox is known for its incredible underwater world, and near-virgin beaches.

Among the best things to do in Holbox Island is swim with whale sharks (May 15-September 17), take a boat tour to go snorkeling to see the turtles and manta rays, or just lay in a hammock in the Caribbean Sea.

There’s also a nightly market in the center of town with lots of delicious things to try. Here, you can try all the best Mexican food specialities , like esquites and marquesitas.

If you prefer, you can also dine in the restaurants near the center of town. 🍕 Pro Tip: Be on the lookout for restaurants serving the famous Holbox lobster pizza.

✈️ Ready to book your Holbox Island trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the safest places to vacation in Mexico:

• Book the Best Holbox Hotels here
• Find the Best Holbox Tours here
• For more info, check out 27 Best Things to Do in Holbox Island Mexico

9. Mexico City

When speaking of the world’s major cities, Mexico City has to be included in every conversation.

However, for many it wouldn’t be the first place you think of when discussing the safest city in Mexico to travel — which is unfortunate!

⚠️ Is Mexico City safe to travel to?

The answer is yes ; for the vast majority of travelers, it is perfectly safe to visit CDMX.

I lived there for one year as a solo woman, and even Mexico City solo travel felt quite safe.

This is a vibrant, cultural wonderland with many amazing things to do in Mexico City , delicious restaurants , plenty of fun day trips , and more.

As with any big city, you do have to be aware of your surroundings and belongings (especially in Mexico City after dark).

👩‍🎨 Best Mexico City Museums

If it’s culture you’re after, then you could spend weeks just visiting the 150 or so museums in Mexico City .

Of the highlights, don’t miss the National Anthropology Museum — widely considered the best Mexico City museum of them all.

It has artifacts from all of the indigenous cultures and civilizations of Mexico, including the magnificent Aztec Sun Stone and a replica of Moctezuma’s headdress.

Located in Bosque de Chapultepec Park , there are other nearby museums to see located near the Anthropology Museum as well. I personally love the Museo Tamayo.

Art lovers will want to check out the Frida Kahlo Museum, located in the vibrant and historic Coyoacan neighborhood .

This is one of the oldest and one of the safest areas in Mexico City, and popular with families, bohemians and college students alike.

Coyoacan is not far from Reforma, arguably the safest place to stay in Mexico City, with plenty of great Mexico City hotels to choose from.

If it’s luxury hotels in Mexico City you’re after, they’re all here along Avenida Reforma.

🇲🇽 Centro Historico: Downtown Mexico City

There are plenty of amazing things to do in Centro Historico , including a visit to the Templo Mayor, the main Aztec temple in Mexico.

Foodies will love the city too, and the street food here is among the best on Earth.

It’s hard to eat a bad meal here, as Mexico City tacos are famous for good reason, but the Mexico City restaurants are also amazing.

There are numerous food tours of different neighborhoods, taco tours , market tours, mezcal tastings , and cooking classes too.

Located about one hour outside of the city, don’t miss the famous Teotihuacan Ruins , a Mexico UNESCO Heritage Site.

For a truly unique experience, book one of these Teotihuacan hot air balloon tours to see this ancient site from above.

As some of the closest Mexico City ruins, this is a giant site, and the best way to see it is from above.

✈️ Ready to book your Mexico City trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the safest tourist spots in Mexico:

• Book the Best Mexico City Hotels here
• Find the Best Mexico City Tours here
• For more info, check out Altitude Sickness in Mexico City: How to Prevent & Treat It

10. Cozumel Island

Often called the safest place to visit in Mexico on the Caribbean side, some refer to Cozumel as the Oahu of the Caribbean Sea.

One of the best islands and safest places to go in Mexico, it has a mellow, tropical vibe, the water is always warm, the snorkeling is fantastic, and everyone is so friendly.

Although it’s only a short ferry ride away from Playa del Carmen , it feels like a world away. It’s no wonder why Cozumel is one of the best day trips from Playa del Carmen.

One of the best things to do in Cozumel is snorkel. Part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, it actually has some of the best snorkeling spots in the Caribbean.

The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef (AKA Great Mayan Reef) is also the second biggest reef in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia.

You can stop at any beach club and snorkel for free, which isn’t usually the case in popular tourist destinations.

For a beginner-friendly place, head to Money Bar to see the colorful fish, marine life and healthy coral just off-shore.

While visiting Cozumel, make sure to stop at some of the eco parks like Chankanaab Park (located inside the Cozumel National Reef Marine Park) and Punta Sur.

Punta Sur Eco Beach Park, located on the southern part of the island, is a favorite thanks to its lagoons, wildflowers, white sandy beaches, and an enormous lighthouse.

There’s also the San Gervasio Mayan Ruins site to explore. These are some of the coolest ruins in the Mexican Caribbean, and the only ruins in Cozumel Mexico.

With so much to see and do, and such a gorgeous location, it’s no wonder Cozumel is one of the best places to visit in Mexico .

✈️ Ready to book your Cozumel trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Cozumel Mexico:

• Book the Best Cozumel Hotels here
• Find the Best Cozumel Tours here
• For more info, check out Cancun to Cozumel: How to Get to Cozumel Island

Cancun is among the best vacation cities in Mexico for good reason.

As one of the Top 3 major cities of Mexico for travelers, there’s no shortage of amazing things to see in Cancun.

It also has some of the safest all inclusive resorts in Mexico , which keep visitors returning year after year.

The Cancun Hotel Zone, or Zona Hotelera, is a long strip of land along the Caribbean Sea. It’s easy to navigate, as there’s just one main road that runs from north to south.

Here in the main tourist zone, you’ll find the pristine white-sand Cancun beaches the area is known for.

The Hotel Zone in Cancun is only about 15 minutes from Cancun international Airport.

There’s even an inexpensive bus that offers 24-hour service between the airport and the Hotel Zone.

In general, it’s very safe to get around the city by public transportation or taxi. There is also Uber in Cancun , and other ride-share apps, like DiDi.

As you might have guessed, the best things to do in Cancun involve the beach.

From water sports, diving, snorkeling, relaxing, sunbathing, and even dining and nightlife, it all happens on Cancun beach — and sometimes under its waters, as with the Cancun Underwater Museum (MUSA).

However, there’s other Cancun sites besides the beach, like the Museo Maya de Cancun (Cancun Mayan Museum) and a small Mayan archeological site, El Rey, right in the city.

To see some larger Mayan ruins near Cancun, rent a car or join a group tour to visit Chichen Itza and the Tulum Ruins .

As one of the top Mexico travel destinations and best beach towns in Mexico , Cancun has welcomed visitors for decades.

It has a well-developed travel infrastructure and plenty of restaurants, bars, nightclubs, shops and attractions to suit visitors of all budgets and travel styles.

✈️ Ready to book your Cancun trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the top tourist cities in Mexico:

• Book the Best Cancun Hotels here
• Find the Best Cancun Tours here
• For more info, check out Is Cancun Safe to Travel to Right Now?

12. Guadalajara

Guadalajara is located in the state of Jalisco, and that state’s capital. It is also Mexico’s second largest city — but you wouldn’t know it by visiting .

This city has a much smaller feel compared to Mexico City, with its colonial historic center and quaint neighborhoods.

The locals are some of the kindest people you will meet, and you can pretty much always expect beautiful sunny days in Guadalajara.

As one of the top cities to visit in Mexico, and the second biggest city in the country, there’s no shortage of things to do in Guadalajara Mexico .

You can easily spend a couple of days visiting Guadalajara . It is a walkable city, and all the main sights are within a short distance of Plaza Guadalajara (Main Plaza).

Take a day to explore Centro Historico (Historic Downtown), including the famous Guadalajara Cathedral and Hospicio Cabanas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

After exploring, spend some time shopping for artesanias (artisanal products) in the huge San Juan de Dios Market, or the nearby Tlaquepaque pueblo magico .

🚗 Best Day Trips from Guadalajara

There are so many great things to do near Guadalajara as well, starting with the picturesque suburb of Tlaquepaque (pronounced tlah-kay-pah-kay).

This is one of the Mexico pueblos magicos (magic towns), and located only about 30 minutes from downtown Guadalajara.

Don’t miss out on the amazing food options, and of course, trying some authentic tequila from the nearby town of Tequila, Mexico .

Also among the top cities in Mexico for expats, head to nearby Ajijic pueblo magico (magic town), on the shores of Lake Chapala .

The largest lake in Mexico, there are a few other towns to check out on the lake, like Chapala and Mezcala.

Wherever you go, you’ll notice that both Guadalajara and the towns near Guadalajara have a great relaxed pace, and feel very safe.

✈️ Ready to book your Guadalajara trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the best cities in Mexico to visit:

• Book the Best Guadalajara Hotels here
• Find the Best Guadalajara Tours here
• For more info, check out Renting a Car in Guadalajara: What You Need to Know

13. Mazatlan

When looking for the safest tourist destinations in Mexico, Mazatlan may not appear at the top of your list — but you have nothing to fear.

However, there are many gorgeous Mazatlan beaches, and in fact, it’s one of the 30 Best Mexican Beach Towns .

Despite the reputation of the state of Sinaloa, where Mazatlan is located, you’ll encounter a safe haven in this city.

If in doubt, stay within the Zona Dorada, or Golden Zone. This is one of the main tourist areas in town.

The Golden Zone is home to some of the best hotels in Mazatlan , as well as great restaurants with live entertainment.

When you arrive in the coastal city of Mazatlan, you’ll meet friendly locals and street vendors who defy Mexican stereotypes .

Mazatlan is unique as far as Mexico beach cities go because you can still experience Mexican culture and Mexico’s uniqueness — whereas some beaches just feel touristy.

Although somewhat off the beaten path for Mexico travel, there are many amazing things to do in Mazatlan.

Start off by exploring Plaza Machado to soak in the historic colonial architecture and beautiful city views. It is located not far from the Golden Zone and Downtown.

During the evening, head to the Mazatlan Malecon (Boardwalk) that overlooks the Pacific Ocean, and take in the sunset.

Thrill-seekers will enjoy everything from zip lining in Mazatlan to doing an ATV tour in the Sierra Madre mountains, and even snorkeling on Deer Island .

Though many might shy away from it because it is in Sinaloa state, Mazatlan is one of the safest cities in Mexico to visit, with beautiful beaches and a unique feel.

✈️ Ready to book your Mazatlan trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for Mazatlan, to one of the safest vacation places in Mexico:

• Book the Best Mazatlan Hotels here
• Find the Best Mazatlan Tours here

14. Ensenada

Ensenada, in the state of Baja California, is well known for its beautiful beaches, cruise port, and as the birthplace of Mexico’s beloved fish tacos .

Located less than two hours by car from the U.S. border, many head down to Ensenada from California for a weekend getaway in this Mexico beach town.

Besides Tijuana and Rosarito, it is one of the closest cities in Mexico to get to from the U.S., and one of the safest towns in Mexico.

As Ensenada has remained immune to cartel and drug activity, and is considered safe, remain aware of your surroundings and take standard travel precautions.

If you plan on driving into Mexico from the U.S. when you visit Ensenada, check out the linked article for all the info you need.

The landscape in Ensenada is perfect for wineries, and you’ll be spoiled for choice trying the local wines from nearby Valle de Guadalupe .

This area is known as the “Napa Valley of Mexico.” Besides wine tasting , one of the best things to do in Ensenada is see La Bufadora .

La Bufadora translates to “the blowhole,” and this just so happens to be one of the world’s largest blowholes.

The seafood here is among the freshest you’ll find, so don’t miss the local markets to buy some.

In addition to Baja fish tacos , try some smoked clams — and since you’re in Mexico, wash them down with authentic tequila.

Ensenada is also one of the best places for whale watching in Mexico. This is a treat for visitors who come during the December to May migration season.

Though known as one of the best Mexico beaches , there’s also beautiful nature on land, with lots of nature walks and hikes.

✈️ Ready to book your Ensenada trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for where to stay and what to do in Ensenada, Mexico:

• Book the Best Ensenada Hotels here
• Find the Best Ensenada Tours here

15. Bacalar Lake

Laguna Bacalar is often mistaken as a Mexico beach — it even has some of the best overwater bungalows in Mexico — though it is, in fact, a lake.

Located in Quintana Roo state, the Bacalar pueblo magico (magic town) is home to the second largest freshwater lake in Mexico, Laguna Bacalar Lagoon.

Gorgeous Lake Bacalar is a Mexico hidden gem located in the Yucatan Peninsula about three hours south of Tulum, and five hours south of Cancun.

In recent years, Bacalar has gained popularity thanks to Instagram, TikTok, YouTube and social media, with influencers flocking to swim in its bright blue waters.

Nicknamed the Maldives of Mexico, the Mayans native to this part of Mexico refer to Bacalar as the Lagoon of Seven Colors.

They say you can see seven shades of blues in the lake. ♻️ Note: Please practice responsible tourism in Mexico and only use reef-safe sunscreen to help keep it blue.

While the lake is the main star in town, Downtown Bacalar is also worth checking out for a bit. There’s historic forts, once used to fend off pirates, and great restaurants.

As one of the best small cities in Mexico, you can rest assured you’ll be safe in Bacalar — both day and night.

It has a true small town feel, where everybody knows everybody, and visitors are welcomed.

The locals are incredibly friendly, and since most operate their own small businesses, hospitality is the name of the game.

For now, there are no big name corporate hotels or chain restaurants in Bacalar, only small businesses. You won’t find the typical tourist T-shirt shops either.

