5 of the Safest Places to Go on Holiday
With so many conflicts taking place in the world at present, it may be tempting to take a destination's safety into consideration before booking your next holiday.
But how do you work out exactly what 'safe' is?
If you chose where to go on holiday by examining only incarceration or homicide rates, for instance, then you would probably end up in San Marino or Lichtenstein.
Not exactly a barrel of laughs – even if you're rather taken with Lichtenstein's vibrant hiking scene.
Having fun things to do is crucial. So here at starttravel.co.uk we've put together a list of destinations that are fun, offer political stability, low crime and predictable weather.
Singapore
The island state of Singapore has long been known for its low crime rate. But while many will be aware of the country's comical anti-chewing gum laws (and recall how male visitors with long hair used to receive a short back and sides before they were allowed in), Singapore is actually a very relaxed place to be. And that's not least because of its super-low crime rate.
Politically, Singapore is very stable, although air pollution can occasionally be an issue (think the hazes of previous years).
But what is there to do?
Aside from gawping at the skyscrapers and going shopping mad, Singapore offers a great deal to the tourist: Check out the botanic gardens, cutting edge art at the Ritz-Carlton or the fascinating Chinatown Heritage Centre.
On the downside, Singapore can be pricey.
Sweden
Closer to home but still rather costly is Sweden, famed for its extremely low crime rate and wide range of tourist activities and attractions.
As Europe's winter approaches, however, a trip here will likely focus on snowier pursuits, such as snowboarding or skiing.
But if you visit before autumn departs fully then you might squeeze in some hiking and golf. And whatever time of year you visit, exciting Swedish cities like Gothenburg and Stockholm offer a wealth of arts, culture and entertainment.
Spain
Spain is another European state that combines low crime levels with an astonishing array of attractions – boasting the third highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world!
So whether you fancy exploring the Alhambra palace-fortress in Andalusia, lounging on a Costa Brava beach, or indulging in Madrid's immersive nightlife, Spain is just the ticket – and the great thing is, you can enjoy it all against a backdrop of low crime and political stability (despite the rough time Spain has experienced in recent years).
Japan
The only thing you'll feel threatened by in Japan is the cost of living; it is one of safest, best policed countries in the world.
So once you've prepared yourself for the cost of staying here, you can concentrate on enjoying this nation's numerous attractions.
With 16 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the stunning Himeji Castle and the fascinating Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto, there is no shortage of options available.
Alongside Japan's rich history, visitors come here to witness the high-paced ultra-modern way of life – where Bullet trains transport travellers across the nation at eye-popping speeds, as well as seeing central Tokyo at rush hour which will bring a whole new meaning to the term 'organised chaos'.
The ABC Islands
Known as the ABC Islands, Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao are part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and have extremely low levels of crime.
But a good holiday demands more than a high degree of safety and luckily the ABC Islands, located in the Leeward Antilles in the Caribbean, offer it: fantastic diving is to be enjoyed in Bonaire, while palm fringed beaches make for a classic Caribbean escape on all three islands.
Aruba
Safety on Holiday
But however cautious you are, there is always the possibility of something going wrong whilst away. Even if there is little risk from crime or extreme weather, accidents, illness, lost luggage, delays and numerous other events may occur.
The best way to mitigate these risks is of course by taking out a good quality single or annual travel insurance policy – so you really do feel safe on your next trip.
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