For the first time, HelloSafe has published its Travel Safety Index, naming the safest nations for travellers to visit in 2024. The study was based on a set of 35 objective indicators, based on five categories of criteria: risk of natural disasters, violence in society, involvement in armed conflict, health infrastructure and militarisation.
Iceland, home to incredible icy views, beautiful lagoons and impressive mountains, took the top spot as the “safest” destination based on the study.
According to the report: “According to the data compiled in our index, Iceland is currently the safest country in the world, with a score of 18.23 points out of 100, ahead of Singapore (19.99 points) and Denmark (20.05 points).
“Moreover, 12 of the 15 safest countries in the world are in Europe, including Switzerland (fifth safest country in the world with an index of 20.51 points). Bhutan (22.98 points) and Qatar (23.33 points) also featured in the top 15, making them very safe destinations for travellers.”
The report added: “It is also important to note that this index is not intended to reflect a country’s attractiveness as a tourist destination, but rather an overall safety and security index based on as many objective criteria as possible.”
Iceland, known as “The Land of Fire and Ice” because of its dramatic contrasts, including glaciers, volcanoes, and black sand beaches is also home to unique glacier lagoons, which are lakes formed when glaciers melt and retreat.
Along with its beautiful nature, Iceland is known for its culture. In particular, it’s a destination known for music and gender equality.
Iceland has been ranked as the world’s most gender-equal country by the World Economic Forum for 14 years in a row. The gender gap in Iceland is reported to be 90 percent closed.
According to experts from Arctic Adventures: “Iceland keeps reigning at the top with its excellent air quality, harmless wildlife, friendly and helpful citizens, and smart and strict rules that help prevent accidents.”
For those wanting to visit Iceland from the UK, the average flight time is just three hours and 11 minutes. This can vary slightly depending on your departure airport.