As it’s a bit remote in one of the southernmost parts of Mexico, and takes a few hours to get to, many (sadly) don’t make it down to Bacalar.

I’ve been twice, so I can assure you that Bacalar Lagoon Mexico is both safe and worth visiting.

✈️ Ready to book your Bacalar trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Bacalar, Mexico:

• Book the Best Bacalar Hotels here
• Find the Best Bacalar Tours here
• For more info, check out Cancun to Bacalar: Best Ways to Get to Bacalar Mexico

16. Puerto Escondido

Puerto Escondido is a fishing village turned beach destination on the Pacific coast of Mexico. It is south of Acapulco, and north of Huatulco in Oaxaca State .

Thanks to “Mexican Pipeline,” a famous surf break that draws surfers from around the world, this is a top Mexico surfing destination.

However, natural attractions, tropical beauty and culture, there’s more beyond the beaches in Puerto Escondido — one of the best vacation cities in Mexico!

Though, you’ll of course want to spend some time on the best beaches in Puerto Escondido Mexico — Playa Carrizalillo (great for surfing), Playa Zicatela, Playa Bacocho, Puerto Angelito and Playa Marinero.

It is also a popular Mexico digital nomad destination for those who want to live and surf remotely .

While known as a Mexico surf town, many of the top things to do in Puerto Escondido don’t include surfing.

There’s also seeing the bioluminescence at Manialtepec Lagoon, participating in the baby sea turtle release programs, and trying authentic Oaxaca food at the fantastic Puerto Escondido restaurants.

I’ve lived in and traveled to Puerto Escondido solo for more than a decade, and have always felt very safe.

In fact, many solo female travelers in Mexico find Puerto Escondido to be safe for both travel and living.

While safe, use common sense travel safety precautions like not swimming alone or on beaches with red flags (meaning a strong current).

You can’t swim at all at Playa Zicatela, which has giant waves like the famous Mexican Pipeline.

Also, stay off the streets late at night, don’t drink the water , and use eco-friendly insect repellent to avoid illness from bites.

✈️ Ready to book your Puerto Escondido trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Puerto Escondido, Mexico:

• Book the Best Puerto Escondido Hotels here
• Find the Best Puerto Escondido Tours here
• For more info, check out Oaxaca to Puerto Escondido: 5 Best Transport Options

17. Isla Mujeres Island

Just 15-20 minutes from the coast of Cancun, and located in the Caribbean Sea, sits the lovely island of Isla Mujeres.

With a small population of friendly, laid-back locals, it just may be the safest place to go in Mexico’s Caribbean.

Isla Mujeres translates to “Island of Women,” as it was a Mayan pilgrimage site where women went to worship Ixchel.

Nowadays, visitors flock to this Mexican Caribbean island because it’s one of the best beach cities Mexico has to offer.

As about 12,000 people live there, you have plenty of restaurants, bars, services and more — and once the daytime crowds leave back to Cancun, you also get tranquility!

Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for luxury accommodations, there are great Isla Mujeres resorts and hotels , hostels and guest houses for backpackers doing budget travel in Mexico.

The island itself is only four miles long (6.5 km) and 0.5 miles wide (1 km).

The easiest way to get around is by golf cart, scooter or bicycle. However, the main parts of the island are walkable and there are taxis and a public bus.

Even late at night, activity is thriving, and walking to and from local restaurants and bars is safe and easy.

There are so many great things to do in Isla Mujeres, like snorkeling , fishing, shopping, exploring Mayan temples, or just relaxing at the beaches.

From about May to September, you can take a tour to swim with the whale sharks in Isla Mujeres. 🐋 Check out this video of my Mexico whale shark swim.

Whale sharks are the largest fish in the sea, and this activity can only be done in a few parts of the world.

When visiting, don’t pass up the chance to explore the Ruins of Ixchel . Ixchel was the Mayan goddess of the moon, childbirth and fertility, and the ruins’ namesake.

This is the Mayan archeological site on Isla Mujers at Punta Sur EcoPark, located on the southern tip of the island.

✈️ Ready to book your Isla Mujeres trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Isla Mujeres, Mexico:

• Book the Best Isla Mujeres Hotels here
• Find the Best Isla Mujeres Tours here
• For more info, check out Whale Sharks Isla Mujeres: Best Whale Shark Tour

Loreto is a pretty town on the west coast in Baja California Sur state.

It is located right on the Sea of Cortez, and has been designated as one of the Mexico pueblos magicos (magic towns), for its charm and historical importance.

The best time of the year to visit Loreto is in winter, because you’ll be able to see the blue whales that migrate to Loreto Bay from about December to March.

Among all the Loreto whale watching tours you can take, the blue whale tour was the highlight of my trip.

In fact, not only did we see gigantic whales multiple times, but our boat was surrounded by a pod of about 100 dolphins flipping and jumping around us. 🐬 It was a magical experience.

Besides whale watching in Loreto, there’s more things to see in Loreto, Mexico.

You can walk around town and enjoy the colonial feel, hike to La Giganta and go scuba diving.

Don’t miss the historic San Javier Mission and the Museo de las Misiones de Baja California (Baja California Missions Museum), and other top Loreto sites.

As Loreto, Mexico is one of the safest places to live in Mexico, you’ll find a large community of both expats and locals who live in harmony.

It is obvious everyone does their part to maintain safety, and that they strive to keep the town clean and safe.

When I visited, I felt safe while walking around and traveling on my own, and it’s definitely one of the best cities in Mexico for solo travel .

In fact, I liked it so much that I’ve traveled to Loreto twice, and the second time I stayed for one full week to enjoy all these best things to do in Loreto .

✈️ Ready to book your Loreto trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Loreto, Mexico:

• Book the Best Loreto Hotels here
• Find the Best Loreto Tours here
• For more info, check out Renting a Car in Loreto: What You Need to Know

Akumal is located about 30 minutes north of the popular town of Tulum , and about two hours south of Cancun .

Here’s a comprehensive guide on Cancun to Akumal travel showcasing the Best Ways to Get to Akumal Mexico .

It is much more up-and-coming than places like Tulum and Cancun, and has a charming pueblo (small town) feel.

One of the safest small towns in Mexico, you’ll feel secure walking around here, day and night.

A must see attraction is to swim with the turtles in Akumal Bay .

For many Yucatan Peninsula visitors in the Mexico beach town of Akumal, this is what they visit Akumal for.

In recent years, Akumal residents have had to limit the number of visitors to protect the rare sea turtles and the marine life of the area, so now you must book a tour to go.

🐢 Note: I have done the turtle swim, and it was amazing!

Besides the turtles, one of the best things to do in Akumal is visit nearby Yal Ku Lagoon .

This is a protected lagoon where freshwater meets the saltwater of the Caribbean Sea, and the snorkeling is incredible.

The Akumal hotels and resorts , known as some of the safest all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, are in a gated area patrolled by security.

Akumal is a small town, and when combined with this added security measure, you get some of the safest beach resorts in Mexico on your Akumal vacation .

The entire area around Akumal Beach is a pleasant place to shop, dine and sightsee.

It’s easy and safe to ride bicycles or walk the road along the sand to get to different Akumal beaches. In fact, it’s just easy to have a safe trip to Akumal Mexico.

✈️ Ready to book your Akumal trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Akumal, Mexico:

• Book the Best Akumal Hotels here
• Find the Best Akumal Tours here
• For more info, check out Is Akumal Safe to Travel to Right Now?

20. Oaxaca de Juarez (Oaxaca City)

Oaxaca City , the capital of Oaxaca state, is a must-visit in Mexico and all North America.

The vibrant and bustling city is known for its Spanish colonial churches and architecture, lush mountains, mezcal production, and one of the best Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico .

Besides all that, there are many things to do in Oaxaca and sites to see.

In Centro Historico (City Center), don’t miss the Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzman, Oaxaca Botanical Garden, Oaxaca Cathedral in the Zocalo (Main Square), and the boutique shops, like Rocinante and Juana La Vintage.

Head just outside of Centro Historico to Monte Alban Ruins , a Oaxaca UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see some of the best ruins in Oaxaca .

Hierve el Agua , a petrified waterfall, is among the most beautiful places in Oaxaca State.

This, and the Oaxaca pueblo magico (magic town) of Milta , are two of the best Oaxaca day trips for those renting a car in Oaxaca .

😋 Must Try: Traditional Oaxaca Foods

One added bonus for visitors is the amazing food in Oaxaca . In fact, this city is considered the Foodie Capital of Mexico!

Don’t miss Oaxaca’s delicious moles (pronounced moe-lays), memelas , tamales oaxaqueños (Oaxacan tamales), quesillo (queso Oaxaca cheese), tejate, and more.

There are numerous markets in Oaxaca to visit, but don’t miss Mercado Benito Juarez and Mercado 20 de Noviembre.

Here, you can try all the quintessential Oaxacan foods and drinks, like mole (pronounced moe-lay), tlayuda (tuh-lie-you-dah) and tejate (tay-ha-tay).

In the main Oaxaca mercado, Central de Abastos, you can try the famous memelas made by Doña Vale .

These are very well-known, and have been seen on the Oaxaca episode of the Netflix shows, Street Food: Latin America and Somebody Feed Phil.

✈️ Ready to book your Oaxaca trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Oaxaca, Mexico:

• Book the Best Oaxaca Hotels here
• Find the Best Oaxaca Tours here
• For more info, check out Is Oaxaca Safe to Travel to Right Now?

21. Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is one of the best Mexico travel destinations and best resort towns in Mexico.

Not only are there so many things to do in Cabo San Lucas , but it’s easy to get there (you’ll fly into Los Cabos Airport) — and also one of the safest places to visit in Mexico.

Whether you’re going with a group, a partner, or doing solo travel in Cabo , it’s easy to spend a week or a weekend in Cabo.

A year-round destination, Cabo sees an astounding 300 days of sunshine annually*, so there’s no official best time to visit Cabo, because it has sunny days all year.

*Some sources say Cabo has 350 days of sunshine ☀️ Regardless of the actual number, know that a trip to Cabo means sun and fun.

At the end of the day, Cabo San Lucas and Los Cabos Mexico are so popular because they have a lot to offer visitors.

Whether you want to snorkel, do a Cabo boat cruise, go fishing in Cabo , ride ATVs in the desert, play golf in Cabo , or just relax on the beach and eat some fresh fish tacos .

✈️ Ready to book your Cabo San Lucas trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico:

• Book the Best Cabo San Lucas Hotels here
• Find the Best Cabo San Lucas Tours here
• For more info, check out Is Cabo San Lucas Safe? Top Cabo Travel Safety Tips

22. Playa del Carmen

Wondering, Where are the safest places in Mexico to live?

For the throngs of Mexico digital nomads and Mexico expats who live there, many would add Playa del Carmen to the top of that list.

In recent years, Playa (as the locals call it) has become a hot spot for remote workers and retirees thanks to its great infrastructure, fast WiFi, and relatively low cost of living.

If you want to network with other digital nomads in Playa del Carmen, this Facebook group is where you can get updated info on what it’s like to live in Playa del Carmen Mexico.

For those unfamiliar, Playa is located about one hour south of Cancun, within Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula.

It’s easy to get from Cancun to Playa del Carmen , and very cheap if you take the ADO bus. There’s no airport in Playa, so you’ll have to fly into Cancun Airport.

✈️ Ready to book your Playa del Carmen trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Playa del Carmen, Mexico:

• Book the Best Playa del Carmen Hotels here
• Find the Best Playa del Carmen Tours here
• For more info, check out Is Playa del Carmen Safe for Tourists?

23. Riviera Maya

Wondering, What’s the safest place in Mexico to vacation with family?

The Riviera Maya is certainly a strong contender for the title, thanks to the family-friendly all-inclusive resorts and countless things to do.

The Riviera Maya is a long stretch of Caribbean coastline on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, located in-between Playa del Carmen and Tulum .

It’s not a city per se, but it is one of the safest Mexico vacation destinations.

You won’t find many Mexico travel guides that don’t describe this area as one of the nicest places in Mexico for a relaxing vacation on the beach.

This relaxing area is centrally-located, so you’re near A LOT of sites. When you arrive you’ll soon see why Riviera Maya is one of the best beach towns Mexico has.

It is home to many of the best resorts in Yucatan — and in fact, many visitors don’t even leave their resorts because they’re so beautiful.

A standout is the Grand Velas Riviera Maya All Inclusive , a 5 Diamond Mexico hotel that’s known as the safest resort in Mexico.

✈️ Ready to book your Riviera Maya trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Riviera Maya, Mexico:

• Book the Best Riviera Maya Hotels here
• Find the Best Riviera Maya Tours here
• For more info, check out Renting a Car in Riviera Maya: What You Need to Know

24. San Cristobal de las Casas

San Cristóbal de las Casas (often just called San Cristóbal) is a beautiful colonial city and pueblo magico in Chiapas State .

It has amazing architecture, culture, stunning nature, and a history where Spanish conquistadors meet indigenous communities.

It is located in southeastern Mexico, right next to Oaxaca State — two Mexican states known to provide a true cultural experience in one of the safest areas of Mexico.

Chiapas is the epicenter of the Zapatista movement and surrounded by indigenous communities that culturally-minded travelers will want to check out.

These include San Juan Chamula and Zinacantan, who’s artisans who regularly travel to San Cristobal to sell their handicrafts at the markets.

In decades past, Chiapas had a reputation of being an unsafe region in Mexico.

However, as is often the case with reputations, they are based on a few events only and do not represent the whole story.

