Top 10 Safest Countries for Travelers

Imagine a place where you didn't need a big fence, heavy locks, and top of the line alarm system just to sleep soundly at night; where the nightly news didn't report some ghastly crime. There are countries where safety is high and murder rates are spectacularly low. We've compiled some of the safest countries for residents & travelers alike. Have you or would you travel to any of these countries?

1. Singapore

This little island country, located south of Thailand, is the safest in Asia. Boasting an extraordinary low homicide rate & a fascinating blend of Asian, Arabic, and Western cultures, this is a country well-worth a visit.
2. Norway

This Scandinavian country is an excellent destination for families, single travellers, those looking for leisure and the adventurous. It rates as one of Europes safest countries due to its incredibly low crime rate (the police don't even carry guns!) and high health & safety standards. Most crime is petty theft & vandalism so be a smart traveller-- read our tips for travelling smart. It's safe to drink the tap water so you don't need to worry about purchasing bottled water.

3. Japan

Japan is an ultrasafe travel option for Asia. The actual crime rate is very low and theft & vandalism are occasional. While many locals don't speak English, you will find the Japanese to be very helpful and hospitable, at times going out of their way to help you make the most of your trip. Shots are not needed and while available, you don't need to purchase bottled water. Should something happen, you can rest assured the medical facilities are exceptional.

4. Iceland

While it is always important to remain viligant, Iceland might just be the safest country to visit. There are only 700 police officers in the country-- they don't carry guns & often have other jobs as there isn't much for them to do in the way of crime prevention. Also, there's only 130 prisoners and the it is the only country that can boast a murder rate of 0- no deaths by homicide! The State Department does warn that due to the freedom of movement, it is possible that some less desirable characters have the potential to come & go anonymously.

5. Switzerland

Consistently ranking as one of the world's safest countries year after year, some of it's biggest cities are among the safest metropolises in the world- Geneva, Zurich, & Brno. Famed for the snow covered Swiss Alps, winter sports, and chic resorts. Health and safety standards are top, the homicide rate is very low, and gun crimes are so far and few between, that statistics arent kept. 6. Denmark

Home to some of the happiest people, this country also consistently ranks as one of the safest to live and travel. Homicide, theft, and pickpocketing rates are incredibly low and risks of natural disasters are nonexistant. Simply beware of falling head over heels for the country, culture, and its people especially since the Danish government does not honor dual citizenships!

7. Cyprus

Despite past conflicts with surrounding countries in the 1970's, the Mediterranean's third largest island is one of the safest countries politically, personally, and geographically. Crime rates are so minimal, locals often claim they don't feel the need to lock their doors. Cypres boasts one of the highest per capita incomes in Europe and no terriorst attacks.

8. New Zealand

A stable economy, lack of social or political unrest, relative isolation, and relatively low crime rates, New Zealand is another obvious safe choice. In addition, the island has no venomous creepy crawlies like snakes, spiders and jelly fish or any shark attacks on humans on record. Due to it's southern location, you won't have to worry about any tropical cyclones ruining your adventures.

9. Luxembourg

This beautiful little country is inhabited by only half a million happy, rule-oriented people. According to Mercer, the country's capital is the safest city in the world. Crime rates are low & common sense will help to avoid becoming a target of petty theft.

10. Ireland

Not to be confused with its neighbor, North Ireland, this Guiness loving country is a safe bet. Homicide and other crimes are low although U.S. citizens are advised to avoid protests. Mercer has ranked Dublin as far less dangerous than other major cities in countries like Japan, Australia, or Canada.

*What qualifies a country to be ranked as one of the safest? Using a number of surveys done by groups like WHO, Mercer, and national statistics, opentravel.com was able to compile a list of the 10 safest countries.

*Find more information and country statistics from the State Department, infoplease.com, the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, and the CIA World Factbook.