Why “Is Guadalajara Safe?” Is an Odd Question.

Is Guadalajara Safe? How the Pearl of the West Can Bewilder Your Sense of Violence Statistics

Guadalajara is the capital of the western Mexican state of Jalisco. With a population of 1.5 million people, it is one of the country’s largest cities. It also gave birth to two of Mexico’s most well-known traditions: the Mariachi and the Tequila.

But there is also something curious about Guadalajara. Something people discover when they ask the question:

Is Guadalajara Safe?

If you want a quick answer to this question, here it is: Guadalajara is relatively safe by Mexican standards (have that in mind, I will explain more about it later), with an annual homicide rate of 21.5/100,000 inhabitants.

The map below depicts the most dangerous areas in Mexico based on the most recent homicide data. The more violent the region, the brighter it is. Guadalajara is in the red circle. As can be seen, the city is far from being one of the worst in the country.

Violence in Mexico. Chart for an article to answer the question if is Guadalajara Safe. — Source: Portal El Crimen.

The problem is that when we mention Mexican Standards, we are talking about one of the most violent countries in the world. With 29 murders per 100 thousand habitants per year, Mexico is more violent than Brazil or Colombia.

But there is another curious thing about Mexico.

Often, the largest city in a country is far more violent than the national average. This is true for London in the UK, Paris in France, Buenos Aires in Argentina (analyzed in this article), and so on…

Not so in Mexico, where Guadalajara, despite being one of the country’s largest cities, has better violence indicators than the national average and is only slightly more dangerous than (surprise!)…

Mexico City.

Is Guadalajara Safer Than Mexico City?

Despite being safer than most large cities in Mexico, Guadalajara (21.5 murders per 100k residents) is more violent than Mexico City (14 homicides per 100k residents).

This occurs for a variety of reasons, including the fact that Mexico City, despite being the largest city in the country and one of the largest cities in the world, is far from major gang conflicts.

Even the most violent districts in Mexico City, like Cuauhtémoc, still will have a homicide rate (16.6 per 100k residents) below the national average.

This is similar to what I discovered when examining São Paulo, which, despite its enormous size, has better safety indicators than Brazil.

So…

Is Guadalajara Safe to Live?

Although often people believe that Guadalajara is a dangerous place to live, it is relatively safe, especially if you reside in a low-crime, low-violence region.

It’s necessary to be aware of your surroundings and cautious of where you go after dark, as it is in other large cities in Mexico or anywhere else in Latin America.

Also, keep a low profile on the street and avoid displaying valuable jewelry or electronic devices. This is the same advice we gave to anyone visiting Rio de Janeiro in Brazil (by the way, the reality about safety in Rio is not what you imagine).

How safe you will be in Guadalajara depends on where you go and when you go, just like in any big city in Europe. Yes, you should be more cautious than you would be in a city in a developed country with lower conventional crime rates.

If you are concerned about cartel conflicts and bad news from international media outlets, Guadalajara is not a city where large acts of violence or public armed displays by cartels occur frequently, as they do in other cities in Mexico.

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Best Area to Stay in Guadalajara

Best areas of Guadalajara in terms of safety. — You should be safe staying nearly anywhere else inside the area marked on this map.

The northwestern region of Guadalajara is not only the most affluent part of the city but also considered the safest. It is also not far from the city center so one can access major attractions like museums, restaurants, and plazas.

This region boasts numerous secure, green, and cool districts in affluent regions such as Providencia, Chapalita, Zapopan, and Chapultepec. It is an ideal are ideal for strolling through the neighborhoods you’re interested in.

PS: Zapopan is technically NOT Guadalajara, but a city by itself (and safer than Guadalajara, with 15 homicides per 100000 residents per year). However, for practical terms, we included it in this list of districts.

These nice neighborhoods frequently have a good selection of places to stay, both hotels and short-term rentals (Airbnb).

Best Neighborhoods in Guadalajara

Downtown has the most to offer visitors. It is located in the city’s heart, and you can easily stroll to the cathedral, the central fountain, museums, shops, restaurants, and pubs. It is not very safe, but with a few precautions, you should be fine.
Colonia Americana is Guadalajara’s most fashionable district, with Avenida Chapultepec at its heart. Staying in Colonia Americana, particularly near Av Chapultepec, provides easy access to museums, galleries, shopping, and other attractions.
Zapopan is located northwest of the city center. The Basilica de Zapopan, which dates from 1730, is the area’s most well-known attraction. This is where you’ll discover Nuestra Señora de Zapopan, a famous virgin statue. By staying in the Zapopan area, you’ll be in a place relatively close to central Guadalajara, and a trip into the city center is only a half-hour away.
Providencia is not too close to downtown, but it is also not too far away. Casa Jalisco, the official residence of the Governor of the State, is located in this section of the city, which has traditionally been regarded as a great spot to live. In recent years, the area’s main thoroughfares have been filled with new expensive and stylish restaurants and stores, hotels, cafés, and bars, bringing fresh vitality to this vast neighborhood.

Is Guadalajara Worth Visiting?

Mexico City, Acapulco, and Cancún are well-known, but there are other cities in Mexico worth visiting as well. Guadalajara is one of those cities that should be on your travel bucket list.

The city has built a solid tourist infrastructure. The main reason is its historic core, which is full of well-preserved churches and cathedrals, as well as streets where you can still see signs of its former active role as a textile manufacturing center.

It’s a pleasant spot to walk because of the warm weather and pleasant surroundings.

I still haven’t mentioned the food or the tequila! Guadalajara is the birthplace of the famous Jose Cuervo tequila, and one of the most famous attractions of the city is the tour to the distillery using the Jose Cuervo Express Train.

Best Places to Visit in Guadalajara, Mexico

Guadalajara Cathedral

While encompassing much of the picturesque Plaza de Armas, the magnificent Guadalajara Cathedral (Catedral de Guadalajara) stands with its façade facing the neighboring Plaza de Los Laureles, a smaller plaza with an amazing fountain.

Built between 1558 and 1616, the cathedral, while primarily Baroque in appearance, demonstrates a remarkable mixing of diverse styles, notably in its superb predominantly Gothic interior.

Highlights include its several chapels with paintings by Cristóbal de Villalpando, Miguel Cabrera, and Murillo, three of Mexico’s best artists.

Teatro Degollado

The neoclassical Teatro Degollado, located opposite the cathedral, is the city’s most prominent — and majestic— performing arts theater. This magnificent theater, completed in 1866, is worth seeing for its superb architectural elements and opulent interior design. The façade is characterized by 16 Corinthian columns and a marble depiction of Apollo flanked by the nine muses.

Parque Agua Azul & Bosque Colomos

The lovely Parque Agua Azul, roughly translated as the Blue Water Park, is Guadalajara’s most popular public park. The park, which opened in 1952, has an area of approximately 168,000 square meters and is a beautiful spot to wander amid the sculpted gardens and trees.

Highlights include a tropical orchid house, a Butterfly House, and an aviary, which are both home to a diverse range of indigenous species. There is also a paleontology museum, an open-air theater, and a flower market, all well worth a visit.

Templo Expiatorio del Santísimo Sacramento

Although it is one of Guadalajara’s younger cathedrals (the building began in 1897 and was completed in 1972), the Templo Expiatorio del Santsimo Sacramento is unquestionably one of the city’s greatest religious constructions.

The church, which was built in neo-Gothic style, is noted for its elaborately adorned façade and various European-made components. Its elaborately carved doors decorated with bronze reliefs, gorgeous mosaics from Italy, a one-of-a-kind German clock, and a wonderful carillon that can play multiple melodies are highlights.

Guachimontones Archaeological Site

From 300 BC to AD 900, the Teuchitlan people resided in what is now known as the Tequila Valley west of Guadalajara, and they left behind massive constructions that make for a fantastic day excursion from Guadalajara.

The archaeological site of Guachimontones consists of remarkable circular step pyramid constructions that resemble beehives and appear to spring out of the green valley bottom. This is one of Mexico’s unique instances of rounded pyramids, while discoveries at other Teuchitlan sites indicate that similar structures may exist.

There is a recommended tour from Guadalajara to Guachimontes for less than 60 dollars!

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Tips to Stay Safe in Guadalajara

1st — If you are visiting the city, there are plenty of options in terms of luggage storage, so you don’t need to walk around with your carry-on bags. Reliable, convenient, and inexpensive luggage storage services you can find at Radical Storage.

2nd — Book a transfer in advance if you are coming from the Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla Guadalajara International Airport to your final destination. You can use Get Transfer for that.

3rd — If you are visiting some more isolated places, hire a guide. You can find some amazing guides and tours at Viator. Not only they will give you insider information about historical and natural curiosities, but they will also warn you of risky areas and keep you safe.

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Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel Small Business Hacks and the channel The Expat, and a best-selling author. Some of the links of this article may be affiliate links, meaning that the author will have a commission for any transaction.

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Is Buenos Aires safe? (Nearly everyone gets it very WRONG)

Is Crime High in Buenos Aires? Well, Yes and No.

I was talking to my Brazilian friends about Argentina a few weeks ago, and we asked ourselves how (nowadays) safe in Buenos Aires.

It is not a topic that is as widely discussed among Brazilian millenials as one might expect. Most Brazilians only think about Argentina during football games or elections (when both countries are famous for making bad choices).

While Brazil did not have an easy path over the last two or three decades, Argentina fared even worse. That, in turn, reduced Argentina’s advantage in a variety of areas, ranging from the per capita income to sewage availability in urban areas. Argentina and Brazil are not that disparate today in many ways.

Nonetheless, Argentina is far superior to Brazil in two areas: education and security.

True, Brazil narrowed the gap in both cases. In terms of education, Brazil has a literacy rate of 94 percent, up from 84 percent only two decades ago, but it is still far lower than Argentina’s 99 percent.

In terms of security, violence in Brazil has dropped dramatically over the last three years. Cities like São Paulo, for example, had their homicide rates dropped by almost 80%!

But, in general, many large cities in Brazil are still far more violent than anywhere in Argentina.

So….

Is Argentina safer than Brazil? Is Buenos Aires safer than Rio?

Absolutely yes, for both questions. Violence in Rio decreased, but it is still 3X higher than in Buenos Aires. It is also safer than Guadalajara, in Mexico, a city than can bewilder your idea about crime statistics.

However, if the question is simply:

“Is Buenos Aires Safe?”

Then I dare to say not really, and here I will explain to you why.

Is Crime High in Buenos Aires?

The homicide rate in Buenos Aires is 4.6 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants. This is less than some of the most violent European countries, like Russia (7.3 murders per 100K residents) and Ukraine (6.2). But it is far worse than most of the other countries, like Belgium (1.7), France (1.2), Hungary (0.8) or Poland (0.7 homicides per 100 thousand people).

There are dangerous cities in Europe as well, but they are few and mostly concentrated in industrial zones inside the United Kingdom or France.

If the comparison with Europe makes Buenos Aires look violent, it may pale in comparison to the US. While the United States has a homicide rate slightly higher than Argentina (4.96 homicides per 100K people), it would be fair to compare Buenos Aires with its American, metropolitan counterparts.

