Is Europe Secure to Go to Proper Now? (Up to date 2024)

In the case of journey, security is normally the first concern of vacationers when they’re selecting a vacation spot. Due to the continued struggle in Ukraine (in addition to the present battle within the Center East), I’ve gotten many emails asking me if Europe is secure to go to.

The questions are all the time the identical:

“Is it doubtless the struggle will unfold? What about terrorist assaults? Refugees? There are all the time strikes and protests occurring as of late. Is Europe secure to go to?”

It seems like there’s lots of uncertainty. I get it. If you happen to watch the information usually, you’d assume the top is nigh. Thankfully, actuality isn’t practically as bleak because the information.

Having been to Europe lately and with plans to proceed to go to (in addition to a staff member who lives there full-time) I can say this:

Europe is secure to go to.

Let me clarify why.

 

Is Europe ACTUALLY Secure?

“If it bleeds, it leads” is the go-to mantra of the information and social media as of late. Unsurprisingly, the media have finished a very good job of portray Europe in a damaging gentle. One thing occurs, they choose up the story and run with it, and it will get amplified and sensationalized. A politician makes use of it as “proof” of his bigger level, it will get amplified once more, after which all of the sudden, an entire continent seems prefer it’s harmful and engulfed in flame. (I’m not saying what occurs isn’t newsworthy, however everyone knows 24/7 protection creates this echo chamber.)

Individuals additionally find yourself extrapolating from sensational protection and assume that what they learn is the one factor occurring. It’s how biases are shaped. It’s why individuals who have by no means been to France assume “the French hate People” or “the French are all impolite.”

Or why many People nonetheless assume Colombia is the damaging narco-state they heard about all through the Nineteen Eighties.

As soon as engrained, these mistaken perceptions are onerous to vary. (And it’s not simply People who do that. Each nation all over the world has conceptions of all of the others!)

Mixed with all of the faux information on the internet and the way individuals solely appear to soak up that which confirms their preconceptions, it’s simple to see why Europe seems unhealthy.

Europe isn’t any extra harmful (in all probability even much less so) than any metropolis within the U.S. (definitely when it comes to gun violence)…or wherever else on the earth.

In truth, 7 of the world’s 10 most secure international locations are in Europe (in comparison with the USA rating 131 on the International Peace Index). These embody:

By way of terrorism, Europe is safer than it’s ever been.

Statistically talking, you’re really in all probability safer in Europe than within the U.S., relying on the place you reside and the place you’re visiting! That’s to not say Europe is ideal; it nonetheless has its points, similar to any vacation spot. However I’m going to Europe a number of instances yearly (I used to be simply there for nearly two months really) and may inform you that, as a vacationer, you aren’t in any larger hazard than you had been years in the past.

“However I noticed these terrible protests in France!” you say.

Properly, Europe (particularly France) has an extended historical past of protests and riots. Whereas I’m not right here to start out a debate on French integration, the very fact is that France has all the time had a problem integrating immigrants into French society. This has been a supply of friction for many years and typically erupts into riots, particularly within the housing developments on the outskirts of Paris. Additionally they have a powerful and energetic working class which additionally results in lots of strikes and protests.

That is nothing new; the information media are solely making it seem to be one thing new as a result of they’re attempting to tie it to the present refugee scenario. There aren’t any roving bands of youths in central Paris and no “no-go zones” within the metropolis.

Not solely am I not involved about security in Europe, however I’ve additionally led group excursions across the continent lately and everybody felt completely secure your entire time. We didn’t have a single challenge or concern.

The reality is, statistically, you’re extra more likely to get harm in your bathtub than die in a terrorist assault (over 700 People die of their bathtub annually!).

I’m not denying that there isn’t a rise in terrorist threats all over the world or that we shouldn’t be extra vigilant.

However you additionally by no means know when you might be in a mass taking pictures, bus accident, automobile crash, or lightning strike right here at residence. We’re terrified of being in a terrorist assault whereas touring overseas, however we hardly give any thought to getting in a automobile or the bath.

Terrorist assaults are uncommon and it’s most unlikely the struggle in Ukraine will sweep throughout the continent or that Hamas will begin attacking European cities. The now-endless media protection when one thing occurs and the truth that is all we hear about make it seem to be they’re extra widespread than they are surely. Since just about solely the damaging issues make the information, we assume that that’s the one factor occurring.

