The most peaceful state in the world. The safest countries in the world. Dangerous Country: South Sudan, Africa

There are more than 150 states on the territory of our planet. Each of them has its own culture, ethnic composition, customs, laws and mentality. Thanks to such features, all countries on the globe are not alike. However, not every one of them is characterized by economic stability and security. Every year, many reputable print publications and online resources compile lists that include the safest countries on the planet.

When compiling the rating of safe countries, a huge number of criteria are taken into account, ranging from the pace of economic development to the standard of living of people. In this case, absolutely all the details that, to one degree or another, characterize a particular state are taken into account. The most important of them are:


Today, almost every state compiles its own ratings. In most cases, they do not reflect the real picture and are created to strengthen their own positions in the eyes of the world community. At the same time, the international rating, which is compiled jointly by all states of the planet, includes 162 positions.

The most dangerous countries for tourists

Unfortunately, most countries of the former socialist camp are located at the bottom of the list, and the top ten most dangerous countries are as follows:

  1. Somalia;

According to the rating, the most dangerous place on the planet is Syria, which is currently in a state of civil war. In general, the bottom lines of the list are occupied by the poorest countries in Africa and Asia. However, Russia also has not gone far and occupies only 145th place, belonging to the class of states with dynamically developing variable risks.

Top 10 safe and comfortable countries for holidays and living

Slovenia - 10th place

Despite the fact that the lists are updated annually, the 10 safest countries in the world have remained unchanged. Although minor changes took place within the dozen, no one left it. In 2020, tenth place is still occupied by Slovenia.

Thanks to its favorable geographical location in the very center of Europe and its membership in the EU, Slovenia has achieved enormous economic success in a short time. What affected the standard of living of the population, infrastructure development and social guarantees.

The majority of the country's citizens are involved in the industrial sector, which is not only developing dynamically, but also requires a systematic increase in staff. Stability, prosperity and the availability of jobs help reduce street crime. In addition, most of the population has a negative attitude towards violence and strongly condemns it.

Slovenia is a unitary republic with a stable political structure and developed foreign economic relations. All these factors, combined with a low crime rate, make it one of the leaders in the top safest countries in the world.

Japan - 9th place

Japan is one of the world leaders in economic development, second only to the USA and China. The country has a high standard of living, and its residents are dedicated and hardworking. Most Japanese prefer to work 12–14 hours a day and do not take vacations.

Receiving huge profits contributes to the development of all industries, from the quality of road surfaces to the introduction of advanced technologies in the industrial sector. Japanese medicine is also considered one of the best in the world, as evidenced by its low infant mortality rate and large number of centenarians.

The low crime rate is due to the peculiarities of the mentality and attitude of people towards manifestations of cruelty. The number of violent deaths in the country is one of the lowest in the world, at 4.4 for every million inhabitants.

Ninth place in the world ranking is due to its geographical location, since almost the entire territory of the state is located within the Great Ring of Fire. The threat of tsunami, seismic activity and the small area played a role. Japan did not become a leader in terms of life safety, which it could well have counted on.

Canada - 8th place

Canada is in second place in terms of area, second only to the Russian Federation. The high level of economic development is due to the presence of a huge amount of minerals and other natural resources that are exported. Funds received from trade operations contribute to the modernization of industry and improving the living standards of citizens.

The introduction of the latest technologies and the high level of personnel qualifications have made Canadian medicine famous throughout the world. Well-developed infrastructure and high-quality roads also play a role.

Canada's only geographic neighbor is the United States, which significantly reduces the flow of illegal immigrants trying to enter the country. Despite its large area, the country's population density is quite low. However, more than 75% of residents live along the border with the United States, where most of the cities are located. At the same time, the northern regions of the state are occupied by taiga forests.

Canadians are ardent opponents of any form of violence and categorically do not accept crime. Street thefts and robberies are rare, and violent deaths are virtually unreported. Therefore, it is not easy to live in such a country safely, but also quite comfortably.