And that is how the Argentinian capital starts to look safe. Buenos Aires’ 4.6 homicide rate is far smaller than Chicago (18.26), Washington DC (32.78), or Baltimore (55.7, one of the most dangerous cities on the planet). There are some very safe cities in the US, but usually, they are far smaller and in southern states.

When we talk about other modalities of crime, like theft, robbery, or kidnapping, the situation is similar: Buenos Aires is dangerous when compared to European cities, but relatively safe compared to large American cities.

But we are still missing one thing here:

Buenos Aires, like every south-American large city, is very unequal.

Here is a shocking fact: Buenos Aires has 48 barrios (local districts). During the year 2019, 16 of these districts, one-third of the total, never had a single homicide. Meanwhile, a single barrio called Barracas had 17 murder cases.

Barracas has only 77 thousand residents, meaning a homicide rate of 22 murders per 100 thousand residents, comparable to very violent cities in places like Mexico, Colombia, or Brazil.

To put it into perspective, Warsaw, the capital of Poland, also had 17 murder victims during the year 2019 — but Warsaw has 1.7 million people.

So, bottom line: Buenos Aires is dangerous compared to Europe, relatively safe when compared to the US or Brazil, but it is also very unequal, with some districts as safe as Europe and others as dangerous as Mexico.

Violence and crime map of Buenos Aires, 2019 (In Spanish) — Violence map of Buenos Aires. Only two “comunas” concentrated 45% of all homicides in the city. Source: Chequeado.

What Areas to Avoid in Buenos Aires

Name of the District	Number of Homicides (Year)	Pop.	Homicide Rate	Comparable Country
Retiro	14	45002	31.1	Mexico
Barracas	17	77474	21.9	Brazil
Parque Avellaneda	7	54191	12.9	South Sudan
Parque Chacabuco	4	39473	10.1	Iraq
Villa Lugano	8	114000	7	Russia
Villa Luro	2	33058	6	Ukraine
Boca	2	46494	4.3	Chile
Palermo	2	225970	0.9	Australia
Almagro	1	138942	0.7	Poland
Recoleta	1	188780	0.5	Switzerland

Homicide numbers in selected districts of Buenos Aires during the year 2019. Source: Ministerio de Justicia y Seguridad and UNODC

Buenos Aires is a lovely city with a lot to offer.

However, there are some neighborhoods to avoid, including Retiro, Barracas, and Balvanera, as well as the neighboring metropolitan cities of La Matanza and Quilmes. Because of their high rates of criminality, these are widely regarded as among the most dangerous areas in the region.

The same is true for any area that appears to be run-down or dirty — these areas are likely to be dangerous as well. If you find yourself in a bad neighborhood, it is best to stay on the main roads where you can be seen by many people and keep your valuables hidden (such as your cellphone). If someone approaches you, it’s best not to interact with them at all — avoid eye contact and simply continue walking.

In addition to avoiding the above neighborhoods and following the guidelines above if you happen to find yourself in a high-crime area by accident, there are some other precautions you should take anywhere in Buenos Aires, and more on them can be found in the final section of this article.

Best Neighborhoods in Buenos Aires

The city’s safest districts (as well as the best cities in the metropolitan area) are frequently in the north of Buenos Aires, while the south is more dangerous and violent.

From Palermo to the north there are several highly recommended neighborhoods that are considered safe and secure areas to live without fear of possible crime or violence.

In terms of safety, the best neighborhoods in Buenos Aires are Belgrano and Núñez, as well as neighboring cities in the Metropolitan zone such as San Isidro and San Fernando. In comparison to other areas such as Retiro or Barracas, these districts have a low crime and violence rate.

Belgrano is a popular tourist destination due to its gastronomical options, historical architecture, and the River Plate football club; however, it also has some lovely residential areas where families can find safe havens close to their workplaces.

However, keep in mind that some of the safest districts in terms of homicides are also among the worst in terms of robberies, since they are business districts with a large influx of people. This is the case with Palermo, where there is a lot of petty theft. Below are some tips for you to avoid this kind of situation.

What Not to Do in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires is a lovely city with gorgeous old buildings and excellent gastronomic options. But, like any other large city, it is not without danger. If you’re going on a trip for business or pleasure, keep these tips in mind to stay safe and avoid criminals.

1st — Avoid walking around with your luggage. Wandering around with carry-on luggage, even in the safest districts, is NOT recommended.

2nd — Know where the dangerous areas are. Remember that Buenos Aires, like most large cities in Latin America, is very unequal, so in a few meters, you can go from a developed business district to a crime-ridden neighborhood. Some areas have much more crime than others. Check the table I posted a few paragraphs before with the violence numbers in different districts.

3rd— Get smart about pickpockets. Pickpocketing is common in Buenos Aires, so be careful when carrying anything you might need on your person, such as money and passports. To avoid this risk, keep your valuables in a money belt or under your clothing whenever possible. Also, keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings at all times — particularly in crowded tourist areas or on public transportation.

4rd — Do not use your expensive phone while standing in the middle of the street. There are numerous motorcycle thieves in the area who are experts at stealing cellphones from unsuspecting pedestrians. Remember that iPhones are worth a ridiculously high amount in Argentina, so they’re even more of a target.

5th — Don’t walk alone at night: Especially if you are a woman, walking alone at night can be dangerous in Buenos Aires. If you’re going out after dark, go with friends or take a cab or uber.

6th — -Stay away from La Boca at night: La Boca is famous for its colorful buildings, but this neighborhood is not safe. Most businesses close before dark, so it’s best to avoid the area after twilight.

How to Stay Safe in Buenos Aires

2nd — Book a transfer in advance (both from the Ezeiza Airport or Aeroparque Airport) to your final destination. You can use Get Transfer for that.

3rd — If you are visiting places like El Caminito and its surroundings, hire a guide. You can find some amazing guides and tours at Viator. Not only they will give you insider information about historical and natural curiosities, but they will also warn you of risky areas and keep you safe.

4rd — Use a money belt to carry your credit card, documents, etc. In your pocket, leave a dummy wallet with expired cards and small money, in case a robber attacks you (something that shouldn’t happen if you follow all the recommendations above).

Is Buenos Aires Safe to Live? Conclusion

When we look at the big picture, Buenos Aires is more dangerous than most European countries but safer than American cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Washington, DC. It is also safer than Brazil, despite the fact that the gap has narrowed in recent years due to a decrease in criminality in Brazil and an increase in crime in Argentina.

But to talk about Buenos Aires as a single entity does not say much. The Argentinian capital, like any major city in Latin America, is extremely unequal. (Here we explain how Sao Paulo, in Brazil, has a very similar situation).

Poorer, southern districts like Retiro and Barracas concentrate crime occurrences and have violence indicators comparable to poor regions of Mexico or Colombia.

Northern districts like Belgrano and Núñez, as well as neighboring towns like San Isidro, boast European indicators of violence.

It is also worth noting that there are also safer places in Argentina, areas that are very attractive to foreigners looking to retire with low costs and high quality of life.

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The Best Gardens in Europe, from East to West

In this article, I will provide you with a list of the most beautiful gardens in Europe IMHO. They are NOT by order of preference but by alphabetic order.

Why?

Because gardens have a certain beauty to them that draws me in. But I’m not the type of person who goes to a park and just sits on the first bench.I enjoy walking around them, exploring their nuances, touching the leaves of their trees (when permitted, of course), and inhaling deeply to discover their scents.

It gives me an inexplicable calmness (and according to Cal Newport, it is also very beneficial to our brain).

That is why, whenever possible, I try to visit iconic gardens during my travels around the world.

And, with all due respect to other cultures, the Europeans excelled at creating scenic, aesthetically pleasing green spaces.

I hope you enjoy it, and any comments or suggestions are welcome!

Listen to “The 10 Most Beautiful Gardens in Europe🌻” on Spreaker.

Boboli Gardens (Florence, Italy)

Boboli Gardens Florence, one of the most beautiful gardens in europe — Image by Fabio Zanchetta for Pixabay

Florence is a popular tourist destination, but it also boasts some beautiful gardens. The Boboli Gardens, part of the Pitti Palace complex in Florence, are well worth a visit.

Visit the website for hours and rates, and use Google Maps to get a glimpse of its splendor. In the high season, admission to the gardens costs EUR10, while in the off-season, it costs less. The ticket includes admission to the Porcelain Museum.

The Boboli Gardens in Florence are more akin to an outdoor museum than a garden, and they serve as inspiration for several well-known European gardens.

The Medici family bought the property and commissioned Niccolo Pericoli to develop the region in the early sixteenth century. Pericoli worked on it until his death, and his work was finished by Bartolomeo Ammannati. Later, still in the sixteenth century, Cosimo I de Medici bought the gardens and decided to establish their new ducal residence in the Pitti Palace (an impressive nearby edifice).

An inexpensive and interesting guided tour of the Casa Medici can be purchased here.

Keukenhof Gardens (Netherlands)

Keukenhof Gardens is a must-see attraction in the Netherlands for anyone who enjoys flowers. The gardens are 32 hectares in size and feature 7 million tulip bulbs. They also have a castle, a clog museum, a maze, and four separate pavilions for flower exhibits and expositions.

Oh, and there’s a windmill as well! If you have the time, you can climb it and enjoy a view of the Lisse tulip fields.

Of course, this is not a winter attraction. The garden is most beautiful in late April or early May and can be reached from both Amsterdam and Leiden.

The flowerbeds are timed to correspond with the various bulb flowerings to ensure blooms throughout the park’s eight-week season. Three bulbs are planted in each location to ensure consistent bloom. For the first three weeks, the shallowest bulb will bloom, followed by the subsequent layers.

Many consider these gardens to be the most spectacular in the world, and nearly 1.5 million tourists visit each year, with foreigners accounting for 80 percent of the visitors.

You can purchase a spring cruise across the Keukenhof gardens and skip the lines here.

Parc de la Ciutadella (Barcelona, Spain)

Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona’s greenest park, provides a peaceful respite amid the city’s bustle (a metropolis that is also one of the cheapest destinations to fly to in Europe).

The ideal location for those looking to unwind for the afternoon, refuel their batteries and take a deep breath. This lovely park, which includes the Catalan Parliament and the Museum of Natural Science and Geology, is a popular spot for picnics and long walks.

Many native Mediterranean plants and trees thrive in the five-hectare green space. Several structures in the park are designed to promote biodiversity. Ping-pong tables and playgrounds are also available for children’s enjoyment. There is also a zoo and several museums in the garden.

One could argue that I should have included Barcelona’s more well-known Parc Güell instead of Parc de la Ciutadella. I agree that Parc Güell is one of the most architecturally appealing parks in the world, but we all know that its fame stems from the magnific masterworks of Antoni Gaudí displayed there, not from the green area itself.

Check this guide for backpackers in Barcelona on how to spend 24 hours.

Saxon Gardens (Warsaw, Poland)

The Saxon Gardens in Warsaw were once a sprawling complex that included a church, a palace, and other structures. It is one of the nicest places in the Polish capital.

Until World War II, when everything — or nearly everything — was destroyed.