For those who have visited, Chiapas State has some of the nicest cities in Mexico.

As with anywhere in the world, you’ll want to avoid traveling in Chiapas at night and follow general travel safety measures.

However, as a solo female traveler in Mexico , I never felt unsafe in San Cristobal or anywhere in Chiapas. 

Some of the best things to do in San Cristobal de las Casas include exploring the local markets, joining the free walking tour, and admiring the colonial architecture in downtown.

There’s some beautiful nature surrounding the city, like Canyon del Sumidero , and one of the best Mayan ruins in Mexico, Palenque , about four hours away.

The Templo de San Juan in the pueblo of San Juan de Chamula is one of the most fascinating examples indigenous religion blended with Catholicism.

This unique place truly is a must see San Cristobal experience, and has a fascinating religious ceremony that visitors come from all over the country (and the world) to see.

✈️ Ready to book your San Cristobal de las Casas trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to San Cristobal, Mexico:

• Book the Best San Cristobal de las Casas Hotels here
• Find the Best San Cristobal de las Casas Tours here

25. Valladolid

Wondering, Where is the cheapest and safest place to live in Mexico? If you like small towns, Valladolid is a great contender

As one of the least inexpensive of all safe cities in Mexico, petty crime and criminal activity are virtually nonexistent in this safe city.

The charming Valladolid pueblo magico (magic town) , one of the prettiest colonial cities in Mexico, is located in Yucatan State in the Yucatan Peninsula.

It is about two hours from Merida, Mexico, by rental car or bus, and makes for one of the best day trips from Merida .

When visiting, you’ll notice the Old World meets New World feel in Valladolid which has made the town a Mexico must see destination in the Yucatan Peninsula.

As you walk around the city, you’ll fall in love with the colonial style buildings, haciendas that are now home to funky cafes, open air restaurants, and boutique shops offering one-of-a-kind pieces.

Downtown Valladolid boasts numerous things to see, whether you’re a lover of art, history, nature and food.

In fact, you’ll find all the best local mercados (markets) are here, and the best Valladolid restaurants, like La Casona de Valladolid.

One of the safest places to drive in Mexico, you’ll love road trippin’ around the area just as much as staying in town.

Among the best things to see in Valladolid and best things to do near Valladolid, don’t miss these:

✅ Chichen Itza Ruins : One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, these famous Mayan Ruins are located about 30 minutes from Valladolid.

✅ Valladolid Cenotes : Some of the best cenotes in Yucatan are in or near Valladolid, like Cenote Zaci, just a 10 minute walk from downtown, and Cenote Ik Kil , about 10 minutes by car from Chichen Itza .

✅ Calzada de los Frailes : Considered the most beautiful street in Valladolid, the Calle de los Frailes is a great place for photos, shopping and a casual bite to eat.

✅ Casa de los Venados : This private home showcases the country’s largest collection of Mexican folk art, including handcrafted pottery, paintings, colorful textiles and even artistic pieces of furniture.

✈️ Ready to book your Valladolid trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Valladolid, Mexico:

• Book the Best Valladolid Hotels here
• Find the Best Valladolid Tours here
• For more info, check out Valladolid Mexico: Ultimate Travel Guide for First Timers

26. Monterrey

Wondering, What part of Mexico is safe in the north part of the country?

While there are more places than you might think, one of the obvious answers is Monterrey.

Though big cities in Mexico that border the U.S. in Northern Mexico have a reputation for being unsafe, Monterrey proves otherwise.

If you’re thinking, Is Monterrey Mexico safe? — for the majority of visitors, yes, it is.

It is located in the northern Mexico state of Nuevo Leon, less than three hours by car from the Texas-Mexico border.

🚙 Driving to Mexico? Check out the linked guide for more info.

Monterrey is one of the largest cities in Mexico, but it is also surrounded by breathtaking mountain ranges and natural parks.

Because of this, Monterrey offers a nice blend of big city amenities and tranquil natural areas.

Although not on the traditional Mexico tourism radar for international travelers, Monterrey is popular with national tourism.

It’s a wonderful city to visit for the best of both worlds — beautiful nature and modern infrastructure.

There are so many great things to do in Monterrey , and most of them involve being out in nature.

In fact, one of the most-visited places in Monterrey is Parque Ecologico Chipinque .

The stunning viewpoint from this park overlooks the entire city, and if you’re lucky, you’ll even see black bears, coati, and many different bird species while up there.

There are also beautiful limestone mountains to see in the Parque La Huasteca , which many go to for biking, hiking, and even rappelling.

Also in this park, don’t miss the Grutas de Garcia , a cave with unique stalagmite and stalactite rock formations, which you have to access by cable car.

✈️ Ready to book your Monterrey trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the safest Mexican cities in North Mexico:

• Book the Best Monterrey Hotels here
• Find the Best Monterrey Tours here

27. Santiago de Queretaro (Queretaro City)

Santiago de Queretaro (usually just called Queretaro) is one of my favorite cities in Mexico.

Though you might not have heard of it, Queretaro is brimming with art and history museums, beautiful colonial buildings and an eclectic culinary scene.

It is also one of the Mexico UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the 22nd largest city in the country. As with any big city, there are unsafe areas in Queretaro, for sure.

However, if you stick to Centro Historico (Historic Downtown area), which is the most charming part of town anyway and don’t walk alone at night — Queretaro is one of the safest places to travel in Mexico.

One of the best things to do in Queretaro is join a city tour on a historic bus.

On these tours, a knowledgeable guide will tell you all the incredible stories and legends about the city and show you the highlights of Queretaro .

Queretaro City is the capital of Queretaro State, and though it’s the main draw, there’s more to see.

There are also great Queretaro day trips to explore the nearby pueblos magicos (magic towns) of Tequisquiapan and Bernal .

If you have time, explore the spectacular Sierra Gorda , a region renowned for its incredible biodiversity.

There are also the five Franciscan Missions of the Sierra Gorda, one of the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Queretaro State .

For me, Queretaro has been one of the safest states in Mexico to visit.

✈️ Ready to book your Queretaro trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Queretaro, Mexico:

• Book the Best Queretaro Hotels here
• Find the Best Queretaro Tours here

With swaying palm trees leaning over white-sand beaches and azure seas lapping the shore, Tulum is a bohemian beach paradise.

Located on the Caribbean Sea in Quintana Roo state, Tulum is one of the safest beach destinations in Mexico, and a must visit Yucatan pueblo magico (magic town).

Once little more than a small fishing village, in the last decade, Tulum has become one of the most popular cities in Mexico.

This is because Tulum has a lot to offer its visitors, and there are a ton of amazing things to do in Tulum .

There’s everything from oceanfront Tulum beach houses and eco chic Tulum glamping to Tulum treehouse hotels — and restaurant options ranging from Thai to Turkish to tacos , and even fine dining at places like Arca .

🤔 Is Tulum Worth Visiting?

As one of the top places to visit in Mexico , Tulum is worth checking out for those who like fun, food and sun.

It is also considered among the best party cities in Mexico, so the bars are just as impressive as the restaurants.

As you might imagine, there are A LOT of great things to do in Tulum at night .

During the day, even the Tulum beach clubs have a lively atmosphere, with endless cocktails, top quality service, and amazing esthetic designs.

If lazing on the beach gets too hedonistic for you, visit the Tulum Ruins , one of the most spectacular Mayan Ruins in Mexico .

As the last Mayan city to be built, these ancient ruins offer an unmissable experience in Mexico, and will give you a chance to get a glimpse into authentic Mayan culture .

🪅 Tulum Off the Beaten Path

While the beach is the main draw, Tulum visitors will also want to check out the Tulum cenotes , and Tulum Town neighborhood (AKA Downtown Tulum or Tulum Pueblo).

Though it’s not the Tulum you’ve seen on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube, downtown comes alive in the evenings.

Here, you have amazing street food taco shops and awesome bars with live music, like Batey Bar. This fun bar is home to the best mojitos in Tulum!

While Tulum has certainly grown with an influx of tourists eager to enjoy the beautiful beaches, this has also made it one of the safest places to visit in Mexico.

There’s a relaxed, non-threatening vibe and a friendly, busy atmosphere at night, so you never feel alone or secluded — even if you’re doing Tulum solo travel .

With the Tulum Airport now open, it’s easier than ever to visit.

✈️ Ready to book your Tulum trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides for traveling to Tulum, Mexico:

• Book the Best Tulum Hotels here
• Find the Best Tulum Tours here
• For more info, check out Is Tulum Safe? The Ultimate Guide to Tulum Travel Safety

29. San Jose del Cabo

San José del Cabo is a fantastic little beach town in Mexico, perfect for those who appreciate culture, art and art galleries, sightseeing and of course, beaches.

There are plenty of things to do in San Jose del Cabo, and this little town should be high on your Mexico bucket list.

San Jose, as it’s known by the locals, is easy to get to because the Los Cabo International Airport (code: SJD) is right in town.

You can easily rent a car in Cabo Airport and explore the whole area.

Though it’s overshadowed by nearby Cabo San Lucas, the most famous of all Los Cabos in Mexico — the amazing  San Jose del Cabo resorts and the town itself have a completely different vibe.

While Cabo San Lucas is more popular, many of the best resorts in Los Cabo are closer to San Jose del Cabo.

These include two of the best Mexico resorts, Grand Velas los Cabos All Inclusive and Las Ventanas al Paraiso .

✈️ Ready to book your San Jose del Cabo trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the best coastal cities in Mexico:

• Book the Best San Jose del Cabo Hotels here
• Find the Best San Jose del Cabo Tours here
• For more info, check out Renting a Car in San Jose del Cabo: What You Need to Know

30. Punta Mita

Punta Mita is an exclusive area with posh resorts in an area called the Riviera Nayarit.

Located in Nayarit state, one of the Mexico Pacific States, what also makes Punta Mita popular is that it’s only about one hour from Puerto Vallarta .

While there are budget options, Punta Mita is all about luxury stays — so this is not really the place for Mexico budget travelers.

If this sounds like your kind of place, pack your bathing suit because Riviera Nayarit has many great beaches that feel private and exclusive.

The Riviera Nayarit beaches have something for everyone — whale watching in winter, calm beaches for swimming and great beaches for surfing.

With everything from inexpensive hostels to some of the best 5 Star resorts in Mexico, like Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit , and places in-between like the Marival Armony Luxury Resort , there’s a place for everyone.

When looking for the best luxury resort in Mexico, look no further than the Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit , one of the AAA 5 Diamond resorts in Mexico.

Besides Grand Velas, there’s also the Four Seasons Punta Mita and St. Regis Punta Mita Resort .

✈️ Ready to book your Punta Mita trip?

Here are some helpful tips and guides to one of the safest resort cities in Mexico:

• Book the Best Punta Mita Hotels here
• Find the Best Punta Mita Tours here
• For more info, check out 25 Best Resort Towns in Mexico

Safest Cities in Mexico Map

Need a visual of all the safest places in Mexico? I got you!

The Mexico Map above shows you where all the safest cities to visit in Mexico are located.

Each city on it is featured in this article, and comes recommended by past visitors who have taken the time to vouch for the safety of that travel destination.

If you’re seeking out the safest cities in the country, these are them!

Safest Cities in Mexico FAQ Guide

What is the safest city in Mexico?

Merida is regarded as the safest Mexico city, and has been for some time.

It has low crime rates in all categories, including robberies, burglaries, vandalism, theft, assault, and drug-related crimes.

safest cities in mexico

Which state in mexico has the lowest crime rate.

Yucatan State and Campeche State — According to U.S. State Department statistics, both Campeche and Yucatan State have the lowest levels of crime.

These states are located next to one another in the Yucatan Peninsula. They’re both considered a Level 1 Zone , and neither have any travel advisories.

What is the safest part of Mexico for tourists?

Yucatan Peninsula — According to the U.S. State Department , much of the Yucatan is a Level 1 Zone with no travel warnings.

In a Level 1 Travel Zone, travelers need only exercise “normal precautions” while visiting this popular region of Mexico.

For some time now, Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula has been considered the safest area in Mexico.

BONUS: It also has some of the best cities in Mexico for travelers, like Merida, Tulum, Valladolid, Cancun, Isla Holbox, Laguna Bacalar, Playa del Carmen, Akumal, Puerto Morelos, and more.

What city in Mexico has the least crime?

Merida — Given the Merida population of about 1 million, it has the lowest crime rates in Mexico per capita of any major city in the country.

What is the safest place to vacation in Mexico?

Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is always a great option.

This part of the country has some of the safest resort towns in Mexico , and so many great things to do.

Are Mexico all-inclusive resorts safer than hotels?

Not necessarily, but many people believe them to be so.

For this reason, you might hear people advise that you “don’t leave your resort in Mexico,” but that would be a shame.

However, if you’re following general travel safety guidelines, you should be just as safe on-resort as off-resort.

These include not walking alone at night, leaving your valuables at home, and staying aware of your surroundings.

There’s also Mexico resort safety considerations you should make to ensure safety.

These include leaving your valuables in the room safe, using good sunscreen , and not drinking too much if your resort has an open bar.

With so many amazing things to do in Mexico , I think it would be a shame to visit Mexico and not leave your resort.

However, you do need to make your own safety your highest priority.

What city in Mexico do most Americans retire to?

Some of the best places in Mexico for retirees include San Miguel de Allende , Puerto Vallarta, Merida , Puebla City and Ajijic on Lake Chapala.

The small town of Ajijic (pronounced ah-he-heek) might not be on everyone’s radar, but it is a great option.

