Who doesn’t love to travel? Everybody loves exploring new places, imbibing different cultures and traditions around the world, and meeting new people. Nowadays, tourist reviews tend to dictate where and what we do when traveling somewhere, and while some cities are highly recommended by people who have already been there, others are often hailed as risky and dangerous and have earned a name for being unsafe for travelers. While most Americans prefer to stay away from those places, you may want to visit those cities at least once to get a taste of adventure.
Islamabad, Pakistan
Pakistan has been an attractive tourist destination for ages and ages. However, violence and the unpredictable security scenario of the country have thwarted tourism activities in the region, and that is quite unfortunate. Islamabad, the capital city of Pakistan, can spring a few surprises with its world-class attractions, lush green parks, and astounding architecture. But we seldom get to see this beautiful side of the city in the media. Islamabad is dotted with various museums and art galleries which suit just fine for folks who have a fine taste in art. The cuisine is awesome, with the popular chapli kebab ruling the roost. Though you can’t blame the media for marking some parts of the country as unsafe, you cannot omit Islamabad from the list of one of the most unpredictable and dangerous cities in the world.
Pyongyang, North Korea
North Korea is sort of doomed in the eyes of the people across the world. Its volatile and provocative political scenario has halted tourists from setting a foot on the land. It is already hailed as one of the most dangerous destinations in the world, and a series of missile and nuclear tests conducted by the government has added fuel to the fire. Tourism is pretty controlled in this part of the world, and people who abide by the draconian state rules are allowed to enter the country. Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, boasts of the popular Arch of Triumph and the Victorious Fatherland Liberation War Museum. Tourists can even descend more than 300 feet underground to take a ride in the Pyongyang Metro. With that being said, the United States government has lately forbidden Americans to take a trip to the country, so if you don’t hail from the USA, you should book your ticket there if you’re willing to take a risk!
Cali, Colombia
Colombia’s third largest city, Cali, is hailed as the Salsa Capital of the World, but behind the scenes, the city is marred with violence owing to several drug cartels that are pretty active in and around the boundaries of the city. The government has been doing its best to keep criminal operations in check, taking extra measures to curb down any kind of violence. However, if you do plan to visit the city, avoid showing off your valuable possessions and ensure that you are not alone at night while going out on a stroll along the streets. The 85-foot high statue of Jesus Christ is the main attraction of Cali. It’s a lively city, nonetheless, but, just be alert.
Pripyat, Ukraine
The impeccable architecture, beautiful historical monuments, visa-free access for a number of countries, and unbelievably low prices make Ukraine a dream destination. Slowly and gradually, it’s gaining ground in the world of tourism. However, you would find it hard to believe that a town named Pripyat is so notorious that people would prefer to stay away from it, probably for the next 200 centuries. Wild wolves and bears rule the abandoned alleys of the ghost town. It’s said that the town was the site of the infamous Chernobyl nuclear disaster, and that is the reason why it has been abandoned since 1986. Although a number of Ukrainian travel agencies offer guided tours to the safer parts of the abandoned city and the level of radiation has also dropped recently, it’s wise to avoid the city at all costs.
Acapulco, Mexico
One of the most popular holiday destinations, Acapulco, has historically allured tourists and celebrities from all over the world. However, the image of the city was stained as it got involved in Mexican drug wars. If you still have the courage to make a trip to the exotic location, the golden sands, the lush green sceneries, and the deep blue waters will welcome you with open arms. If you decide to unwind in the evening, you have access to arguably the best nightclubs in the world which were once visited by legends like the former American president, John. F. Kennedy and the Hollywood icon, Frank Sinatra.
If you are still contemplating touring these places, make sure you are taking the right precautions before you head for any of those dangerous destinations.