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Bariloche, one of the best places to retire in Argentina Best Countries Ranking

The 7 Best Spanish Speaking Countries To Visit (and…

We ranked the worst and the best Spanish speaking countries to visit (other than Spain). Here is it.

PS: After reading this interesting article about Spanish speaking countries to visit, check also our Youtube channel.

Table of Contents
  • The Criteria to Rank the Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
  • The Worst Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Venezuela
  • The 7 Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
  • The Best Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Argentina

During my career in the transportation and tourism industry (a career that now spans over more than a decade), I was lucky to travel to over 50 countries.

Many of those were Spanish speaking – something convenient for me since it is one of the languages that I am fluent in.

And maybe it is exactly the language one of the reasons why so many people look specifically for countries that speak Spanish when planning holidays.

But the familiar official language and familiar language is not the only attraction that the former colonies of the Spanish empire have to offer. From Machu Picchu to Chichen Itza and Mayan ruins, from the Andes mountains to the Caribbean sea and some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet, traveling to a Spanish-speaking country means natural beauty at the touch of your hands.

All that while you can put your language skills to work and improve your Spanish.

In this rank we didn’t include Spain since it is already covered by many other pieces we published, and Puerto Rico, which is not really a country. 

But before we jump to the list, it is important to revise the criteria that we used to rank the top Spanish-speaking travel destinations.

Book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights
Recommended book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights

The Criteria to Rank the Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit

We used 4 factors to rank the best Spanish-speaking countries for your next vacation.

1st – The number of international tourists each country receives per year.

The number of international tourist arrivals per year is a good proxy statistic to measure the touristic infrastructure and attractiveness of a country because it is a measure of how many people are interested in visiting a country.

  • It is a measure of demand: The number of tourist arrivals is a measure of how many people want to visit a country. If a country receives millions of visitors every month, it is likely a nice place to visit (unless it is really overcrowded).
  • It is a measure of supply: This is a good indicator of the availability of tourism attractions and services (like hotels and transportation) in a country.
  • It is a measure of satisfaction: The number of tourist arrivals is also a measure of the satisfaction of tourists with their experience, especially when we consider recurring travelers (those that come back after their first visit).

While there are exceptions to this rule, a higher number of international tourist arrivals indicates that a country has a more developed tourist infrastructure and is more attractive to tourists.

2nd – The Numbeo Cost Index

The Numbeo cost index is a tool that helps travelers compare the cost of living in different cities around the world. The index is based on a survey of prices for goods and services in different cities, and it is updated regularly.

The Numbeo cost of living index is useful for travelers because it can help them to budget for their trip. By knowing how much things cost in their destination city, travelers can avoid overspending. The index can also help travelers choose a city that is within their budget.

The index uses as a basis the costs of New York City in the US, which has a baseline number of 100. So if a given nation or city has an index of 50, it means its prices are in average 50% of the price you would expect in New York. 

Talking about costs, we have 2 very good articles for anyone interested in saving money while traveling: one is about the cheapest cities to fly into Europe and the other is about 3 inexpensive (but wonderful) cities to visit in Europe during winter.

3rd – The Homicide Rate

The homicide rate (sourced from Statista) is a good proxy statistic to measure violence because it is a relatively easy statistic to collect and it is a good indicator of the overall level of violence in a country. It is represented by the number of homicides per 100,000 people in a country. 

While there are exceptions (eg: countries that have a very high number of assaults or burglaries but almost no homicides), in general, a higher homicide rate indicates that a country is more violent.

And let’s admit: nobody wants to spend holidays worrying about safety.

If you want to know some really dangerous cities, check our articles about the most dangerous cities in Europe and about the most violent city in each of these 18 European countries.

Table with all the data collected

CountryInternational Tourists (2022) – in millionsNumbeo Cost IndexHomicide Rate (2022)
Mexico39.652.7829
Argentina7.659.435.3
Dominican Republic7.449.5912.2
Chile7.257.343.5
Colombia4.554.2524.9
Peru4.551.3120
Cuba4.250.165.2
Costa Rica3.152.5510.7
Uruguay2.952.837.5
Venezuela2.969.8556.3
Panama2.854.5519
Ecuador2.751.935.5
El Salvador2.550.0616.3
Guatemala2.551.0327.4
Honduras2.350.7342.8
Nicaragua1.750.4411.5
Bolivia1.351.576.6
Paraguay1.148.4811.5
Equatorial Guinea0.164.4110.2
Spanish-Speaking countries and their numbers.

4th – The Personal Opinion of the Author After Travelling to These Countries

I had been to the majority of the countries ranked below. While numbers, statistics, and other factual data are often useful to paint a general scenario of a certain holiday, human reviews are still important.

That is why we often check the opinions of other guests and customers when selecting a hotel, for example.

Of course, my opinion is not the most important factor here, but only one of the 4 that compose this entire analysis, and I am open to any criticism or disagreement (feel free to write it in the comment section).

And talking about personal opinions, check later this article about the most (and the LEAST) beautiful European capitals.

The Worst Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Venezuela

Caracas, Venezuela. It is for obvious reasons outside the top 7 of the best Spanish speaking countries to visit.

Check the third column in the table a few paragraphs above. A generally acceptable number there is below 20. A desirable number would be in the single-digit.

But pay attention to the whooping value for Venezuela.

This once rich and prosperous South American country is now one of the most violent in the entire world.

Venezuela is violent. It became so dangerous that the number of murders and kidnaps in this country would make war zones look peaceful.

Still, even violent countries like Mexico manage to keep relatively peaceful zones that are attractive for international travelers (the touristic hotspots of Mexico are way safer than the rest of the country, except for Acapulco).

But this is not the case in Venezuela. If the enormous violence was not enough, the country went downhill in many other aspects. 

The infrastructure in Venezuela is also in a state of decay. The country’s roads, bridges, and airports are in poor condition. There are also frequent power outages and water shortages. The decaying infrastructure makes it difficult to get around Venezuela and to access basic necessities.

In addition to the high homicide rate and decaying infrastructure, there are other reasons why Venezuela is a bad place to visit. Currency controls, for example, make it difficult to change back to US dollar any Bolivar that you didn’t use during your trip.

The 7 Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit

7th – The Dominican Republic

Number of international tourists per year: 7.4 million

Reasons why the Dominican Republic deserves a place in this ranking:

  • Beautiful beaches: The Dominican Republic has some of the most beautiful beaches on the continent. I had been to the white-sand beaches of Punta Cana, and it is really world-class (that explains why so many wealthy pensioners often chose this place).
  • Friendly people: Dominicans are known for their warm hospitality and friendly smiles. You will be welcomed with open arms wherever you go.
  • Affordable prices if you are traveling with a family: The Dominican Republic is a very affordable travel destination for families. Local resorts have special packages for couples with kids, and the little ones will have plenty of entertainment. It is also a great honeymoon destination. 

In addition to all of these reasons, the Dominican Republic also has a unique Spanish dialect that is worth experiencing. Dominican Spanish is known for its fast pace and its use of slang. If you are a Spanish speaker, you will have a lot of fun trying to understand the locals.

If you are looking for a beautiful, friendly, and well-connected by-air destination, the Dominican Republic is a great option.

6th – El Salvador

Number of international tourists per year: 2.5 million

Despite its turbulent history and decades of civil war (something already on the past), El Salvador has made significant strides in recent years to enhance its tourism sector and attract visitors from around the world.

Notably, El Salvador has experienced a significant decrease in violence over the past two years. This positive trend has contributed to creating a safer environment for both residents and visitors, allowing tourists to explore the country’s attractions with a greater sense of security.  We wrote an entire article about the fantastic decrease in criminality in El Salvador.

One of the primary reasons to visit El Salvador is its stunning natural landscapes. The country is blessed with picturesque beaches along its Pacific coastline, which is renowned among surfers for their consistent waves.

Inland, the country offers lush national parks like El Imposible, providing opportunities for wildlife encounters and nature enthusiasts.

El Salvador’s rich cultural heritage is another compelling reason to explore the country. Its charming colonial towns, such as Suchitoto and Concepcion de Ataco, offer visitors a glimpse into the nation’s history, with well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and colorful houses.

El Salvador has its own distinct Spanish dialect, known as Salvadoran Spanish. Compared to some other Spanish-speaking countries, Salvadoran Spanish is considered relatively straightforward and easy to understand for learners, making it an ideal place for language enthusiasts to practice their Spanish skills.

5th – Peru

Number of international tourists per year: 4.5 million

One of the main draws of Peru is its archaeological treasures, notably the legendary Machu Picchu. This ancient Inca citadel nestled in the Andes Mountains is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the World’s New Seven Wonders. 

Peru’s cities also offer a unique charm.

  • Lima, the capital, showcases a fusion of colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and a vibrant culinary scene. The Peruvian capital has Michelin-star restaurants enough to rival any European capital.
  • Cusco, the gateway to Machu Picchu, boasts cobblestone streets, Inca ruins, and a lively atmosphere.
  • Other cities like Arequipa and Trujillo feature stunning colonial architecture and historical sites that highlight Peru’s rich past.
  • If you are a surfer, a must-see is the wavy, sandy beaches situated just south of Máncora.

The Peruvian accent is generally considered clear and easy to understand, making it favorable for language learners. Peruvians are also known for their friendly and warm approach, making interactions with locals a delightful experience.

4th – Chile

Number of international tourists per year: 7.2 million

Photo of Santiago by the author.
Photo of Santiago by the author.

One of the main reasons to visit Chile is its breathtaking natural landscapes, from Patagonia in the south to the Atacama Desert in the north.

Additionally, Chile boasts the awe-inspiring Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, with its majestic mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. The country also offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking and skiing (I learned to ski there, in the resort of El Colorado, very close to the capital Santiago).