The town sits on Lake Chapala in Jalisco State , and has peaceful vibes. The largest lake in Mexico, Chapala covers an area of 417 square miles (1,080 square km).

Where do most Americans live in Mexico?

There are a few places that are popular for American expats in Mexico, including Ajijic, Los Cabos, Puerto Vallarta, Merida, Playa del Carmen, San Miguel de Allende, and some parts of Mexico City.

What are the 3 safest neighborhoods in Mexico City?

The best neighborhoods in Mexico City for expats are located in the central areas of town, like Roma (including Roma Norte and Roma Sur), La Condesa and Polanco .

Of course, that list is not exhaustive. There are several more safe neighborhoods in Mexico City though.

These include Centro Historico, Coyoacan, Del Valle, Escandon, Reforma, Santa Maria la Ribera, and Zona Rosa, which is the best LGBTQ+ neighborhood in CDMX.

⚠️ Wondering about the unsafe parts of Mexico City?

These include Tepito (located on the border with Centro Historico) and Doctores (located on the border with Roma Norte).

What is the safest city in Mexico for Americans?

Merida — Known as the safest city in Mexico for both locals and visitors, Merida makes a great Mexico travel destination because of its low levels of crime.

Is Mexico safe to travel to right now?

For the vast majority of travelers, yes , it is perfectly safe to visit Mexico.

Of course, you will want to use the same “travel common sense” as you would anywhere else.

While many want a definitive yes/no answer to the question Is Mexico safe for travelers? , there just isn’t one.

That’s because this is a complex question, and the answer is really yes and no .

Yes, Mexico is safe for nearly all travelers; but no, it’s not always safe if you don’t make personal safety your top priority.

As one of the most visited countries in the world, most travelers are safe in Mexico, but you do need to follow common travel safety measures.

In truth, there’s no guarantee of safety anywhere on Earth, but this quote from Carlos Barron, a 25-year FBI veteran, offers some perspective.

Pay extra attention to the phrase: “the numbers game.”

Millions of Americans go to Mexico on vacation every year, so if we play the numbers game, the number of incidents is very small … —Carlos Barron (via Forbes )

There’s no denying bad things happen in Mexico; however, they are isolated incidents .

Though bad things happen every minute of everyday in the U.S. and most European countries, they are written off isolated incidents.

Most people would call it insane to label the entire country as unsafe because of an isolated incident — but this is often done with Mexico 🤷‍♀️ Why?

🤯 Mexico Saw 66 Million Visitors in 2022

Contrary to often-sensationalized media reports, Mexico gets a bad rap.

However, it’s not totally undeserved, as there are both safe parts of Mexico and unsafe parts of Mexico.

However, American and international travelers still flock to Mexico en masse.

In fact, Mexico is the 7th most visited country in the world, and according to Statista , Mexico was the top travel destination for international travelers in 2021.

So if Mexico was totally unsafe, as many claim, Wouldn’t people just stop going?

As you can see on SECTUR , the Mexican Secretary of Tourism’s site, they most certainly haven’t stopped going.

According to SECTUR, Mexico welcomed an astounding 66 million visitors in 2022 — up 19.3% from 2021.

With such a sinister reputation, and so many people convinced all of Mexico is unsafe for travel, it seems people would want to avoid Mexico at all costs.

However, the numbers show that the exact opposite is true, and that tourists love Mexico now more than ever.

🇲🇽 large numbers of americans are moving to mexico too

It’s not just international tourists who love Mexico that have contributed to the high number of visitors. American expats are also relocating to Mexico in droves .

According to statistics from Mexico’s Migration Policy Unit, the number of Americans who applied for or renewed residency visas in Mexico surged by an astounding 70% between 2019-2022.

What parts of Mexico are safe?

There are many safe places in Mexico, but the State of   Yucatán  has the lowest crime rate according to the U.S. State Department and  Mexico Peace Index .

Yucatan State is famous for  Chichen Itza , one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, and the most famous of all Mexico archaeological sites .

There are also other fascinating historical sites, like Uxmal , Ek-Balam, and Mayapan.

Visitors can enjoy these best beaches in Yucatan on the Gulf of Mexico, like Puerto Progreso, and these stunning Yucatan cenotes (natural jungle pools).

No matter where you’re headed in Yucatan, you can enjoy the region without worry.

🇲🇽 Some Additional Safe Parts of Mexico

• Baja California Sur:  This southern part of the Baja Peninsula includes Los Cabos, La Paz, Loreto, and Todos Santos. It is known for laid-back vibes, desert landscapes, and whale-watching in winters.
• Mexico’s Pacific Coast:  Home to a rugged coastline, friendly locals, and delicious seafood, this area includes Puerto Vallarta, Huatulco and Sayulita.
• Mexico’s Central Highlands and Colonial cities:  Rich in history and brimming with colorful colonial architecture, you have San Miguel de Allende, Oaxaca City and Guadalajara.

What are the safest states in Mexico?

The safest Mexico states are Yucatan State and Campeche State , both located in the Yucatan Peninsula.

What are the most dangerous cities in Mexico to avoid?

These include some areas in the states of Colima , Sinaloa , Michoacan , Tamaulipas and Guerrero — though not all parts of each state are dangerous.

The states just mentioned are known to have high levels of drug-related violence, kidnappings and robberies.

If this is your first trip to Mexico, you may want to opt for one of these places to visit in Mexico that are known for safety.

The (sad) reality with travel safety in Mexico is this: There are two Mexicos. As a general rule though, Mexico tourist cities are safe to visit.

One Mexico is a welcoming country with friendly people, world-class beaches , tacos so good you’ll cry, rich history, swimmable cenotes , amazing festivals like Day of the Dead .

The other Mexico is quite frankly, unsafe — and there are some dangerous parts of Mexico with high crime rates that travelers should avoid.

However, if you’re wondering What are dangerous places to avoid traveling in Mexico? , check the U.S. State Department site for any current Mexico travel warnings.

When I’m asked if Mexico is a safe place to go travel on vacation, my response is yes . —Carlos Barron, 25-year FBI veteran (via Forbes )

Just as you’d avoid the unsafe areas in your own city, state or country, so too should you avoid the non-safe places to travel in Mexico.

If you stick to the safe areas of Mexico, you’ll lessen the need for safety concerns.

As tourism is the #1 driving force in Mexico’s economy, the top Mexico travel destinations are safe for visitors.

The Mexican government is invested in keeping them this way, so visitors return year after year.

What are the safest cities in Mexico?

Some of the safest Mexico cities include Merida , Puebla City , Puerto Vallarta and Isla Mujeres .

However, there are MANY more. As a general rule, if you’ve heard of the city, it’s usually safe for visitors.

is it safe to travel to mexico right now?

For a guide on which places are safe at this exact moment, which places to avoid in Mexico, and the most dangerous cities in Mexico — consult the U.S. State Department site for all of the most current Mexico travel advisory info.

Their guide offers up-to-date information, Mexico travel warnings, safety alerts and advisories so it’s a good idea to have a look at their site before making travel plans.

However, keep in mind they evaluate state by state, not city by city, makes more sense for travelers since you’ll likely visit just one small area within a much larger state.

For example, Sinaloa is often considered one of the least safe states in Mexico.

However, the city of Mazatlan in Sinaloa is one of the most-visited and best beaches in Mexico .

This particular city is known as one of the safest places for tourists in Mexico, though it’s located in an “unsafe” state.

What are the safest border crossings in Mexico ?

When driving to Mexico , there are 48 U.S.-Mexico border crossings. The best one to use depends on where you’re coming from, and where you’re traveling to.

The two most-used are the San Ysidro Crossing  (California) and El Paso Crossing (Texas). These are considered the safest since they’re so heavily patrolled.

🚙 Coming from California

There are six border crossings in California. The most-used is the  San Ysidro Crossing  (El Chaparral), but there’s also  Otay Mesa Crossing not far away.

Otay Mesa often has shorter lines, but they’re both considered safe to use.

🚙 Coming from Texas

There are more than 20 locations when coming by car from Texas to Mexico, including the  El Paso Crossing , one of the busiest border crossings in the world.

• El Paso, Texas : Considered one of the safest and most efficient U.S. to Mexico border crossings, and though the lines can get long, they usually move fast.
• Laredo, Texas : This one is widely-used as well, but considered one of the safest crossings due thanks to heavy police presence.

🚙 Coming from Arizona

There are six border crossings in Arizona. The most-used is the Nogales Crossing , which is always well-patrolled by border officials.

When driving to Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point), use the Lukeville Crossing . Known as “Arizona’s Beach,” this Mexico beach town is the closest beach to Arizona.

5 Quick Safety Tips for Traveling to Mexico

Before we conclude, I wanted to offer some Mexico safety tips. As I have lived in Mexico since 2018, and traveled all over the country, these are the tips I use myself.

No matter where you’re staying in Mexico, please keep these safety precautions front of mind to do your part to protect yourself and your belongings:

• Use Travel Common Sense:  First and foremost, don’t take unnecessary risks. Second, trust your instincts and intuition; when someone or something seems sketchy, assume it is.
• Leave Your Valuable at Home: Don’t flaunt your wealth by wearing expensive jewelry and brand-name items, and don’t carry large amounts of cash. These things make you an obvious target for theft.
• If You Must Travel With Them — Keep Your Valuables Secure:  Store your passport, money, wedding ring, jewelry and other valuables in your hotel safe or another secure location. You don’t need jewelry to climb Mayan Ruins !
• Research Where You’re Going : Some areas of Mexico are more dangerous than others (like Guerrero, Tamaulipas and many U.S. border towns with high levels of organized crime), so know which areas you need to avoid.
• Stay Aware of Your Surroundings:  For your safety, be alert to what’s happening around you, and pay attention for potential dangers.

Final Thoughts: Safest Cities in Mexico to Visit

If you began reading this article wondering What cities are safe in Mexico? or, Is Mexico safe to visit? — hopefully you now see there are plenty of options for safe Mexico destinations, from coast to coast.

In fact, even trying to narrow down the safest part of Mexico, safest city to visit in Mexico, or safest city in Mexico to live in, is impossible because there are many of each.

There is a safe, popular destination in all specific areas of Mexico, as you can see on this map . Need some additional suggestions? Here they are:

• Valle de Guadalupe : The “Napa Valley of Mexico,” and one of the best places in Mexico for travelers who love foodies and wine.
• Mazunte : A popular destination for expats in Southern Mexico, and a gorgeous beach town on the Oaxaca coast.
• Ajijic : One of Mexico’s safest cities in Jalisco state, and located about an hour from Guadalajara
• Valle de Bravo : Widely considered the safest place in Mexico to travel in Estado de Mexico (Mexico State).
• Bucerias : This place consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Mexico for expats.
• Campeche City : In general, Campeche state is one of the safest states in Mexico, and it’s capital city is the best place to visit in it.
• Morelia : A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Morelia is the top destination in Michoacan state, and considered its safest place.

Given the negative perception of Mexico as a whole, I wanted to compile this article with the voices of other travelers who have personally been to the cities they wrote about.

Hopefully this will help clear up some of what I feel is unwarranted sentiment towards the amazing parts of the country.

Now, there are dangerous parts of Mexico and dangerous places in Mexico; but those are small parts of a big country.

I hope hearing stories from actual travelers helps paint a more real picture because I have found most people who say Mexico is dangerous — have never even been to Mexico 🤷‍♀️ Go figure!

Mexico Safety Tips: Register for the STEP Program

If you’re from the U.S., make sure you enroll in the FREE STEP Program  before your trip. (🇨🇦 Canadians can check out Registration of Canadians Abroad here for a similar program).

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, or STEP, allows U.S. citizens traveling to Mexico to document your trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

After you’ve registered, the U.S. Embassy or Consulate nearest you can contact you in the event of an emergency, including natural disasters, civil unrest, etc.

STEP can also put you in touch with your family and friends back home, in the event of an emergency while abroad.

They can also shed light on general Mexico travel safety tips, if you’re still in doubt.

Mexico Travel Planning Guide

Should i buy mexico travel insurance.

YES — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from Travel Insurance Master , one of the biggest names in travel insurance. ( Read more )

Can you drink the water in Mexico?

No — You’ll want to buy this Water-To-Go Bottle , which filters your drinking water so you don’t get sick from drinking water in Mexico.

Also, it helps keep you hydrated while traveling Mexico. ( Read more )

Is it safe to rent a car in Mexico?

Yes — Renting a car in Mexico is one of the best ways to see the country! I always rent with Discover Cars , which checks international companies and local Mexican companies, so you get the best rates. ( Read more )

Will my phone work in Mexico?

Maybe — It depends on your company, so check with your provider. If you don’t have free Mexico service, buy a Telcel SIM Card . As Mexico’s largest carrier, Telcel has the best coverage of any Mexico SIM Cards. ( Read more )

What’s the best way to book my Mexico accommodations?

For Mexico hotels, Booking.com is the best site , but for hostels, use Hostel World . If you’re considering a Mexico Airbnb, don’t forget to check VRBO , which is often cheaper than Airbnb.

What do I pack for Mexico?

Head to the Ultimate Mexico Packing List + FREE Checklist Download to get all the info you need on packing for Mexico.

What’s the best site to buy Mexico flights?

For finding cheap Mexico flights, I recommend using Skyscanner .

Do I need a visa for Mexico?

Likely Not — U.S., Canadian and European Passport holders don’t need a visa for Mexico; but check here to see if you need a Mexico travel visa. Most travelers will get a 180-Day FMM Tourist Visa passport stamp a upon arrival.