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Switzerland - 7th place

Switzerland is a multinational state in which at least 3-4 people live in peace and harmony. Despite the difference in views and culture, they get along with each other and almost never conflict. Such a national composition not only helped attract foreign capital, but also contributed to the development of tolerance between people of different nations.

The Swiss economy is based on tourism, for which all the necessary conditions have been created. Most of the country's population is employed in the service sector aimed at foreign guests. Every year, infrastructure is modernized and people's living conditions are improved.

Focus on tourists contributes to the improvement of all areas of economic activity and medicine, which is one of the best in the world. Despite the different ethnic composition, the level of terrorist threats is practically non-existent, as is crime in general.

A large flow of foreign tourists, the opportunity to open their own business and independently plan their activities make Switzerland one of the most hospitable and safe countries in Europe.

Czech Republic - 6th place

Of all the countries in whose vastness they tried to build a socialist society, the Czech Republic is the most progressive. Economic growth and political stability provide a calm atmosphere within the state. The dynamic development of the economy is associated with achievements in the field of industry. Czech-made goods are famous all over the world, just like the Skoda automobile brand, which is a standard of quality and sophistication.

The low crime rate is explained by the absence of division of society along class lines, since most of the population is at the same financial level. In addition, the high cultural level of residents, social security and rejection of violence make the state one of the safest places to live in the world.

Today, only a few monuments remind of the Soviet past in the Czech Republic. All other areas of life have long been reoriented towards market relations. Part of the income received from the export of products of own production is spent on improving the living standards of people, which ensure the progress of the economy.

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Portugal - 5th place

Portugal has always been considered one of the safest countries in the world, but only since 2016 has it entered the top ten. The main source of state income is the agrarian-industrial sector, which ensures systematic economic growth. The main trading partners are the countries of the European Union, to which about 95% of all manufactured products are exported.

Despite the development of the agricultural industry, the standard of living of the population is very high. Most of the profits go to modernizing existing infrastructure and improving social standards. Medicine is distinguished by its professionalism.

Its favorable geographical location in the very south of Europe and endless beaches make Portugal a tasty morsel for tourists from all over the world. A high level of economic development and the absence of class inequality contributes to a reduction in crime. Despite the southern temperament, residents of the state categorically do not accept and condemn violence. This makes it possible not only to live in safety, but also to move freely around the country at any time of the day. You need it for the trip.

New Zealand - 4th place

New Zealand is a unique state not only in terms of its structure, but also in its isolation from the rest of the world. It is located in the Pacific Ocean and occupies two islands of the same name. Its peculiarity is the lack of territorial proximity to other countries, since the nearest state is located 1 thousand km away.

Due to its geographical isolation, New Zealand is practically not involved in any military conflicts, which also significantly reduces the threat of terrorist attacks. The main directions of economic activity of the state are the agricultural and industrial sectors, which employ the majority of the population.

The islands are famous for their huge mineral deposits, among which gold and silver occupy the leading positions. Income from their production forms the basis of the economy and allows it to develop dynamically.

The attitude of New Zealanders towards crime and corruption is sharply negative, and favorable conditions for business development only help attract foreign investment. Living on its territory is safe and comfortable. New Zealand could well have become the safest country in the world if it had not been located in a zone of seismic activity. Over the past 10 years, at least 5 major earthquakes have been recorded on the islands. To travel to New Zealand you need

When they say “the safest country in the world,” they mean that its residents feel calm, cozy and comfortable. They are not afraid of becoming victims of a murderer or robber on the street, they are confident in the future, and are financially and socially protected.

In such a state there is no war, and the risk of its occurrence is reduced to almost zero. Also, there are practically no protests or other unrest here. Security is very important - a stable, highly developed economy. So what is the safest country in the world?