Fairly than violent crime and terrorist assaults, the most important factor you’ll have to fret about when visiting Europe is pick-pocketing, which could be rampant in sure locations. Even so, by holding your wits about you and practising sure security ideas, you’ll be capable of shield your self and keep away from incident.
 

10 Security Ideas for Visiting Europe

1. Concentrate on thieves or muggers working in pairs or small teams – The trick of distracting you (for instance, somebody “by accident” bumping into you, holding up a map for instructions, or a bunch of youngsters enjoying or preventing close to you) is usually used in order that an confederate can rob you when you’re not taking note of your belongings. Don’t fall for distractions and preserve your guard up.

This doesn’t imply you must continually be wanting over your shoulder. Fairly, it simply means to concentrate and pay attention to your environment once you’re out and about.

2. Regulate your belongings always – Pickpockets like to prey on careless vacationers, so preserve your belongings (particularly your smartphone) out of attain always. Be particularly alert in crowded locations close to main vacationer points of interest, markets, or on public transit. Don’t depart your purse or bag hanging off the again of your chair whereas eating in eating places, particularly on the attractive outside terraces which can be so widespread in Europe. It’d be all too simple for thieves to swipe it with out you even noticing!

3. Be aware of your cash – Likewise along with your cash. Don’t carry each euro you’ve gotten in your pockets or pocket. Unfold it round (some in your pockets, some within the lodge secure, some in your backpack), in order that if somebody steals your pockets (otherwise you lose it), you’ll nonetheless have cash elsewhere.

4. Watch out when utilizing ATMs – Solely use ATMs inside a financial institution. Robberies are way more widespread at outside ATMs, and skimmers could be positioned on outside ATMs (to steal your PIN). To remain secure, solely use indoor ATMs. Random ATMs even have a lot larger charges, so avoiding them will prevent cash too.

5. Carry a photocopy of your passport with you – This can be a no-brainer for anybody who travels abroad. Put your actual passport away within the lockbox supplied by your lodge or hostel and carry round a photocopy or a digital model in your telephone or in your e mail.

6. By no means depart your drink unattended – That is one other common security tip, however particularly should you’re backpacking and partying in Europe. Drinks could be spiked at any second, so all the time preserve yours shut, or hand it to somebody you belief if you must.

7. Set up the Prey app to your telephone and laptop computer – In case your units get stolen, you’ll be capable of monitor them and remotely flip in your digicam to {photograph} the thief (it’s also possible to wipe the information and message the thief too). It prices simply $1.30/month.

8. Obtain Google Maps & Google Translate – Obtain maps of the place you’re visiting for offline use. That means, you may entry them even should you don’t have Wi-Fi or cellular knowledge. You should definitely bookmark your lodging on the map, in addition to different essential places (nearest hospital, embassy, and so forth.)

Moreover, obtain the native language through Google Translate. That may will let you translate issues with out knowledge/Wi-Fi as properly.

9. Observe your native embassy on social media – If you happen to use Twitter, observe your nation’s embassy within the vacation spot nation. It won’t solely point out essential native occasions and holidays however, ought to a scenario come up, additionally publish updates and knowledge there. Ensure you flip your notifications on so that you don’t miss something essential.

Following native information firms on social media can also be a good suggestion, particularly if there’s a native english-speaking information website/social media account. That means, you positively received’t miss any essential happenings.

10. Purchase journey insurance coverage – We by no means assume that one thing goes to go incorrect on journeys. However it does typically — which I’ve realized from expertise. I’ve misplaced baggage in South Africa, had my gear break in Italy, and popped an eardrum in Thailand. I used to be additionally knifed in Colombia.

Whereas it’s not enjoyable to consider, unhealthy issues can occur when you’re touring, which is why I by no means depart residence with out journey insurance coverage.

I like to recommend SafetyWing for vacationers below 70, whereas Insure My Journey is your best option for vacationers over 70.

You should utilize this widget to get a quote for SafetyWing:

For extra info on journey insurance coverage, try these posts:

 

What In regards to the Conflict in Ukraine?

I’ve had tons of individuals emailing me lately asking if it’s secure to go to Europe though there’s at present a struggle occurring between Russia and Ukraine. The battle has been ongoing for years, nonetheless, it’s completely localized in Ukraine. Which means the remainder of Europe is secure to go to.