Now, let’s open space for some polemics: if you are still in the first stages of learning Spanish, maybe Chile is not the best place for you. Not at least to practice your Spanish.

Chilean Spanish is characterized by its rapid speech, unique pronunciation, and a variety of local slang words and expressions. Chileans often use distinctive vocabulary and pronunciation, making their Spanish dialect, not the easiest to understand. For example, they tend to drop the final “s” in words and use specific idiomatic phrases.

3rd – Costa Rica

Number of international tourists per year: 3.1 million

Probably there is no country in the world that mastered the art of harnessing tourism for beneficial purposes while conserving its natural landscape like them. Yes, in this matter, Costa Rica is really an example to be followed.

In addition to its natural beauty and language, Costa Rica is committed to sustainable tourism and conservation. The country has dedicated a significant portion of its land to protected areas, ensuring the preservation of its unique ecosystems. Visitors have the opportunity to engage in eco-friendly activities, such as rainforest hikes, wildlife tours, and educational experiences that promote environmental awareness.

Costa Rica also became a place to go for digital nomads due to the low costs.

Costa Ricans, commonly referred to as “Ticos,” have a friendly and welcoming nature, and their Spanish dialect reflects that. Tico Spanish is characterized by a gentle and melodic rhythm, with a tendency to use diminutives and colloquial expressions. Compared to other Spanish-speaking countries it is generally considered clear and easy to understand for learners.

2nd – Mexico

Number of international tourists per year: 39.6 million.

Hotel view in Cancun. Photo by the author. Mexico is the 2nd among the best spanish speaking countries to visit not considering Spain.
Hotel view in Cancun. Photo by the author.

Mexico is one of the most visited countries in the world. That statement is self-explanatory when we debate how attractive is this country for your next holidays.

Since in this ranking we are not considering Spain, likely many readers would expect Mexico to top the list, so instead of writing about all the obvious strong points of Mexico as a popular travel destination, we will explain why it took the 2nd, and not the first place.

In the most touristy zones of Mexico, likely will not hear much of the Spanish language. You can have a great time visiting Cancun, Tulum, or the ancient Mayan ruins in the middle of the jungle but it is not the best place to practice your language skills.

That was my experience at least. Since every service in the hotel zone of Cancun is targeted at American and other foreign tourists, nearly everyone speaks English and most things are written in English.

Additionally, due to its proximity to the US, Mexico is not really a cheap place to visit during the high season – especially if we compare Mexico versus the first place in this ranking, which is incredibly inexpensive.

Concerning safety, Mexico has had its share of security challenges in certain areas (we wrote about the Mexican murder capitals here), particularly near the border. However, popular tourist destinations and cities that heavily rely on tourism, such as Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Los Cabos, have well-established security measures in place, making them relatively safe for travelers. These areas often have a significant police presence and prioritize the safety of visitors.

The Best Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Argentina

Number of international tourists per year: 7.6 million per year.

A photo that I took from a note of 100 Argentinian pesos. It is the equivalent of 0.42 US dollar.
A photo that I took from a note of 100 Argentinian pesos. It is the equivalent of 0.42 US dollar.

Stunning landscapes, epic architecture in the capital Buenos Aires, and some seriously delicious food. From the mind-blowing glaciers in Patagonia to the insane Iguazu Falls (I spent part of my honeymoon there!), this country (once an escape for war criminals) will leave you speechless.

And I say that as a Brazilian (we were supposed to have some rivalry with our Argentinian neighbors, but I will not deny that their country is gorgeous).

The food, the landscape, the culture… all that would be enough to put Argentina in this top 7.

But here is what really raised them to the 1st place: it is ridiculously cheap to visit Argentina right now.  Their currency is very devaluated against the dollar or euro.

An infinite pool in a picturesque resort for the price of a hostel room in Europe. That is what you can experience in the 1st place in this ranking—photo by the author.
An infinite pool in a picturesque resort for the price of a hostel room in Europe. That is what you can experience in the 1st place of our ranking of the best Spanish speaking countries to visit—photo by the author.

Due to the devaluation of the Argentine peso, the country and its capital Buenos Aires have become incredibly affordable destinations for international travelers. With the exchange rate favoring foreign currencies, visitors can enjoy excellent value for their money.

This means that accommodation, dining, transportation, and entertainment can be more budget-friendly compared to other destinations. It is your chance to stay in a 4* star hotel for the price of a hostel bed in Europe.

Argentina is a huge country and therefore has multiple dialects. In the capital Buenos Aires, it is characterized by its unique pronunciation and vocabulary, influenced by Italian and European immigrants who settled there. Meanwhile, in areas like Misiones, it carries indigenous influences.

Moving Out, Working Abroad and Keeping Your Sanity Cover
Recommended book: Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity

If you enjoyed this article about travel spots where Spanish is the official language, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

The 7 Countries With The Worst Work-Life Balance in The OECD

The Best Cities for Remote Workers in 2023

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

National flag and red stain to illustrate article about the Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico City and Safety Guides

The Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico & Their Similarities

Murder Capitals: Things in Common Among the Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico

The world is full of cities that may seem vastly different at first glance.

The climate, culture, and cuisine can vary wildly from one urban area to the next. However, upon closer examination, it’s often possible to find surprising similarities between seemingly disparate cities.

This is certainly the case when it comes to some of the most dangerous cities in the world. Despite differences in geography, demographics, and history, there are a number of striking commonalities that tie these cities together.

The Mexican cities of Tijuana, Acapulco de Juarez, Ciudad Victoria, Ciudad Juarez, and Irapuato are all known for their high rates of violent crime.

But they couldn’t be more different, at least at first glance.

However…. what if we dig deeper? Despite thousands of murders and blood-stained streets, what else do they have in common?

Check also: The 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe in 2022

Recommended book: Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity
Recommended book: Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity

Why the most dangerous cities in Mexico matters to you in the US or Europe?

Here is the thing: we found the things that tie all these hyper-violent Mexican metropolitan areas together. If you observe these symptoms in your town or city, this is a very bad sign.

This is exactly what makes the next paragraphs so valuable even if you don’t live in Mexico: the phenomenon observed in Tijuana or Ciudad Juarez is being replicated in multiple places across the world.

With this article, we’ll delve into the weird, odd, and even eerie commonalities between the most dangerous cities in Mexico. Use this as an alert for you, no matter where you live.

National flag and red stain to illustrate article about the Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico

Mexico Is Home to Five of the Six Most Dangerous Cities in the World.

Of the 10 most violent cities in the World:

  • 5 are in Mexico (all of them in the Top 6)
  • 3 are in Venezuela
  • 2 are in Brazil
  • 1 is in South Africa

Here is the list of the most violent cities in the world by murder rate, according to Statista:

10 – Cape Town, South Africa

• Murder rate per 100k residents: 66.36

• Total number of residents of the metropolitan area: 4,758,405

9 – Fortaleza, Brazil

• Homicide rate per 100k residents: 69.15

• Total number of residents of the metropolitan area: 3,936,509

8 – Natal, Brazil

• Murder rate per 100k residents: 74.67

•Total number of residents of the metropolitan area: 1,262,741

7 – Ciudad Guayana, Venezuela

• Homicide rate per 100k residents: 78.3

• Total number of residents of the metropolitan area: 950,000

6 – Irapuato, Mexico

• Murder rate per 100k residents: 81.44

• Total number of residents of the metropolitan area: 874,997

5 – Ciudad Juárez, Mexico

• Homicide rate per 100k residents: 85.56

• Residents of the metropolitan area: 1,527,482

4 – Ciudad Victoria, Mexico

• Murder rate per 100k residents: 86.01

• Residents of the metropolitan area: 374,000

3 – Caracas, Venezuela

• Homicide rate per 100k residents: 99.98

• Residents of the metropolitan area: 2,957,000

2 – Acapulco, Mexico

• Murder rate per 100k residents: 110.5

• Residents of the metropolitan area: 782,661

1 – Tijuana, Mexico

• Homicide rate per 100k residents: 138

• Residents of the metropolitan area: 2,070,875

9 of the Most Dangerous Cities in the World are in Latin America

This striking concentration of cities in only 4 countries is also replicated when we consider not only the 10 most violent, but the 50 most dangerous urban areas in the world. In this case, the numbers are like that:

  • 15 are located in Mexico
  • 14 are in Brazil
  • 6 are in Venezuela
  • 4 are in the United States of America
  • 3 are located in South Africa

It is easy to find something to blame for the violence in certain countries, like the collapsed economy in Venezuela or the racial tensions in South Africa.

But both Mexico and Brazil (the place where I was born, by the way), pose a very curious puzzle.

So instead of looking for reasons to blame, we searched for what the most dangerous places in Mexico (and the world) have in common.

The results are truly jaw-dropping.

Read also: The Most Dangerous City in Each European Country

What Do The Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico Have in Common?

Each dot represents one of the 5 most dangerous cities in Mexico (and all of them are among the 6 most dangerous places in the world)
Each dot represents one of the 5 most dangerous cities in Mexico (and all of them are among the 6 most dangerous places in the world)

In the next paragraphs, we put together the similarities between all (or almost all) of the five most dangerous cities in Mexico.

At first glance, it may look that things like size or weather are trivial, but all of them contribute to a thin, conducting thread that leads to the true causes of the elevated violence in these metropolitan areas.

All of them are relatively large

The most dangerous city in the world, Tijuana, is in a metropolitan area with over 2 million inhabitants. Ciudad Juarez has more than 1.5 million people. While smaller, Acapulco, Irapuato, and Ciudad Victoria are all above 350,000 inhabitants.

