The safest countries for tourists in 2020

There are many places in the world that are interesting to visit: exotic cities, ski resorts, tropical seas. Every corner of the planet is open for tourism. The main condition for an unforgettable vacation, according to tourists, is safety. This issue is given a lot of attention in every state where the tourism industry is developing.

We present the ranking of the safest countries for tourists. It will help you understand which one is better to choose when planning a vacation in 2020.

Country safety criteria for tourists

It is pertinent to figure out by what criteria safety is assessed, what to look for before buying a tourist ticket.

Crime level

Crime depends on several important factors:

• homogeneity of the local population. The more indigenous people there are, the less crimes are committed.
• stable middle class. This is a factor in reducing unemployment and improving the quality of life.
• culture of relationships (participation of citizens in municipal governance).

The best indicator of a low crime rate is the economic and social state of society.

Geopolitical position

Geopolitical position - a place on the political map of the world. This affects international relations and security. Geopolitical indicators:

• level of economic development;
• sea ​​transport routes;
• trade relations with other countries;
• remote distance from hot spots and hotbeds of terrorism;
• avoiding conflicts within the state;
• natural resource potential.

The more favorable the geopolitical position of the country, the safer it is for life and recreation.

The likelihood of natural disasters

Sources of natural disasters:

1. Water (flood, tsunami);
2. Earth (volcanic eruption, landslide, earthquake, avalanche);
3. Weather (tornado, blizzard, drought);
4. Fire (forest fire).

Natural disasters lead to destruction and loss of life. The high population density increases the risk of natural disasters.

Sanitary and epidemiological situation

A safe sanitary and epidemiological situation is facilitated by state control:

• vaccination;
• improving working conditions;
• minimizing environmental pollution;
• control over the quality of imported food products;
• disinfection of public places and reservoirs;
• timely localization of foci of infectious diseases.

The higher the level of medicine, the safer the sanitary and epidemiological situation.

Economic development

Indicators of the country's economic development:

1. the volume of public investments in the social sphere, science, medicine, culture, education;
2. GDP per capita;
3. quality and standard of living;
4. the level of corruption;
5. place in the world's leading rankings.

All countries of the world by the level of economic development are divided into developed, developing and underdeveloped. The first are considered the safest: here tourists are offered comfortable hotels, a high level of service, a variety of types of tourism and recreation. These countries have a well-developed transport infrastructure, economic and political prosperity.

Global Peace Index

Every year, sociologists and economists at the Institute for Peace compile the Global Peace Index among 160 countries. The basis is taken by the safety criteria for twenty-three indicators.

The state of crime, the threat of terrorism, internal unrest, economic stability, the state of the environment are analyzed.

The global index allows tourists to find out where to go on vacation without risking their lives.

Personal safety rules while traveling

Tourist trips broaden horizons, charge with positive emotions. However, even in the most peaceful country there are rules of personal safety:

1. Adhere to the rules of hygiene.
2. Study information about the rules of public order, traditions and customs of the country.
3. Do not drink raw water, iced drinks. Infectious diseases are often caused by poor water.
4. Avoid direct contact with beach sand. It can be infested with foot fungus and insect larvae that can crawl under the skin. Have individual slippers, beach mat, towel, hat, swimsuit.
5. Do not buy cheap bus, sea and walking tours. Bad organization can lead to accidents.
6. Do not overuse local cuisine. The digestive system can react painfully to a sudden change in diet. Taste exotic dishes in small portions, wash down with tea.
7. Avoid raw seafood, fish - sources of parasite infestation.
8. Store money and documents in different places (bag, wallet, pockets).
9. Don't drink sugary soda or ice water. Do not eat unwashed and unknown fruits.
10. In tropical countries, with the help of repellents, closed clothing to avoid the bites of blood-sucking insects - carriers of diseases.
11. Do not stay more than 30 minutes on wet sand at the water's edge: it can be contaminated with animal and bird excrement.
12. Before traveling, consult a doctor on how to avoid health problems. Possible restrictions: diving is not recommended for varicose veins, heart disease worsens after visiting thermal springs, saunas.

Following simple recommendations will ensure the safety of your holiday abroad.