Rating of the safest countries in the world to live

The rating below was compiled by a group of experts from different parts of the world. As a result of the work they carried out in 2017, the picture turned out as follows:

1. Iceland. This northern state has been leading the list of the safest countries in the world for several years. Even the relatively recent collapse of Icelandic banks did not affect his position. The country's economy still remains stable, and all thanks to the fact that for many centuries the state has invested in its development, avoiding wars and other disasters.

2. New Zealand. In second place are states from the Southern Hemisphere. The prisons of this picturesque country are practically empty, the army is purely symbolic. New Zealand maintains close friendly relations with Australia and is a very hospitable state, attracting tourists not only with its high safety, but also with its beautiful scenery.

3. Portugal. Its presence in the top three will come as a surprise to many, but the fact remains. The crime rate in Portugal is extremely low, the economy is stable, and the standard of living of the population is high. There is also picturesque nature here, namely: golden beaches, blue sea, majestic mountain ranges. The country is ideal for both holidays and permanent residence.

4. Australia. New Zealand's neighbor, country, continent and continent in one "set". Considered one of the best places to live on earth. Australia's area is huge, but its population is relatively small. The country has a high level of rights and freedoms. Australians are very tolerant. Crime is low and the political situation is stable.

5. Denmark. The Scandinavians have always been famous for their calmness, sedateness, and peacefulness. The Danes are no exception. It is these features of the mentality that allowed their state to enter the top five leaders in security.

6. Czech Republic. A country from the former socialist camp, which managed to quite quickly and successfully survive all the cataclysms associated with the transition period. The Czech economy today is quite strong, and a favorable investment climate promises its further development. The country cares a lot about people, understanding that human potential is the most valuable thing the state has.

7. Slovenia. A neighbor of the Czech Republic, part of the former Yugoslavia, which also tried to build communism. There are practically no internal conflicts here. Local residents are distinguished by high culture and respect for each other and for guests. The breathtaking landscapes also attract here.

8. Canada. A huge country in North America, which has become a second home for immigrants from many less stable corners of the planet. The standard of living here is one of the highest in the world. The city streets are safe, clean, comfortable. Canadian citizens are socially protected.

9. Switzerland. One of the richest and most stable countries in Europe. Here they know how to count money, protect wealth and increase it. Switzerland traditionally stays away from any external conflicts. Domestic policy has also been stable for many decades in a row.

10. Ireland. Despite certain tensions in relations with Great Britain, this country still occupies the top position in the ranking of the most peaceful countries on the planet. The Irish are very peaceful and cultured. They have a rich literary past. They know their history, honor it and are happy to introduce it to their guests.

11. Japan. It ranks third in the world in terms of economic development. After World War II, the Japanese stopped getting involved in any conflicts and began to rebuild their homeland. The result was impressive. The crime rate in Japan is low, and any conflicts are extremely rare.

12. Austria. A state in the center of Europe, for which its current prosperity came at a high price. After the world wars, Austria made certain conclusions, and for more than 70 years it has been building exclusively friendly relations with other countries, developing its economy. Local residents feel protected and confident in the future.

13. Butane. Country in South Asia. Does not take part in any external conflicts. Domestic politics are also stable. Over the past seven years, not a single disturbance has been recorded here. Bhutan has a whole army of police officers who protect the peace of local residents and guests.

14. Norway. Another Scandinavian country in the top 15 for safety. Its reputation has been somewhat damaged after the massacre committed by Anders Breivik, so today Norway is only in 14th place. However, overall it is a very calm, peaceful and stable state.

15. Hungary. Austria's neighbor and former "partner" in the empire rounds out the top 15. Having abandoned the path to communism and begun to build capitalism, the Hungarians have achieved a lot. They still have a lot ahead, but today their successes are obvious. Hungary is calm and comfortable. In Europe (and in the world) it is one of the most steadily developing countries.

These were the safest countries in the world to live in. Unfortunately, the states of the post-Soviet space are still, for the most part, trailing at the very bottom of the list, and they cannot even dream of leadership. Russia is also not included in the TOP yet.

For many, an ideal country is a state without wars and protests, with a stable economy that allows you to easily secure your life and leisure, without crime and fear for your safety.