One could think that the most dangerous places come in all sizes, and that is not totally wrong. But only large cities have the structure, economy, and population to support widespread criminal activities like:

  • Racketeering and extortion. Large cities often have a complex and diverse economy, which can provide opportunities for organized crime groups to engage in racketeering activities such as loan sharking, gambling, and money laundering.
  • Extortion: Due to the larger population and more significant number of businesses in urban areas, extortion can be a lucrative criminal activity, but also brings drug related violence.
  • Drug trafficking: Large cities provide anonymity, making it easier to maintain complex operations for manufacturing and transporting large volumes of narcotics.
  • Gang violence: Due to the larger pool of opportunities for organized crime mentioned above, a large city attracts more gangs that want to dominate their zones, resulting in gang wars and elevated crime rates that leave multiple dead bodies.

That is why, even the safest big cities in the US are not that large. There are also exceptions. Mexico city or Guadalajara are relatively safe, despite being large cities, and there you just need to use your common sense and take the normal precautions. Not the case of the other cities we will mention next.

Read also: The Most Unusual Scam Methods Used in Brazil

All of them have hot and dry climates

Map showing Tijuana and part of Baja California Sur

Below is the average precipitation (rain or snowfall, but most likely rain since it is Mexico) in all os the 5 most dangerous places in Mexico.

  1. Tijuana, the most dangerous city in the world, is also one of the driest cities in the country: 230 mm (9 inches) of rain per year
  2. Ciudad Juarez: 275 mm (11 inches) per year.
  3. Irapuato: 600 mm (24 inches) per year.
  4. Ciudad Victoria: 900 mm (35 inches) per year
  5. Acapulco: 1,700 mm (67 inches) per year

Arid rainfalls, per definition, are those that receive less than 25 inches of rain per year. So 3 of the most violent cities in Mexico are arid. Ciudad Victoria is not that far either.

Only Acapulco is the exception (and we will see this city being the exception a few more times here, for a curious reason).

Such dry weather is not a rule in Mexico. In fact, Mexico has plenty of remarkably wet cities like Veracruz or Tampico. Cities in the state of Chiapas, like Tapachula, experience over 2000mmm of rainfall per year.

But apparently, organized crime prefers dry weather, for the very simple reason that it is easier to transport their product (drugs and people, since we are talking about the drug trade, cartels and human smugglers). When these organizations need to cross rainy areas of Mexico, they often resort to boats or airplanes.

The majority of them are close to the US border (or on the way to it)

Mexico-US border

Located in the northwestern state of Baja California, Tijuana shares a border with the American city of San Diego, California. The distance between both, the busiest border crossing in the world, is only 5 kilometers (3.1 miles).

Ciudad Juarez is also a border city, directly across from El Paso, Texas, and the border crossing is only 2.5 kilometers (1.5 miles).

While not that close, Ciudad Victoria is not far either, The nearest border crossing at Nuevo Laredo is about 300 kilometers (186 miles) and the city is located in one of the two important routes that leads to the US via Monterrey.

The same is valid for Irapuato. Despite being not that close to the US (around 800 km), it is on the way to America via Monterrey.

Lastly, Acapulco is again the exception. The city, one of Mexico’s main tourist areas, is really far from the US (over 1,800 kilometers). But soon things will start to get interesting for Acapulco too.

All of them are routes for drug cartels

Tijuana, Ciudad Juarez, and Ciudad Victoria are all located along the US-Mexico border, a significant transit point for drugs smuggled into the United States. The US drug enforcement agency has offices in some of these cities due to their importance in the international drug trade.

Irapuato, as we stated previously, is further inland, but is located in a state that is a famous transport route for drugs. Guanajuato (the state where Irapuato is located) is also a spot for drug production activities, particularly related to synthetic drugs like methamphetamine.

This is likely due in part to the state’s central location in Mexico, which provides easy access to major cities and transportation routes.

Acapulco, on the other hand, is located on the Pacific coast, which makes it a key location for drug trafficking operations. The city has several major ports and highways that provide easy access to other parts of the country, as well as to international drug trafficking routes.

Recommended book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights
Recommended book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights

All of them are battlegrounds for criminal organizations

In Tijuana, The Tijuana Cartel, also known as the Arellano Felix Organization (AFO), is one of the oldest and most well-known drug trafficking organizations in Mexico. It has been active in the place since the 1980s. However, in recent years, the Sinaloa Cartel arrived in the city, and there have been reports of cartel related violence that even required the Mexican government to declare an army intervention.

Ciudad Juarez has been a major center of drug trafficking and violence for many years, with multiple organizations vying for control. The C.D.J (Cártel de Juárez), also known as the Vicente Carrillo Fuentes Organization, was one of the dominant groups in the city decades ago, but has since been weakened by arrests and infighting.

Nowadays, other groups are active in the area, including the incredibly dangerous Sinaloa Cartel. The battles between rival gang members often result in multiple murders and massacres.

Ciudad Victoria, like many cities in the state of Tamaulipas (where it serves as the capital city), has been plagued by violent crimes and instability due to the presence of multiple drug trafficking organizations, including the Gulf Cartel (Cártel del Golfo) and the Cártel del Noreste.

In Irapuato, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (Cartel de Jalisco Nueva Generación – CJNG) is one of the main criminal groups operating there and in the wider state of Guanajuato.

The CJNG is a powerful and highly organized cartel that has been responsible for a significant portion of the drug-related violent crimes in the region. Another criminal organization that has been active in Irapuato is the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel, which is also based in Guanajuato. The Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel has been involved in turf wars with the CJNG, and that resulted in massive violence and an increasing crime rate.

Lastly, Acapulco is a more peculiar case.

Acapulco, Mexico

It is historically the most popular tourist destination on the Pacific coast of Mexico. But many tourists and an inflow of US dollars turned the place into an attractive location for drug traffickers looking to launder money through the local economy. Its proximity to the pacific ocean also puts it en route for drug smugglers and human trafficking.

The cartel violence between rival gangs that want to dominate the city has had a significant impact on touristy areas (since often innocent bystanders are affected) in recent years, leading to a decline in visitors and economic hardship for many residents.

The place, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, has been a battleground for several drug trafficking organizations, including the Beltran Leyva Organization, the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, and the Los Rojos gang. In recent years, the Sinaloa Cartel gained ground in the area.

All of them are part of migration routes

Border patrol

All 5 cities are located in regions of Mexico that are known to be major transit points for migrants from Central America who are seeking to reach the United States. However, the role that each city plays in this process can vary.

Tijuana and Ciudad Juarez, as border cities, are major entry points into the United States for both legal and illegal migrants. Migrants may travel through Mexico by foot, car, or bus to reach these cities, and then attempt to cross the border into the United States, either at official ports of entry or through more remote areas.

Acapulco, Ciudad Victoria, and Irapuato are located further inland but are very important transit and gathering points for human smugglers that handle the immigrants coming from Central America. For example, many migrants may pass through Acapulco as they travel along the Pacific coast of Mexico toward Tijuana or other northern border cities.

Another example was the massive caravan that arrived in Irapuato coming from countries like Guatemala, Nicaragua, and El Salvador.

Human trafficking is almost as profitable as drug trafficking. Therefore, just as drug cartels fight for the supremacy of these zones, part of the violence can be attributed also to battles between human traffickers. Often both activities are operated by the same organizations.

What More You Should Now If You Are Visiting Mexico?

Which are the most dangerous cities in Mexico for tourists in 2023?

The 10 most dangerous cities in Mexico 2023 include some of the country’s major urban centers as well as smaller cities. These cities experience high levels of crime such as violent crime, drug trafficking, and robberies, making them a risk for tourists.

The list can change year over year, but some common cities mentioned as dangerous places in Mexico are Tijuana, Acapulco, Ciudad Victoria and Chihuahua City. Factors like cartel presence, drug trade, and the drug trafficking-related violence contribute to these cities’ unsafe reputation. It’s essential to stay informed about the current situation in these cities and potentially avoid them on your visit to Mexico.

2. How is the homicide rate in Mexico currently?

Despite recent improvements, Mexico’s homicide rate—26.6 deaths per 100,000 people—remains close to historical highs.

The homicide rate in Mexico varies by region, with some areas showing lower rates than others. In parts of the country where drug cartels like the Sinaloa Cartel or the Santa Rosa de Lima Cartel are more active, the homicide rate tends to be higher.

While the overall homicide rate is concerning, some parts of Mexico are still considered safe for tourists. Pay close attention to travel advisories and choose safe travel destinations to avoid getting caught up in violent crime.

3. What should tourists know about traffic and safety in Mexico City?

Mexico City is known for its busy streets, and tourists should be aware of the traffic conditions before navigating the city. It’s essential to be cautious while crossing streets, comply with traffic rules, and maintain a heightened sense of awareness in crowded areas.

Traffic accidents can occur due to reckless driving or poor infrastructure, so take extra precautions when driving in the capital of Mexico. Utilize public transportation or reputable taxi services and always follow local laws and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Mexico City.

4. Is Cancun still a popular tourist destination despite its crime rates?

Despite the rise in crime rates, Cancun remains a top destination for many tourists visiting Mexico. The city offers beautiful beaches in a hotel zone that is quite far from the city of Cancun itself.

Mexico: Travel Safety Tips

Here are some more specific, street-wise safety tips to visit Mexico:

1st — If you visit Mexico for a day trip, there are plenty of options in terms of luggage storage, so you don’t need to walk around with your carry-on bags while seeing its many tourist attractions. Reliable, convenient, and inexpensive luggage storage services you can find at Radical Storage.

2nd — If want to discover 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 the gorgeous natural beauty of the country, but they will also warn you of risky areas and keep you safe.

3rd — Areas surrounding airports and train stations can be dangerous. Book a transfer in advance from one of the major airports in Mexico to your destination and vice versa, so you can avoid scammers and criminals. I often used Get Transfer for that and it always worked fine.

4th – Remain alert in crowded places. Even in tourist areas, there are still cases of petty crime.

5th — As travel insurance for visiting Mexico, we recommend Ekta.