TOP 10 safest countries for tourists in 2020

The safest countries ranking takes into account the following criteria:

• the risk of terrorist attacks;
• quality of medical care;
• crime level;
• the threat of natural disasters;
• accident rate of transport;
• ecological situation.

Iceland

Iceland is recognized as the safest to visit in 2020. Isolation from the mainland, the unity of society, the peaceful disposition of the population contribute to a low level of crime, including street crime, and a political situation that excludes conflicts. The militarization of Iceland is practically zero, since there are no officially armed forces in the country.

The main item of state revenue is the tourism industry. Therefore, favorable conditions are created for tourists: medicine, transport, service, comfort. Iceland is famous for its distinctive and incredibly beautiful landscapes; it is called the Land of Ice. Iceland's tourist spots:

• Skaftafell National Park at the base of the glacier, on which you are allowed to walk;
• geothermal resort Blue Lagoon with healing mineral water;
• the Landmannaleigar valley with hot springs;
• Valley of Geysers, amazing with fantastic landscapes;
• hot fountain Strokkur.

There are many scenic hiking trails in Iceland. It is better to arrive before the end of summer, while hotels are open and most flights are open. How to save money on car rental, the cost of which is quite high in Iceland: book a car online.

• high quality of life;
• lack of weapons;
• there are no rich and poor;
• lack of hot spots;
• friendly population;
• healthy ecology;
• sanitary and epidemiological welfare;
• natural food;
• low crime rate (one prison for the whole country).

• mandatory registration of a visa;
• volcanoes that pose a potential threat.

Denmark

Denmark ranks second in the top ten safest countries for tourists. It is a highly developed European state with extensive social security in a free market economy. There is almost no crime and corruption.

Denmark is not directly affected by political conflicts, but it periodically participates in international campaigns led by NATO. The risk of terrorist attacks is minimal.

The Scandinavian countries, to which Denmark belongs, are safe in terms of seismic activity, natural disasters. There are no foci of infectious diseases.

Transport infrastructure in Denmark:

• air;
• auto;
• nautical;
• bicycle;
• railway.

It offers tourists beach resorts, national parks and excursion tours to scenic spots of nearby islands. Reviews about this country are mostly positive, you can go there for families with children.

• developed economy;
• weak class differences;
• there are no internal conflicts and hot spots;
• low crime rate;
• advanced medicine;
• wide transport infrastructure;
• healthy ecology.

• compulsory visa processing.

Austria

Austria is one of the richest countries in Europe, the third in terms of security, with a developed economy, medicine and social sphere. The country adheres to political neutrality, therefore it is safe from the point of view of terrorism.

There are many interesting offers for tourists in Austria, from aesthetic to medical.

You can enjoy excursions in cities with unique architecture and history. Hiking trails in national parks are widely offered throughout the country.

Famous Austrian ski resorts with comfortable slopes and slopes are open all winter. In the summer months, tennis courts, golf courses and trekking are available here.
In Austria, there are many health thermal spas using hot mineral springs, therapeutic mud, crystal clear air.

Tourist seasons in Austria: summer, winter, skiing, lasting from November to April. The main souvenirs from Austria are Swarovski crystal products, porcelain, music boxes and Viennese sweets. Shopping is profitable during sales: late summer and Christmas weeks.

• low crime rate;
• economic stability and prosperity of the country;
• advanced medicine;
• there is no risk of terrorist attacks.

• the threat of avalanches in the area of ​​ski resorts;
• pickpockets;
• the need for a visa.

New Zealand

The fourth place in the ranking is occupied by New Zealand with a loyal attitude towards tourists. The country has a healthy environment, high quality food products. There are no poisonous and blood-sucking animals (except for sand fleas and capito spiders).

There is a lot to see in New Zealand. The nature of these places is multifaceted: geysers, glaciers, volcanoes, meadows, waterfalls. The world famous Waitomo Firefly Cave is located in this country.

New Zealand is considered the birthplace of extreme tourism. Thrill-seekers will find entertainment for every taste:

• skydiving;
• gliding;
• bungee jumping;
• air surfing;
• zorbing;
• rafting;
• rap jumping.