• English (EN)
• Español (ES)
• Português (BR)

Is Russia Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

On Feb. 24, 2022, Russia invaded its neighbor country Ukraine, starting a war between these two countries.

This act of invasion caused many Ukrainians to flee their country and seek shelter in places like Poland, Hungary, Slovakia, etc…

At this time, we recommend no travel to Russia or Ukraine, or any neighboring countries for your own safety.

• Russia : Safety by City
• Nizhny Novgorod
• Novosibirsk
• Saint Petersburg
• Yekaterinburg

Russia is the largest country in the world, spreading over more than one-eighth of the world’s inhabited land area, stretching over two continents – Eastern Europe and northern Asia.

Russia is an immensely large country, and it offers an extremely large amount of tourist attractions, though many of them can be found on the remote and hard-to-reach parts of the country.

However, the best-known ones are precisely in the urban parts and cities like Moscow and Saint Petersburg.

Talking about Russia’s landmarks and attractions itself would take a couple of hours.

Russia’s history attracts the most tourists, as they are fascinated by its surreal and sometimes brutal but nevertheless thrilling and jawdropping national story.

It is told in Russia’s numerous museums some of which are among the world’s greatest, for example, the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, which is truly known all around the world.

However, there’s plenty to see and do if you’re a nature lover too.

Though there are large spaces between them, Russia offers many natural wonders.

In this sense, Siberia is the first to be mentioned, with Lake Baikal like a perfect ornament, known as its “jewel”.

• Warnings & Dangers in Russia

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Generally speaking, Russia today is safe as much as other countries in Europe, despite its problematic history with criminal activity in the 90s. However, if you’re planning on traveling to Russia, keep in mind that you should avoid regions close to the Ukraine border, this is not recommended, because of the high level of risk and unstable situation in the region of Donetsk, Lugansk, and Kharkiv.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Generally speaking, transportation in Russia is safe, but you should bear in mind that kidnappings have been known to happen, mostly in unlicensed taxis, so be careful when hailing one on the streets. Keep in mind that the most dangerous areas where small crime tends to occur are the underground walkways, called “perekhods”. Only use official services like Yandex Taxi, Uber or Gett taxi.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

Pickpocketing is very common in Russia, and surprisingly it is mostly performed by groups of children. Pay attention to your belongings, don’t leave them in plain sight and be especially careful in crowded places like stations or near tourist attractions.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Russia isn’t particularly susceptible to natural disasters. Some blizzards are possible during winter which can cause affect the traffic and delay your flights. Also, in areas near Mongolia and Kazakhstan, earthquakes can happen sporadically.

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

Kidnappings for political reasons have happened in the North Caucasus, and there have been reports of foreigners being attacked there. Generally, never accept free drinks or food when you’re in a club or a bar. Drink spiking and then attacking and robbing the victim have been reported on numerous occasions.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

Recent military interventions in Syria have caused high terrorism activity in the areas of Chechnya, Dagestan, Ingushetia, North Ossetia, the south-east part of Stavropol bordering Chechnya, Gabardine-Balkaria (including the Mount Elbrus area), and Karachay-Cherkessia. Apart from that, terrorist attacks have recently taken place in St. Petersburg.

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

There is a world-known scam typical for Russia: scamming people through dating websites. When the victim gets to know a person from Russia via a dating website, and the relationship develops, the victim is asked by his/her (usually men are the victims here) partner to transfer some money to the country where the future partner lives, to make her/his trip to the victim’s country possible. After the money is transferred, the relationship ends. As for scams on the streets, you should avoid playing street gambling games.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Women are generally safe in Russia, though you should avoid finding yourself alone in clubs or bars, and of course, apply all normal precaution measures like avoiding remote and poorly lit streets and areas.

• So... How Safe Is Russia Really?

Russia experienced a rise when it came to crime rates during the 1990s.

Violent crime, as well as petty crime and scams,  have increased, but the biggest part of the violence was within the criminal groups themselves, and it didn’t affect foreigners that much.

However, it decreased since the 90s, so right now, for tourists, major cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg aren’t more dangerous than any other European city, they’re even less so.

The crime rate in Moscow, for example, is fairly lower than one in New York, London or Paris, so you should feel safe here.

When it comes to the authority officials, you should keep in mind that they usually don’t speak English, so don’t expect any English by them outside of the major cities.

Speaking about the officials, don’t ever try to bribe them: you will be charged with bribery.

Bear in mind that if you are a member of LGBT community, there is no reason to avoid Russia altogether but you should refrain from any public displays of affection since, as of June 2013, “homosexual propaganda to minors” is prohibited, which basically means that any discussion of gay rights or homosexuality issues in the presence minors is punishable by law.

Tourists are also strongly advised against traveling to the North Caucasus, as that region is considered to be the most dangerous in the entire country.

The area has a bad reputation as there have been incidents of terrorist and criminal activities there as well as cases of both corruption and lawlessness.

• How Does Russia Compare?
• Useful Information

Most countries do need a visa in order to enter Russia, and if you’re a U.S. citizen you must possess both a valid U.S. passport and a bona fide visa issued by a Russian Embassy or Consulate. None of the nationals that do need a visa can acquire one upon arrival, so make sure you apply for your visa in advance. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

The Russian ruble is the official currency in Russia. ATMs are widespread throughout the country and credit cards are accepted everywhere.

Russia has highly continental influenced climate characterized by warm to hot and dry summers and extremely cold, freezing winters with temperatures as low as -30°C – sometimes even lower, with heavy snowfall.

Sheremetyevo International Airport is Russian busiest international airport. It is located in Molzhaninovsky District, Northern Administrative Okrug, in Russia’s capital, Moscow, about 29 km northwest of central Moscow.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we advise getting travel insurance when traveling to Russia, because it would cover not only medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Russia Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

Russia - Safety by City

Explore russia.

• 10 Most Beautiful Castles in Russia
• Where to Next?

38 Reviews on Russia

Take out the warnings for North Caucasus area and Russia is about as safe as anywhere. Sure, pickpocketers can be a problem, but common sense will thwart them. I have been in Russia every year since 1991.

Risk of detention

Unless the govt decides to randomly single you out for incarceration. Not everyone detained has clear cut crimes. Plus, lets not add any cash to their economy just yet.

I visited Moscow twice and St Petersburg once. Both are must visit cities. Can be tough for English speakers as most signs are in cyrillic, and i found that not many Russians speak English. The vibe in Moscow is a bit colder with people, but nevertheless still friendly. I did find the atmosphere and people in St Petersburg to be much more open and friendlier. Be aware of pickpockets as I’ve unfortunately experienced it. While it happened, i have no ills against it. Highly recommend it. I’ll be visiting again!

seems a complicated country, size can play a part in crime. Although “Gopniks” all over is not a result of mass pickpocketting. It originating in the late Soviet Period as Many high rise buildings were built in cities to accomdate the people migrating there from the country. This meant that the price was cheap attracting “Gopniks and Gopnistas ( Female gopniks- For more information see Life of Boris “What is a Gopnik.” video) It is what is called slavic ‘culture’ with slav squatting and addidas tracksuits. But for more accurate watch that video

Not safe for gays

If I were gay, I absolutely wouldn’t visit there, it’s on par with places like Somalia and Saudi Arabia for violence against LGBT people.

Wrong. Only appears in Muslim areas like North Caucuses. Do you honestly think someone will assault, kill or rape you because of your hair color or LGBT badge on your shirt in Moscow, St.Petersburg, or Kazan like they do in the countries you mentioned? If you think so, then either you are homophobic yourself or just a not-in-line with the rest of society.

Moscow has gay clubs unmaked that go along an area. No one cares . It’s just a Country of respect for anyone. Really no one wants to see it, or hear it in your voice.

No, im sorry, you are very wrong. Russian government is very openly antigay. Definitely not safe for gays, especially as far as russian police. Promise. Maybe look at the “names” who is providing the information and see who would actually know what it like in Russia. Like “Alexander” and “Jenia” 😉

Update once again.

Russia is really in fact, safe, it’s crime rate isn’t that bad, compared to countries like Honduras or El Salvador. Of course, there is a widespread alcohol problem, but just try to avoid going to bars. The terror problem isn’t that bad, you won’t hear about a terrorist attack in a Russian city so often, however, there is a terror threat on the border of Ukraine and the Caucasus Region.

You sir, are a donut

Are you absolutely brain dead? You cannot compare a country such as Honduras to Russia. Obviously, Russia is safer. That’s why Russia is in yellow, not red. Come on man use your brain a bit. This review is 1000% accurate. You basically summarized everything that was said. But seriously, stop comparing two IMMENSELY different countries when it comes to crime. Compare Russia to the United States next time.

Pretty safe

Completely weird a pretty safe country like Russia shows a safety index of 34. Its safety was even repeated countinously in the description, so it should be definitely changed to at least the 70’s (on par to Chile, which is a much more dangerous country). Bad standards!

Only safe for caucasians

Non caucasians, stay in your hotel rooms.

Can’t agree. Half of the country are Turkic or Asian. 200+ nationalities living there permanently, also lots of foreign students. Maybe kids in smaller towns or villages will be surprised if you’re Black. So it’s best to avoid visiting kindergartens.

Agreed. Been to Moscow twice recently with my wife who is Asian. Enjoyed nightlife in Moscow (bars/restaurants) and travelled the Metro late at night. Not a single issue. Everyone was lovely and helpful, even with the language barrier. Feels so much safer than London or New York for example which we have also visited.

Overall Russia is a very safe place for tourists.

I don’t understand the score of 34. It’s too low for Russia.

Colder than vertical says!!!

And I promise, the temperatures the article offers are a bit warm. Moscow may be in the teens Fahrenheit, but outside that city, we see zero, 4-5 below anytime in December!! Sometimes the entire month!!

Life in Russia has been fine for me. Since 1991, the “mafia” ended about when President Putin came to power. Since then, in our faraway city of 110,000 people, I have witnessed so much Hope and Change, I thought President Obama was in power. Churches, schools, hospitals, etc. and typical transportation infrastructure (sidewalks to airports) have been improved thru rebuilding and new construction. Walking nights never seemed unwise. From Moscow to Barnaul and many cities and villages in between, and likewise- places from St Petersburg to Vologda to Ulyanovsk; all safe and walked late at night. (no guns) Sure, keep your senses, don’t try to keep up with a Russian drinking… you won’t. You shouldn’t, as that can be a ruse for taking advantage of you.

Russian flattering

Putin can only turn cities in ruin with one metric ton and cluster bombs.

Russia is great

I must say that from Moscow, east to Barnaul, and from Vologda to south of Moscow, Ulyavovsk and around that entire area (Kirov, Izhevsk, Kazan, etc) life is simple and easy, just don’t be “American”. Be reserved, polite, low key, quiet, and as invisible as possible and you won’t have any problems. I am an American, I have traveled this area, scouted food and drink late nights, and never have been bothered. If you wish to visit Russia, by all means, do so. Expect differences and accept those differences as life. Russia is calm, safe and a nice, peaceful place to live.

Amazing place to visit.

I have been there 4 times and love the Moscow area and surrounding towns, always felt very safe and only ran into one drunk who didn’t like me because I was obviously English speaking. But like you said, just be low key and move on. I will gladly go again when this current BS lockdown is over.

Such ignorance that it doesnt warrant a lengthy sensible response, You cant have been there. I spoke to plenty of people of color in Moscow who go about their trip or their daily lives without harassment and enjoy their stay.

Russians are not human

You are aggressors and terminators and shed so much blood in you neighbouring countries, latest in the list is ukraine, turning their cities in ruins and killing their kids and pregnant women, starving the poorest countries of the whole world people by blocking ukraine grain export and let them to die from hunger. You are savage and you country safety index must be a big zero.

Great Country to visit

I’m a Brit who has lived in Russia for many years. Good review. The Caucuses are in fact the most interesting place to visit and very safe so long as you respect the local (mostly Islamic) religion. Walking around at night (although I wouldn’t recommend anywhere in the world) is much safer in Russia than most other countries. Highly recommend visiting. Visa is the bigest barrier – but some good news – Some places you don’t need a visa – like if you arrive by cruise ships to St Pete and Sochi (check out the rules). Russia is trying to introduce really easy e-visas (apply online and show print-out), which “after COVID” should make life easy for citizens of EU and many other countries (Not UK & USA though, due to reciprocal “unfriendly” visa regimes with absurd rules for Russians)

i love Russia, i love to visit, beautiful people and kind faces! one of the biggest country in the world for a reason.

Don't visit it at this time (wait for better days)

Right now this is a 1 star and very unsafe. It usually is a 3 star location. Russia has some beautiful cities and landmarks that should be visited but right now, I wouldn’t recommend going there. Ever since they started the attack on Ukraine neither Ukraine nor Russia is safe. This crazy war that has started will soon lead to all sorts of problems in Russia so keep your distance for the time being. Once this is over, hopefully soon, you can give it a try.

And yes, there is a certain terrorism risk in Russia at any given time, especially now. I know of someone that has been mugged in Sankt Petersburg. It was night but he wasn’t on an unlit alley or something. I was also surprised to see how many pickpockets there are in the major cities. I wasn’t expecting to see so many. And yes, I can confirm that in some cases, children are the ones that will try to steal from you. It sounds insane but it’s the truth.

I will outline a few interesting places that can be visited. For example, Lake Baikal. This lake holds around 20% of the world’s fresh water!!! Just imagine how big it is?! When it’s not frozen, you can do some kayaking or go on boat cruises.