The garden’s oldest section was built in the 16th century and opened to the public in 1727. It was originally a Baroque French-style park, but it was restored in the nineteenth century and transformed into a Romantic English-style landscape park.

The Marconi Fountain, one of the most beautiful attractions in the gardens, is near the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, one of the few pre-war structures still standing. The fountain can be seen from almost anywhere in the gardens, including the main square. The Marconi Fountain and the Saxon Gardens are also on the 2.5-mile “Road of Kings” (Trakt Królewski), which connects the Wilanow Palace and the Royal Castle.

Talking about the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, it is one of the most moving sights in the Saxon Gardens. This tomb was built in memory of the unknown soldiers who died while fighting for Poland. It is regarded as one of the most important symbols of the country, and presidents and kings from other countries who visit Poland frequently pay their respects.

Stanislaw Ostrowski designed the Tomb, which is the only surviving part of the Saxon Palace colonnade. The monument’s guard changes every hour, which is an attraction in and of itself.

Schonbrunn Gardens (Vienna, Austria)

schonbrunn one of the most beautiful gardens in europe — Image by Meatle for Pixabay

The Schonbrunn Palace was the main summer residence of the Habsburg rulers, the family that once ruled the Austro-Hungarian empire, Europe’s second-largest state (just after Russia). The gardens, which feature long, tree-lined passageways, are among the most beautiful in Europe. A large palm house was built in the gardens in 1882, creating a tropical environment for visitors.

The park is massive, with various sections reflecting the various concepts and styles of the Baroque era. The Great Parterre leads from the palace and is divided into eight sections, including the Crown Prince Garden, the Orangery Garden, and the Botanical Garden. Aside from the Neptune Fountain, the park also has a zoo.

You can also explore the “Gloriette,” a structure with a sculpture that overlooks the garden, during your visit. Empress Maria Theresa decided that the Gloriette should glorify Habsburg power and the Just War (a war carried out out of “necessity” and leading to peace). It was destroyed during WWII, but it had already been restored by 1947.

You can purchase tickets that will allow you to skip the (often enormous) lines to Schonbrunn here.

Versailles Gardens (Versailles, France)

The lawns, parterres, and statues in this 17th-century garden are meticulously kept. In addition to the sophisticated fountains (more on that below), there are five greenhouses filled with orchids and other plants around the area.

It took almost 40 years to build and is now one of the world’s largest open-air sculpture museums. The gardens were designed by Andre Le Notre, a notable landscape designer who was a favorite of King Louis XIV. They were devoted to the king’s wish to display his magnificent residence.

Due to the limited amount of rooms that may be seen in the palace, the gardens are frequently regarded as Versailles’ main attraction.

Many consider this to be one of Europe’s most beautiful gardens, with the brilliant hues of spring bringing out the best in the blossoming plants.
The fountains, which date back to the reign of Louis XIV and still utilize much of the same hydraulic network as during the Ancien Régime, help to distinguish these Royal gardens.

You can purchase tickets that will allow you to skip the (often enormous) lines to Versailles here.

Villa d’Este Gardens (Tivoli, Italy)

The Villa d’Este Gardens are a must-see destination located near Rome.

The gardens are currently a state monument and a UNESCO World Heritage They are known for their Italian Renaissance style and numerous fountains. From the top of a hill, you may get a panoramic view of Rome and Tivoli.

The gardens’ mystical and romantic beauty is accentuated by a plethora of fountains. Water features, which have played a part in the design and arrangement of the garden, are one of the gardens’ jewels.

The Owlet Fountain, which plays organ music, is possibly the most well-known water feature. Canals and waterfalls abound at the Hundred Fountains. All of these distinctive elements add to the allure of visiting the Villa d’Este Gardens.

Cardinal Ippolito, a favorite among his contemporaries, developed the gardens. Ancient Greek mythology, notably Hercules’ Labors, served as an inspiration to him.

Ippolito’s conception of the Villa D’Este was aided by the Hesperides’ narrative: three dusk nymphs are known as the Hesperides who care for a beautiful garden. They provide immortality to the residents in exchange. This image may be seen in the gardens of Villa d’Este.

Château de Villandry Gardens (Villandry, France)

The Loire Valley is regarded as “France’s Garden,” and the Chateau de Villandry is the most spectacular of them.

The early 1500s saw the construction of the Chateau de Villandry. It was one of the last Renaissance-era chateaux on the Loire. The gardens, which had been destroyed in the 19th century, were rebuilt in 1906 in keeping with the chateau’s style.

The grounds cover 9 hectares and include six unique areas: a water garden with ponds and fountains, an ornamental garden with elaborate patterns filled with different flowers depending on the season, and a vast vegetable section.

The vegetable garden is, surprisingly, one of the most attractive areas of the garden. It will inspire you to renovate your own vegetable patch when you return home.

Volksgarten (Vienna, Austria)

That is the second garden from Vienna, Austria’s capital, on our list, and for good reason: the city that gave the world brilliant minds like Mozart, Strauss, Haydn, and Schubert could not disappoint in the art of gardening.

Make time to see the Volksgarten, a park whose name translates to “People’s Garden.” It’s a section of the equally magnificent Hofburg Palace, which I visited several years ago. Because it was winter, I was unable to fully appreciate the garden’s splendor.

This park, built on the site of Napoleon’s fortifications, has fountains and, in the middle, the neoclassical Theseus Temple by Pietro di Nobile, finished in 1821. A coffee shop, erected between 1820 and 1823, is located on the premises. Johann Strauss I and Joseph Lanner, both Austrian Romantic composers, played there.

Vrtba Garden (Prague, Czech Republic)

Here’s the thing: Prague disappointed me. Not because it is unattractive, but because scammers and tourist traps are everywhere. One of the reasons I don’t recommend traveling to Prague during winter is because you will miss gems like Vrtba.

This garden, on the other hand, is an exception, and it was one of the highlights of the trip. It is also less crowded than other more famous attractions like the St. Vitus Cathedral.

The Vrtba Garden is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the left side of Prague’s center, and it is open from March to October during the summer and is well worth a visit.

It was established around 1720 as part of the Vrtba Palace and is one of the continent’s oldest well-preserved gardens. The landscape was designed by architect Frantisek Maxmilian Kanka on the site of a former vineyard. Matyas Bernard Braun created the lovely sculptures in the yard.

It has a Baroque style, which is defined as a gardening style centered on symmetry and the notion of imposing order on nature. The style first appeared in the late-16th century in Italy, at the Vatican and Villa Borghese gardens in Rome, as well as the Villa d’Este grounds in Tivoli (mentioned previously on this list).

The 10 Most Beautiful Gardens in Europe: Conclusion

Mixing breathtaking green areas with architectural masterpieces, here is the list — not in order of preference but in alphabetical order — of the 10 most beautiful gardens in Europe.

On this website, you can buy tickets to skip the lines for most of these attractions.

Boboli Gardens, in Florence, Italy.
Keukenhof Gardens, in the Netherlands.
Parc de la Ciutadella, in Barcelona, Spain
Saxon Gardens, in Warsaw, Poland.
Schonbrunn Palce Gardens, in Vienna, Austria.
Versailles Palace Gardens, in Versailles, France.
Villa d’Este Gardens, in Tivoli, Italy.
Villandry Castle Gardens, in Villandry, France.
Volksgarten, in Vienna, Austria.
Vrtba Garden, in Prague, Czech Republic.

If you enjoyed reading about the most beautiful gardens in Europe, check also:

Best Countries to Visit in Europe Each Month of the Year

4 Ways to Save Money on International Flights

How to Save Money on a Hotel Room (You could save up to half of the total bill.)

First, subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive as a special gift the digital book 20 Essential Hacks for Saving Money While Travelling.

Second, if you liked this article, please consider supporting me and other writers by becoming a Medium member. By using this link, you will directly support me with a piece of your fee; there will be no additional cost to you. Thank you a million times if you do!

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel Small Business Hacks and the channel The Expat, and best-selling author. Some of the links in the article may be affiliate links, which means the author receives a commission on any purchases made by readers.

Digital Nomads

Going to the 2022 Fifa World Cup? Check the…

An Insider Guide About Things to Do in Qatar in December

For a significant portion of my career, I worked in the aviation industry, specifically in a relatively unknown department known as Revenue Management — it is the area responsible for the sudden ups and downs in ticket prices (here I reveal some secrets for finding cheaper tickets).

I was fortunate to work for three years in what is regarded as the world’s five-star airline, based in Doha, Qatar.

But I won’t lie: Doha isn’t one of the most entertaining cities I’ve ever visited.

Yet, there are some interesting places there, and in this list, I will reveal to you these places.

If you plan to attend the 2022 FIFA World Cup, you should check out some of these unexpected things to do in Qatar in December.

About the World Cup, who will you support? If any of my readers will be cheering for Brazil with me, tell me in the comments 🙂

But first, let’s discuss why the FIFA World Cup will be held in December (during the winter), rather than in the summer, as is customary.

Qatar Weather During Winter

Qatar is excruciatingly hot for nearly half of the year. I experienced temperatures over 50 degrees celsius. This is hot enough to endanger your life if you stay outside for too long.

As a result, the World Cup will be held this year in November and December, during the winter.

December is the third coldest (or less hot?) month in this country, just after January and February. Temperatures are mild and the sky is frequently clear, making it a spring-like season by European standards. Lows are in the 14/17 °C (57/63 °F) range, with highs in the 22/25 °C (72/77 °F) range.

Sounds good, right?

Time to give you the list of things to do in Qatar in December (or during winter).

1 — Visit the Souq Waqif

During the winter, you should visit the Souq Waqif, a traditional market in the city’s center. It is primarily open-air, so while it may be too hot in the summer, the weather is great in December.

This market has been around for over a century and sells everything from traditional clothing to spices and handicrafts. Here you may buy souvenirs and eat traditional meals.

There are some well-reviewed tour guides at the Souq Waqif who can show you the hidden gems as well as guide you through the best (and relatively inexpensive) food stalls and restaurants.

Visitors will find it convenient because of nearby metro stations and a vast underground parking garage. It’s also close to other Doha attractions and landmarks, such as the Museum of Islamic Art (more about it below).

If you want to see some local art, go to the Souq Waqif Arts Center, which has both traditional and contemporary art. The Arts Center also encourages local artists and features an area for arts & crafts.

It’s a good idea to bring along your camera. If you are hungry, there are several eateries serving a variety of cuisines.

2 — Go to Al Zubarah Fort

During December, you can visit the renowned Al Zubarah Fort in Qatar. The fort sits 100 kilometers west of Doha and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This town thrived during the early days of pearling in the Gulf. However, by the late nineteenth century, the pearl business had all but vanished. During the construction of the Suez Canal, commercial routes were curtailed, and the town population fell.

The fort is now but a relic of an extraordinary past. It comprises five rooms and rotates photo displays as well as exhibits on excavation history and natural components.

After you’ve seen the fort, you can explore the surrounding area, which includes the historic Pearl Diving Centre. Al Zubarah is a significant archaeological site as well as a piece of early Qatari history. It is completely free to visit, however, this guide will take you there comfortably and will also take you to other attractions such as the Purple Island and the mangrove forest.