The best dive site is the North Island area, where diving is possible all year round.Rafting enthusiasts will find equipment for rowing, rafting on local rivers and waterfalls.

For gambling shopping - markets and bazaars in Otaru.

• low crime rate;
• development of economy, medicine and culture;
• no threat of terrorism.

• seismic activity in the volcanic zone;
• poisonous capito spiders and sand fleas;
• registration of a visa and insurance.

Portugal

Portugal, the fifth in the top ten, attracts wealthy tourists who prefer luxury holidays abroad. Historical monuments and seaside resorts are great for families with children.

Enjoy an unforgettable beach holiday in Portugal. The hotels are mostly four to five stars. However, there are also budget options - hostel hotels.

The country is safe for tourists in terms of the threat of terrorism, the level of crime, the development of medicine, the threat of disease and attacks by dangerous and poisonous animals. You can walk along the streets of Portugal even at night without fear of attack by hooligans, rapists or robbers.

On the coast, there are sports beaches for surfing. The beauty of the underwater world of the Atlantic coast of Portugal attracts divers.

Three telecom operators provide full service packages. A SIM card can be issued in any salon, supermarket. Free Wi-Fi in public areas.

Shopping in Portugal is expensive, excluding seasonal sales in early fall and winter. The main holidays of the country are Christmas, Easter, Portugal Day, Freedom Day. The Madeira Wine Festival is also vibrant.

Holidays in Portugal are comfortable all year round, thanks to the mild climate, low rainfall and insignificant temperature changes.

• no dangerous diseases, no vaccinations required;
• low crime rate;
• loyal population;
• stability in the field of medicine and economics;
• development of transport infrastructure.

• a lot of road accidents;
• seismic activity, the likelihood of forest fires;
• visa and insurance required.

Czech Republic

The sixth place in the ranking is occupied by the former socialist country of Eastern Europe - the Czech Republic. This country is distinguished by economic and political stability, a calm internal atmosphere. The rejection of violence makes the country safe from the point of view of terrorism.

Class lines in society have been erased, the crime rate is very low. It has become somewhat higher in the last few years due to the influx of emigrants.

The tourist season starts in January and ends in December. A variety of recreation is offered by numerous resorts:

• beach;
• ski;
• balneological.

For connoisseurs of history, interesting excursions are held with a show of medieval attractions and architectural monuments.

When is the best time to go to the Czech Republic, it is difficult to determine, it is always comfortable here. The best time to visit the ski resorts is January and February.

The extensive transport infrastructure allows you to travel by trains, buses, taxis, rented cars or bicycles. There is a metro in Prague.

Mobile communications are expensive, but uninterrupted. Internet cafes operate in cities. Free Wi-Fi in all public areas.

Shopping in the Czech Republic is one of the most budgetary in Europe, including not only souvenirs, but also branded items. The country has a ban on the export of items of historical value.

• developed economy;
• political neutrality;
• no threat of natural disasters;
• peaceful population;
• good medical care.

• high prices for medicine;
• the threat of tick bites;
• pickpockets, scammers;
• compulsory registration of a visa and medical insurance.

Switzerland

The seventh place in the TOP-10 of the safest countries is occupied by Switzerland - a multinational highly developed European state. Despite the heterogeneity of nationality, Swiss citizens are quite tolerant.

The tourism industry is leading.Therefore, all the powers of the authorities are directed to ensure a comfortable and safe rest for tourists.

Swiss medicine is considered one of the best in the world. The well-being of the people is growing, there are no political unrest and international conflicts. This led to the absence of a terrorist threat and a decrease in the crime rate in the country. Reviews of tourists indicate the absence of street thefts and hooliganism.

Switzerland is the birthplace of mountaineering, its ski resorts are recognized as a benchmark all over the world. In addition to skiing and rock climbing, Swiss resorts offer health and wellness treatments, boating, excursions and recreation on the lakes.

• there is no threat of terrorism;
• lack of crime;
• high quality medical care;
• hospitable people.

• avalanche danger is possible in winter;
• the need to apply for a visa and medical insurance.