St. Petersburg should also be on your list – this city is a mix of history and art and beautiful design. Visit the St. Isaac’s Cathedral or the Hermitage Museum is the 2nd biggest culture museum on the globe. And they’re both worth a visit. There’s also Peterhof Palace which is close to St. Petersburg. This place looks like the Palace of Versailles from France.

Another interesting place is Vladivostok which has the longest cable-stayed bridge on earth with a length of 1885 meters. The city is worth exploring, having a beautiful military museum and there’s also a fortress that’s now became a museum as well.

Again, there’s a lot to see but don’t go now. Wait until things settle down.

3 years living in provincial areas and Moscow

34…? This is grossly inaccurate. Morocco is 54 and Russia a 34? I have experience in both countries and attest you are misled. Sounds like you wrote this based on the 90s. Even now in the middle of the war, despite frequent travel, Moscow poses minimal risks. pickpocketers, terrorist acts, or scams are a genuine rarity. Racist violence I have not yet been exposed to. Police and legal system serviceable.

Who rated Russia that low?

I’m not sure why rating is lower than some African countries, but I can assure you 34 is way too low. Russia is a police country and the law enforcement system is actually working comparing some countries we have traveled to and by some reason rated on this site higher. It might be politics involved or some people personal experience not sure, but we never had a single issue in Russia. Petty crime is common unfortunately, just put your grey shirt with spotty armpits along with beat up keds and blend in or not lol, Russians tend to dress nicely, mostly. We learned Russian and Cyrillic alphabet so it might helped a bit, but nowadays a lot of Russians speak English fluently and we had no issue communicating. Of course you have to be vigilant like anywhere even crime infested Brighton and Hove eg and people around you are not your friends, but overall very positive experience. Don’t bring forbidden substances and don’t express your political point of view and enjoy your trip. Cities v. Moscow, Barnaul, St. Pitersburg, Voronezh, Kazan.

Completely unsafe

Since russia invaded Ukraine, it’s not safe anymore. You can be easily beaten or brought to the jail just because of your anti-military position. Kidnapping is very popular in Caucasian area, while other areas are not safe tho. There’s also a possibility of being assaulted because of your sexual orientation or political opinion. Women are often treated cruelly and impolite. Russia is completely unsafe for both travelling and living.

still safe for Anglo-Saxons after a year of genocidal war

I visited in late 2022 , and kept a low profile – had no problems . Russian makes are often very sexist , ometimes mysoginistic and brusque but also ” chivalrous” in this ultra-conservative society

Russia is safe

Sorry to say but this is absolutely not true, I live in Russia as a foreigner, and have never experienced any of this, not even in the past year.

Slava Ukraini

Russia is not unsafe …… as long as you avoid the macho violent young men , and you do not engage in very heavy drinking / drugs . There is a very small chance that you could be detained randomly on a trumped up charge , as a hostage for future spy swaps . And some likelihood that you will be interviewed by the FSB either on entry or deparrture about the purpose of your visit or your profession/ security/army background .

Don't go to Russia

Their president is the worst, more than 200k+ as of this writing are dead because of the war he started, this country should be stopped.

Putin – your crimes against humanity will not go unpunished. Your day will come for all the destruction you’ve caused.

Sh** results

Totally safe country. If you leave bad rate you hadn’t been there. Cold country… And me in June having sun baths in +50C in Rostov-on-Don (not even the southest city in Russia)

Simply not true

You lie, as temperature in rostov never ever reaches 50C.

Thank you as you swear for vladimir putin. I totally hate him just as joseph stalin

Russia is relatively safe for people with common sense. Just like in any other countries: Just don’t be a moron, don’t be a d🍆k. Don’t run into trouble. Avoid unsafe situations/places. Act orderly. Be polite. Don’t provoke people. Carry your money and valuables in a theft-safe bag (that’s a must for any trip, and even in your home country) Beware of scammers (inform yourself about common scams on the streets to know who/what you should avoid).

Alcohilic russions

People giving 5 stars have not been to russia and are part of russian propaganda machine. As a sailor I have traveled to some russian port cities and we were attacked by knife and forced to give up our cash. Even the western african countries ports are safer than russia. Most of russians we have seen are alcoholic and have a their mood is highly variable as they get very aggressive sometimes. Alcohol is their weak point and they can resist drinking as much alcohol as they can.

you can’t even spell alcoholic or russians, and your experiences are not related to tourism. What tourist is going to ports to argue with sailors? Such a stupid comment..

Share Your Experience Cancel reply

Your Review

Title of your review

Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

Popular Destinations

Safety Index

Recent reviews & comments.

• Jack Cain on Wamego
• Louis Travis on Upper Township & Ocean City
• Samwell Cruz on Wamego
• Jairus Crawford on Upper Township & Ocean City
• Charles Keating on Upper Township & Ocean City

Popular US States

• Pennsylvania

• Grooming Awards
• How to Tie a Tie
• Best Coffee Beans
• How to Shape a Beard
• Best Sweaters for Men
• Most Expensive Cognac
• Monos vs Away Luggage
• Best Luxury Hotel Chains
• Fastest Cars in the World
• Ernest Hemingway Books
• What Does CBD Feel Like?
• Canada Goose Alternatives
• Fastest Motorcycles in the World

Travel advisory warns of possible terrorism in this popular European country

The u.s. department of state issues travel advisory for italy.

The U.S. Department of State has reissued a travel advisory for Italy, urging travelers to “exercise increased caution due to terrorism.” The updated warning, released after a routine safety review, highlights the potential for terrorist attacks across the popular European destination .

While the advisory does not cite any specific incidents or immediate threats, it notes that “terrorist attacks are possible in Italy” and could occur with little or no warning. Possible targets may include popular tourist sites, transportation hubs, shopping malls, hotels, and places of religious importance. Major cultural events, parks, schools, and airports were also listed as potential areas of concern.

What does this mean for travelers?

The current advisory for Italy remains at a Level 2, which advises travelers to be cautious but does not recommend avoiding the country. Should the advisory escalate to Level 3, travelers would be encouraged to “reconsider travel.” A Level 4 advisory, the highest level, advises against all travel to the destination.

• A new study says digital nomads should travel to these 6 countries
• Electric trains debut in San Francisco — and they make traveling easier
• Wellness retreat debuts in Mexico’s wine country

For now, the U.S. Department of State suggests travelers to Italy take the following precautions:

• Stay alert, particularly in crowded areas and popular tourist spots.
• Follow any instructions from local authorities.
• Keep an eye on local media for updates and be ready to adjust travel plans as needed.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for important alerts and assistance in emergencies.
• Follow the Department of State’s social media accounts for real-time updates.
• Review Italy’s Country Security Report and check the CDC’s travel health guidelines .
• Have an emergency plan in place and consult the Traveler’s Checklist before departure.

You can stay up-to-date with all of the latest travel advisories on the Department of State’s website .

Editors’ Recommendations

• Sri Lanka to offer free 30-day tourist visas to select countries
• Switzerland encourages business travelers to extend their stay
• Hot spot alert: International travel to Mexico climbs in 2024
• European mass tourism protests could spread, according to UNESCO
• Olympics travel: The best and worst host cities, ranked
• Destinations

Dubai International Airport (DXB) — a luxurious international hub — set a new passenger record in the first half of 2024, with 44.9 million passing through its gates. That put the airport on pace to break its yearly mark of 89.1 million passengers in 2018. The heavy traffic shows air travel’s continued post-pandemic recovery, and that the desert city is now as much a destination as a travel gateway. Dubai International Airport: A global hub and city by the sea Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport Wikimedia Commons

DXB’s year-to-date passenger stats follow Dubai-based airline Emirates' announcement of record profits. Both signal a city and an airport on the move, as travelers stay and experience instead of only passing through. Because of that, changes are on the way, with the hub set to move to a new location in the next decade.

Whether you’re a parent, relative, or coach, children can be a source of joy. But sometimes, you want to be in the company of adults only, where you can unwind and relax without having to play chaperone. The additional peace and quiet is nice, too. Adults-only cruises offer that and more.

A new report details the dirtiest beaches in California, helping ocean enthusiasts avoid contaminated waters. Heal the Bay’s 34th annual Beach Report Card rates more than 700 Pacific Coast beaches with an A to F grade for bacterial pollution, with lower grades indicating a high chance of swimmers getting sick. The worst performers made the Beach Bummer List, a top-10 of spots to avoid. 

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

The Bahamas Travel Advisory

Travel advisory january 26, 2024, the bahamas - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated with additional water safety information.

Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to  crime . 

Country Summary : The majority of crime occurs on New Providence (Nassau) and Grand Bahama (Freeport) islands. In Nassau, practice increased vigilance in the “Over the Hill” area (south of Shirley Street) where gang-on-gang violence has resulted in a high homicide rate primarily affecting the local population. Violent crime, such as burglaries, armed robberies, and sexual assaults, occur in both tourist and non-tourist areas. Be vigilant when staying at short-term vacation rental properties where private security companies do not have a presence.   

 Activities involving commercial recreational watercraft, including water tours, are not consistently regulated. Watercraft may be poorly maintained, and some operators may not have safety certifications.  Always review and heed local weather and marine alerts before engaging in water-based activities. Commercial watercraft operators have discretion to operate their vessels regardless of weather forecasts; injuries and fatalities have occurred. Due to these safety concerns, U.S. government personnel are not permitted to use independently operated jet-ski rentals on New Providence and Paradise Islands.   

Never swim alone, regardless of your age or level of swimming skills.  Keep within your fitness and swimming capabilities. Be mindful of sharks when swimming and engaging in water activities, as there have been recent fatal and non-fatal incidents involving sharks.  Be aware of weather and water conditions and heed local warnings. 

Read the country information page  for additional information on travel to The Bahamas. 

If you decide to travel to The Bahamas:  

• Do not answer your door at your hotel/residence unless you know who it is.  
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.  
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.  
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram .  
• Review the Country Security Report  for The Bahamas.  
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency and medical situations.  Review the Traveler’s Checklist .  
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, bahamas map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Best Places to Travel with an Infant: Family-Friendly Destinations

Traveling with a baby might seem stressful—perhaps you’ve heard horror stories from other parents. But trust us, it can be an incredible bonding experience for your family. As parents who’ve traveled extensively with our three kids since they were newborns, we’re here to say it’s worth every minute. From flying at 3 months old to overseas trips at 7 weeks, we’ve done it all. If you’re feeling nervous about traveling with your little one, don’t worry. Here are the best places to travel with an infant and tips to make it a breeze!

Why Travel with an Infant?

You’ve probably come across stories about the challenges of traveling with a baby—poopsies, jet lag, tantrums—sure, it happens. But there’s another side to the story. Infant travel can be very rewarding. Here’s why:

Bonding Experiences

• Uninterrupted family time away from daily distractions
• Create lasting memories through shared adventures
• Strengthen your family’s bond with new experiences

Developmental Benefits

• Stimulate your baby’s senses with new environments
• Encourage adaptability and flexibility (we’ve seen this since day one, but it’s a skill that builds as your baby grows)
• Boost cognitive development with diverse stimuli (the same way adults need a break from staring at the same four walls)

Creating Important Memories

• Capture adorable (and maybe not-so-adorable) photos
• Experience first-time moments you’ll treasure forever
• Start family traditions early

Personal Growth for Parents

• Develop patience and flexibility in new situations. If you thought you were patient before, well, babies put that to the test
• Sharpen problem-solving skills (like diaper blowouts on planes!)
• Gain confidence as a parent through unique challenges

Practical Reasons

• Babies are easier to travel with than toddlers (no chasing a runaway toddler around!)
• Infants are portable—no walking required
• Lap babies often fly for free

While it’s not always easy, the benefits of traveling with an infant far outweigh the challenges.

Top Baby-Friendly Beach Destinations

Beaches are perfect for traveling with an infant. The relaxed vibe and family-friendly resorts make for a low-stress vacation. Here are some of the best places to travel with an infant if you’re craving a beach escape:

Oahu, Hawaii

• Relaxation meets adventure
• Consistently warm weather with minimal rainfall
• Family-friendly hotels

Hotels in Oahu that cater to Babies and Families

Miami beach, florida.

• Family-friendly resorts with baby amenities
• Quieter beaches in North Miami
• Parks and museums for little ones

Hotels in Miami that cater to Babies and Families

Barcelona, spain.

• Perfect mix of culture and beach relaxation
• Walkable areas and playgrounds
• Kid-friendly restaurants open late

Hotels in Barcelona that cater to Babies and Families

Grand cayman, cayman islands.

• Calm, clear beaches ideal for babies
• Variety of family friendly restaurants and shops 
• Laid-back atmosphere

Hotels in Grand Cayman that cater to Babies and Families

Best city escapes for families with infants.

If you’re more of the urban adventurer type, these cities offer baby-friendly experiences and amenities, making them some of the best places to travel with an infant:

Portland, Oregon

• Nature meets city life
• Stroller friendly parks and trails (can personally recommend the  Nature Playground  at Westmoreland Park)
• Foodie paradise for parents (because donuts aren’t just for kids!)

Hotels in Portland that cater to Babies and Families

Tokyo, japan.

• Baby-friendly amenities in one of the safest cities
• Warm, welcoming culture where locals are always willing to help (we once had a total stranger follow us to the train station just to shield our baby from the rain using his umbrella).
• Unique family experiences

Hotels in Tokyo that cater to Babies and Families

Austin, texas.

• Food Trucks (because dining is just easier at a food truck than a fancy restaurant)
• Laid-back vibe with baby-friendly outdoor dining
• Kid-friendly hotels and outdoor activities

Hotels in Austin that cater to Babies and Families

London, england.

