Russia, Israel and 10 other most dangerous places for travelers in the world

You probably know that you shouldn't plan a vacation in North Korea or Iraq, but there are many more interesting places that can be difficult, dangerous or even fatal to travel to. Reader's Digest offers a list of 12 such places.

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India

Radical inequalities in wealth and class may partly explain the risk of fraud and theft in this country. According to John Gobbels, vice president and chief operating officer of Medjet (an international emergency service), the US State Department has granted the country a Level 2 advisory status (Level 1 means you must take normal precautions; Level 4 is “do not travel”). India has received the "exercise caution" status mainly due to polluted air, typhoid fever, food and waterborne diseases. It is also home to the rare but life-threatening Nipah virus. If you must visit the Taj Mahal, Gobbels recommends seeing a doctor before leaving. In addition to vaccination, you may be prescribed anti-malarial drugs and offered to take out travel insurance.

Hawaii

Given that the Big Island is popular for honeymooners, it would be surprising to consider it dangerous to visit. But as a result of the eruption of the Kilauea volcano, the island was in a state of emergency, as a result of which there was a threat of the spread of toxic gas, cracks, lava flows and earthquakes. You will surely see special offers from airlines for flying to this place, but think twice before venturing out there.

Acapulco

This beach resort town on Mexico's Pacific coast is a far cry from the white sand party destination it once was. Gobbels explains that with a Level 4 travel advisory, Acapulco is in the same category as Iran, Syria and North Korea. Why is it so dangerous? The city is considered the capital of murder, where dozens of gangs operate openly.

Israel and the Middle East

Given the recent violence and unrest surrounding the relocation of the US Embassy to Jerusalem, the region can be a dangerous place. Although the embassy's opening ceremony seemed like a holiday, violent protests erupted 50 miles (80 km) from the city in Gaza. Many people still travel to one of the most sacred places in the world, but the Department of State warns you to be on the lookout. If you do decide to travel, Gobbels suggests registering for the Smart Traveler program, which allows US embassies and consulates to contact you and provide assistance in the event of a violent incident.

Brazil

When worldatlas.com compiled a list of the 50 most dangerous cities in the world, 17 of them were in Brazil.

“Wherever you go, it's important to always be aware of your surroundings and ensure your safety,” warns Gobbels. “Crime is rampant in cities and you need to be especially careful if you travel anywhere outside the main tourist areas.” Your health may also be at risk: if you're going to the beach, even the famous sands of Ipanema, remember: water pollution is a serious problem. A study has shown that just three teaspoons of water can lead to a viral or bacterial infection. Gobbels reminds that sand can hide infectious insects, making it dangerous for children.

On the subject: Do not travel: the most dangerous countries for the Americans in the world

Malaysian Borneo

This island in the Malay Archipelago of Southeast Asia offers pristine beaches, rich rainforests and amazing wildlife - from leopards to orangutans. The views may be beautiful, but the political climate makes this trip risky. The election season in early May led to threats of foreign kidnappings; The island's famous diving spots are among the most dangerous.

Madagascar

Compared to other African countries, the crime rate in Madagascar is significantly lower. However, political instability in this area has led to higher unemployment and looting. This is especially true in crowded places such as airports and street markets. There is also a growing trend for violent highway robbery, including car theft, for those traveling on the RN7, RN27, RN10 and RN1B highways. Because of this, you must always move quickly, do not stop or leave the car unattended. It is also important to note that there was a plague outbreak in Madagascar in 2017, which killed 2700 people, and another is expected from September 2020 to April 2021.

Cairo, Egypt

Cairo is considered the most dangerous city in the world for women, according to a recent report by the Thomson Reuters Foundation. While political tensions in the area have eased, the violence makes it extremely disadvantageous for both locals and visitors. True, many women's rights organizations insist on ensuring safety in the streets, but it takes time to implement this. If you are traveling anyway, contact a trusted tour operator. Gobbels suggests memorizing the emergency number 122 and learning how to say stop and help in the local language. A whistle is also a good idea.

Philippines

Although most of the Philippines is safe, it is best to avoid the south. According to Gobbels, abductions have increased especially in beach areas (the US State Department has issued a Level 2 travel advisory there). On one of the largest islands, Mindanao, mainly in the Zamboanga and Sulu archipelago areas, you may come into contact with ASG, an ISIS-affiliated terrorist group known for kidnappings for ransom. If you travel to the capital of the Philippines, Manila, be aware that pickpocketing and violent crime are common there. Gobbels also recommends exploring the city's terrain on foot rather than driving, as the country has a high accident rate and limited emergency services. He suggests spending the extra money on hotels in safer areas.

“Yes, you can try to get a better discount at a resort, but more expensive hotels tend to have better security, so choose better hotels,” he notes.

Guatemala

The Central American country south of Mexico currently has a Level 3 travel advisory from the U.S. State Department. Political tensions, high levels of poverty, drug trafficking, and the risk of car theft and armed robbery are just some of the reasons to stay away from these areas. Violent crime, including sexual assault and murder, is common, thanks in part to numerous gangs in cities and along borders. If you do decide to travel here, be sure to choose a hotel that not only has a doorman, but also a dedicated security staff. Use the services of security officers from the Guatemalan Institute of Tourism. It's also best to avoid walking or driving at night, using public ATMs, and not showing any signs of wealth, such as watches or jewelry.

On the subject: Coronavirus and protests: the State Department has raised the level of danger of travel to Ukraine and Russia

United States of America

While many people dream of admiring the colorful castles of St. Petersburg, the US State Department advises travel anywhere in the country with caution. While not all areas are high-risk, rumors of planned terrorist attacks and the fact that American citizens could be targets for abuse or extortion have brought Russia a Level 3 “reconsider your plans.” If you do venture here, to be safe, you should stay away from demonstrations, stay up to date with local news, and remain alert in any area where Westerners travel.

Yemen

The US State Department has made it clear about travel to this Middle Eastern country: "No part of Yemen is immune to violence." As terrorist groups constantly plan and carry out attacks, bombs and armed conflicts threaten tourist spots, buses or trains, shopping malls and other public places. This has been the case for many years, given that the US Embassy left its base in February 2015, which means there is no American defense on the ground.

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