Clearly, visiting Ukraine is out of the query (and I’d counsel you keep away from visiting Russia and Belarus as properly), however neighboring international locations like Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, and Romania are nonetheless completely secure (simply don’t go too near the border). Whereas the battle is entrance of thoughts for everybody (each vacationers and locals), you actually received’t discover it when it comes to day-to-day occasions as a vacationer.

The struggle is totally remoted to Ukraine, which suggests you’re free to journey elsewhere in Europe with out fear.

What’s the Most secure Nation in Europe?

Whereas most international locations all through Europe are thought of very secure, when it comes to numbers, Iceland, Eire, Denmark, and Austria are thought of among the most secure. Different secure international locations embody Portugal, Slovenia, and Switzerland.

Is Europe Secure to Journey Solo?

Europe is among the most secure locations to go to as a solo traveler and is a wonderful selection even for first-time solo vacationers. I’ve been going there for many years and have not often encountered any issues. Simply observe the ideas above, use widespread sense, and concentrate. Try this, and also you doubtless received’t expertise any points. I really feel safer in Europe than I do within the U.S.!

Is Europe Secure for Solo Feminine Vacationers?

If you happen to’re a solo feminine traveler, Europe is among the most secure areas on the earth to discover. When you’ll nonetheless need to use widespread sense (don’t depart your drink unattended on the bar, don’t stroll residence alone intoxicated, and so forth.), you received’t have to continually look over your shoulder right here.

If you happen to’re new to solo journey as a girls, that is in all probability the simplest and most secure area of the world so that you can begin with.

Is the Faucet Water Secure to Drink in Europe?

The faucet water all through Europe is mostly secure to drink (with the doable exception of rural areas and a few seashore locations, so all the time you should definitely ask locals concerning the water once you arrive). Relying on the place you’re touring although, it’d style a bit totally different than what you’re used to because of larger mineral content material.

One of the best ways to enhance the style of your consuming water and be sure that it’s secure to drink is to deliver a LifeStraw reusable water bottle. They’ve built-in filters that purify your water so that you don’t get sick. Plus, carrying a reusable water bottle will enable you to keep away from single use plastics and lower your expenses within the course of, as shopping for water bottles on a regular basis can add up in Europe!

Are Taxis in Europe Secure?

The taxis in Europe are secure and dependable, although like wherever, it is best to all the time ensure you’re getting in a licensed taxi. You may positively hail a taxi from the road safely, simply ensure you concentrate that the meter is turned on and working correctly.

Is Driving in Europe Secure?

It’s completely secure to lease a automobile and drive round Europe. There are some stuff you’ll need to remember (most vehicles have guide transmissions, some international locations drive on the left as a substitute of the correct), however as a normal rule, it’s completely high quality to drive right here.

Some international locations are simpler than others, and I wouldn’t counsel driving within the massive cities like Paris or London, just because visitors is a nightmare. However on the entire, highway tripping round Europe is a good way to see the sights.

For the most effective automobile rental costs, use Uncover Automobiles. They’ve the most effective offers and may prevent cash!

Can You Stroll Round Alone at Evening in Europe?

Whereas each metropolis can be totally different, as a normal rule, strolling round Europe at evening is okay. I wouldn’t stroll round alone at evening intoxicated, and it’s all the time higher to be with a bunch moderately than solo. However, typically talking, Europe at evening is secure.

That stated, there are going to be areas of every metropolis which can be safer than others. Ask your lodge/hostel employees for recommendation about this in case there are areas greatest prevented at evening.

***

I can’t assure nothing will occur once you go to Europe. However that applies to any area of the world. Nonetheless, I can say that the prospect of one thing occurring to you is so slim that should you’re afraid of that, then you definitely higher be afraid of every little thing else too.

I get that emotion makes human beings irrational, however don’t stay your life in worry of what may occur. If you happen to do, the terrorists win, you lose out on residing your life, and we stay in a state of perpetual worry and anxiousness of these round us.

And that’s no approach to stay.

Go to Europe. It’s secure. Be vigilant and cautious however be much more so within the bathtub as you prepare or within the automobile on the best way to the airport. These locations are actually scary!

For extra normal security ideas, try this webinar with Medjet all about journey security: