Formerly Safe Cities That Now Spell Danger for Travelers

12 Formerly Safe Cities That Now Spell Danger for Travelers

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Traveling around the world has always been a journey of discovery and adventure, plunging head first into the amazing beauty the cultures we come across can offer. However, safety is starting to come into play more as global dynamics change and urban landscapes are posed with different issues, such as the thorny issues of adventuring.

Once regarded as the safest and friendliest places to travel, cities today are struggling with rising crime rates, socio-political unrest, and other travel dangers. This list can act as a cautionary guide or even a wake-up call if you live in or travel to some of the world’s formerly safest cities.

Caracas, Venezuela

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It was once widely recognized as a bright cultural center with its museums, fine dining, and panoramic views of the mountains. Many adventurists were enticed to explore the city’s rich history.

These days, Caracas is at the top of that list, with a homicide rate of one hundred per 100,000 residents. Poverty is up because of economic turmoil and hyperinflation, and mega gangs control many areas.

Based on local reports, robbery and kidnapping have become a hotbed in even the best-worn tourist areas. Authorities advise visitors not to travel if their presence is not essential.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

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Among all these stunning beaches, iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer, and world-famous festivals (such as Carnival), Rio de Janeiro attracts millions of tourists every year.

However, crime has begun to ramp up in recent years across the city. Pickpocketing, armed robberies, and even violent muggings can happen in neighborhoods such as Lapa and Santa Teresa. Even though it’s still a popular tourist hot spot, visitors are being warned to stay away from isolated areas, particularly at night.

Acapulco, Mexico

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Acapulco was once synonymous with luxury. The city was pulsated with resorts and electric nightlife, as well as a playground for the rich and famous during its heyday.

Drug cartel violence has taken a nosedive in Acapulco’s reputation. Now, its murder rate of 142 per 100,000 people makes it one of the world’s most dangerous cities. Gang-related conflict is starting to take accidental tourists as victims.

San Pedro Sula, Honduras

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San Pedro Sula was famous as an economic hub in Honduras and a gateway to ecotourism adventures. It has now become the world’s murder capital, with a homicide rate of 169 per 100,000. The city is now not for residents or tourists due to gang warfare and arms trafficking.

Karachi, Pakistan

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Karachi was a bustling metropolis famous for its cultural diversity, with an active artistic community and central importance as a business hub in South Asia.

Karachi is now afflicted with violence and instability because of its level of political unrest and terrorism. There is street crime, kidnapping, and lots of bombings. Travelers are advised to avoid nonessential visits to the city.

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Guatemala City, Guatemala

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Guatemala City once drew travelers with its colorful markets, Maya archaeological sites, and urban culture. Violence related to drugs has come to occupy parts of the city. These include armed robberies, carjackings, and bus holdups.

Several travel advisories now caution against traveling in Guatemala City, and some go so far as to discourage all travel to Guatemala City itself.

Cape Town, South Africa

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Cape Town is known for its majestic views, vineyards, beaches, and gateway to hiking and safari. While still a popular tourist location, growing crime rates caused by growing socioeconomic disparities make it a place to watch. There is an enormous amount of muggings and violent robberies, especially in the slums.

Johannesburg, South Africa

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Known principally as the economic hub of South Africa, Johannesburg is one of the largest and most vibrant cities in Africa. But safety and security are a problem with it. According to the most recent South African Police Service (SAPS) crime statistics, crime rates in Johannesburg are disproportionately high (41.9 murder cases per 100,000 residents and over 180 robbery cases per 100,000 per year).

Too often, the perps thrive in certain patches, and visitors need to be doubly careful.

Detroit, USA

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Once known as the heart of America’s automobile industry, Detroit has struggled with high crime and economic trouble for decades. Recent efforts at revitalization have begun to bear fruit, but the city is still one of the most dangerous places in the country.

2021 FBI crime data shows Detroit had a violent crime rate of 2,248 per 100,000 people, more than five times the national average. Particularly prevalent are homicides, aggravated assaults, and robberies. Some areas, including Downtown Detroit, have undergone redevelopment and now are safer. However, travelers are still cautioned when going to other parts of Detroit.

Baltimore, USA

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Baltimore has continually placed among the cities in the United States with the highest crime rates. Last year, the city reported 338 homicides and a ratio of about 57 homicides per 100,000 residents, one of the highest in the nation.

Also, the campaign is challenged by burglaries and motor vehicle thefts, which continue to be a problem with property crimes. Despite this, areas of the city, including the Inner Harbor, have seen more police presence, and several neighborhoods have been revitalized, yet crime remains a big problem for the city’s residential areas.

Manila, Philippines

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The vibrant, hustle-bustle capital of the Philippines, Manila, beckons with its colonial history while still being thoroughly modern with shopping and entertainment.

Because of political instability and drug-related crime, safety is becoming a problem in Manila. Some districts are particularly prey to tourists who are now vulnerable to scams or street crime.

Tijuana, Mexico

Image Credit: Victor Roque/Pexels.

Tijuana was once a tourist gateway for visitors crossing the U.S.–Mexico border. It is famous for its raunchy nightlife and unique culinary offerings. Surging cartel violence has made Tijuana an example of where the violence is headed. Alarmingly frequent are kidnappings, robberies, and homicides, especially in areas off the beaten path.

DisclaimerThis list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information. It is not intended to be professional advice.

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