10 Safest Countries in the World
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Traveling is inherently risky. Sure, you can run into danger in your hometown, but navigating the world can be much more intimidating in lands you don't know.
Of course, this doesn't mean you should stop traveling or that you should limit your destinations. Still, if feeling secure is a priority for you, knowing which countries have very low crime can help ease travel nerves.
These are the top 10 safest countries in the world (based on global murder rates)
What Makes China Safe
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China is definitely not the most peaceful country, but it is one of the safest. Murder rates are extremely low, not even reaching one person per 100,000 people.
While traveling through this gigantic nation, you won't really have to worry about being a victim of violent crime. As with murder, mugging is extremely rare, though pickpocketing may happen in some big cities.
That said, travelers should be very cautious about strictly following laws and rules. Even something like smoking weed can land you in jail for months or even years. Safety also doesn't mean freedom here, so wait until you've left to openly critique the government.
6. Norway (Tie)
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Population: 5.4 million
Murder rate: 0.5
What Makes Norway Safe
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Somewhat surprisingly, Norway is the only Scandinavian country to make it onto this list. The land of fjords and northern lights is a place where you can get lost in nature without fear — well, you should fear nature a little bit, but you won't have to fear other humans.
Oslo, the capital, is one of the most livable cities in the world. Quality of life, low poverty rates and a great system of social services keep people happy and satisfied here.
These factors translate to a lower risk of crime. Travelers report feeling at ease here, even when touring on their own.
6. Oman (Tie)
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Population: 5.1 million
Murder rate: 0.5
What Makes Oman Safe
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The Middle Eastern nation of Oman is not yet a big tourist destination, but that's likely to change soon. Locals are reportedly very friendly and welcoming. Petty crimes like pickpocketing or overcharging can be common, but violent crime is extremely rare.
Pass the time touring the Wahiba Sands desert or the natural pools of Wadi Shab gorge. You can also sail in a traditional Arabian ship, admire the architecture of the Sultan Qaboos Mosque and walk around Nizwa Fort, the country's oldest castle.
We should point out, however, that this country had very strict gender dynamics. Solo female travelers should be a bit more cautious, as protection from harassment or assault is practically non-existent.
6. Switzerland (Tie)
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Population: 8.6 million
Murder rate: 0.5
What Makes Switzerland Safe
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Alpine meadows where cows happily graze, pristine lakes and cities so clean they look unreal — this is Switzerland. The country is perfect almost to a fault. So much so that you may find yourself thinking you must be dreaming.
Swiss people are notoriously organized and follow rules to a "t." The government makes sure to take care of people, so poverty is low despite the high cost of living. Crime is such a rare occurrence that even relatively small things make the news.
For first-time solo travelers or anyone who wishes to travel with complete peace of mind, Switzerland is the place to visit.
6. United Arab Emirates (Tie)
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Population: 9.9 million
Murder rate: 0.5
What Makes the UAE Safe
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Like Oman, the United Arab Emirates is a very safe nation. Unlike its next-door neighbor, however, it is a highly coveted tourist destination.
Much of the UAE's appeal lies in its lavish displays of wealth. People come to admire Dubai's Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, or to eat at restaurants where a single meal costs more than what some people make in a month.
Once again, we must put an asterisk on the safety level for solo female travelers. There have been notorious cases of women being jailed after reporting assault. Homosexuality is also illegal in the UAE, so the country is not safe for LGBTQIA+ travelers.
5. Indonesia
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Population: 273.5 million
Murder rate: 0.4
What Makes Indonesia Safe
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Indonesia is a favorite place for travelers, particularly the idyllic island of Bali. With more than 17,000 islands, you could spend a lifetime exploring the country and not even come close to seeing it all.
Tall active volcanoes, beaches so beautiful they make you feel like crying and jungles hiding endemic species are all part of the natural allure of the country. Then, there's the rich culture, which varies from island to island.
Add to this the fact that the country is incredibly safe, and you have a veritable paradise.
3. Hong Kong (Tie)
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Population: 7.5 million
Murder rate: 0.3
What Makes Hong Kong Safe
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Yes, we know Hong Kong is technically part of China. But given that the special administrative region has its own language, culture and currency, it's treated as independent.
It's rare for a city this dense and with so much inequality to be safe. And yet, Hong Kong has managed to keep its crime rates low. Come here for the numerous Michelin-starred restaurants or street food that tastes just as good. Spend time up in Victoria Peak or just ride the tram around the city.
The best part is that you won't have to worry about safety.
3. Luxembourg (Tie)
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Population: 632,275
Murder rate: 0.3
What Makes Luxembourg Safe
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Despite bordering Belgium, France and Germany, Luxembourg doesn't receive as many visitors as it should. The small nation has pretty medieval towns without the large crowds. It also has many natural parks where you can go on hikes and enjoy the serenity of the country.
As in many other countries on the continent, pickpocketing is common. But you just need to be savvy about where you put your things in order to avoid it.
1. Japan (Tie)
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Population: 125.8 million
Murder rate: 0.2
What Makes Japan Safe
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Two Asian countries tie in the No. 1 spot as the safest countries in the world. Let's first go over Japan, whose rank should surprise absolutely no one.
The country is notorious for its safety, which makes it possible for people to sleep off a hangover on the street without worrying about having their possessions stolen. Yes, there are gangs, but they mostly keep to themselves (despite what Hollywood wants you to think) and very rarely come up from the underground to bother normal citizens.
Travelers absolutely love Japan for its food, culture and architecture. But there's no denying that not having to think about crime is also a major perk.
1. Singapore (Tie)
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Population: 5.7 million
Murder rate: 0.2
What Makes Singapore Safe
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Singapore matches Japan in terms of safety. What makes it so interesting is that, unlike its contender, the micro-nation is very diverse. Within its limited borders, you'll find sizeable Hindu, Muslim, Chinese and Malay populations. In fact, the country is divided into neighborhoods that have a distinct personality based on the population that inhabits them.
Despite its numerous languages, religions and cultures, the nation has managed to keep the peace between groups. As a traveler, you'll walk through the streets and realize that getting along is, indeed, possible.
The rest of the world should learn something from Singapore.
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