Travel – but safely! Just in time for the start of the year, the crisis management company A3M has published its new Risk Map, for which an expert in early crisis warning has analyzed the political situation in all countries of the world. Factors such as health care, natural hazards, crime, transportation and infrastructure are also included in the assessment. According to these aspects, these destinations are considered particularly safe in 2023.

Canada

Morraine Lake, Banff. © Jacky Huang

Canada has just 4.2 inhabitants per square kilometer. But there is all the more nature. The majority of the area is covered by wilderness and forests. Whether you indulge in extensive hikes, kayak tours or the observation of animals (think whales, bears, lemmings, polar bears and moose) – the rugged beauty of the country is breathtaking. And as long as you don't try to cuddle with brown bears, a trip through Canada is also a very safe affair.

Iceland

Seljalandsfoss waterfall. © Andrey Andreyev

Few people and lots of nature is also true for Iceland. The country is the most sparsely populated state in all of Europe. Here, too, nature plays the leading role. Blue whales, humpback whales and even killer whales cavort along the coast. Visits to the lava fields, such as Dimmuborgir, or outdoor swimming, such as at the Mývatn thermal baths or in the Blue Lagoon are unique experiences. And then, of course, there are the waterfalls, fjords and northern lights!

Switzerland

Zurich city center. © Henrique Ferreira

Chocolate, watches, mountains, skiing, pocket knives and cheese – these are the typical images associated with Switzerland. Top it off with neutrality and safety. In fact, A3M also certifies Switzerland's excellent values in this respect. Along with Germany, Slovakia and Belgium, Switzerland is one of the safest destinations in the center of Europe.

Norway

Aurora borealis in northern Finland. © Tobias Bjørkli

The northern European kingdom is one of the largest countries in Europe in terms of size. However, it’s relatively sparsely populated. Vast coniferous forests characterize the landscape, as do over 40,000 lakes. Must-dos in Norway include a visit to Oslo, a trip to Geirangerfjord, Jan Inge Hovig's Arctic Cathedral, Akershus Castle and, of course, a visit to the Arctic Circle. Active travelers go skiing or hiking in the Lyngen Alps.

Finland

Row of houses in Porvoo. © Julia Kivela

Despite its geographical proximity to Russia, A3M certifies the Republic of Finland's status as one of the safest destinations for 2023, with the majority of the population congregating in the metropolitan areas in the south such as the capital Helsinki, as well as Turku, Tampere and Vantaa. Brown bears, moose, reindeer, deer, seals: animal lovers will also be amazed in Finland. Sleeping under the northern lights, visiting enchanting cities like Porvoo, marveling at the architecture and getting active in nature – Finland has it all and more.