• Plenty of green spaces for strolls (the Diana Memorial Fountain is not to be missed)
• Kid-friendly museums and cultural experiences (never too young to introduce a kid to Harry Potter)
• Rich history and culture to absorb

Hotels in London that cater to Babies and Families

Nature-focused destinations.

If you’re craving fresh air, these nature-focused spots are some of the best places to travel with an infant for low-stress outdoor adventures:

Rocky Mountain National Park , Colorado: 

• Gorgeous views and stroller-friendly trails
• Options for RV rentals and campgrounds

Hotels and Campgrounds in Rocky Mountain National Park that cater to Babies and Families

Banff, canada.

• Stunning landscapes for baby-wearing hikes
• Plenty of wildlife to engage infants

Hotels in Banff that cater to Babies and Families

Yellowstone national park, montana:.

• Stroller-friendly trails, including the Grand Prismatic Hot Springs
• Exciting wildlife sightings

Hotels in Yellowstone that cater to Babies and Families

• Adventure combined with relaxation
• Rich biodiversity and sensory experiences for babies
• New experiences to encounter, but enough familiarity to feel comfortable

Hotels in Costa Rica that cater to Babies and Families

All-inclusive resorts catering to families with infants.

Once you discover the magic of baby-friendly all-inclusives, you’ll never want to go back. Total game-changer for families traveling with infants, and beyond. Why? These are the biggest benefits I’ve noticed:

• If your baby gets cranky at dinner, your hotel room is just steps away.
• Need a break from the sun? Your room is right there.
• No need to pack a bajillion snacks or figure out transportation.
• Planning becomes a breeze – just show up and enjoy!

Here are some of the best places to travel with an infant if you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience:

Cancun, Mexico

• Soft sand and clear blue water
• Baby-friendly amenities like cribs, high chairs, and bottle warmers
• Some resorts offer private pools, perfect for nap time
• Many flights to Cancun every day, which may make it a budget pick for some

Hotels in Cancun that cater to Babies and Families

Punta cana, dominican republic:.

• Leading the pack in Caribbean all-inclusive resorts
• Beautiful beaches and unique culture
• Many resorts offer babysitting services, giving parents some downtime

Hotels in Punta Cana that cater to Babies and Families

Mallorca, spain.

• A unique all-inclusive destination often overlooked
• Experience Spanish culture while enjoying resort conveniences
• Great option for families looking to explore beyond Mexico and the Caribbean

Hotels in Mallorca that cater to Babies and Families

Use maternity leave for dream destinations.

The reason we went to Japan twice when our two youngest were born? It’s far away (from the U.S.) and requires several vacation days to make the long flight worth it. So we utilized our maternity and paternity time off. If this option is available to you, go for it! Take the dream trip while you have the time off work. Here are some swoon worthy baby-friendly destinations to get you started:

Rome, Italy

• Rich in history, culture, and delicious food
• Perfect for stroller walks through ancient streets
• Enjoy that well-deserved glass of wine now that baby’s here!

Hotels in Rome that cater to Babies and Families

Kyoto, japan.

• Best of both worlds: history and nature
• Explore temples, shrines, and castles
• Bonus tip: Tatami mats make great impromptu baby beds

Hotels in Kyoto that cater to Babies and Families

Buenos aires, argentina.

• Ideal for art lovers
• Vibrant, energetic city with plenty of parks
• Breastfeeding-friendly culture

Hotels in Buenos Aires that cater to Babies and Families

Bali, indonesia.

• Worth the long journey
• Offers lush jungles, gorgeous beaches, and rice terraces
• Extremely baby and kid-friendly culture

Hotels in Bali that cater to Babies and Families

Essential tips for traveling with an infant.

Planning a trip with a baby requires a little extra thought, but these tips will help you have a smooth experience:

Pack Smart, Pack Light

You will have an overwhelming desire to pack up your entire house. Resist the urge. What’s important here is to be intentional. Overpacking can make traveling harder, but underpacking can lead to stress. Focus on the essentials: diapers, wipes, baby food, and a few favorite toys. Bring enough changes of clothes for unexpected messes, but avoid accounting for every scenario possible. And remember, babies exist everywhere, so you’ll always be able to purchase more.

Choosing baby-friendly accommodations

Look for accommodations that provide amenities like cribs, high chairs, and fridges for infants. Opt for places with kitchenettes so you can easily prepare bottles or snacks. Many family-friendly hotels and resorts often have play areas and babysitting services.

Managing flights and transportation with an infant

Book flights during your baby’s usual nap time, if possible, and consider a window seat for more privacy. The best time to feed your little one is during takeoff and landing, to help with ear discomfort. If your baby has moved on to solid foods, snacks are always an easy win in a pinch. And as for the airport, take the stroller with you and gate check. It’ll come in handy as you navigate the airport.

Don’t Panic About routines while on vacation

Most conventional advice will tell you to stick closely to your routine. In our experience, that only leads to unnecessary stress for all. Babies can sense when mom or dad are tense. Traveling does not typically lend itself to strict schedules. And babies are highly adaptable if you give them the chance. I’m not recommending you write off your routine altogether, but if you are 10 minutes late for your feeding because you are boarding your flight, your baby will survive just fine.

Health and Safety

• Vaccinations:  Consult with your pediatrician on any recommended vaccinations for your destination. Some vaccines require the infant be a certain age, and your pediatrician can offer you the best advice for these situations.
• Pediatrician Check-Up:  Schedule a check-up before your trip to get sign off that your baby is in good health for travel. This is especially important for newborns and younger babies who are more susceptible to illness.
• Healthcare Facilities:  Do some research and choose a destination with good healthcare facilities in case of medical emergencies.
• Travel Insurance:  Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers unexpected medical expenses or illnesses that may prevent you from traveling. Infants tend to get sick more often, so travel insurance can be a good investment.
• Research Urgent Care:  Look for nearby urgent care centers in your destination city in the case of minor illnesses. We’ve not experienced this often, but is has happened for us a few times, and we were glad for the research we did upfront.
• Pack Essentials:  Pack any infant medications you may need. We usually bring the top hits: baby tylenol and hydrocortisone. Consult with your pediatrician before you leave on which medications can be given at your baby’s age and proper doses. That way if the need should arise, it’s not a scramble in the moment.
• Sun Protection:  Protect your infant’s skin from the sun by using infant sunscreen. We love  Thinkbaby sunscreen for its mineral based ingredients. However, if your baby is under 6 months, your pediatrician may recommend sun protection in the form of hats, rashguards, and shade.

Budget-Friendly Options for Infant Travel

Sometimes you want to get away, but without the high price tag. Completely fair–babies are expensive as is! Here are some ways to keep the costs down:

• Staycations:  By exploring your local area, you can dip your toes into traveling with an infant. Choose somewhere close to home, and that’ll ease some of the stress. We did a staycation in Chicago and it was a blast! You end up exploring places that are essentially in your backyard and you never make it to.
• Off-season travel to popular destinations:  Choosing off peak times will allow you to book your airfare and accommodations at lower prices. Also, smaller crowds will make it easier to navigate with your stroller and enjoy a slower pace.
• Utilizing credit card points and travel rewards:  It’s like earning free money that you can spend on flights, hotels, or car rentals. Sign up for a new card and let the points roll in–even just for everyday purchases or bonus points. Save up your points and once you’re ready, splurge on a family trip using your points. It’s one of our favorite ways to save money because it’s so easy.

Amex Platinum vs. Chase Sapphire Reserve

A head to head battle for two of our favorite family credit cards

Practice Makes Perfect with Baby Travel

Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, traveling with a baby in tow can feel overwhelming, and you may wonder if it’s worth it.  It is . I promise you, it is. If you were to do a cost/benefit analysis here, you’d almost certainly find the benefits outweigh the costs. And with so many amazing baby-friendly destinations, you can pick the one you are most comfortable with. 

Remember, the key to successful infant travel is preparation and flexibility. So pack those diapers, bring an extra change of clothes for the plane, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. It might not always be glamorous, but the memories you’ll create will last a lifetime. Don’t forget your camera!

You may also like:

Discover colmar france: a real life fairytale village, cruising ducks: must-know tips + free custom tag template, cruise like a pro: royal caribbean tips every first-time family needs, how to gate check a stroller: a helpful guide for parents, travelpro maxlite 5 review (from an airline employee), about the author.

Attention solo travellers: These are the best and safest destinations for your next sojourn

The travel news portal, Placestotravel weighed in on numerous factors, such as hotel prices, transportation, how safe these destinations to identify them as 10 best places to travel in 2024 for solo travellers. Read on to know more.

The world is embroiled in conflict, take West Asia for example where Israel, Gaza, Lebanon and Iran continue to be involved in skirmishes or take the Russia-Ukraine war that has been continuing for over two years now. There's no doubt what the situation be, excepting the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism has grown by leaps and bounds. Be it family travel, friends gathering for reunions, or meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) travel, everyone is looking for safe, progressive and exotic destinations to explore. On these lines, Placestotravel.com has released a list of the 10 best destinations to visit for solo travellers. (Image: Shutterstock)

The travel news portal weighed in on numerous factors, such as hotel prices, transportation, how safe they are and released these 10 best destinations to travel in 2024. Read on to find which of these destinations located across the world you'd like to visit and don’t miss out on what is the best thing to experience in these countries.

No 1. Austria | Austria is known for its low crime rate, which makes it a safe choice for solo travellers, especially women. Public transportation is efficient, with trains and trams providing easy access to major cities, and hotel prices can range from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious accommodations. When in Austria, one must experience the Austrian Alps, which are perfect for skiing in winter and hiking in summer. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 2. Denmark | Denmark surely is one of the safest countries in the world, offering a welcoming environment for solo visitors. The public transport system is reliable, with extensive train and bus networks, while hotel prices can be high in urban areas, they’re nonetheless affordable in smaller towns. Every solo traveller should enjoy the picturesque canals and vibrant atmosphere of Copenhagen, especially the iconic Nyhavn waterfront. (Image: Shutterstock)

No 4. Singapore | The only Asian destination on the list, Singapore is extremely safe, with strict laws contributing to a low crime rate, making it ideal for solo adventurers. The public transportation system is efficient and easy to navigate, with affordable hotel options ranging from budget hostels to luxury brands like the Marina Bay Sands. One experience that travellers should not miss is the diverse culinary scene of Singapore, from the hawkers centre to fine dining options, the food scene here blends cultures. (Image: Tourism Singapore)

No 7. Portugal | Now this destination is expected to be on the list, given it's popularity among travellers, especially those who want to do it alone. Portugal is generally safe for, with a friendly local population and low crime rate. Public transportation is accessible and affordable, and hotel prices vary widely, offering both economical and luxury options. While in Portugal, solo travellers must explore the charming streets of Lisbon, the historic architecture and delicious pastries. (Image: Reuters)

No 8. Belgium | Belgium is considered a haven for solo travellers, given the music festivals that are hosted in cities like Brussels and Bruges, both of which are extremely welcoming of visitors. The public transportation system too is comprehensive and features trains and trams. Nonetheless, hotel costs can range from budget options to upscale. And don’t forget to treat yourself of the exquisite Belgian chocolates and waffles, best enjoyed in Bruges. (Image: Reuters)

No 9. Germany | Germany is known for its safety, with low crime rates in most urban areas, making it a great destination for solo travelers. Its extensive public transportation network is efficient and user-friendly, and hotel prices vary, offering something for every budget. Discover the rich history and culture in Berlin, especially at the iconic Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall. (Image: Reuters)

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink

trending now in Lifestyle

Dear Abby: I can't enjoy my retirement because my friends are...

Influencer banned from TikTok over ‘dangerous’ advice

I'm a pediatric ER doctor — here's my No. 1 tip for surviving...

I’m a flight attendant — travelers should never do this with...

Mark Zuckerberg wears pricey watch that costs as much as a Tesla...

I’m a Hooters waitress — I wore this one accessory and scored...

Passengers should always make sure their suitcases have these 3...

Why every single woman wants to date a married man: Jana Hocking

Avoid these 10 top destinations at thanksgiving unless you love crowds — wait a week and you’ll have the place all to yourself.

Whatever happened to “over the river and through the woods?”

Seems like a whole lot of us are planning to venture a lot further afield than Grandmother’s house this Thanksgiving, according to the travel trackers at Google Flights — that is, unless Nana and Pop Pop happen to live at Disney World .

Orlando was ranked No. 1 on a list that claims to have revealed our innermost desires — and our travel plans — for the upcoming national day of gratefulness and gorging.

And the home of the House of Mouse wasn’t the only city on Google’s list that sounded a little bit too fun to be everyone heading off to spend a few restless nights on sofabeds with family .

For example, there’s the beach resort of Cancun, known for its all-inclusive resorts and sandy beaches , coming in right at No. 2 — though it is possible that everyone could be headed there to sample the turkey dishes the Yucatan Peninsula is known for.

The Mayans are said said to have revered the festively-attired Ocellated Turkey, unique to the region, according to the American Bird Conservancy. The bird winds up on local tables year-round, in various forms.

Google Flights said that the list was compiled based on frequency of queries for travel between Nov. 24 and Dec. 1 — here’s the complete list of the ten most-searched.

The Top 10 Destinations for Thanksgiving 2024

• #3 New York City
• #8 Los Angeles
• #9 Las Vegas
• #10 Honolulu

Thanksgiving week can be notoriously tough for travelers — and this year, the hordes are likely to be even horde-ier, as passenger numbers at U.S. airports have broken numerous records already in 2024.