Do you know which countries in the world are best suited for such a calm, peaceful, stable life, with prospects for the future? Since 2007, the Institute for Economics and Peace has been researching all peoples and regions of the planet based on external and internal indicators. We may think that the world is becoming increasingly violent in times of crisis, but according to the Global Peace Index, there are 20 of the most peaceful countries in which to live.

1. Denmark

Denmark tops the list of the most peaceful countries on earth as it is truly a safe place to live. Even when Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark, was under Nazi occupation during World War II, there was no military activity in the city at all. This is because people living in Denmark prefer to focus on economic issues rather than getting involved in various armed conflicts.

Danish people are very friendly, open and helpful. All tourists who have visited Denmark at least once in their lives, without exception, claim that they would like to live in this country.

2. Norway

Many did not expect that Norway could appear on the list of ideal countries to live in. Perhaps this is because Anders Behring Breivik, a mass murderer, has hurt the country's global reputation. Of course, this was an isolated incident of this magnitude, and according to the Global Peace Index, Norway is one of the most peaceful, stable, friendly and safe countries to live in.

It is the state with the highest level of human development in the world. In addition, the Oslo government always places economic stability, social development and peace at the top of the country's list of priorities.

3. Singapore

As an active member of the international community and, overall, a small separate nation, Singapore may never have happened! Since gaining independence in 1965 as a sovereign Republic, Singapore has always focused on being a great neighbor through establishing social, peaceful, economic, political relations with all countries.

Singapore cooperates with the United Nations, and also participates in various global, unilateral and multilateral campaigns to promote international cooperation, and is also a member of the WTO (World Trade Organization).

Singapore is on the list of the most peaceful countries and is also one of the richest countries in the world. Here the level of murders and violent crime is tens of times lower than in other countries.

4. Slovenia


The beautiful European country of Slovenia is also in the “ideal to live” rating. It showed the lowest indicators among the countries of the continent in terms of the number of organized internal conflicts, protests, and the number of civil and external wars. In addition, its wonderful cities, like Maribor and Ljubljana, are teeming with unique culture and flavor, making Slovenia a fantastic destination for tourists.

5. Sweden

One of the most beautiful Scandinavian countries, Sweden is located in the far north of Europe. Although Sweden is one of the largest arms exporters in Europe, the country has a low robbery rate (only 9,000 per year) compared to the US (about 350,000 per year)! Sweden has not fought or participated in battles for more than two centuries.

Most of the country's budget is aimed at economic and social development, which makes the level of citizens' dissatisfaction with their lives zero.

According to the Global Peace Index, Sweden is one of the most peaceful and stable (politically and economically) countries in the world, despite being the world's third largest arms exporter.

6. Iceland

Iceland has been recognized as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, as it has managed to stay away from all the major conflicts in the world. Thanks to this, the government has been able to invest money in the economy and development of the country for centuries.

Iceland rarely makes headlines. Despite the collapse of the Icelandic banks several years ago, the country has remained not only an amazing place with impressive natural beauty, but also a fairly stable state. Tourists from all over the world come to Iceland to see the huge glaciers and raging volcanoes, as well as the many unique natural and cultural attractions in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.

7. Belgium

According to the Global Peace Index, Belgium is one of the best and most peaceful places to live in both Europe and the rest of the world. Located in the heart of the continent, this small country occupies a special political place. Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is home to the European Union and NATO.

Belgium boasts medieval cities, beautiful town halls, majestic castles and captivating natural beauty.
The murder and incarceration rates in Belgium are very low, even taking into account the government crisis during the period 2008-2011.

8. Czech Republic

The Czech Republic is a relatively new country that gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1989 thanks to the Velvet Revolution and subsequent separation from Slovakia.

After the collapse of Czechoslovakia, the Czech Republic focused on creating a strong capitalist economy and a stable climate for investment.