If you enjoyed this article about the most dangerous cities in Mexico, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

The 7 Countries With The Worst Work-Life Balance in The OECD

The 5 Fastest Growing Cities in Europe Have Some Curious Things in Common

The Best Cities for Remote Workers in 2023

The Mind-Blowing Tourist Scams You Can Find in Europe

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

Mountain, map of Japan and background of Japanese landscape. Image for article about japanese visa for digital nomads Digital Nomads

A Digital Nomad’s Japanese Visa Application Guide for 2023

Digital nomads have the luxury to roam around the world, since they work remotely and can move from one country to the other for a few months as tourists, without the need to pass through each immigration office. One of the countries worth visiting for digital professionals is Japan. For this reason, we published this Japanese Visa application guide.

Now that Japan has reopened its doors to travelers, it’s crucial to know what the requirements are for entering the country, especially in applying for a visa.

Japan is known for having one of the worst work-life balances among all countries, but since you are a digital nomad or remote worker, that should not be a problem.

Why Japan?

Why should you visit Japan as a digital nomad? There are plenty of reasons for that and here are some of the top ones.

Rich Culture and History

For starters, Japan is one of the oldest countries in the world. It’s rich in culture and history. If you would like to immerse yourself in a culture that is distinctly different from yours then Japan should be on your bucket list. It is also one of the best countries in the world in terms of education, and japanese nationals are highly qualified in sectors like robotics and aerospatial technology.

temple, pagoda, japanese

Food

If you are a foodie then Japan should definitely be on the top of your list. Japanese cuisine is one of the most refined in the world and the best place to experience Japanese cuisine is its place of origin.

The Architecture and Scenery

Japanese architecture is also something that is worth seeing in person. They have temples, pagodas, gardens, and shrines that are unlike anything else that you can see anywhere.

Japan also has some stunning natural scenery, the most famous of which is Mount Fuji.

It’s Safe

Safety is also another reason why Japan is worth visiting. It is one of the safest countries in the world. In 2020, the crime rate in Japan was at 0.25 per 100,000 population.

If you want a place where you can continue with your activites and have peace of mind, then Japan is a good place to be. It’s like Singapore, which is another safe country in Asia.

The Services You Need for Your Activity Are There

As a digital nomad, you are dependent on the services of the country where you are staying. If the power there is spotty or the internet connection is slow then you can forget about being digital and you’re just left there as a nomad.

You will not have that kind of problem in Japan. The services there are some of the best in the world as you would expect from a first-world country.

It’s Clean

Have you heard about the Japanese fans who stayed after the match to clean the stadium in the opening match of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar? That demonstrates how cleanliness is a part of Japanese culture. If they’re willing to clean a stadium in a foreign country then you can just imagine the effort they pour into keeping their own country clean.

okinawa, market, japan

Getting a Visa for Japan

Japan is a great place to visit if you’re a digital nomad. The next thing to figure out is how to get there, what are the visa requirements, visa exempt countries and required documents.

Do You Need a Visa?

The first thing to determine when you want to go to Japan is whether you need a Japan tourist visa. Foreign nationals of some countries do not need to get a visa for short stays in the country. Click on this link to check the list of countries that are exempted from the visa requirement.

Documents and Translations

If your country and nationality do not belong to the list, then you will have to submit a visa application (likely a single entry visa). As a digital nomad, you could probably get a non-working visa or maybe a tourist visa before entering japan. There is an online application form for that (more below).

Here are the requirements for a visa application:

●     Valid passport 

●     Visa application form

●     Color passport photo 

●     Certified copy of your birth certificate

●     Marriage certificate

●     Proof of financial ability 

●     Tax return

●     Schedule, business or tourism purposes, and travel plans for the trip

Documents that are not written in Japanese or English must be supported by a certified Japanese translation for them to be acceptable.

There are many Japanese translation services that are available online. However, it is best to deal with Japanese translators from experienced language platforms since they are likely to have handled similar translations in the past.

Here are some platforms where you can find Japanese translators:

●     Tomedes

●     Upwork

●     Hubstaff Talent

●     Freelancer

Take note that not all of these platforms are the same. Tomedes for example is a dedicated platform for translators, while the other sites also cater to other types of tasks.

japan, osaka, pedestrians

Visa Application

For the visa application process, the first thing you need to do is to get a copy of the application form. Make sure that you complete the form properly.

Once you have completed the form, you can contact the Japanese Embassy or Consulate in your area to make an appointment or any other visa related inquiries. Gather all the needed documents and then submit them to the Embassy.

How Long Does the Process Take

The visa application process will usually take five working days from the day after the application has been received. So, if you are planning on making a trip, you need to take that processing time into account.

It’s definitely worth visiting Japan and if you’re a digital nomad, it’s one of the countries where you can continue your activities while you are having a fun time.

Everything that you need for your digital nomad life will be there during your stay in Japan. The difficulty of getting there depends on which country you are from and if you need a visa, then you may need Japanese translation services to help you.


If you enjoyed this article with about the Japan visa requirements, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

Our World Guide of Best Places to Expatriate

The Best Cities for Remote Workers This Year

The Easiest Countries to Adopt From – A Guide.

Illustration with background of Punta Cana for article about retiring in the dominican republic Digital Nomads

Retiring in the Dominican Republic – What You Need

Pros, Cons and How Much of Retiring in the Dominican Republic

Table of Contents
  • The Criteria to Rank the Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
  • The Worst Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Venezuela
  • The 7 Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
  • The Best Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Argentina

Imagine that you are a pensioner or a remote worker and want to live in a nice place with lower living costs. You want to get the most benefit for each dollar. So you ponder: Why not retire to the Caribbean? What about retiring in the Dominican Republic? This article is for you.

Part of the second-largest Caribbean island, Hispaniola, and arguably the most varied, the Dominican Republic has its attractions. Things like stunning beaches, the plethora of resorts and hotels on offer, and its array of sports and recreational activities such as golfing, water sports, and many more.

Life in the Caribbean is all about slowing right down. Get used to island time and enjoy the wonderful delights of island life. Relax on pristine beaches, eat some delicious Caribbean dishes, and spend your days snoozing in hammocks. What a way to enjoy your retirement days. 

By the way, if you are into beaches, check some of the best family beach vacation spots in the world.

Our consultancy’s team wrote this article after similar pieces about other hot retirement destinations (including a list of the best countries to retire in the world), such as:

  • How to retire in Bali (Indonesia)
  • Retire to Jamaica
  • Retirement in Nicaragua
  • Retirement in El Salvador
  • Retirement in Panama
  • Retiring in Argentina
  • Retire in Peru – Pros, Cons, and Costs
  • The Pros and Cons of Retirement in Italy
  • The Pros and Cons of Retirement in Finland
  • Retirement in Canada: Pros, Cons and the Best Cities
  • Retirement in Puerto Rico for Tax-Savvy Americans

If you’re thinking about retiring abroad, our list of countries with retirement visa schemes is a must-read.

Pros and Cons of Retiring in the Dominican Republic

Pros of Retiring in the Dominican Republic

There are some reasons many expats choose the Dominican Republic as a place to live. In the case of pensioners, this includes cost of living, climate, cost of healthcare and private hospitals, and access to international airports.

 Let’s have a look at some of the reasons to retire to the Dominican Republic in depth.

 Climate 

The Dominican Republic is a tropical country with a hot and humid climate. It is warm year-round here, with average water temperatures of around 28 degrees. Thetropical weather is the big draw for beach lovers, with plenty of sunshine days throughout the year.

There is lots of rainfall, particularly from May to November. However, with warm seas and tropical Caribbean sunshine, what’s a little rain now and then?

Moving Out, Working Abroad and Keeping Your Sanity Cover
Recommended book: Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity

 Cost of Living 

The cost of living in the Dominican Republic is, on average, 40% lower than in the United States. This helps Americans who want to leave the U.S. to stretch their monthly pension.

The Dominican Republic is also one of the cheapest Caribbean islands to live on – making it a great retirement choice, particularly for citizens of the United States. More about the cost of living you will find below (look for our comparison table).

Affordable Healthcare 

The Dominican Republic has incredibly affordable private hospitals – at least when you compare with America. There are free public hospitals on the island (although their quality is debatable), and private healthcare is far cheaper than in the US, Canada, and Europe. This may be important when you are retiring as you may be in more need of medical treatment.

Variety of Landscape

The Dominican Republic is considered a “micro-continent” because of its varying landscapes and scenery. There are gorgeous tropical beaches, stunning mountains, lush green forests, and even desert areas with dune formations. 

Due to its diverse geographical landscape, there’s a huge manner of things to suit all tastes. Get up close with nature hiking in the mountains, try some kayaking or paddle boarding on the river, or relax on soft, white-sand beaches. 

One of the many beaches in the Dominican Republic
One of the many beaches in the Dominican Republic

The Local Culture and Food

The people of the Dominican Republic are friendly and extremely welcoming, and there’s a vibrant culture on the island. With a unique mix of elements from Latin America and Europe, there’s a fascinating history to learn and plenty of cultural delights to experience. There are festivals throughout the year with music, dancing, and Caribbean flair.

Food on the island is predominantly seafood based, with delicious fresh fish such as tuna and marlin which are readily available in the waters. Fresh, juicy fruit is also plentiful in the Dominican Republic. Spend your mornings checking out the local markets for the best catch and enjoy cooking up a storm – the perfect retirement hobby. 

If you crave for food from your home country, Santo Domingo has a decent offer of international supermarkets.

Disadvantages of Living in the Dominican Republic

No matter where you go in the world there will be some disadvantages to living in a certain place over another, and the Dominican Republic is no different. 

Remember that it is a developing country, after all.

Here are some of the main disadvantages of retiring in the Dominican Republic. 