3 — Discover the art of falconry by visiting the Falcon Souq

Visit the falcon souk in Qatar. You’ll get to see falcons around and tour the world’s largest falcon hospital. Falconry has deep roots in the Middle East, where pharaohs practiced it over 5000 years ago. Today, falconry is still practiced throughout the region, with various organizations formed by aficionados. Some falcons compete in beauty pageants.

The Falcon Souq is a fantastic spot to visit if you want to witness a trained falcon in action or buy an unusual gift. The Falcon Souq, located off Souq Waqif, provides a unique peek into Qatari culture. This tour with an experienced guide explores it and other attractions nearby.

4 — Visit the Museum of Islamic Art

The MIA is the world’s biggest museum dedicated to Islamic art, located in Doha, Qatar. Its permanent collection covers over 1000 years and 7,000 miles, from Spain to India. Several temporary exhibitions are also held in the museum. Through special exhibitions and educational events, visitors can learn about the art of the Muslim world. The museum’s art collection is often loaned to other museums across the world.

The Museum of Islamic Art in Doha displays artifacts from the royal family’s collection as well as dozens of pieces from its own. The museum is divided into multiple floors, the first of which houses a gift store, a coffee shop, and a special exhibition area. It also features thematic displays ranging from calligraphy and patterns to figures and decoration. The second floor is dedicated to small and handwritten Korans.

In a comfortable private car, this tour will take you through the MIA and other museums in Doha.

5 — Take a look at the view from the top of the Aspire Tower

This 300-meter tower is located in the heart of the Aspire Zone, a new development in Doha that also houses one of the World Cup stadiums. During the Asian Games in 2006, the tower became the focal point of the city. Panorama Restaurant, located on the 91st floor of the tower, offers a view from the top.

Conclusion: Things to do in Qatar in December

There are plenty of activities to keep you occupied while you’re in Qatar this December, between the games of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Check out the Souq Waqif, visit Al Zubarah Fort, learn about falconry in the Falcon Souq, visit the Museum of Islamic Art, and have a dazzling view from the top of the Aspire Tower.

If you want to visit Doha, I’ve written two other articles about it. One answers questions about visiting Qatar as a female (based on my wife’s and friends’ experiences), and the other discusses the issue of alcohol accessibility (hint: it is available, but it is not at the same time).

If you enjoyed reading about things to do in Qatar in December, check also:

The Top 5 Countries for Coffee Lovers

4 More Insider Tips for Finding Incredibly Low-Cost Flights

First, subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive as a special gift the digital book 20 Essential Hacks for Saving Money While Travelling.

Cultural Shock

Moving Away from Home

The Best Lessons I Learned about Moving Away from Home (After Doing It 14 Times).

Moving away from home is not an unknown subject to us. My generation moved from one place to another more than any other in history.

While our parents and grandparents (the Baby Boomers and Generation Xers) stayed in the same area for an average of 4 to 6 years, Millenials move every two years.

For many of us, moving away from home is an exciting time in our lives.

It gives you the chance to start over. However, it can also be one of the most stressful times in your life depending on where you are moving to, who you are moving with and why you are moving in the first place.

I compiled this article with some of the best tips and insights I learned after fifteen years away from my hometown and 14 moves across three continents. Things like:

Why is moving away from home so hard?
Pros and cons of moving out of your parents’ house
Can I afford to move out of my parents’ house?
How to handle the anxiety about moving away from home?
How to cope with moving away from family and friends?
Other recommended reading for anyone planning to move far away and start a new life.
The steps I will recommend, from the decision until the ride to the airport.

As with everything in life, context is important, and that is where we begin.

I want to move out of my parents’ house!

Many of us will say this phrase at some point between our adolescence and our early thirties. Some people carefully plan this moment, while others do it on the spur of the moment when an opportunity appears on the horizon.

But when we take the time to breathe and analyze carefully whether it makes sense, there are a lot of things at stake.

We frequently overlook or ignore factors that are extremely important later in life.

In this article, I will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of moving out of your parents’ home. This is a decision I made when I was 18 years old, and I have seen many friends and relatives do the same since then.

Many were satisfied with the results, but some had regrets.

Why is moving away from home so hard?

First off, you should feel proud of yourself for even considering this challenge.

Not many people dare to step out of their comfort zone and test themselves in new situations. It’s normal to have these thoughts — don’t worry!

One of the main drawbacks is that you will miss your family, friends, and loved ones. You will miss family gatherings and having dinner with your parents. Maybe you are too young and you don’t want to be far away from them or maybe they simply don’t want to let you go.

Another drawback is that you may not know how to take care of yourself in some aspects and it may be difficult for you at first. For example, if your family has always cooked for you and has helped you with everything in the house, it may be difficult for you to prepare something other than fried eggs.

Also, many times living on your own can be more expensive than living with your parents because you have to pay rent, food, bills…

If all of these reasons are making you think twice about moving out, I have a word for you:

You are right.

Think twice. Even thrice. But don’t let the difficulties stop you. Use them as a guide to self-improvement and getting completely ready to move out, not as an excuse to cancel your plans. I will help you in the next paragraphs and with many useful links.

Remember that moving away can be very rewarding.

You will develop skills that no one taught you before and become more independent and autonomous. You will make new friends and open doors for massive opportunities.

All that starts with a plan, and like in every plan, we need to assess the pros and cons.

Pros and cons of moving out of your parents’ house

Benefits of moving away from home:

You get to learn how to fend for yourself and manage your money (both income and expenses).
You will learn (or should learn unless you want to live in a squat) how to cook, clean, and take care of your living space. Maybe you will learn how to fix a leaking sink — it’s not that difficult.
There will be silence and privacy (maybe not if you are a student sharing a dormitory).
You will have space for yourself and friends to hang out.
You’ll be able to set your own schedule, so you won’t have to compete with your brother over who gets to use the shower first.

Cons of moving away from home:

You have to pay for everything, including rent, food, utilities, insurance, and so on. Your paycheck may not be as large as you think it is once you look at all the bills that need to be paid. According to Forbes, in 2021 the cost of moving out increased 15%.
You must deal with any repairs that may emerge. If something breaks, such as the stove or washing machine, you must pay for its repair or replacement unless it is covered by insurance or a warranty agreement.
If you are moving to a distant place, you will miss your old town, your friends and your family. A lot.
If you are going to live in an unfamiliar place, there will be a learning curve until you adapt to the local way of life. You will eat at bad restaurants, take the wrong buses, and so on during this time. It is an inconvenient period, may cost you extra money, and can take weeks or even months.
You will need to adjust to a new climate, and I mean literally new climatic conditions. For example, olive-skinned Latin Americans like myself may require special supplements during the winter in Europe. Here I explain how Vitamin D helped me to survive the European winter.

Can I afford to move out of my parents’ house?

Even if you’re not sure where you’ll be living, estimating the basic costs of living on your own will help you determine if you can afford it or not. The main expenses you should evaluate are rent, food, utilities, transportation, and furniture.

Rent cost

This is your biggest monthly expense, and it depends on where you live and how much space you need. A small studio apartment in the city is more expensive than a large two-bedroom house in the countryside. However, you must ensure that wherever you live, the rent is within your means. Move into an apartment with a roommate or two if possible to reduce your monthly expenses.

Food expenses

Food is probably the second-largest expense after rent, so consider your budget carefully — especially if you’ve been living at home and eating most of your meals there. Americans spend an average of $550 each month on food, according to the most recent data. Eating out frequently can add up quickly, so plan accordingly.

Utility bills

You need utilities like electricity, water, heating, and internet to live comfortably, and there’s no getting around paying for these items every month. In some cases, they are included in your rent payment; if that’s not the case, ask if there are any utilities that are included (such as water). This will help reduce your monthly spending.

Depending on where you move, prices may require a habit change. For example, a shower will cost in Poland 6 times more than in Brazil.

Transportation costs

Transport costs can add up quickly — especially in big cities like London where the Tube or buses can be costly. While it’s not necessary to have a car in every city it’s often essential in smaller places. Here I wrote about the considerations to have in mind before buying a car.

Furniture and other expenses.

When you live at home, your parents are responsible for furnishing the place and purchasing new appliances when necessary. When you move out, those costs come out of your pocket — and they can be significant if you don’t shop around for the best deals.

In another article, I compared the cost of living for a single person in 6 different European capitals. The results are surprising.

Anxiety about moving away from home

Anxiety about moving away from home is normal. Whether you’re moving to a new city, state, or country — or just to a new apartment across town — it’s completely natural to feel nervous and excited at the same time.

Here are some ways to ease your transition:

Connect with others.

If you move in with a roommate or group of roommates, try to strike up friendships with them. If you’re living by yourself, seek out social groups in your area that interest you, such as meetups for your favorite hobby or book club gatherings.

Establish a routine

Maintain structure and routine. Have a regular schedule for sleep, meals, and study. This can help to mitigate feelings of stress, anxiety, and overwhelm.

Talk to the grocery store cashier.

Take some time to explore your new city and make a point of trying something new each week — a new restaurant or coffee shop, for example — but don’t be afraid to set boundaries that make you comfortable. Asking about the new place to the grocery store cashier or other people you meet at random can speed up your adaptation.

Try to understand the cultural differences of your new place.

I am a big fan of the 6-dimension model created by Dr. Geert Hofstede breaking down the cultural differences into 6 major areas. His team analyzed multiple countries in the world to better understand cultural differences. So far, their conclusions match almost perfectly my own experience living in Asia, Latin America, and Europe.

Don’t be afraid to get embarrassed.

The joy of embracing (and occasionally failing) a new idiom and discovering a new place in the world is priceless. When I first moved to Poland, I faced three comical situations that taught me that being embarrassed isn’t all that bad.

How to cope with moving away from family and friends

In order to cope with leaving your family and friends, you must remember that you are doing this for a reason. It may be for your education or your career, but you must have a goal and stick to it. Keep that in mind when you are dealing with loneliness or homesickness abroad.

Why are you moving away?

There are different types of expatriates, something that is also valid for anyone that is moving out within a country. Understanding which type you are will help you to understand what you need and what you should avoid.

How to Prepare for a Mov Ahead of Time

You can start preparing yourself for moving away well before the day arrives. For example, staying in close contact with your loved ones through social media or by visiting before moving may make it easier for you to adjust once you have left. Start planning visits to see your family and friends as soon as possible so that you know you will be able to see them again later on.

Keep In Touch

Regular communication with loved ones is one of the best ways to cope with separation. If possible, try talking to your family and friends in person at least once each month by scheduling a visit or inviting them over for a weekend stay.

This will also avoid you to feel guilty later if the worse happens. This is a lesson I learned the hard way.

Take advantage of technology — but don’t get enslaved or restricted by it.

You might not be able to see your family and friends as often as you’d like, but there are many ways to stay in touch using modern communication devices such as smartphones and computers. Video chat applications such as Skype, FaceTime, or Google Hangouts are great for keeping in touch visually and can make you feel like you’re together even when you’re far apart.

Whenever possible, use apps that allow you to communicate visually or audibly, as written messages lack depth and dimension. Besides, excessive text messaging is making us dumber.