In 2009, the Human Development Index (HDI) declared the Czech Republic to have a “very high level of human development”. Known primarily for its magnificent capital, Prague, and breathtaking natural beauty, the Czech Republic attracts tourists from all over. Moreover, students from all over the world flock to this country, who have a real opportunity to receive a European education for free and stay to live in this amazing country.

9. Switzerland

Switzerland has consistently maintained a well-functioning government and an open political culture for decades. An illustration of the quality of a country's government activities is the lowest score for political instability. In addition, Switzerland is among the most peaceful countries that have low violent crime rates. Although Switzerland is known for its neutrality in regional, international and global political matters, it maintains close diplomatic relations with various countries around the world.

10. Japan

One of the most culturally fascinating countries, Japan has the third largest economy in the world. Since World War II, it has been a very calm state, with virtually no internal conflicts and a very low crime rate. The country has its own internal security regulation force to maintain peace.

Japan is a peaceful and also stunningly beautiful country that you don't necessarily want to live in, but it's worth visiting one day.

11. Ireland

With its rich historical sites, amazing green pastures and friendly people, it's no wonder that Ireland is one of the most peaceful countries on Earth.

Ireland is a fabulous country with many reasons to visit. A rich literary history, mountain castles, picturesque coastlines and legendary hospitality make Ireland a wonderful place to visit at any time of the year, as well as a wonderful place to live, with a calm, peaceful atmosphere.

12. Finland

The Finns, as a people, have never been famous for their fighting character, despite the fact that they have compulsory civil and military service for young people. It is also worth noting the Finnish education system, which covers absolutely all areas of activity. It’s not for nothing that she ranks fifth among the best in the world.

13. New Zealand

Every year since 2007, the Institute for Economics and Peace has ranked New Zealand among the most peaceful countries. And there are reasons for this: a very small percentage of the population in prisons, limited military capabilities, close relations with Australia and incredible hospitality. New Zealand is a wonderful country to live. It is a place of varied natural scenery and unusual inhabitants.

Visitors from all over the world come to New Zealand to experience mountain scenery, breathtaking alpine glaciers, stunning beaches, fantastic geothermal springs and bubbling volcanoes, and walk through the haunts of famous hobbits and elves from the Lord of the Rings trilogy.

The country is also famous for its fine wines, with a huge number of grape varieties planted throughout New Zealand. So if you are a big fan of wine or hobbits, this is the place for you.

14. Canada

Having one of the highest standards of living in the world, Canada is also a very calm and stable country. It is home to only 33 million people, but is nonetheless the second largest country in the world.

Canada is a wonderful country to live in, with clean and safe cities, picturesque landscapes and friendly people.

Canada, despite having a relatively high military potential, is not currently involved in any armed conflicts.

15. Austria

Austria is a small Central European country that ranks among the “ideal countries” due to its position on international politics. Since the First World War, the collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the Second World War, Austria has embarked on a path of peaceful and serene life.

Many people argue that Austria is the best country to live. After all, with its amazing history, world-famous resorts in the Alps, and a stable economy that allows citizens to work and achieve success, it is not surprising to see Austria on this list.

16. Butane

Bhutan is also one of the 20 most beautiful and safe countries to live in, as measured by the 2013 Global Peace Index. This is because Bhutan does not take part in international conflicts, and no internal unrest has been noticed here over the past 6 years. The country has a huge number of police officers per 100,000 population and a low level of organized crime. The government allocates almost no money for military needs and the production of heavy weapons. The people here are very friendly, peaceful, and besides this, Bhutan boasts a large number of interesting sights.

17. Australia

Australia is a beautiful and peaceful country that offers cultural diversity, wonderful beaches, lots of breathtaking scenery, amazing fauna and friendly people with a great sense of humor. Although Australia is almost the size of the United States, it has a small population of about 20 million.

Very low crime rates, a stable political system, high standards of healthcare and well-maintained roads make Australia a safe and relatively easy country to live in or simply explore.