Safety

One of the biggest factors to consider when looking at retiring in the Dominican Republic is the safety of the island. The island has a bit of a reputation for being unsafe in comparison to its other Caribbean counterparts. However, although there are high levels of crime such as robbery, pick-pocketing, and some instances of violent crime such as assault, rape, and homicide. 

Foreigners should take precautions when out and about, particularly in large cities such as Santo Domingo where these crimes are more likely to take place. Keep valuables, expensive watches, and jewellery out of sight when exploring. Don’t walk around at night time in residential and remote areas, and always use authorised taxis. 

The island is a warm and welcoming place, but always make sure to be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. 

Hurricane Season 

The Caribbean islands are prone to hurricanes from June to October, with peak hurricane season around August. Hurricanes can do severe damage to infrastructure, homes, and sadly many people lose their lives every year due to hurricanes in the Caribbean. 

If you are planning to retire in the Dominican Republic then this is something you should be prepared for. Ensure you have adequate supplies of bottled water, non-perishable food items, prescription medicines, a battery-powered radio, and batteries for flashlights, and that personal and important documents are kept secured safely. 

Bureaucracy and Infrastructure 

You may be in for some surprises when retiring in the Dominican Republic, especially if moving from the United States or Europe. 

The island’s infrastructure is severely lacking, with some local roads being impossible to drive down, low-hanging electricity cables, and the absence of traffic lights in certain areas. Electricity isn’t always guaranteed on the island, so consider purchasing a backup generator in case of emergencies.

There is a lot of corruption on the island too, which is common in many Latin American countries. The Bureaucracy here is also a big issue, which may become frustrating when compared to other more developed countries. 

Quality of Healthcare

Although healthcare in the Dominican Republic is extremely affordable, it is generally quite poor, particularly from the free public hospitals. The level of care here is lower than in the United States, Canada, and Europe, which may be a deciding factor if you have particular health concerns. 

Private healthcare is very affordable compared to the U.S. Consider taking out health insurance to cover the cost of any emergency needs and for peace of mind. 

Book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights
Recommended book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights

Acquiring a Permanent Residency Status in Dominican Republic by Buying Property

First of all, it is not really necessary to buy property in the Dominican Republic to obtain a permanent residency status or a retirement visa (see more about it below). Anyone who has lived in the country on a temporary residence permit for five years can apply for a permanent residency, and for the retirement visa, there are different requirements.

However, there is another way: buying real estate.

To do that, you need to follow the following procedure:
1 – Establish a business in the Dominican Republic.
2 – Make a minimum investment of $200,000 in the company.
3 – Purchase a home through the company
Then you can live in the house owned by your company (paying rent to your company, which is actually like paying rent to yourself).

Two hundred thousand dollars, in a relatively inexpensive country like the Dominican Republic, could afford a really good apartment or even a nice beach house.

Remember that because the United States and the Dominican Republic do not have a tax treaty to avoid double-taxation, income from American expats on the island is taxable. However, the IRS excludes certain expenses from housing. Therefore, you could have a certain tax benefit. Since this does not apply to every case, we strongly advise you to check your particular situation with a tax or financial advisor.

To look for a property, a common practice is to first visit the country using a standard tourist visa.

Pitfalls of Buying Property in the Dominican Republic

If you are considering buying a property in the Dominican Republic, make sure you do thorough research, and be aware of any potential problems that may occur. 

Here are some pitfalls to avoid when buying property on the island:

•             The effects of the weather – the sea salt air and the humid temperatures can play havoc with certain elements of your property. Look for properties using materials more suited to the tropical climate that you won’t have to replace as often. 

•             The lack of electricity at all times – constant electricity isn’t guaranteed on the island, so look for properties with generators or solar panels to provide energy when there is a power outage. 

•             The local laws – the laws regarding property sale in the Dominican Republic vary from those in the United States, and may not be as stringent. Make sure you enlist the help of a good lawyer and brush up on your knowledge before jumping head first. Many people have been stung by not fully understanding the buying/building market. 

The Application Process for a Dominican Republic Retirement Visa

Image for explanation about the The Application Process for a Dominican Republic Retirement Visa
The Application Process for a Dominican Republic Retirement Visa

The Dominican Republic has several types of residency visas, such as those for investors, family reunification, and pensionado (which is the retirement visa). The pensionado visa is for people who can show that they get at least $1,500 a month from a foreign government or private pension ($1,750 for couples).

Getting a residence visa is the first thing you need to do if you want to retire in the Dominican Republic.

After getting there, the next step is to go to the General Directorate of Immigration within 60 days to finish the process of applying for a temporary residency permit. (You can also apply through the government’s portal, upload copies of the necessary documents in.jpg format, and pay the fee.)

The application process can take from 45 days to six months. After your permit is approved, you can get a permanent residency permit that must be renewed every few years until you have lived in the country for a few years. After two years, you can also apply for naturalization, which usually takes a year. Seniors who move to the republic to retire can sometimes speed up the process of becoming permanent residents.

For the application process for a retirement visa, you need:

  • Your residency visa and identity card or document.
  • Filled application form.
  • Birth certificate and 4 passport-style photographs.
  • Proof from your home country that you have never been in trouble with the law.
  • Documents about your money and retirement savings, like a certified copy of the source of your retirement benefits in the U.S.
  • Statement from a bank account in the Dominican Republic.
  • Certificate of marriage, proof of living together, or a statement that you are single.
  • Get a travel insurance policy from an insurer that is approved by the government.
  • Medication check from a government-approved institution after you arrive to prove you don’t have any diseases that could spread.

Everything needs to be translated into Spanish. Both the originals and the translations need to be signed by a notary.

How Much Do I Need To Retire in the Dominican Republic?

Illustration with beach and money symbol for article about retiring in the dominican republic
Let’s dive deeper in the cost of living of the Dominican Republic

 If you are looking to retire to the Dominican Republic and qualify for a temporary residency (which later may be changed to a permanent residence visa), each retiree must receive a monthly pension, a minimum of $1,500, or a rental/investment income of $2,000 a month. 

Once you can prove you have this amount of money then you can apply for the Residency Visa and then the Residency Card which entitles you to several benefits. 

Rental prices range from around $400-$800 a month depending on the size of the apartment and whether it is situated in the city centre or outside of the city. Basic utilities which include electricity, heating, cooling, water, and rubbish collection are around $80-$100 per month. 

Transport is also affordable, with a one-way local transport ticket costing around $1, and a monthly pass costing around $40. 

Food is one of the most affordable elements of living in the Dominican Republic. A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant will cost you around $40, a coffee around $2, a local beer at $3, and water at 80 cents. 

Buying local food from the market will be an inevitable part of retiring in the Dominican Republic. Although eating out is so affordable, you will of course want to enjoy cooking at home. A loaf of bread costs around $2, milk is $1.30, and depending on the type of fruit or vegetable, 1kg of each is usually less than $2. 

Basic healthcare in the Dominican Republic is free. However, for higher quality medical care, it is better to have international health insurance with good healthcare coverage. There are several medical plans you can choose as an ex-pat. The average annual plan for a couple usually costs between $700-$1,500. You should consider taking out private health insurance for the best level of care.   

Everything Americans Living in the Dominican Republic Must Know

Retiring to the Dominican Republic is a popular choice for Americans. With low costs of living, its proximity to the United States, and a simple retirement process, you can see why so many Americans choose this sun-drenched as their retirement destination. 

The requirement for American Citizens to retire here is fairly simple, but here are a few things you should know as an American retiring in the Dominican Republic:

It would be a good idea to hire a lawyer if buying or building a property in the Dominican Republic. Having an expert in this area will stop any nasty shocks from occurring if the property build falls through, or if any other legal roadblocks stand in the way. 

Consider learning Spanish to enable you to communicate with the locals. In certain areas of the island, many of the local islanders do not speak English, so if you are considering living in a non-expat area, then brush up on your Spanish skills to make life a lot easier and to be considerate to the locals. 

Ensure you prepare for electricity outages by investing in a generator. Take careful consideration of this if you are reliant on a constant source of electricity, since storms, hurricanes, or excessive demand can interrupt the electric grid.

Life in the Dominican Republic will be a little different than in the United States. People don’t always turn up on time, things aren’t done exactly by the book, and be prepared for the infrastructure to look very different compared to the States. Having an open-minded attitude and the ability to stay calm as you adapt to your new life will make all the difference. 

Best Places to Retire in the Dominican Republic

Resort close to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic
Resort close to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic

Santo Domingo

The island’s capital has over 1 million habitants, so that has its pros and cons. It is deemed quite insecure, but at the same time it has safe districts where ex-pats and wealthy locals live. While the city has some traffic and noise in the city center, it has also good infrastructure, private hospitals and plenty of of shopping and entertainment options.

A good one bedroom apartment in an affluent district will cost less than $1000 (sometimes even less than $800) for rent or less than $2200 per square meter if you decide to purchase (and here we are talking about the expensive properties).

Puerto Plata

This city is not as large as Santo Domingo but still has a considerable population of almost 330,000. During the peak season, the city hosts an additional 100,000 tourists at any moment, so it may feel a bit crowded in the touristy areas (like the colonial-era historical parts). In Puerto Plata, you can have a 1-bedroom apartment close to the beach for $350 per month.

Las Terrenas

With less than 40,000 residents, Las Terrenas is home to a proportionally sizable expat community and some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. This little community has all the essentials without the overwhelming size of a major metropolis. This tiny slice of paradise is one of the favorite choices among retirees from other countries and has an abundance of opportunities for physical activity.

Cost of Living in Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic) vs Valência (Spain) and Tampa (the USA)

It’s time for a comparison of the cost of living in the Dominican Republic. I will not compare the living costs of the Island with those of New York or London, because nearly anywhere in the world is cheaper than those two cities.