Moving away from home — Additional reading

I made a lot of mistakes when I left my country nine years ago to become an expatriate. Errors that could have been avoided if I had only known a few things.

Instead of giving up, I learned by experience during my relocations to the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, which forged a better version of myself.

This guide’s tips and methods assisted me in getting promoted, increasing my earnings, finding my wife, and starting my own business.

These rules are universal; they worked for me in South America, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, and they will work for you as well.

I wrote a guide with the best countries to start a new life abroad with no money. There you will discover what you need to begin a new life in places like Chile, Qatar, or Poland (I lived in all of them), among many others.
Here is a list of 9 books to read before moving abroad, with useful tips and ideas to improve your daily life far from home.
Sometimes it takes time for someone to find work in a new city, therefore in this article, I give you an idea about how to make money after moving out to a new place.
Here is what you should do if you moved out and war erupted somewhere nearby.

Conclusion: How to Move Away from Home

I moved away from my parents’ home when I was 19. Since then, I moved another 14 times — meaning, almost one time per year. Sometimes, it was because I wanted, others, because I needed due to do my career and later my businesses.

10 Steps to move out

Decide where you want to live
Contact locals via social media or other means to learn about prices, lifestyle, and potential issues.
Save enough money to pay your bills for the first month (at least).
Get a job (or a paid internship if you are a student and have time for it). Every time I moved, I used Linkedin to find a new job.
Know how much you can afford to spend
Prepare a backup plan in case things don’t go as planned (Eg: expenses X percent higher than what you expect). Here I explained how to make a plan B when moving out.
Plan your move and hire a moving company if necessary. Prepare your documents and sign the rental contract early.
Use the signed rental contract to set up internet, water, and other utilities.
Schedule a medical checkup, and a blood exam. In your new place, doctors may not have access to your medical history. This is one of the untold but crucial life-saving tips for moving out.
Pack your belongings.

First, subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive as a special gift the digital book 20 Essential Hacks for Saving Money While Travelling.

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel Small Business Hacks, and best-selling author.

Brazil

Is Rio de Janeiro Safe?

The reality about how safe is Rio de Janeiro is not what you imagine.

Listen to “Is Rio de Janeiro Safe? (It is NOT what you imagine!)” on Spreaker.

Rio is often in the spotlight for negative and film-like violent situations. From a police helicopter downed by gangsters to celebrities kidnapped, the dangers from Rio are as famous as the natural beauty of its panoramic landscapes. So, is Rio de Janeiro safe?

Personal advice: Always read and watch the news with a pinch of salt. The truth is that Rio de Janeiro is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, and with a little care and attention, it can be one of the most beautiful trips of your life!

Is Rio Really That Dangerous?

Depending on what you are comparing with. If your basis of comparison the Europan continent (what explains the enormous amount of Brazilians in Portugal), yes, Rio is dangerous. Many South-American capitals, like Buenos Aires, are also safer than Rio (making Argentina a good place to retire if you earn in dollars) But if you consider cities American cities like Baltimore, Detroit, or New Orleans, Rio de Janeiro is far safer.

In 2020, Rio had a homicide rate (20.4 per 100 000 inhabitants) even lower than Chicago, the 3rd largest city in the United States (24.3 murders per 100 000 residents).

And the finest news: the violence is decreasing quickly in Rio (almost as quickly as in São Paulo, a case that I explore in detail in this article). In the last section of this article, I will prove that to you with solid numbers.

How Safe Is Rio de Janeiro?

One of the most striking aspects of Brazil is inequality, and just like in all its nuances, violence also does affect everywhere in the same way.

There are regions in Rio that are indeed violent, while others are far safer.

First of all, remember that Rio de Janeiro has two meanings: it can be one of the 26 Brazilian states, or also the capital of the homonymous state. In this article, I will talk mostly about the capital, but if there is any city you would like to know more about in particular, feel free to ask about it in the comment section.

The safest areas of Rio are in the South Zone. The tourist-friendly beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema are considered safe during the day. At night there are issues with criminality as with most large cities, but nothing abnormal. Take the usual precautions (listed at the end of this article) and you should be fine.

The wealthy areas of São Conrado and Barra da Tijuca, where many expatriates live, are also relatively safe during the day. However, both areas can be dangerous at night, so you should be careful at all times when in these areas.

I would not advise any tourist (unless it is for a very specific purpose) to travel to the West Zone since it holds most of Rio’s gang conflicts. This region is famous for its favelas (though some are tourist-friendly)and should generally not be visited due to safety concerns. After dark, it is wise to avoid the favelas completely

Is Rio de Janeiro Safe for Tourists?

Here is the thing: most of the violence in Rio is associated with gangs and the dispute for drug-selling points.

If you are not involved with these matters, you will avoid a large part of the risks. Still, gangsters in Rio have military-grade, long-range weapons and it is not uncommon that, in the vicinity of the favelas, during large conflicts, innocent people are hit by stray bullets. In 2021 alone 100 people died in Rio due to random stray bullets.

Other than the favelas and stray bullets, there are two other places where tourists could have bad experiences in Rio.

The beaches. Tourists love the beaches in Rio; however, this is one of the places most attractive to groups of petty criminals since they have very few guards and there have been several incidents of robbery during the daytime. The beaches are the place of the famous arrastão, when groups of thieves rob multiple tourists in a matter of a few minutes and then rush out of the scene. Follow the advice at the end of this article and you will be safe.

The other place where you may face undesirable situations related to crime in Rio is the historical center. Unfortunately, it is also one of the regions that most deserve your visit since districts like the Lapa, with its restaurants, bars, and attractions like the Arcos da Lapa.

Is Lapa in Rio de Janeiro Safe?

Lapa, which is located in the Tijuca neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, is a fun neighborhood, full of bars and restaurants, and one of the more popular places to party in Rio.

But Lapa is also an area of town that can be considered a bit sketchy. There are lots of beggars, homeless people, drug dealers, and all-around shady characters.

It’s not unusual to see drunks passed out on the sidewalk or people who seem like they might want to take advantage of you.

However, as long as you don’t wander into any dark corners late at night and walk with a considerable group, you should be just fine.

Always keep your valuables locked up tight in your hotel room, or if you do bring them with you when you venture out for an evening, be sure to secure them in one of those money belts that all tourists seem to wear. (One of the many valuable tips taken from the book Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide)

How to Be Safe in Rio de Janeiro

To make your trip to Rio as safe as possible, here are some tips:

1st – Buy travel insurance that also covers theft-related expenses. Although it is often very inexpensive to purchase such insurance in Europe, many people ignore this small precaution and end up disappointed. I recommend the company Ekta, which provides some of the most innovative solutions for travelers, allowing you to relax and enjoy your vacation without worry.

2nd – Don’t be taken in by “drivers” who offer to pick you up from the airport or train/bus stations. They are frequently con artists, which can be dangerous. I prefer to use GetTransfer, a website that compares multiple, reputable transfer providers and offers you the best price. It is the best way to plan ahead of time.

3rd – Avoid walking around with your luggage. Radical Storage is a website that shows safe locations where you can leave your luggage, pay a small fee, and pick it up after touring the city.

4th – If you are visiting places like the center of São Paulo (and there is SO MUCH to visit there!) or Cantareira Park, hire a guide. You can find some amazing guides and tours at Viator. Not only they will give you insider information about historical and natural curiosities, but they will also warn you of risky areas and keep you safe.

5th- (Personal opinion) If you are young (or feel young), stay in hostels in regions like Copacabana, Ipanema, or Leblon. People working in these hostels are used to foreign guests and can offer both safety advice and some great tips on places to sightsee. To find hostels (and even Hotels) in Rio de Janeiro, my favorite option is Hostelworld.

6th – Use a money belt to carry your credit card, documents, etc. In your pocket, leave a dummy wallet with expired cards and small money, in case a robber attacks you (something that shouldn’t happen if you follow all the recommendations above).

Avoid walking around after dark in areas with not many people around. Violent crimes are more likely to occur at night than during the day.
Do not go out alone or with a small group after dark. Stay in groups for safety; the larger the group, the safer it is (although an arrastão may still affect your group no matter how large it is).
If you go out alone, stay on well-lit streets where there are plenty of people walking around and avoid using parks or beaches alone at night.
Be aware that police officers may stop you on the streets and ask for an ID. Do not resist giving them your ID even if they are acting rudely; otherwise, you could be arrested.
Do not carry or wear flashy jewelry or expensive-looking electronics around town since these can attract unwanted attention from robbers. For example, do not flash your brand new iPhone off while walking down a street in the Lapa district.
Avoid carrying large amounts of cash with you anywhere in Brazil, especially Rio de Janeiro.

Remember: Be aware of where you’re going and what you’re doing. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in areas you are not familiar with. It’s also a good idea to let someone know where you are at all times, so if something does happen they will know where to look for you.

Uber in Rio de Janeiro: Safe? (Also Valid for 99Taxis)

The rise of Uber in Rio has been met with challenging times. Taxi drivers have protested against the company, sometimes violently.

Still, there are no reports of Uber drivers robbing or hurting passengers. Ride-sharing apps may not have the best security, but you don’t hand a total stranger your credit card and cash.

You can use the app to see the driver’s name, car model, and license plate number before getting in the car. It also has a feature that lets you share your ETA with friends and family via text message or email.

Rio has more than its fair share of criminals preying on tourists and locals, but there are no reports of an Uber or 99Taxis driver being involved in a crime against a passenger so far.

Despite the safety concerns, Uber (or 99Taxis) is still popular because it’s more convenient than hailing a taxi off the street or waiting for a radio taxi to drive by. It’s a great option when you’re trying to get somewhere quickly and don’t want to walk or pay for a taxi ride from

Conclusion: How Violent is Rio de Janeiro?

The violence in Rio de Janeiro is decreasing, especially in the South Zone, which includes Copacabana, Ipanema, and Leblon.

The city’s southern area is still a safe place, but tourists should avoid walking alone at night and avoid areas close to favelas. Tourists are advised to stay away from isolated places after dark and exercise caution at all times because of the high rate of crime.

Most of the bad fame of Rio is still a reflection of former decades when it was one of the most dangerous regions in the world. By the way, since we discussing safety, we also wrote an article with tips on what to do in case of war.

In the chart below, you can see that Rio had a 61% decrease in violence during the last 20 years. Today, it has violence rates comparable to Puerto Rico, an autonomous region from the USA.

It is still far from ideal, and there is a lot to improve. However, it is not that bad (and violent) as it once was.

State	Homicide Rate in 2000	Homicide Rate in 2010	Homicide Rate in 2020	Difference between 2000 and 2020	Country with similar homicide rate.
Pernambuco	56.17	39.48	33.8	-40%	Nigeria
Bahia	9.46	41.69	44.9	375%	Jamaica
Minas Gerais	12.06	18.6	12.7	5%	Uruguay
Rio de Janeiro	52.75	35.44	20.4	-61%	Puerto Rico*
Sao Paulo	42.89	14.64	6.96	-84%	Russia
Parana	18.85	34.33	18.37	-3%	Namibia
Rio Grande do Sul	16.55	19.5	15	-9%	Botswana

Homicide rates in the 6 most populous Brazilian states, and comparison with other countries. Source: IPEA and Government agencies.