18. Portugal

You might be surprised to learn that Portugal is one of the calmest countries in the world, but it's true. It has been part of the EU for 26 years and is part of the European Monetary System. Portugal has the 43rd largest economy in the world according to the World Bank. In addition, the country has one of the highest GDP growth rates.

It has a very low crime rate, a high standard of living and a stable government. Plus, stunning sandy beaches, golden plains, majestic mountains and vibrant cities make Portugal one of the best places to live.

19. Qatar

Qatar is perhaps the most stable and industrialized country in the entire Middle East, and the most peaceful in the entire world. Violent incidents are very rare here.

Qatar is one of the most flexible and liberal states in the East, where women have many rights, including the right to work, drive and vote. The country is now committed to National Vision 2030 to achieve a more sustainable and developed economy.

20. Mauritius

In 2013, the country was recognized as the most peaceful state in Africa. The strength of this state lies in the stability of the region and thereby further promotes it as a reliable platform for rich management services and estate planning.

It is a great advantage to live in a peaceful, stable country, and if you are lucky enough to live in one, you should be proud!

Life is scary, and traveling is even scarier: planes are shot down, bombs explode at the airport, people are shot at in hotels... Sometimes it seems that it’s better to lock yourself at home, close all the windows and doors and watch pictures with landscapes and city views on Tumblr.

But despite the turbulent situation, there are still countries in the world where you can simply enjoy traveling without worrying about your life. But, of course, there are also such dangerous places that it is better to trust your inner paranoid and not tempt fate.

Map of dangerous and safe countries according to the Global Peace Index

Dark green color – very high level of security. Green – high level. Yellow – medium level. Orange – low level. Red – very low.

5. Dangerous Country: Somalia, Africa

For 20 years in a row, Somalia has been rocked by civil war: on the one hand, the Transitional Federal Government, supported by the United States of America, on the other, Islamist rebels. In addition, the country is torn apart by endless conflicts between opposing tribes. Criminal gangs operate on land, and pirates operate on sea. In recent years, about 20% of the population has fled from the African state. Tourists have nothing to do here either - medicine is extremely undeveloped, there are problems with telephone communications, and traveling by car can easily become a real disaster - there are few gas stations, so there is every chance of getting stuck in the middle of the desert.


Somali children queue for food and water

4. Dangerous Country: Afghanistan

Tourists should forget about Afghanistan: the Central Asian state was recognized as the worst place for women. The statistics are frightening: for example, in 2014, 2,026 cases of violence against women were registered, including 162 women in the country who were beaten to death. Moreover, compared to the previous year, the figure increased by 15%. But the place is not safe for men either. The situation in the country is very turbulent, especially for foreigners - they can become victims of the Taliban. Thus, in 2007, the Taliban kidnapped 23 tourists from Korea from a regular city bus, killing two in the process.


Afghan women celebrate New Year in Kabul. Author: Ahmad Masood/Reuters.

3. Dangerous Country: Iraq

The Islamist terrorist organization Daesh operates in Iraq - the northern, western and central parts of the country, including the second largest Iraqi city of Mosul, are under its control. It is dangerous to approach Iraq's borders with Turkey, Syria and Iran. The terrorists spare no one: representatives of the Red Cross, the UN, journalists and ordinary tourists come under attack. Hotels, restaurants, cafes and other places where guests of the country gather are being targeted. Desperate travelers claim that the southern regions of the country are relatively safe, you just need to avoid “hot” spots, don’t get involved in conflicts, don’t stand out from the crowd... But maybe it’s still not worth it?


2. Dangerous Country: South Sudan, Africa

Children, don’t go for a walk in Africa... And definitely avoid South Sudan. The southern part of Sudan became a separate independent state after a referendum in 2011. Before the popular vote, Sudan promised to support any decision of the southerners, but since independence, conflicts between the northern and southern states have not stopped. The danger also comes from the Lord's Resistance Army, a Ugandan nationalist cult group whose bases and strongholds are believed to be located in South Sudan. The Lord's army has become notorious for its repeated cases of child abduction. The tourist will have to carefully think through the route: there are many minefields here. In addition, in case of accidents, a traveler should not rely on local medicine - it is of no different quality in the country.