Let’s compare the cost of living in Santo Domingo (the capital of the Dominican Republic) with the best city for retirement in Europe (Valencia, Spain) and one of the favorite cities for pensioners in the USA (Tampa, Florida).

Remember that there are multiple cities in the Dominican Republic that are cheaper than Santo Domingo, since it is the capital.

All prices are from Numbeo and Expatistan, two websites that crowdsource prices and living costs from thousands of users and contributors.

Values in USDSanto DomingoValenciaTampa
Meal for 1 Person, Inexpensive Restaurant9.1111.5921
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught) in a Supermarket2.492.91.57
Eggs (regular) (12)2.211.983.29
Chicken Fillets (1kg)5.596.411.24
Gasoline (1 liter)1.261.561.2
Utilities (Electricity, Water, etc.) for a 85m2 apartment, monthly86.55128.6156.61
Internet (60 Mbps or More)46.6631.8863.85
Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat5.92714
Short visit to private doctor (15 minutes)357398
Standard men’s haircut in expat area of the city232028
Rent of an apartment (1 bedroom)443720.772,035.75
Price per Square Meter to Buy an Apartment1,261.162,999.914,635.63
Cost of different items in Santo Domingo (Dominican Republic), Valencia (Spain), and Tampa (Florida, the USA).

If you enjoyed this article about how to retire in Finland, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

Where Can I Live? Our Complete Guide of Best Places to Expatriate

The Best Cities for Remote Workers This Year

The Easiest Countries to Adopt From – A Guide.

Subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive a special gift. If you enjoy this article, please consider becoming a Medium member by using this link and have access to premium, unbiased content from authors not tied to big media.

Levi Borba is the founder of The Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and 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.

Expat living abroad. City and Safety Guides

Where Can I Live? Our Expat Living City Guides

Living as an Expat: It Is Easier When You Know Which Places You Should Avoid!

Table of Contents
  • We ranked the worst and the best Spanish speaking countries to visit (other than Spain). Here is it.
    • The Criteria to Rank the Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
    • The Worst Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Venezuela
    • The 7 Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
    • The Best Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Argentina

If you want to move to another country but don’t know where to start and have doubts about expat living and lifestyle, you’re in luck today because I am going to tell you (almost) everything I know from my own experiences.

There are also some excellent books about life abroad, and a list of them you can find here.

Living as an Expat in the XXI Century

People are moving abroad more frequently and more easily in the present globalized world for a variety of reasons, including work, education, or just exploring different environments and meeting new people. A new culture usually comes along with it.

When you emigrate, you must adopt new customs and social standards.

In order to avoid experiencing the so-called culture shock, which is a state of anxiety brought on by contact with a new culture and is accompanied by emotions of loss and bewilderment, you must assume as soon as possible that you will require an adaptation and learning process.

Deciding Where to Live

There are 4 important things to think about when deciding where to live:

  • Living costs
  • The language barrier
  • Quality of life and safety
  • The climate

Living Costs: Finding a Place to Live That Will Not Empty Your Pockets

If you are planning to move abroad, it is important to analyze the living costs as soon as you get there. You might end up spending more money than expected on food, accommodation, and other services every month. So figure out how much money you need when moving abroad in order to not be another expat living plunged in debt..

To help you with that, I wrote a few other articles on this subject on different countries:

  • This article will put into perspective how London is so much more expensive than any other major European capital.
  • On the other hand, here you will discover 3 cities with VERY low living costs for both digital nomads and travelers.
  • Here you will discover what are the most beautiful (and the least) European capitals.
  • If you are thinking about studying medicine abroad, the cost of living is an important component and here you have the countries with the best cost-benefit for medical school.
  • Brazil: Here you will learn how the exchange rate made life cheaper for expats, while here you will discover 4 things that are extremely cheap in Brazil.
  • Since I live in Poland, would be unfair to not write anything about them. This article enters into detail about the cost of living in Warsaw, while this one lists 5 insanely expensive things in Poland.

The language barrier

Individuals fluent in multiple languages comprise less than 3% of the current world population.

There is a reason there are so many Latin-Americans in Spain or so many Brazilians in Portugal: the language barrier for an expat living in a country with a distinct idiom is a REAL DEAL.

If you are moving to a country with the same idiom as yours, or a place where almost everyone speaks English (eg: the Netherlands), you don’t need to worry so much about this issue.

On the other hand, I saw expats that gave up excellent standards of live in countries like South Korea or Brazil because they could not withstand the problems and solitude imposed by the language barrier.

A whole new world will be revealed to you once you become familiar with the local language (and there are methods to learn it faster than you think). When grocery shopping or ordering at a café, you won’t just be able to say things like “Thank you” or “Please,” but you’ll also be able to pick up on the subtleties that affect people’s moods. Knowing the local slang will help you get a better sense of what is outrageous and what is funny in your new neighborhood.

Language has an impact on how we think, according to research by cognitive scientist Lera Boroditsky. Your chances of succeeding (or at least surviving) in your new environment will therefore increase if you learn the local language because you will be able to think like a local. Which incentive is more advantageous than this? According to Ludwig Wittgenstein, an Austrian philosopher:

The limits of my language mean the limits of my world

Quality of Life and Safety: Even the Best Cities for Expats Have Bad Neighbourhoods

Safety should be the top priority of anyone thinking about moving to a new city. That is true whether you’re moving to a new country or simply across your country, to another city.

However, it can be difficult to find the information that is needed when vetting where you want to live. There are certain cities that are perceived as unsafe and rightfully so based on what is going on within and around that city. But here is a thing that many people forget:

Many times, the good areas in the bad cities are better than the bad areas in the best cities.

For this reason, there are plenty of guides that my team and I prepared for you. In these guides, each for an individual city, you will discover:

  • If the city is safe when compared to other major destinations and to the rest of the country.
  • What are the crime rates and more prevalent types of violence.
  • What are the places to avoid and what are the unsafe neighborhoods.
  • What are the good places, family-friendly and welcoming to expatriates.

Here is a list of them:

Europe

  • Athens, Greece
  • Belgrade, Serbia
  • Berlin, Germany
  • Munich, Germany
  • Copenhagen, Denmark
  • Dublin, Ireland
  • Edinburgh, Scotland
  • Glasgow, Scotland
  • Lisbon, Portugal
  • Madrid, Spain (We also wrote a guide with tips on immigrating to Spain)
  • Manchester, England
  • Milan, Italy
  • Rome, Italy

The United States

  • Anaheim, California
  • Chula Vista, California
  • Escondido, California
  • Garden Grove, California
  • Palmdale, California
  • Hialeah, Florida
  • Tallahassee, Florida
  • Honolulu, Hawaii
  • Huntington Beach, California
  • Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
  • Santa Ana, California
  • Santa Rosa, California
  • Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
  • Salt Lake City, Utah

Canada

  • Montreal
  • Vancouver
  • Toronto

Latin America

  • Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Guadalajara, Mexico
  • Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
  • São Paulo, Brazil

Asia

  • Qatar

Safety and Violence Rankings

Besides all the cities mentioned previously, we also prepared some special rankings on the subject of how safe (or dangerous) are certain places.

  • The 8 Safest Big Cities in the USA
  • The Most Violent City of 18 Different Countries in Europe.
  • The Ten Most Dangerous Cities in Europe in 2022

Places to Retire

Our team also researches the best and most affordable places for those willing to retire abroad. Below you can access some of these guides:

  • The Best Places to Retire in Europe
  • The Best Countries to Retire in the World
  • Retire In Argentina
  • Retire in Peru – Pros, Cons, and Costs
  • Retire in Bali, Indonesia
  • Retire in Jamaica
  • Retiring in the Dominican Republic – Here is What You Need to Know
  • Retire in Nicaragua – What You Need to Know
  • Retire in Italy: Pros, cons and best places in the peninsula.
  • Retire to the Netherlands – What You Must Know
  • Retire to Canada – Pros, Cons, and Costs
  • Retiring in Switzerland: All You Need to Know
  • The Best Places to Retire in Spain.

Other Tips for Staying Safe in a New Place

Let’s assume you just arrived in a new place, either to spend just a few weeks or as an expat living there permanently. You are still looking for a place to stay until settle down. Here are some additional tips.

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 — Areas surrounding airports and train stations can be dangerous.  Book a transfer in advance from the airport (or from any station) to your destination and vice versa, so you can avoid scammers and criminals. I often used Get Transfer for that and it always worked fine.

3rd — If you want to walk around and see some historical spots without the risk of getting lost or wasting your time, hire a guide. You can find some amazing and reliable guides and tours at Viator. They will give you insider information about historical facts and curiosities, and also warn you of risky areas and keep you safe.

4th—Stay in a good hostel. Hostels are usually in the safest parts of cities (at least in Europe and South America), unlike hotels. Most hostels have private rooms that are as comfortable as a hotel, plus a friendly staff to give information. When looking for hostels, I visit Hostelworld and filter for those above grade 7.

The climate: finding a place to live during all 4 seasons.

Author, an expat, in a cold climate. I knew what kind of climate I would face when I made my choice of living as an expat in Europe.
I knew what kind of climate I would face when I made my choice of living as an expat in Europe.

Instead of just telling you how bad is the winter in some places or how hot is the summer in others, I will give you a fact. A fact that I experienced myself and that shows how important is to analyze the climate of the place where you are moving to.

Latin Americans, for example, tend to have darker skin tones on average than most Europeans, especially those from the northern and eastern parts of the continent.

Anyone who lives in sunny regions like Brazil’s northeast or the Andean altiplano will find darker skin to be an advantageous adaptation. More ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun are filtered out by darker tones. Since they have more melanin, they are better able to avoid sunburn and other issues brought on by excessive sun exposure, like skin cancer.

