Safety ranks high on the list of factors that travellers consider when choosing their next destination. It doesn’t matter if you’re embarking on this journey on your own or with a group; you’ll want your safety to be the least of your worries. After all, it can be difficult to immerse yourself in the scenes, scents, and sounds at your destination if you’re perpetually worried about thieves, robbers, and scammers who might be trying to take advantage of distracted and uninitiated tourists.
Fortunately, there are plenty of countries in Asia that are deemed safe in the sense that they generally have stable economies and governments and low rates of violent crime and crimes against property. If you’re looking for a destination where you can rest easy while exploring unfamiliar spaces, consider adding the following countries to your list:
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Singapore
The city-state of Singapore has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, which is a good reason to tour the area without fearing for your personal safety. As a tourist, you’re expected to abide by the laws of the country, including following its traffic rules, to ensure everyone’s safety on the road and in public spaces. But the Lion City is more than just its reputation for safety, as it also offers plenty of points of interest and activities.
Even if you’re just in the country for a quick business trip, for instance, you can still find a lot of things to do in Changi, the district where Singapore’s award-winning Changi Airport is located. There are many shopping and entertainment centres, sports and nature facilities, and historical places that are located just a few minutes away from the airport and are open to locals and tourists alike.
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Japan
Japan is no stranger to lists that focus on the safest and most peaceful countries on the face of the planet. In fact, the country bagged the 10th spot in the 2022 Global Peace Index, the world’s global measure of general peacefulness.
This is for good reason, as the crime rate in the country has been consistently low for a long time. It’s very rare for tourists to fall victim to violent crimes and crimes against property, even in big cities like Tokyo or Kyoto.
Still, it’s important to keep your wits about you when you’re out and about. Even though the streets are relatively safe no matter the time of day or night, it’s the smart thing to do to avoid dimly lit and deserted streets after dark, for example.
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Taiwan
Taiwan is a delight to visit, not only because it’s a safe destination with low crime rates, but also because it’s a place that’s especially welcoming to tourists. The country offers a safe space to tourists of all creeds and lifestyles, as long as they are also keen on following the local rules and regulations.
If you’re a woman who is travelling on your own, you can rest easy that you won’t attract unwanted attention while you’re exploring. But just like in any big city, be mindful of your valuables when in crowded spaces. Pickpockets are rare in Taiwan and the country’s crime rate is pretty low, but petty crimes can still take place in public.
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Vietnam
Tourism is a major industry in Vietnam. To protect this significant source of income, the residents and the government of the country are working together to ensure that visitors are able to enjoy high levels of safety during their trips to the country.
You’ll find that many Vietnamese and even tourists here are welcoming and friendly to each other. Still, it’s a good idea to take precautions against petty crimes like pickpocketing when you’re in crowded cities and popular tourist destinations.
You should also be very careful when crossing and navigating the streets in Vietnam. The roads here can be a bit intimidating, the traffic can be chaotic, and road accidents occur frequently. It’s in your best interest as a pedestrian to stay focused while using the country’s road system.
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Bhutan
If you are looking for a safe destination that’s off the beaten path, Bhutan is an option you should seriously consider. This mountainous country has a low violent crime rate, and crimes against property are quite uncommon.
Just like anywhere else you’ll travel to, though, it’s only common sense to be aware of where and how you keep your valuables in your person when you’re exploring new places. This way, you’re less likely to fall victim to pickpockets, thieves, and scammers. Take note also that traffic accidents can be a frequent occurrence in the country. As such, be careful when using roads and sidewalks.
Planning to travel on your own for the first time or to go on a trip with your family or partner to a safe and peaceful destination? Consider going on vacation to any one of these countries. By choosing your destination wisely, you can fully engage with your environment and create happy memories with your companions without worrying about your safety or peace of mind.
This article was brought to you by Sasha Nacino.
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