The Sunday after Thanksgiving is expected to once again be the busiest day in any airport of the entire year, according to Nerdwallet , which said that the number of travelers that day is expected to set a new record once again.

On the flip side, the Thanksgiving crush typically gives way to one of the most affordable times of the year to venture out — the first half of December.

The quiet time between the two major American holidays is sometimes talked up as one of the best travel periods to any place that isn’t a holiday shopping hotspot, at least — thanks to lower airfares, better hotel rates and plenty of elbow room.

Advertisement

10 Best Countries For Solo Travel, According To New Analysis

Places to Travel looked at data on safety, public transportation, and hotel costs to rank the best countries to visit on your own. Here are some of the top destinations for a solo trip.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

Austria is the best country for solo travel, according to a new analysis.

Your first solo trip is more than just a vacation—it’s a journey of self-discovery, independence, and adventure on your own terms. But where you choose to go can make or break your solo traveling experience. The best solo travel destinations put you on the path to a smooth, rewarding experience that feels safe, easy, and welcoming.

So, how do you find the perfect place for a solo trip? A new analysis from Places to Travel on the best countries for solo travel can help.

Their team of researchers looked at factors about each country that can make a big difference for a solo traveler, such as crime and safety, how widely English is spoken and understood, cost of public transportation and accommodations, and the overall quality of life. The data came from a mix of high-quality sources, including the Global Peace Index, Numbeo surveys, English test results, and travel budgeting sites.

“Solo travel can be a nerve-wracking thing,” said Jason Wilson, chief executive officer of Places to Travel, in a press release about the report. “Not traveling with another person can also be risky depending on where you go, so it’s important to either look after yourself or pick an itinerary that ensures you won’t run into trouble.”

Here are the rankings of the 10 best countries for solo travel, according to Places to Travel.

Best country for solo travel: Austria.

Austria took the crown as the best country for solo travel, racking up an impressive overall index score of 7.33. With high marks for quality of life, healthcare, safety, and low crime risk, it’s the kind of place where you can feel confident exploring on your own. Sure, accommodations average $160 per night (a bit steep for budget travelers), but the country makes up for it with budget-friendly public transportation—an average one-way trip costs just $2.68. Plus, with the highest English proficiency score on the list, you won’t be left playing charades to order a slice of Sachertorte. Don’t miss the breathtaking beauty of Hallstatt, a fairy-tale village nestled between the mountains and the lake. It’s Instagram gold!

Denmark: the second-best country for solo travel.

Ranked as the second-best country for solo traveling, Denmark shines with its stellar quality of life, low crime risk, and excellent healthcare. At $3.45 for the typical one-way ticket, public transportation is more expensive than in Austria, but the average hotel cost is just $133 per night. Plus, with a warm, welcoming vibe, solo travelers will feel right at home in Denmark, whether you’re cycling down the picturesque streets of Copenhagen or climbing the migrating sand dune of Råbjerg Mile.

3. Switzerland

Places to Travel ranked Switzerland as one of the best countries for solo travel.

Switzerland came in as the third-best country for solo travel, thanks to its high scores for quality of life and safety. However, solo travelers might be in for some sticker shock at the prices in this destination—Places to Travel found that the average hotel came in at $191 a night and a one-way public transportation ticket runs $3.91, the highest of all countries on the list. But the breathtaking beauty and hiking opportunities in places like Grindelwald (gateway to the Top of Europe, the highest train station in Europe) make it worth every penny.

4. Singapore

Singapore took the 4th spot on the list of the best places for solo travelers.

If you’re up for a long-haul flight, Singapore makes an excellent destination for solo travelers. It came in fourth place for its ultra low-cost public transportation (just $1.48 for a one-way ticket), high safety, and high English proficiency. Just be sure to leave plenty of room in your budget for accommodations—Singapore has the highest nightly hotel costs ($196) of the best countries for solo travel. While there, unwind among the stunning orchids and serene lakes at the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then fuel up at the world-renowned hawker stalls.

Travelers can chase the Northern Lights in Finland, one of the best countries for solo travel.

With an overall score of 7.1, Finland took the fifth spot on the list of the best countries for solo travel. It scored well on the Global Peace Index, along with metrics for healthcare and quality of life. The average night at a hotel costs $125—not bad for a solo trip. Plus the country offers so much to see and do, whether you want to wander through Helsinki’s vibrant design district, cozy up in a cottage on Lake Saimaa , or chase the Northern Lights in Lapland.

Norway—one of the best countries for solo travel.

High English proficiency levels, healthcare scores, and safety earned Norway the number six spot on the list of the best solo travel destinations. While its public transportation costs are on the pricey end of the spectrum ($3.86 for a one-way ticket, on average), accommodations aren’t too expensive. The average nightly hotel cost is just slightly better than Finland at $124. Kickstart your solo trip to Norway in Bergen, where you can explore the picture-perfect historic wharf, hike Mount Fløyen, and sample traditional lefse—a delicious potato flatbread.

7. Portugal

Portugal had the lowest average hotel costs on the list of the best countries for solo travel.

Portugal emerges as a top country for solo travelers, taking the seventh spot on this list. Whether you’re trying to find the best pastéis de nata in Lisbon, sampling wine in Porto, or soaking up the sun on the stunning Algarve coast, Portugal offers a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation for those traveling on their own. It’s also a fantastic bang for your buck, with public transportation priced at just $2.14 for the average one-way ticket and an average hotel night costing only $98—a steal!

Belgium is a hidden gem for solo travelers

Belgium is a hidden gem for solo travelers. It took the eighth place on this list after receiving relatively high scores in healthcare and English proficiency. With nightly hotel costs at $118 and a trip on public transportation at $2.68, Belgium won’t break the bank for people traveling on their own. It also makes a great jumping off point for other parts of Europe after you’ve explored the country’s charming cities and historic sites.

Germany is 9th on the list of the best countries for solo travel.

Germany’s got something for every type of solo traveler, whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in history in Munich, soak in the legendary thermal baths of the Black Forest , or check out the vibrant arts scene in Berlin. Data analyzed by Places to Travel showed that the destination is relatively safe, has a high-quality of life, and decent English proficiency scores. No need to look for a hostel if you’re on a budget—the average nightly hotel cost in Germany is just $106.

Sweden rounds out the list of the best countries for solo travel.

Solo travelers, don’t sleep on Sweden. This country earned an overall score of 6.7 in the analysis of the best countries for solo travel due to its low risk of crime, high quality of life, and relatively affordable average hotel cost ($120 a night). Solo travelers in Sweden can spend their days wandering through Stockholm’s historic Gamla Stan, enjoying a serene boat ride in the Stockholm archipelago, or exploring the medieval ruins of Gotland—all while feeling safe and at home.

MORE FROM FORBES

• Editorial Standards
• Forbes Accolades

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

At Reach and across our entities we and our partners use information collected through cookies and other identifiers from your device to improve experience on our site, analyse how it is used and to show personalised advertising. You can opt out of the sale or sharing of your data, at any time clicking the "Do Not Sell or Share my Data" button at the bottom of the webpage. Please note that your preferences are browser specific. Use of our website and any of our services represents your acceptance of the use of cookies and consent to the practices described in our Privacy Notice and Cookie Notice .

James Martin addresses 'disagreement' with ITV over new show as chef's hopes dashed

TV chef has filmed travel series in the likes of France, Spain, and Italy, but has revealed one destination that he has not yet managed to visit, despite it being "on his list".

• Facebook Icon
• Twitter Icon
• WhatsApp Icon

James Martin has joked that he might need to "pay someone a backhander" to make his dream ITV travel show a reality, after clashing with bosses over which country he should explore next. The TV chef disclosed that he proposed the idea of a travel series in Japan, so he could immerse himself in the cuisine and culture of the Asian nation.

The 52-year-old confessed that he's had the country "on his list" for some time. However, due to work obligations and the Covid pandemic, he missed his opportunity to visit. After suggesting it to the channel's executives, he found himself journeying to Spain instead, for James Martin's Spanish Adventure.

The Saturday Morning host has previously toured France, The Highlands, and America for his ITV series. But, during an episode of The Travel Diaries podcast with Holly Rubenstein last year, he revealed that he still dreams of Japan.

He expressed: "I'd love to go to Japan, it's on my list. I've been close, been close with work, and then Covid hit, and I couldn't make the gig and I keep saying to ITV that a travelog thing to Japan would be amazing, and they said, 'we'll do Spain again'... 'alright, okay'," he sighed.

"I really want to do it and I'm doing Spain in a similar sort of guise really. France, I know, America, I know, and that kind of stuff, and Spain is my next adventure."

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and third parties based on our knowledge of you. More info

"I don't know a thing about Spain. I know the quality of the olive oils and the hams and that sort of stuff, I'm just going around like a Brit foodie saying, 'feed me'. I think Japan would be the same sort of thing. I just want to parachute myself in there and almost go 'what on earth is this? '".

"You want to be walking around a market going, 'what is that? Isn't that amazing,' I'd love to do that. The people are amazing."

James went on to say he was "very jealous" of anyone who had visited the Asian nation. Host Holly replied: "Maybe next year when I see you on the TV driving though Japan, I'll be thinking, aww."

The TV chef quipped: "If you do, you'll know I've paid someone a backhander or something like that. I'd love to, but we'll stick to what we know first of all but Japan and Japanese cuisine is definitely on the list."

• Facebook Icon Facebook
• Twitter Icon Twitter
• Instagram Icon Instagram

• Lifestyle Articles

Solo Travel: सेफ और खूबसूरत भी, यहां देखें गर्ल्स के लिए बेस्ट सोलो डेस्टिनेशन

Anshika tiwari | published : sep 20 2024, 11:16 am ist / updated: sep 20 2024, 11:26 am ist.

Next in Queue

2) पांडिचेरी स्थित फोर्ट कोच्ची

केरल का फोर्ट कोच्चि साउथ इंडिया के सबसे ऐतिहासिक स्थानों में से एक है, जो संस्कृति और प्रकृति का शानदान मिश्रण है। यहां पर इतिहास के साथ मॉर्डन इंडिया की झलक मिलती है। फोर्ट कोच्ची का फूड टूरिस्टों के बीच काफी पॉपुलर है। फोर्ट कोच्चि जाने पर हेरिटेज वॉक करने न भूलें। ये तटीय फोर्ट कोच्चि की संकरी गलियों से होकर निकलता है। जहां ब्रिटिश और पुर्तगाली शासनकाल की इमारतें देख सकती हैं। इसका अलवाा आप सेंट फ्रांसिस चर्च देखना नहीं भूल सकती, जिसे 1503 में बनाया गया था। यह भारत के सबसे पुराने यूरोपीय चर्चों में से एक है।

3) कोडाइकनाल तमिलनाडु

जब बात हिल स्टेशन की आती है तो ज्यादातर लोग नॉर्थ इंडिया चुनते हैं, जहां कश्मीर, हिमाचल प्रदेश, उत्तराखंड शामिल हैं। लेकिन क्या आप जानते हैं साउथ इंडिया में केरल,कर्नाटक के अलावा तमिलनाडु में भी कई शानदार हिलस्टेशन हैं,जिसमें सबसे सबसे पॉपुलर कोडाईकनाल है। पालनी रेंड पहाड़ियों पर बसा ये हिलस्टेशन आप सोलो ट्रेवल के लिए चुन सकती हैं। कोडाइकनाल स्थित गुना केव्स देखने देश ही नहीं दुनियाभर से लोग आते हैं,गुना केव डेविल किचन के नाम से जानी जाती है। यहां पर कई हादसे हुए हैं जिसके बाद इसे सीमित क्षेत्र को विजिट करने की इजाजत है। इसके अलावा यहां पर सिल्वर कॉसकेड वॉटरफॉल भी है जिसे घूमा सकता है।

4) हिमाचल प्रदेश का कालगा

गर्ल्स के लिए सोलो ट्रेवल डेस्टिनेशन के लिए हिमाचल प्रदेश का छोटा सा गांव कालगा भी बेस्ट है। जंगली पहाड़ियों पर 8200 फीट की ऊंचाई पर स्थित ये गांव घाटी का 360 डिग्री व्यू पेश करता है। यहां पर सेब का बागान देखने का मजा ही कुछ और है। यहां पर ज्यादातर घर लकड़ी के बने हैं,जिसे अब होम स्टे में ग्रामीणों ने बदल दिया है। यहां पर तापमान हमेशा ठंडा रहता है। इसके साथ ही मई से अक्टूबर के बीच आप कालगा घूम सकती हैं।

5) कर्नाटक स्थित हंपी

अगर आप पहाड़-बीच से अलग कुछ एक्सप्लोर करना चाहती हैं तो हंपी जा सकती हैं। ये घूमने में जितना अच्छा है उनता ही दिलचस्प। यूनेस्कों की विश्व धरोहरों में शामिल हंपी कई चट्टानों और मंदिरों का घर है। जिसे देखने केवल भारत नहीं बल्कि दुनियाभर से लोग आते है। यहां 300 साल पुराने विजयनगर साम्राज्य से जुड़े कई अंश मौजूद है,जो आपको सोचने पर मजबूर कर देंगे। ऐसे में सोलो महिला ट्रेवलर्स के हंपी एक्सप्लोर करने के लिए बेस्ट प्लेस है।

ये भी पढ़ें- भारत की लग्जरी क्रूज यात्रा, पैसे कम मजा ज्यादा,यहां देखें डिटेल्स