The problem is that the same UVB rays that cause cancer also break down the cholesterol in skin cells, supplying the human body with energy for the production of vitamin D. Lack of vitamin D can result in fatigue, muscle cramps, depression, and issues with the immune system. Vitamin D is necessary for good health.

Days are significantly shorter and the sun rarely appears in northern parts of Europe during the winter.

For instance, in December, here in Poland, the sky can be cloudy for weeks, and the sun sets in Warsaw at about 15:30. Less than 30 hours of sunlight are available each month in the winter. To put it in perspective, neither Buenos Aires nor Mexico City has a single month with less than 130 hours of daylight.

People in nations like Estonia and Poland have extremely white skin, which blocks fewer UVB rays. So, even in small amounts of sunlight, they receive enough UVB to produce the necessary amounts of vitamin D.

That did not apply to me. I have olive skin, and during my first year in Poland, I frequently fell ill. I visited the doctor, and exams found that I was severely vitamin D deficient. I started taking Vitamin D3 supplements during the fall and winter, which only costs me less than 8 euros per month, and this solved my problem of fatigue and ongoing sickness.

So don’t forget to check about the climate of your destination and how it affects you body!

Recommended books for expats, digital nomads, or anyone living abroad

Moving Out, Working Abroad and Keeping Your Sanity Cover
Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity
Budget Travelers Digital Nomad and Expats Book
Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights
Starting Your Own Business Far From Home
Starting Your Own Business Far From Home: What (Not) to Do When Opening a Company in Another State, Country, or Galaxy

If you enjoyed this article about expat living, subscribe (for free) to receive my articles directly in your inbox and receive a special gift. If you enjoy this article, please consider becoming a Medium member by using this link and have access to premium, unbiased content from authors not tied to big media.

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and 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.


Palm trees for article about Huntington Beach, California City and Safety Guides

Is Huntington Beach Safe?

Discover how safe Huntington Beach is, as well as the bad (or good) neighborhoods.

Table of Contents
  • We ranked the worst and the best Spanish speaking countries to visit (other than Spain). Here is it.
    • The Criteria to Rank the Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
    • The Worst Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Venezuela
    • The 7 Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
    • The Best Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Argentina

About an hour’s drive south of Los Angeles in Orange County, CA, Huntington Beach boasts an intriguing history, gorgeous scenery, and a pleasant climate. Surfers enjoy huge swells any time of year, giving the city its nickname “Surf City, USA”. The best surfing waves are said to be near the iconic Huntington Pier, and the city even displays the world’s largest surfboard at the Huntington Surfing Museum. But is Huntington Beach safe?

Laid-back, casual vibes define the city’s culture. Every day is Hawaiian shirt day in this surfer city. Municipal events and festivals are plentiful. For the outdoorsy soul, several parks and reserves are available to roam. For a different type of adventurer, the city has no shortage of restaurants, bars, clubs, spas, and shopping areas.

Book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights
Recommended book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights

This ocean-side city’s name has changed a few times, from Shell Beach to Pacific City to its current name, which was inspired by the railroad entrepreneur Henry E. Huntington. The discovery and production of oil in the 1920s and 1930s fostered economic growth in the region, which increased its residencies and development.

Since then, the city has continued to flourish thanks to other industries including technology, service industries, and tourism. When it comes to safety in Huntington Beach, though, should travelers or potential residents be wary? Read on to find out.

If you are still in doubt about a move to Huntington Beach or another city, check out our Expat Living City Guides, with information about cities for expatriates and digital nomads all over the world!

Huntington Beach Crime Rate

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Infographic for article Is Huntington Beach Safe
Our infographic with the answer to the question, “Is Huntington Beach Safe?” (Feel free to share, but please give proper credit by linking back to this article 🙂 )

Crime in Huntington Beach is relatively low compared to other large cities in California and the US, although is not as safe as the 8 safest big cities in the US, or affluent Californian cities like Chula Vista.

The California Department of Justice reported crime trends in their latest publication using data from 2021. Property crime, motor vehicle theft, homicides, rape, and violent crime rates all increased slightly from 2020 to 2021. In contrast, the burglary and arson rates have decreased by 5.3 percent and 4.4 percent respectively during the same period.

Overall, Huntington Beach’s crime index places it safer than 24% of all US cities. Data released by the FBI from 2020 reflects that out of every 1,000 residents, 2.48 were affected by violent crime and 19.81 were affected by property crime. These rates are lower than the statewide average. In California, out of every 1,000 residents, 4.4 were affected by violent crime, and 21.3 were affected by property crime.

Huntington Beach’s crime rates are also quite a bit lower than the US national crime averages. Specifically, out of every 1,000 residents, assault in Huntington Beach averages 1.58, while the US averages 2.78. Robbery in Huntington Beach averages 0.54, while the US averages 0.73.

Photo of Huntington Beach. Among other crime statistics, property crime and vehicle theft increased.
Among other crime statistics of Huntington Beach, property crime and vehicle theft increased.

Tourists, in particular, should exercise additional caution on the matter of pickpocketing. Most small theft incidents are crimes of opportunity, such as a wallet being left out in the open. With a medium risk of pickpocket activity, it’s worth taking extra steps to be aware of your surroundings and secure your belongings or valuables.

How Huntington Beach’s Crime Rate Compares to Other Cities

Below you can see two tables.

The first table shows the crime rate (as well as the homicide rate and other information) of Huntington Beach and compares it with other cities we analyzed. The source of the data is the FBI reports.

Crime Rate of Huntington Beach (Proportional to the Population) Compared to Other Cities

Here the crime numbers are divided by the population and demonstrated as cases per 100,000 habitants, meaning that they are proportional to the number of residents. By clicking on the name of each city, you will find a complete article with their best neighborhoods, areas to avoid, crime rates, etc.

CityStatePopulationTotal Criminal Offenses per 100K Resid.Assaults per 100K Resid.Homicides per 100K Resid.Rapes per 100K Resid.Robberies per 100K Resid.
EscondidoCA150,5074,85793131593
Chula VistaCA275,9783,26571821191
PalmdaleCA169,4501,73131563091
PasadenaCA135,7322,69641234132
Santa AnaCA310,2272,698280547129
Santa RosaCA178,1272,15437426276
AnaheimCA346,8242,918196538119
Huntington BeachCA198,7112,22915823554
HialeahFL220,4901,96114531245
TallahasseeFL196,1693,87954512103122
HonoluluHI985,1384,76495811773
Oklahoma CityOK670,8727,7051,430156197
PittsburghPA302,9714,168
Salt Lake CityUT205,92915,7233,0099132215
Crime rate numbers. Total criminal cases, assaults, homicides, rapes, and robberies in multiple American cities we analyzed, in cases per 100K residents. Data from 2022, 2021 and 2020.

Crime Rate of Huntington Beach in Absolute Numbers Compared to Other Cities

CityStatePopulationTotal
Criminal Offenses
AssaultsHomicidesRapesRobberies
EscondidoCA150,5077,3101,401522140
Chula VistaCA275,9789,0101,982631251
PalmdaleCA169,4502,9345331051155
Santa AnaCA310,2278,37086915145401
Santa RosaCA178,1273,8366674110135
AnaheimCA346,82410,12268116133412
Huntington BeachCA198,7114,430313370107
TallahasseeFL196,1697,6091,06924202239
HonoluluHI985,13846,9339,4388166719
Oklahoma CityOK670,87251,6899,595100406653
PittsburghPA302,97112,629
Salt Lake CityUT205,92932,3786,19619271443
The numbers of total criminal cases, assaults, homicides, rapes, and robberies in multiple American cities we analyzed, in absolute numbers. Data from 2021 and 2020.

Worst Neighborhood In Huntington Beach

Just like every city, Huntington Beach has a mix of respectable and questionable areas. But where exactly are its least desirable neighborhoods? Referencing a crime map of the city (see photo below) is a good way to spot the areas that experience a higher volume of crime.

The second shows the absolute crime numbers.

Keep in mind that while these areas are relatively worse off than others in Huntington Beach, they are still generally safe and relaxed locations to reside (with the exception, perhaps, of Oak View). None of these are extremely dangerous; they simply have a slightly higher crime rate than surrounding areas.

Washington East

A residential community made up primarily of renters, this neighborhood is highly walkable. This means there is more foot traffic, which makes it a bit noisier than some prefer.

Newland

This area is primarily comprised of single-family homes, and the residents here are a fairly even mix of homeowners and renters. Interestingly, there are more Armenian and Lebanese residents living here than in almost any other neighborhood in the US.

Huntington Crest

The average age of this neighborhood’s residents is 53 years old, and its primary characteristic is its densely populated, urban impression. Its denser population contributes to a relatively higher crime rate.

Oak View

Nicknamed “Slater Slums”, this neighborhood has no reason to be on any tourist’s travel plans. Homeless are more prominent in this area, although Orange County is working on programs to assist them. The median annual income is $49,576, and 48% of adult residents here did not complete high school.

Huntington Beach Crime Map

Crime map of Huntington Beach, California. Source: Neighborhood Scout
Crime map of Huntington Beach, California. Source: Neighborhood Scout

Best Neighborhoods In Huntington Beach

The low crime rates aren’t the only factor that makes living in Huntington Beach an attractive option. Many areas around this city not only have beautiful the Pacific Ocean and beach views, but also flaunt high home values, beautiful parks and trails, high median incomes, and excellent schools. Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods in Huntington Beach:

Moving Out, Working Abroad and Keeping Your Sanity Cover
Recommended book: Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity

Bolsa Chica-Heil

Looking for ocean-side living with all the perks of big-city conveniences? Consider living in Bolsa Chica-Heil. Enjoy beautiful nature spots such as the Bolsa Chica State Beach and the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Once you’ve had your fill of nature, walk downtown and experience an exciting restaurant or bar. There is something for everyone in this exceptional neighborhood. If you’re looking to buy a home in this neighborhood, expect to pay $900,000 on average.