Check also:

The Most Dangerous Cities in Europe

Save Money on Travel — 4 Travel Hacks to Give You Peace of Mind

Best Place to Visit in Europe on Each Month of the Year

Subscribe to my articles (for free) and receive the digital book 20 Essential Hacks for Saving Money While Travelling.

If you wish to become a Medium member and have access to articles like this, check this link. It is only $5 per month.

Levi Borba is the CEO of expatriateconsultancy.com, creator of the channel Small Business Hacks, and best-selling author. Subscribe to my articles (for free) and receive (also for free) the ebook “The Blueprint for First-Time Business Owners”.

Best Countries Ranking

Best Country to Visit in Europe on Each Month…

Spectacular places from July to December. Here is the list of the Best Country to Visit in Europe on Each Month of the Year.

If the first part of this list (the best country to visit in Europe from January to July) was dominated by islands, continental Europe will be the sole ruler in this second part.

But don’t expect the obvious.

There are no recommendations for Paris or Prague (especially because they disappointed me, as I explained in this article).

Yes, this is a controversial list. But I hope I made a strong case for each nominee. Nonetheless, all suggestions are welcome! (And don’t forget: I’m still looking for recommendations for countries to visit in February, which is the only month out of the year where I don’t know where to go.)

If you want to discover the most inexpensive way to reach Europe, check our article about the cheapest cities to fly to In Europe.

Best Place to Visit in Europe in July:

Portugal

Why visiting Portugal in July:

Traveling during this time allows you to experience multiple festivities taking place throughout Portugal, such as the Festa dos Tabuleiros in Tomar, the cultural festivity that attracts the most visitors to Portugal and takes place every four years.

July is also considered the best month for beach vacations, as it is the warmest month of the year. Algarve has a lot of events during this time of year including music and food festivals (discover here what are the best dishes in Portugal). There are several water sports along the coast, especially surf.

What to visit in Portugal this time of the year:

The Palácio da Pena in Sintra.

It is a castle in the town of Sintra (on the Portuguese Riviera), built by Romanticists. The castle is at the top of a hill in the Sintra Mountains, and from there you can even see Lisbon. One of the best examples of 19th-century Romanticism in the world, it is a national monument and an amazing example of this type of Architecture in the world. UNESCO named the palace one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal. It looks straight out of a fairy tale.

How is the weather in Portugal in July:

Little rainfall and sunshine. July has got little rainfall in the major areas, which means that you can expect to enjoy your trip with fewer worries about rain. Temperatures in Lisbon range, on average, from 18°C during the night to 27°C during the day.

Best Country to Visit in Europe in August:

Bulgaria

Why visiting Bulgaria in August:

Traveling around Bulgaria in August offers a range of benefits, most notably delightful weather and low costs. Places like Sunny Beach (Slanchev Bryag in Bulgarian) have infrastructure compared to any western summer resort city, with the differential that the prices are simply unbeatable.

To put into perspective, I am talking about beachfront 4-start hotels with breakfast included for less than 50 dollars a night. The city has also bustling nightlife and there are multiple bars where you can buy a pint of beer for 2 Lev (US$1).

What to visit in Bulgaria this time of the year:

Nearby the aforementioned Sunny Beach, there is an ancient city called Nesebar. It is a short bus ride from Sunny Beach, but you may go walking if you are in the mood for some exercise.

Also known as “Pearl of the Black Sea”, it is a rich city museum with a three-millennium history. An isthmus separates the old settlement on the peninsula (formerly an island) from the newer development (hotels, etc.) on the mainland. The older part has been occupied by many different civilizations over time: Thracians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Crusaders, and Ottomans, to name a few.

In 1983, UNESCO added Nesebar to its list of World Heritage Sites due to its abundance of historic buildings.

How is the weather in Bulgaria during August:

The weather in Bulgaria during August is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 14.9°C during the night to 27.5°C during the day. It is also the month with the lowest amount of rainfall. Enjoy the beach.

Best Country to Visit in Europe in September:

Croatia

Why visiting Croatia in September:

Traveling to Croatia during September brings a lot more advantages than just avoiding the crowds.

Here are some of the main ones:

There are no school holidays, meaning less crowded areas, public transport will be less busy, beaches will be less crowded, and you can have a relaxing vacation.
The weather is still good.
Croatia celebrates numerous festivals throughout September. If you are a fan of classical music, there is the International Late Summer Music Festival in the coastal city of Dubrovnik, which presents internationally acclaimed artists to town. There are also numerous concerts of electronic music and even reggae artists.

What to visit in Croatia this time of the year:

Split. This coastal city may not be as famous for beachgoers as the acclaimed Dubrovnik, but it has also a lot to offer.

From the palace of the Roman Emperor Diocletian to the ancient towers and churches, many city sights may look familiar if you ever watched Game of Thrones. This is because Split was the main filming location for the fictional city of King’s Landing.

It has also some adorable beaches.

How is the weather in Croatia during September:

The weather in Croatia in September is usually great — warm enough for swimming, but not too hot. In Zagreb, the capital, the temperature ranges from 13°C to 24°C, but in coastal cities, it is considerably warmer.

Best Place to Visit in Europe in October:

Poland

Why visiting Poland in October:

One could say that the best time to visit Poland in the winter, to enjoy the great Christmas market of Krakow and wander across the snowy Tatra mountains. Others argue that the best time to visit is during the summer when the longer days are filled with life and events in major cities and allow people to visit castles and palaces without freezing.

However, Autumn (or fall, for our American readers) is a hidden treasure in Poland. It is by far the most scenic and captivating time of year, particularly during the few weeks (which vary depending on altitude) of what Poles call Złota jesień (the golden Autumn).

The explosion of orange, gold and copper colors in the forests and parks, the squirrels and birds scurrying around, the swans in the lake, the maple leaves on the sidewalks… I couldn’t possibly list everything that makes this time of year so beautiful.

What to visit in Poland this time of the year:

Białowieża Forest. One of the last primeval forests of Europe, almost untouched by human activity, a major character of multiple folk tales and epic sagas, and a UNESCO world heritage.

If you visit it in the first half of October, you will witness the previously mentioned Złota jesień. Take pictures.

How is the weather in Poland during October:

The weather in the Polish capital during October ranges, on average, from 4.4°C during the night to 12.3°C during the day. This is also the expected temperature in most places, except in colder mountainous or remote areas.

Best Country to Visit in Europe in November:

Italy

Why visiting Italy in November:

Touring Italy in November is a fantastic time to visit because it is still warm but not too cold. You can still visit historical sites such as Pompeii without feeling miserable in the cold air.

Italy is a diverse country with something for everyone. It has a varied landscape, ranging from the Alps to the Adriatic coast, as well as cities steeped in history, culture, art, and food.

November in Italy is a great time to visit famous monuments such as the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, St Peter’s Square, Vatican City, and many others because you will avoid the crowds while still having a memorable experience.

Visiting Italy in November will also give you an advantage in terms of cheaper flights and hotel rates.

What to visit in Italy this time of the year:

Besides the eternal city of Rome, you can also visit Milan and the nearby Lake Como (which is a bit colder since it is in the vicinity of mountains). By the way, if you are visiting the Italian capital, remember to avoid taking pictures in certain places and with certain people, and to visit the Sistine Chapel.

How is the weather in Italy in November:

In Rome, the temperature averages go from 6.9°C during the night to 15.9°C during the day. Northern places like Turin or Milan may be slightly colder, while southern cities like Napoli may be warmer.

Best Country to Visit in Europe in December:

Hungary

Why visiting Hungary in December:

Budapest is a true one-of-a-kind city, especially during the Christmas season. Hungary’s capital city is home to one of Europe’s largest Christmas markets, which draws visitors from all over the world. It is an unforgettable experience.

In the seasonal market, there are also food stalls where you can taste traditional goulash soup, strudel pastries, and other regional delicacies. You can eat lunch or dinner in the restaurant area, which fills up every evening with people looking to spend their free time in the heart of the city.

Besides food, there are numerous attractions for people of all ages, such as concerts by local bands and dance groups, puppet shows, etc.

What to visit in Hungary this time of the year:

Besides Budapest’s Christmas Market, December is a good time to check the famous Hungarian baths (in special Szechenyi with its hot spring waters) and watch locals playing chess in the pools. They say it is a healthy habit, and I believe them.

How is the weather in Hungary in December:

It is cold in Budapest, ranging from -1°C during the night to 3.4°C during the day, and often snowy. All this just adds splendor to the atmosphere of Christmas time.

Conclusion: The Best Country to Visit in Europe Each Month of the Year

Month	Country	Night and Day Average Temperature (Capital City)	Reason to visit it in this month	The Must-See
January	Montenegro	2°C to 9°C	Stunning nature and inexpensive skiing.	Kolašin
February	I	DON’T	KNOW	🙁
March	Austria	3.5°C to 11.5°C	Longer days, Bustling Spring in Vienna	Innsbruck
April	Ireland	6.4°C to 12.4°C	Less Crowded, and not that wet	Guiness Factory in Dublin
May	Cyprus	14.8°C to 29.7°C	Good weather, still not that crowded or expensive	Ayia Napa
June	Malta	18.4°C to 27.5°C	Pleasant Weather and plenty of package offers	Marsaxlokk
July	Portugal	18°C to 27°C	Great Weather, Little Rainfall	Sintra
August	Bulgaria	14.9°C to 27.5°C	Balmy beaches with unbealivable low costs	Nesebar
September	Croatia	13°C to 24°C	No School Holidays = Less Crowded	Split
October	Poland	4.4°C to 12.3°C	Złota Jesień	Białowieża Forest
November	Italy	6.9°C to 15.9°C	Cheaper and still not that cold.	Rome, of course.
December	Hungary	-1°C to 3.4°C	The Budapest Christmas Market	Thermal Baths

The Best Country to Visit in Europe Each Month of the Year

I hope you found this list useful. It took me days to write everything, and it was sometimes difficult to leave out wonderful places like Vilnius, Lithuania, or Brasov, Romania — but we only have 12 months in a year.

If you have any suggestions about cities that I omitted, I will be glad to read them in the comment section, and if you enjoyed this article, check also:

Check also: The 8 Best Beaches in the World for Vacation, Honeymoon, and Families

3 Cheap Cities in Europe to Visit This Winter (And 1 to Avoid)

4 Expert Tips to Pay 40% Less during Your Next Holiday

If you wish to become a Medium member and have access to articles like this, check this link. It is only $5 per month.

Best Countries Ranking

Best Place to Visit in Europe on Each Month…

From January to December, this list has the 12 best places to visit in Europe, one per month.

This is the first part of a 2-part article about the best place to visit in Europe each month. The second part, with the months from July to December, is here.

Our vacation period does not always coincide with the best time to visit that wonderful destination on our bucket list.

It’s possible that you’ve always wanted to go to Cyprus, but your company let you go on vacation only in February when it’s still cold even on the Mediterranean islands. Or your family might not be able to have a winter vacation in the alps because your husband can only go on vacation in May.

Do not worry.

Europe is made up of nearly 44 countries. I’d been to 25 of them, and in this article, I’ll tell you which one is the best for each month of the year.

