Countries that are not as UNSAFE as you think!

Looking for an unconventional travel destination? Consider one of these intriguing countries, which have either shed their once-dubious reputations or visitors mostly didn’t consider them.

Set aside those Netflix Narcos marathons and if you visit present-day Colombia, you will find it’s a world away from its '80s cartel image. With a significant drop in crime rates, it's now one of Central and South America's safest and most visitor-friendly destinations, as long as you use common sense and stay within the tourist zones.

Once you're there, get ready for a visual feast. Captivating street art, vibrant colonial architecture, and beautiful landscape await you there. Learn to salsa, savor bandeja paisa, or venture to the Eje Cafetero region for exceptional yet affordable coffee. Spend weekends by the crystal-clear Caribbean or explore the Amazon rainforest with the help of Colombia's incredibly welcoming locals.

Often dubbed as the ‘newborn nation,’ which played a significant role in the Balkan wars, it declared independence from Serbia in 2008. It’s now a culturally rich and exceptionally safe European travel destination. While its neighbors like Montenegro, Croatia, and Slovenia have become tourist magnets, Kosovo remains pleasantly under the radar, at least for the time being.

The vibrant action is centered in Kosovo's capital, Pristina, where the nightlife is lively, the architecture is unconventional, whereas the culture exudes a bohemian spirit. Venture beyond the city to explore caves, mosques, and a bear sanctuary. You can even stumble upon a statue of President Bill Clinton, who famously ordered NATO forces to protect Kosovo in the late '90s.

Despite enduring years of civil conflict, modern Sri Lanka is considered a safe destination with low petty crime. The country is blessed with enchanting sights, from ancient fortresses to beautiful beaches, and not to forget, the local Buddhist culture that requires modesty and respect when visiting temples. However, be cautious of local scams and assertive tuk-tuk drivers targeting tourists.

The Rwandan genocide of 1994 remains one of the most brutal atrocities in modern history, killing almost a million people in just 100 days. Thanks to the economic upturn, and advancements in technology, this small nation has managed to make a noteworthy recovery in the past two decades. Though it still has a way to go, its crime rates have reportedly gone very low, and is also known for its cleanliness. Tourism is just what this tiny nation needs to keep rebuilding.
Gorilla trekking is the main attraction in Rwanda, but the nation also has national parks, pristine lakes, and volcanoes to explore.

Morocco has faced misconceptions regarding safety, especially for solo female travelers, but it's actually quite secure, rated as a Level 1 risk by the U.S. State Department. Morocco stands out as an incredibly stunning African nation, offering experiences like exploring vibrant markets in Marrakesh and Casablanca, Sahara desert tours, savoring clay-cooked cuisine, and capturing the charm of the blue-painted city of Chefchaouen, all while enjoying affordable and breathtaking accommodations.

Mexico remains a safe travel destination, especially for resort vacations. While some regions face drug-trafficking and gang violence concerns, popular destinations like Tulum, Cancun, Los Cabos, and Mexico City are generally secure and offer affordability, catering to various traveler types. When here, don’t miss attractions like the Caribbean Sea, ancient Mayan ruins, and more. Venturing beyond resorts is recommended for places like Merida, Oaxaca City, and San Miguel de Allende, where you'll discover colorful colonial architecture and charming cobblestone streets.