Canada

Canada ranks eighth in the ranking. This country has a rich natural resource potential that ensures economic growth and quality of life. Canadian medicine is renowned for its skilled workforce. The risk of terrorist attacks and political clashes is zero. The crime rate is low due to the homogeneity and stability of the local population.

The problem of environmental pollution in the country is being actively addressed. However, acid rain and air pollution in cities are still observed. Malfunctions in air conditioners can cause Legionnaires' disease similar to pneumonia. Ticks are a health hazard.

Surfing and skiing, popular tourist activities in Canada's resorts, carry the risk of injury. Treatment of possible injuries is covered by compulsory medical insurance.

A network of tourist campsites is developed in Canada. The country has 40 national parks and about a hundred nature reserves. Thanks to its vast territory, Canadian nature is diverse and rich. Bird watching tours and excursions to observe sea animals and drifting icebergs are popular along the coast.

Among tourists who prefer active rest, fishing, trekking, as well as rafting, canoeing, kayaking, related to water tourism, are popular.

Sandy beaches are located on the Atlantic coast of Canada.

For shopping, it is appropriate to visit the main shopping center of the world - West Edmonton, which consists of 800 shops and boutiques.

• high level of development of the economy, medicine and transport infrastructure;
• absence of dangerous diseases and poisonous insects;
• there is no threat of terrorism;
• low crime rate;
• peaceful population.

• pickpocketing in busy places;
• poor state of ecology in cities;
• the threat of natural disasters (floods, tornadoes, forest fires);
• compulsory visa processing.

Singapore

Exotic Singapore has settled in ninth place in the ranking of countries that are safe for tourists. This eastern state is interesting for the interweaving of religions, cultures and customs. However, there are no conflicts among the population. The country's security is ensured by a high level of economic and medical development, political neutrality and non-interference in international wars.

Crime is practically zero: Singapore has a very tough law, high fines for even minor offenses, and an almost complete absence of corruption. Natural disasters do not threaten life and rest, there are no deadly diseases.

You can come to Singapore for family holidays:

• rich cultural program;
• carousels, attractions;
• excursion tours (Botanical Garden, Sentosa Entertainment Island, etc.);
• holidays, festivals.

It is doubtful to spend a beach holiday due to the proximity of the port. However, Sentosa Island has comfortable beaches with water attractions, cafes and restaurants. By the way, despite the port status, ships in the roadstead are legally prohibited in Singapore from polluting coastal waters.

The transport infrastructure is well developed: buses, taxis, metro, motor ships, cycle rickshaws will deliver you to the right place for a small fee.And the cable car stretching from the capital to Sentosa Island is not only a means of transportation, but also a view of outlandish landscapes. Car rental is expensive and inconvenient (in Singapore, left-hand traffic, large fines, paid parking).

In the case of a transit trip, a visa-free visit is allowed for up to 4 days. There are no problems with mobile communication and internet quality in Singapore. Local SIM cards are sold at any supermarket.

No dangerous diseases have been identified. You can catch tropical fever, which is carried by mosquitoes. It rains heavily in winter, which is why the tourist season in Singapore lasts from March to October.

• high level of medical care;
• absence of fatal diseases;
• no threat of natural disasters;
• the possibility of a visa-free visit during transit;
• zero risk of terrorist attacks and serious crimes.

• mosquitoes and jellyfish.

Finland

Finland closes the top ten safest countries for tourism. The rich, environmentally friendly northern Scandinavian country is characterized by low crime rates and neutrality in international relations.

High salaries, low unemployment rates, and the absence of a line between segments of the population contribute to the almost complete absence of street crime.

Ecotourism is popular in Finland:

• meeting the New Year in the homeland of Santa Claus;
• ski resorts;
• fishing on Finnish lakes;
• excursions in the Baltic;
• ice towns with attractions;
• Finnish sauna.

• healthy ecology;
• there is no risk of terrorist attacks;
• low crime rate;
• absence of dangerous diseases;
• good medical care.

• need a visa;
• the threat of landslides in the mountains is possible.

When choosing a country for recreation, it is not enough to be guided only by the climate and sights. It is appropriate to study the level of its safety in order to avoid situations that threaten life and health.

The presented rating will help you choose the safest country for recreation.