Except for one month: February.

I’m not sure which country is best to visit in February. Due to school holidays, it is a month when many places are either fully booked or overpriced. Please leave a comment if you have a suggestion for a nice place to visit in the second month of the year. I’ll be delighted to learn about it.

If you want to discover the most inexpensive way to reach Europe, check our article about the cheapest cities to fly to In Europe.

Best Place to Visit in Europe in January:

Montenegro.

Why visiting Montenegro in January:

When I visited this young country (it is one of the newest sovereign states in the world, independent since 2006), it was just a place on my road trip across the Balkans, on my way from Croatia to Greece.

It didn’t take long until I realized how wonderful is the natural heritage of Montenegro. Across curvy roads, I witnessed some of the most breathtaking views of my life. Emerald rivers, canyons, untouchable nature.

What to visit in Montenegro this time of the year:

Just hire a driver (or rent a car, if you are used to driving in curvy, single-track roads) and see the natural wonders of Biogradska Gora or the Kolasin region.

If you love winter sports (like I do), don’t miss the lovely and inexpensive ski resort of Kolasin 1450. It is less than 80km far from the capital, Podgorica. The resort has 45 kilometers of well-maintained ski slopes, and a ski pass costs only 20 euros per day. A bargain.

How is the weather in Montenegro during January:

The temperature in Montenegro during January depends on the altitude — it is a mountainous country after all. You may expect heavy snow in the mountains, but not so much in the capital, Podgorica, which has a temperature range between 2°C to 9°C.

Best Place to Visit in Europe in February:

I have no idea. If you have a suggestion, please drop me a comment.

Best Place to Visit in Europe in March:

Austria

Why visiting Austria in March:

Visiting Austria in March is a great idea because of the longer days. The average daylight lasts up to 14 hours and you can enjoy more time outdoors. Vienna is full of life during spring, the parks and squares bloom and locals feel more relaxed and friendly. Do not miss a stroll along the promenade by the Danube River or through one of Vienna’s many parks. Numerous events are taking place all over the city in March- be it festivals, art exhibitions or concerts.

What to visit in Austria this time of the year:

If you enjoy nature and sports, take a train to Innsbruck and spend some days there. It is the Austrian winter capital, and during March the ski slopes are less crowded and have low-season ski pass prices.

How is the weather in Austria during March:

It will feel like Spring is slowly coming when you visit Austria in March! It’s a great time to visit if you want to see some green; many trees are starting to blossom although there won’t be many colors just yet. During March, the average daily temperature falls between 3.5°C (night) and 11.5°C during the day in Vienna.

Best Place to Visit in Europe in April:

Ireland

Why visiting Ireland in April:

April is a great time to visit Ireland if you are looking to avoid the crowds from March (when it is Saint Patrick’s day) and not be out in the rain all day. April is also a good time to visit as it is before the peak season of summer. Ireland has an amazing culture, great music, and it is famous for its whiskey. It is also the birthplace of the Guinness Beer.

What to visit in Ireland this time of the year:

Besides the amazing architecture and stony churches, one of the highest points of my visit was the Guinness factory. Even if you are not a fan of dark beer, it is still an interesting and interactive experience. They may even teach you how to pour the perfect pint of Guinness.

How is the weather in Ireland during April:

April is a lovely month to visit Ireland. It’s nicer and warmer than the previous months, and also not that rainy. The sunshine lasts for around 11 hours and the average temperature ranges from 6.4 Celsius at the night to 12.4 during the day.

Best Place to Visit in Europe in May:

Cyprus

Why visiting Cyprus in May:

Cyprus in May is a beautiful month. Not yet crowded or expensive as in the high summer, and the weather is pleasant, not so hot that you cannot walk around comfortably. It gets warmer across the month and there are no more winter rains. The days get longer, so you will have plenty of time for your excursions.

What to visit in Cyprus this time of the year:

Ayia Napa. It is a town on the southeastern coast of the island with some of the most splendid beaches that I witnessed in my whole life. Words fail to describe how beautiful it is. Still, in the peak season (July and August), it can get terribly crowded, so if you are in Cyprus during May, you got lucky.

How is the weather in Cyprus during May:

The weather in Cyprus during May is great. The temperature is pretty much ideal all month, with high temperatures around 29.7°C and low temperatures on average at 14.8°C. It’s a great time to visit, as you can enjoy the mild Mediterranean climate

Best Place to Visit in Europe in June:

Malta

Why visiting Malta in June:

June is a fine time to visit Malta as it has pleasant weather and great last-minute package deals. The temperatures are pleasant and warm during this period.

While you may plan your entire trip by yourself, from buying an airplane ticket to booking a Hotel, Malta is one of those destinations where the offer of travel packages is worth checking. Even better: if you have the flexibility to travel last-minute, it is common to find unbelievable prices. Here I explained my last-minute travel methods for a Hyper-Cheap holiday

What to visit in Malta this time of the year:

Malta has wonderful beaches and hundreds of historical monuments, but one of the highest points of my trip was Marsaxlokk.

It is a beautiful fishing village on the southeast side of Malta. It’s unusual for a Maltese seaside village because it doesn’t have any modern buildings, and none of the traditional homes have been demolished to make way for rental apartments. A fish market is held on Sundays where people can buy the best seafood from the Island — Lampuki fish is a local specialty. You may have lunch at one of the quayside restaurants and see traditional fishing boats made in the same way that the Phoenicians did. It has peaceful surroundings.

How is the weather in Malta during June:

June is an excellent month for traveling to Malta, and you may not have to worry about whether or not it will rain. The main island is full of life and you will have a chance to visit some of the most interesting festivals, which are held during these days. Temperatures, on average, range from 18.4°C during the night to 27.5°C during the day, and it’s still pleasant because of the lower humidity levels.

You will have a nice time visiting the beaches of Malta, as well as exploring the historical sites where you might have a chance to see some of the numerous festivals organized during this period. Not a surprise that Malta is also the best place for Americans to retire in Europe.

Before our conclusion, if you are planning to travel to the old continent, better check the most stupid thing you can do in 5 European capitals.

Conclusion: The Best Place to Visit in Europe Each Month of the Year

Month	Country	Night and Day Average Temperature (Capital City)	Reason to visit it in this month	The Must-See
January	Montenegro	2°C to 9°C	Stunning nature and inexpensive skiing.	Kolašin
February	I	DON’T	KNOW	🙁
March	Austria	3.5°C to 11.5°C	Longer days, Bustling Spring in Vienna	Innsbruck
April	Ireland	6.4°C to 12.4°C	Less Crowded, and not that wet	Guiness Factory in Dublin
May	Cyprus	14.8°C to 29.7°C	Good weather, still not that crowded or expensive	Ayia Napa
June	Malta	18.4°C to 27.5°C	Pleasant Weather and plenty of package offers	Marsaxlokk

The Best Country to Visit in Europe Each Month of the Year. For the other months, check the 2nd part of this article.

Once the journal Advances in Physiology Education published that the attention span of most adults is limited to 10 minutes. Since this article would surpass this amount if it had all the 12 months at once, I split it into 2 parts.

Take a cup of coffee (or green tea if you are not into caffeine), stretch, and check the second part of this article here, with the best places to visit during the months of July, August, October, November, and December.

Check also: The 8 Best Beaches in the World for Vacation, Honeymoon, and Families

3 Cheap Cities in Europe to Visit This Winter (And 1 to Avoid)

What to Do in Warsaw in One Day

4 Expert Tips to Pay 40% Less during Your Next Holiday

If you wish to become a Medium member and have access to articles like this, check this link. It is only $5 per month.

Digital Nomads

Use the PEST Business Analysis to Grasp the Local…

What Is the PEST Analysis

I grew up in one of the world’s least business-friendly regions: the countryside of Brazil.

The massive bureaucracy is one cause of this unpleasant reality. So when I arrived in Poland, I hoped I wouldn’t face the same bureaucratic issues that my family’s business had in Brazil.

I underestimated it.

My lofty hopes led to my first setbacks, including a penalty for not signing a very specific permit application. While not as bureaucratic as Brazil, Polish firms must fill out many forms and get multiple permissions.

My example is just one of many stories of entrepreneurs in different cultures. Almost all these stories have a single message: be careful. Yes, Optimism is fine. You wouldn’t leave your home if you were pessimistic. You wouldn’t be an entrepreneur. But first, grasp the local entrepreneurial culture.

Writing this post is my way of giving you some hope. I want to help you avoid my mistakes. For that, I will share with you a powerful tool that I learned to use while running a business abroad.

If you are planning to start your own business abroad, this is the book I wrote for you. Image from the author. — This article is inspired by this book, which you can purchase here.

First, Stop Worrying and Start Asking Questions

RUN from the nostalgic feeling after facing the first obstacles above.

Maybe you already heard someone saying something like “Oh, I can’t believe it. That would never happen back home!”

This kind of phrase opens the gates to FAILURE.

Repeat them a few times and your brain will consider giving up without not even considering workable solutions.

Nostalgic sorrow leads to irritation and harms your initiative.

If you’re stranded on a desert island, lamenting the lack of a handsaw won’t help. Work with the tools (and circumstances) you have.

The PEST Business Analysis is a first step in understanding the entrepreneurial cultural traits and situations. You do it by asking the RIGHT questions about the things you MUST know.

What Is the PEST Analysis

The PEST Business Analysis is crucial in the planning phase of a new project or renovating an existing venture. It is a tool for analyzing macro, external, and uncontrolled issues. Factors affecting strategic planning, implementation, and future success.

Maybe you’ve heard of the PEST analysis if you studied marketing or a comparable field in college.

During the planning phase of my two businesses, I used the PEST analysis and its concepts. It was useful, yet imperfect. The flaw was those typical PEST models omitted legal and environmental considerations. Legal issues prompted my company to deviate from our early plans.

The sub-analysis of the environment and legal circumstances has been incorporated, creating the PESTEL model, an acronym meaning Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal.

To comprehend each aspect, you need to ask the proper questions. Questions and answers that will prevent shocks like mine, and this is what I will give you below through the PEST (EL) analysis.

Business Environment: Internal and External, Controllable and Uncontrollable Variables.

Understanding your business environment is vital, for a few reasons:

No matter the size or nature of a business, the environment is always interacting with it. You can use these interactions to maximize resources and the knowledge will help you search out additional business chances.
Identifying business opportunities and threats — the interplay between a firm and its surroundings frequently shows business possibilities and risks.
To give growth direction — when a company is familiar with its location, it is simpler to find opportunities. Are specific products or services losing favor? Are your rivals providing things you should provide as well? We may answer similar questions when you know your local culture and business environment.

By “business environment” we mean both the macro and macro aspects. As explained by the Marketing Tutor:

The micro-environment comprises all those factors close to marketing and operations. For example, employees, competitors, partners, customers, the public, etc. They are mostly variables under company control.
The macro-environment are the external factors that affect every business in the industry and often are out of our direct control.

The PEST (or PESTEL) analysis will give you a framework to understand the macro-environment of your company.

The PEST Analysis with Examples of Questions to Ask.

