I don’t know about you, but when I’m traveling I want my most pressing concerns to be where to eat and which places to explore first.

While it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and follow common sense, you can feel confident when traveling by doing your research before heading abroad.

To help you along in choosing which countries to visit next, we’ve compiled a list of the seven safest countries for U.S. travelers right now.

In order to determine the safest destinations, we combined expert insights, official risk assessments such as the Global Peace Index and State Department travel advisors, and statistics tailored to U.S. travelers’ experiences.

Cultural familiarity, low violent crime numbers, and political stability were prioritized when choosing the following countries.

Canada

Our northernmost neighbor is always a great option when choosing where to go next.

On top of being extremely safe, it is also an English-speaking country, which makes situations like asking locals for directions far less complicated.

Canada is a country teeming with breathtaking natural beauty and happening cities like Toronto or Montreal.

It’s also worth mentioning that United Airlines will be resuming connections to many of Canada’s top destinations in May, making travel easier than ever.

Spirit-Island-with-female-traveler-on-kayak-by-the-Maligne-Lake-at-Jasper-national-park-AB-Canada

Cayman Islands

If you’re fantasizing about Caribbean beaches but nervous about recent travel advisories, the Cayman Islands may just be the destination for you.

This safe, trendy paradise has all the powdery, soft beaches and color-soaked sunsets of more popular Caribbean getaways with less overdevelopment.

Its laid-back atmosphere makes it the perfect getaway for nature lovers–finding a secluded beach to read or soak up the sun isn’t too difficult here.

For the days you’re in search of adventure, The Cayman Islands have excellent diving, snorkeling, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

If you’re brave enough, you can even swim alongside stingrays!

diver playing with stingrays in Cayman Islands

Croatia

This diverse country has been getting more attention in recent years and it’s easy to see why.

Croatia is safe, full of solo travelers, and cheaper than most of its popular European counterparts.

You’ll discover historically rich cities, stunning nature, and idyllic beaches in this Eastern European gem.

Travelers flock to spots like Split and Dubrovnik for their gorgeous coastlines, waterfalls, and lively nightlife.

Town of Dubrovnik heritage harbor view from above, Dalmatia region of Croatia

Iceland

Iceland is consistently ranked as one of the world’s safest countries, and its capital, Reykjavik, was recently named 2024’s safest city in Europe.

This spectacular country has some of the most incredible landscapes in the world and is one of the best places to spot the elusive northern lights this year.

Otherworldly places like the geothermal pools of the Blue Lagoon, towering waterfalls, and glacier hikes attract visitors from all over.

Northern Light, Aurora borealis at Kirkjufell in Iceland.

Japan

Recent reports show that 2024 is going to be Japan’s shining year for tourism as more people venture to Asia to see places like Kyoto or Tokyo.

Japan is extremely safe, the locals are polite to tourists, and cities like Tokyo are known for their highly efficient organization and public transit.

This trendy country flaunts beautiful temples, breathtaking landscapes, and modern metropolises like Tokyo.

It is also a bonus that Japan is full of markets abundant with fresh seafood and unique cuisine to check out.

Osaka is especially worth visiting if you identify as a foodie!

Tokyo skyline and Mountain fuji in Japan

Norway

Speaking from firsthand experience, visiting this country makes you feel like you’ve woken up in the middle of a National Geographic magazine.

Norway has some of the most jaw-dropping nature I’ve seen anywhere, and you don’t have to venture far to get the best of it.

Popular cities like Bergen and Tromsø are framed by towering mountains and fjords, and it’s a simple task getting to nearby show stopping hikes.

Rainbow-painted wharf houses, spectacular views, and seeing the northern lights are a few highlights you can look forward to when visiting Norway.

Hamnoy in snow in winter in Lofoten islands, Norway

Portugal

Portugal has everything most travelers are looking for in a destination.

It’s safe, the culture is welcoming, the prices aren’t too high, and the weather is beautiful.

Whether you want to hike the Azores islands, wander the colorful streets of Lisbon, or lounge on the beach, you’ll feel confident of your safety.

The coming spring months are an excellent time to visit if you’re hoping to avoid peak season crowds.

Aerial view of Porto, portugal

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