A man with the South Sudan flag marches on Independence Day

1. Dangerous country: Syria

It is difficult to even imagine who would think of voluntarily going to Syria. As of 2016, the Global Peace Security Index ranks Syria as the most dangerous country in the world. Since the beginning of the conflict between the government of Bashar al-Assad and the opposition in 2011, more than 300 thousand people have been killed here. A fifth of Syria's population (3.9 out of 21.9 million) fled to other countries, and another 7.6 million people were displaced internally from their homes. The international human rights organization Human Rights Watch called the militants' actions a crime against humanity. Governments are advising their citizens in Syria to leave the country immediately. At any moment, airports, roads and other means of communication may be blocked, and there will be no turning back.


Syrian woman with a child in a military conflict zone

1. Safe country: Iceland

Since 2007, Iceland has time and again proven to be the safest country in the world. The small island nation in northern Europe has no army and police officers don't even carry weapons. American international law student Andrew Clark traveled to Iceland twice to collect information for a project about the northern country's low crime rate. There are 0.3 murders for every 100,000 people, and the rate has remained between 0-1.5 for more than ten years. Why is it so safe here? Andrew believes that Iceland's secret is equality: 97% of Icelanders consider themselves middle class, the country is considered the first in the world in women's rights, minority rights are protected here, and there is an almost complete absence of religious conflicts.


Residents of Iceland at a city festival

2. Safe country: Denmark

Crimes of particular gravity are very rare here - the murder rate reaches only 0.8 per 100,000 people. Denmark is safe for tourists - for example, in the capital of the country, Copenhagen, there are no “dangerous” areas. Rates of sexual violence are also low, putting Denmark on the list of countries suitable for women traveling alone. Visitors to the country should only take reasonable safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on things at the famous music festivals in Aarhus. In the countryside, everything is also quiet and calm, but it is worth remembering that the majority of rural residents of Denmark do not speak English, so if something happens, it can be difficult to ask for help.


Spectators at the Copenhagen Jazz Festival

3. Safe country: Austria

Austria is one of the safest countries in the world. The capital of Austria, Vienna ranks sixth in terms of safety out of 215 cities. The murder rate is one per 100,000 people. Tourists can feel safe in both small towns and rural areas, including in nature. You should be wary of pickpocketing here (as, indeed, everywhere else) and theft of bicycles. The latter can be explained quite simply: the difference between bicycle paths is not visible everywhere. Some tourists note unfriendly attitudes towards dark-skinned people, especially in small towns.


4. Safe Country: New Zealand

New Zealand was ranked fourth in the 2016 Global Peace ranking. The country did not lose its leading position in previous years. The island nation also holds the title of being the least corrupt in the world - New Zealanders pride themselves on their relaxed lifestyle, for which they can thank an efficient legal system and a police force they can always turn to. New Zealand is equally safe for traveling around cities and for forays into the wild. True, sometimes you should be careful with the latter: although, unlike neighboring Australia, there are few dangerous and poisonous animals here, parrots love to gnaw plastic from windshield wipers, side mirrors and car doors and can significantly spoil the appearance of the vehicle.


5. Safe Country: Portugal

In a frighteningly short time, several popular tourist destinations have become extremely unsafe: a suicide bombing at Istanbul airport, the shooting of tourists in a Tunisian hotel, and a plane crash in Egypt have turned many travelers away from these countries. Warm European countries appeared on the scene, including Portugal, the fifth safest country in the Global Peace ranking. In Portugal, you can forget about terrorism and crime for a while (1.2 murders per 100 thousand people per year). The most common complaints from tourists are dishonest, rude taxi drivers, pickpockets on public transport and broken, chipped tiles on the main streets of cities.


BOOM Festival in the village of Idanha a Nova