Political questions to ask when starting a business in a distant region:

What are the political risks?
What are the chances of war, revolution, coup d’état, etc.?
What do politicians think of your business? What are the approaches taken by the government to your sector?

Economic questions to ask when starting a business in a distant region:

Is the local economy stable?
How volatile are interest and exchange rates?
Is it possible to hedge (protect your treasury) against sharp changes in exchange and interest rates?
Is the local public able to afford your product?
Is there a decrease or increase in people’s purchase power?
How affordable is credit for the firm and its customers?
How simple is it to hire? How are the unemployment rates?

Social questions:

What are the social norms? Is it a smart idea to sell miniskirts in Saudi Arabia? How to build a common culture in line with social norms?
What is the population’s demographic distribution? How has it changed over time?
How great are the generational gaps?
Do social paradigms affect the business?
What lifestyle changes happened? Eg: urbanization trends and rural exodus.

Technological questions:

What is the condition of the local tech infrastructure (eg: internet bandwidth)?
What are the government restrictions? Eg: Component taxes or import bans.
What are the local regulations over technology innovation and access?
How good are the local R&D agents?

Environmental questions:

Is the climate suitable for your business? Eg: You don’t want to sell house-heaters in Rio de Janeiro.
How steady is the weather and how disruptive is it to business?
How geographically distant are you from your primary stakeholders (people or firms associated with your business)?

Legal questions

How do labor laws may affect employee relations?
How consumer legislation affects your customer relations?
Which laws impact supplier chains, export, and import procedures?
How to respect both substantive and procedural law (the process, timing, and access to law enforcement). In certain places, procedural rules trump substantive rules.

How the Pest Business Analysis Can Make You a Foreign Successful Entrepreneur

The questions above are some of the things you should ask. Remember to adapt them to your sector and industry by asking broad and detailed questions.

You may think that asking even more things can be excessive after I list in the previous section over two dozen questions.

No, it is not.

You ought to place all your doubts through the PESTEL analysis framework. Later, attempt to answer them as best you can. In this manner, you’ll have a good idea of the uncontrolled variables affecting your company strategy.

Next, ask more specific, micro-level inquiries. Controllable elements that may become opportunities.

Questions to ask (and answers) before transferring your company abroad:

Are business visas required? How do you get them? What are the other permits you must have to be an entrepreneur? In this article, I answered these questions for multiple European countries.
Is there a minimum — or suggested — capital requirement?
Can you be the only shareholder or a local partner is required, like in several Asian countries?
What export/import permits do you need?
What safety credentials are required for your job?
What technological abilities do you expect from prospective employees?
Do you have local access to all raw materials required for production or will you need to import them?
How are the neighbors and the locals responding to your business idea? Are they aggressive, neutral, or friendly?

Disadvantages of the PEST Business Analysis

Because it is so simple to use inadequate data in a PEST (or PESTEL) analysis, some entrepreneurs oversimplify the amount of data they use for judgments.

There is also the danger of acquiring an excessive amount of data, resulting in ‘paralysis by analysis,’ which is a situation where people spend too much time analyzing and overthinking and do not execute their plan.

Another risk is when the data utilized derives from assumptions that were shown to be incorrect. Eg: assuming stable interest rates without considering the possibility of new government policies.

Blueprint for first-time business owners — All the Hows of a First-Time Business Owner: There is a thin line between bankruptcy and the freedom to be an entrepreneur

Conclusions about the Use of the PEST Business Analysis to Grasp the Local Entrepreneurial Culture

Because of the rapid changes, it is becoming more difficult to predict changes that may impact an organization in the future.

Ask questions regarding the political, economic, social, technological, environmental, and legal variables that may affect your business. Some of these questions I gave you above.

Organize your understanding of macro (uncontrollable) and micro (controllable) variables.

Compile everything in a single document, or as part of your general business plan.

This document will impress most government offices, potential investors, and financing rounds. Few individuals know their own industry and geography so well, so you already have an edge.

If You Are Single, This Is the Cost to Live In These 6 European Capitals

The European Capital Where You Can Live With Less than $400 Monthly

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Digital Nomads

4 Tips to Moving Out and Living on Your…

When Moving Out in 2022, Carry These Tips with You

Congratulations! They awarded you a master’s scholarship on the opposite side of the continent. Or maybe you just read an email with a fantastic career offer overseas. These scenarios are occurring more often than ever among millennials. But what happens when you move far away? Here are some tips for moving out in 2022.

How Often Do Millennials Move?

According to a study involving 1000 adults made by Porch.com and published by Housingwire, Millennials, on average, move every two years, Baby boomers, every four years, but Gen Xers remained in the same area for almost six years.

While mortgage rates remain low, Millennials are not purchasing houses as early in life as previous generations, which they attribute to school loan debt and other expenses piling up. They are also the generation that goes from the suburbs to the city and back again.

Here is one thing: I don’t want to dampen your enthusiasm (and I promise to give you all the answers to the questions later), but:

Even minor activities, such as purchasing a monthly transport ticket, may cause trouble when you live far from home.

You may enter either a spending frenzy fueled by lower prices or a feeling of being ripped off by larger expenses.

Then you become ill and find out that your new health insurance doesn’t cover even simple checkups.

Maybe you’re taking a long-term medication (as anti-baldness drugs like finasteride) and it’s over 300% more costly where you moved. When I relocated to Poland, this was my case.

Adapting to a whole new culture already requires a lot of work and might be stressful. Why not make your life simpler and prevent the issues listed above?

Many years ago, I left my tiny hometown, which smelled like orange cake. I made many mistakes when moving to different continents. I’ll teach you how to prevent these blunders and save hundreds, if not thousands, of bucks.

Tip 1 – Remember the questions to ask before moving out

New places may provide new possibilities, jobs, and friendships. But it also can be costly and bring headaches.

So, before you move to another place, ask yourself these questions (and here are a few more others):

1 — Does it fit my budget even in a pessimistic scenario (eg: unemployed for a few months)?

It seems simple, but the thrill of relocation may cloud your financial judgment. Credit card, mortgage, and student loan payments should not exceed 36% of your annual income.

2. Is it worth relocation to your job, and what are the other professional opportunities there?

Examine similar jobs’ salaries in your new city, since management and remuneration vary.

3 — When is the best time to move?

I moved during winter in Poland and I almost freeze my fingers assembling furniture since I still didn’t have heating. Check your local conditions.

4. How will you get around?

You can use the subway in London to go nearly anywhere, but not in Sao Paulo. Before you move, consider the price, availability, and convenience of public transit, as well as the costs and bureaucracy of automobile registration.

7. Is the local culture suitable for you and would you be happy there?

Every city has its own flavor, and it’s vital that your new home feels like home. If you’re unhappy in your present city and want to move somewhere better, think about why you’re unhappy and what makes the new area appealing.

9. What are your backup plans?

A move may be a mistake. Relationships end, jobs are lost. So save money or have a backup plan in case the new city doesn’t work out.

Tip 2 – How to Estimate Your Living Expenses and Plan the Perfect Budget

Numbeo and Expatistan are two outstanding websites that I have been using since I moved out of my country a decade ago. Both sites create large pricing databases of everything by combining user-generated material and online cooperation.

Users enter the prices for each item (from food to housing and transportation) in their respective areas onto the websites. The tool’s accuracy improves as the number of consultations increases. Numbeo contains about 6 million values spread throughout around ten thousand cities on the earth. Expatistan provides information on the cost of living in over 2,000 places.

Using those methods, I can verify Doha is 99% more costly than Warsaw. This is consistent with my experiences of paying exorbitant rates for a drink in the Qatari capital.

With this wealth of information, it is simple to compare living expenses between your current location and your previous one. You’ll find out whether your budget allows you to enjoy a thrifty, easygoing, or opulent lifestyle.

If you are a remote worker and want to make the most out of your income, check this article with 8 great cities for remote workers where you can save money and enjoy life.

Tip 3 – Make all the pre-departure appointments.

A buddy in the medical field once told me how crucial it is to have access to a patient’s historical information. He meant former exam scores, diagnoses, and comparable data.

As a result, even if you are moving to a nation with universal healthcare, such as Canada or the United Kingdom, schedule an appointment with your local doctor and dentist.

This is important if your location has expensive medical bills (yes, this is about you, America). Nobody wants to hear bad news from a doctor, but you’ll want to know if there’s an issue before you leave and have to utilize your foreign health insurance.

Dentist fees are lower in my own country than in Europe. As a result, whenever I visit my parents, even if just for a short period, I attempt to arrange a visit to the dentist. He can conduct minor repairs and alert me if anything is wrong.

Make a consultation with your dentist, a medical examination, and a blood test. Check to see whether your immunization card has been updated. These aren’t the most entertaining aspects of a trip, but they may save you money and perhaps your life.

Tip 4 – Examine prescription drug costs.

There aren’t many things cheaper in my own country (Brazil) than they are elsewhere. There is one item, though, that is substantially cheaper in Brazil:

Drugs. Medical drugs.

(And beachfront apartments, but this is a subject for this article here).

The reason for this is that the government encouraged the formation of national laboratories producing pharmaceuticals with expired patents, also called “generic drugs”. A generic does not have a brand name; instead, it is named by the active component. The most crucial aspect is that it may be half the price of its branded equivalent.

I use a generic drug called Finasteride. It prevents hair loss, and Hollywood celebrities such as Bradley Cooper have been using it for quite some time. The monthly cost of using finasteride in Brazil was roughly 30 Brazilian Reais, around US$8. When I went to Poland, I didn’t check the prices before boarding the plane. I grabbed my one-month package, as well as my prescription (as it was required), and relocated to Europe.

After the first month, I needed to purchase more. When you stop using finasteride, your hair falls out again. In Poland, finasteride is available under the brand name Propecia (the same as in other markets like the USA).

The cost of a month’s therapy was (hold your seat): 180zl. 43 dollars, which was 537 percent of the price in Brazil.

When I stopped taking it, my hair began to fall out. Fortunately, I had a vacation to Brazil planned for a few months later. Following a visit to my dermatologist, he prescribed finasteride as a continuous-use medication, enabling me to purchase and transport more boxes to Europe.

I still have my curling, black as obsidian hair on top of my head. Victory.

Tip 5 – Read This Book Before Moving Out (Click Here)

Conclusion of Tips for Moving Out and Living on Your Own

1 — Ask the proper questions before moving (see list above).

2 — Visit Numbeo or Expatistan to compare the pricing and living expenses of your future and current cities.

3 — Make an appointment with your doctor and dentist for a general checkup.

4 — Check beforehand the prices of any medications, treatments, or therapies that you need. Ask your doctor for a prescription if required by the local legislation.

5 — If your destination has a different language, hire a sworn translator to translate the prescription. This will come in useful if airport security stops you because of medicaments. Otherwise, you run the danger of being mistaken for a drug dealer or smuggler. Never, ever travel with medicines unless you’ve double-checked that they’re completely legal in your destination.

And the most important of all tips for moving out: be patient. It takes some time for you to settle.

Moving Out, Working Abroad and Keeping Your Sanity: 11 secrets to make your expat & digital nomad life better than you imagine

If you liked this article about tips for moving out in 2022, take a look at these below:

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