For example a city like Rio de Janeiro might be one of the most beautiful in the world, but wandering through the favelas late at night isn't recommended. And some countries really are either best avoided all together or best seen on an organised tour due to the threat of violence and even terrorism in certain locations.
The UK, although very safe by world crime standards still has problem hotspots with some parts of towns and cities best being avoided.
If you are going to be visiting the United Kingdom from overseas for the first time the chances are nothing bad will happen, especially as you will likely to be visiting very touristy areas. But there are some important things to know before departing, including buying travel insurance is essential.
For Brits, with domestic holidays are all the rage at the moment, with international travel having been made a little more expensive, and a little trickier to organise, in the aftermath of Brexit, it is vital to note that domestic travel isn’t without its own pitfalls. Not all destinations are altogether safe to travel to, whether with regard to crime rates or risk of injury.
If you are travelling solo, or even with friends or your family, a safety-first approach is best, but what are the the best to visit in this regard?
View our list of popular destinations where crime rates and risks are very low.
1. Bath
Located in the southwest of England, Bath is a historic and picturesque city renowned for its Roman-built baths, stunning Georgian architecture, and rich cultural heritage.
Bath is a popular with both domestic and international tourists, and it is one of the easiest day trips from London.
A university city, Bath has a quiet and relaxed atmosphere as well as historic importance in its appeal. Its Roman baths are worth the visit alone, and the low risk of both crime and road traffic injury makes travel around the city a relative breeze.
Must see places include:
1. Roman Baths: Start your visit with a trip to the Roman Baths, one of the city's most iconic attractions. Explore the well-preserved Roman bathing and socializing complex, complete with ancient pools and artefacts.
2. Bath Abbey: Adjacent to the Roman Baths, Bath Abbey is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Take a tour or attend a service to appreciate the intricate stained glass windows and interior design.
3. The Royal Crescent: A short walk from the city centre, the Royal Crescent is a row of 30 terraced houses that form a graceful crescent shape. It's an iconic example of Georgian architecture and a great spot for photos.
2. St. Ives
Cornwall is a gorgeous place to visit in the UK especially during summer. St. Ives is the jewel in the crown, being a seaside destination that merges inland rural tranquillity with breezy coastal congeniality.
It is about as picturesque a town as you can imagine, and a real tourist draw for a number of reasons. For one, its beaches are surf heaven for water sports folk, while its art scene is peerless in the southwest.
Speaking of which, art enthusiasts should consider visiting the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, dedicated to the renowned sculptor's life and work. It is also a remarkably safe historic town, with quiet streets and friendly locals to ensure your visit is nothing but pleasant.
3. Edinburgh
Are you keen to visit Scotland?
This country renowned for its spectacular nature and culturally rich cities alike – but many avoid urban adventures in Scotland, largely due to the poor reputation given by unrepresentative tabloid articles on cities like Glasgow from crime to nightlife. Far from what you might had read in certain sections of the media, Scotland’s capital Edinburgh is one of the safest cities in the UK.
What you might not have considered though is the fact that safety when travelling can mean much more than just crime. There are so many different types of holidays available in Scotand, and if you venture out of Edinburgh you might want to go walking, hiking or even skiing in winter.
The risk on these types of holidays can really increases, from essential concerns like public health and safety to even the quality of local medical care, and the possibility of medical negligence in seeking treatment.
Edinburgh presents little to no risk in any adventure sports regards, but it is still wise to be vigilant at night especially around new years eve and the famous Hogmany celebrations with thousands of drunk people in the streets.
4. York, England
South of the Scottish border, in amongst the hills and dales of North Yorkshire, York resides.
York is a Roman walled city with Viking history, and one of the most picturesque cities you could hope to visit – or, at least, tied with Bath. As well as historical marvels like the city walls themselves, the York Minster and the artefacts held within the Jorvik Viking Centre, York is also home to modern cultural marvels such as the Shambles (J. K. Rowling’s inspiration for Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books).
Visiting York, UK, is like stepping back in time, as this historic city is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, rich history, and charming atmosphere.
Have you ever been anywhere you wish you avoided in the UK? Or what places do you consider to be very safe? Let us know.