Bolsa Chica: one of the best neighborhoods In Huntington Beach. Source: Google Maps.
Bolsa Chica: one of the best neighborhoods In Huntington Beach. Source: Google Maps.

Sunset Beach

This quaint beachside neighborhood proudly displays the relaxed atmosphere that Huntington Beach is known for. Tourists enjoy the sprawling beach and have plentiful opportunities to shop and dine here. The famous Water Tower House, which overlooks the Pacific Coast Highway, is one of the region’s oldest landmarks. The median home listing price in this exclusive neighborhood is $2.6 million. Rentals are more affordable than 40.2% of Californian neighborhoods, at an average of approximately $3,000.

Sunset beach is also among the best areas of Huntington Beach. Source: Google Maps.
Sunset beach is also among the best areas of Huntington Beach. Source: Google Maps.

Gilbert Island

If you’re thinking of moving somewhere with your boat, Gilbert Island may be the right choice for you. Many of the homes on this island feature a boat slip, with the median home listing price being $1.7 million. This is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Huntington Beach, situated in the Huntington Harbor area within the Sunset Beach region.

Pacific City

Newly developed and bustling, Pacific City is situated right on the Pacific Coast Highway. After admiring the beach, tourists like to spend time shopping and dining in style in this neighborhood. With everything from an outdoor mall to modern bungalows to live music events, this neighborhood will not disappoint. With all these activities in mind, it’s easy to see why this is such a popular stop for tourists and residents alike.

Pacific City is a new region and is among the safe areas of Huntington Beach. Source: Google Maps.
Pacific City is a new region and is among the safe areas of Huntington Beach. Source: Google Maps.

There are some excellent and (surprisingly!) inexpensive hotels in the best areas of Huntington Beach. You can find them below.

With such low crime rates in Huntington Beach, the ocean itself may be more of a safety hazard than the streets of the aforementioned neighborhoods. However, the city has regular beach patrols and promotes safety in and around the water to prevent accidents.

The city’s Marine Safety Division is in control of safety measures around and on the beach. The Safety Division also runs the lifeguard program. When water-related accidents occur, their rescue team is skilled enough to respond efficiently. Their force includes 14 emergency response vehicles, 30 lifeguard towers, 6 ATVs, and 17 defibrillators, among many other emergency resources. The specialized water and beach rescue training possessed by their expert staff add to the safe environment of Huntington Beach.

Is Huntington Beach A Good Place To Live

Seemingly every aspect of this city is alluring. Its Mediterranean climate is enviable, allowing residents to enjoy both mild summers and mild winters. If, for some weird reason, you are not fond of the sea and prefer to live closer to the Limestone Canyon Regional Park, check out our guide about the nearby city of Santa Ana.

The coldest month in Huntington Beach is December, with an average low temperature of 48 degrees Fahrenheit.

Safety, however, is another discussion. While not really dangerous, Huntington Beach has levels of criminality comparable to San Diego or Honolulu, both among the safest big cities in the US and it is safer than Anaheim (we also wrote a complete guide about it).

Favorable climate makes Huntington Beach a good place to live. Picture by I, Toksave, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
The favorable climate makes Huntington Beach a good place to live. Picture by I, Toksave, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.

Plenty of coastal cities in California may have a similar climate (our team also examined the crime rates and the best and worst neighbourhoods in other Californian cities, like Santa Rosa and Garden Grove), but several fun facts make Huntington Beach truly unique (besides its safety rating, of course).

Any “Real Housewives” fans should know that Real Housewives of OC is filmed in Huntington Beach. Heard of Hell’s Kitchen? Huntington Beach was also a filming location for this popular show. Any space fans out there should know that the Douglas Aircraft Space Systems Center notably helped create a rocket that flew astronauts to the moon in the 60s and 70s.

In “Surf City”, people aren’t the only ones surfing those massive swells. A dog broke the world record for the longest canine surf ride of an impressive 65 yards. Hollywood has the Walk of Fame, while Huntington Beach has its Surfing Walk of Fame. On the topic of walking, there is a comprehensive Historic Walking Tour in downtown Huntington Beach that’s an excellent choice for tourists, or even residents eager to learn more about their city’s history.

All things considered, Huntington Beach is a comfortable and safe location to live. With a myriad of exciting activities year-round, low crime rates, and a beautiful location nestled up against the Pacific Ocean, it’s hard to turn down a visit or a long-term stay.

Other Tips for Visiting Huntington Beach

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 — Areas surrounding airports and train stations can be dangerous.  Book a transfer in advance from the LAX Airport (or from any station) to your destination and vice versa, so you can avoid scammers and criminals. I often used Get Transfer for that and it always worked fine.

3rd — If you want to walk around and see some historical spots without the risk of getting lost or wasting your time, hire a guide. You can find some amazing and reliable guides and tours at Viator. They will give you insider information about historical facts and curiosities, and also warn you of risky areas and keep you safe.

4th—Stay in a good hostel. Hostels are usually in the safest parts of cities, unlike hotels. Most hostels have private rooms that are as comfortable as a hotel, plus a friendly staff to give information. When looking for hostels, I visit Hostelworld and filter for those above grade 7.


If you enjoyed this article answering the question Is Huntington Beach Safe?, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

9 Books about Relocating to Gain an Edge in Your Life

Is Vancouver, one of the densest urban centers in Canada, a safe place to live?

The Most Violent Cities in Europe BY COUNTRY

THESE Are the Cheapest Cities to Fly to In Europe

Some of the links of this article may be affiliate links, meaning that the author will have a commission for any transaction.

Berlin at night City and Safety Guides

Is Berlin Safe in 2023?

There is no more East-West, and the city now represents reunification and joy. But  Is Berlin safe?

Table of Contents
  • The Criteria to Rank the Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
  • The Worst Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Venezuela
  • The 7 Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
  • The Best Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Argentina

“Ich bin ein Berliner” were the words uddered by the late president John F. Kennedy. “I am a Berliner.” Berlin is not only the capital of Germany; it’s also the center of all things alternative to the “norm.”

Berlin is the most populous city in Germany and a cultural hub that is known for one of the most incredible nightlife scenes in Europe, unique architecture, and for its overall trendiness. It rivals Munich as one of the most visited cities in Germany for tourists (although Berlin is really not as beautiful as other European capitals).

Among the large European capitals, Berlin also has some of the most affordable costs of living. Nowadays, it is as inexpensive as Warsaw and it is 41% cheaper than London.

Moving Out, Working Abroad and Keeping Your Sanity Cover
Recommended book: Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity

This hot spot in central Europe has a vast atmosphere of art and free-spirited liberalism in the streets. You’ll find one of the country’s most famous landmarks, the Berliner Philharmonie – a golden-plated, uniquely-roofed concert hall that’s a must-see.

After researching all the spectacular things there are to do in Berlin, one question still lingers:

Is Berlin a safe place?

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Infographic for article Is Berlin Safe
Our infographic with the answer to the question, “Is Berlin Safe?” (Feel free to share, but please give proper credit by linking back to this article 🙂 )

Well, the short answer is yes. While you’re never guaranteed to be 100% safe anywhere you go, Berlin comes pretty close. Berlin is a major capital city in Europe that is safe for tourists or digital nomads to visit for a few days or stay for a while.

There are many thrilling parts in Berlin, but also cases of scamming. We wrote a particular article about the most common tourist scams happening in Europe. Read it before you travel.

Even Germany as a nation is relatively safe. According to the Global Peace Index, Germany ranked 16th out of 163 countries. That GPI included many quantitative indicators, including the level of Societal Safety and Security. There’s a very positive mindset with Germany as a whole.

Overall GPI Score

The GPI (Global Peace Index) is a general measure of violence. Germany has a decent position. Source: Vision of Humanity
The GPI (Global Peace Index) is a general measure of violence. Germany has a decent position. Source: Vision of Humanity

That’s not to say that Berlin is without its problems. Crime still plagues some neighborhoods and districts, much like any major metropolitan urban center. The city is moving forward to ensure tourists and fellow travelers that Berlin is open and is still one of the safest cities in Europe.

So sit tight and check out this valuable research we’ve put together for you. You’ll discover the crime rate in Berlin, some areas you might want to avoid, and where the best places to stay are. We’ll also share some insider tips everyone should know before heading to Berlin.

So let’s get started!

Book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights
Recommended book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights

Berlin Crime Rate

For being such a large city, Berlin enjoys a relatively crime-free environment. According to a recent ranking on crime in Europe, Berlin was much safer than other European cities such as Florence, Budapest, and Madrid. Another exciting report found that according to US standards, Berlin is extremely safe. However, no city is without its bad apples. There is still some crime that Berlin faces.

Crime Index of European Cities

Crime index map of Europe, with numbers of Berlin.
While the crime index of Berlim is not that bad, it is not as good as other safer cities in Germany. Source: Numbeo

So what’s the crime rate in Berlin?

Most of the crime in Berlin is non-violent petty crime such as stolen bicycles, pickpocketing, bag-snatching, some drug offenses, and scams. Very little violent crime is reported in the city, but as with any urban center, you should be on guard. Tourist sites, public transportation, metros, train stations, and airports attract many people, pickpocketers, and other scammers.

Despite its low overall crime rate, Berlin still benefits from decreasing rate of criminal offenses. Reports of crime are dropping by the thousands. That trend looks like it’s going to continue for the foreseeable future.

Areas To Avoid In Berlin

As mentioned above, the crime rate in Berlin is at an all-time low. Unlike many places worldwide, there aren’t many areas in Berlin to avoid outright. This means that where population density increases, so will your chance of being affected by petty crime.

Problems range from people (often young kids) asking and collecting money in crowded streets or transport hubs, eventual drug dealers in sketchy neighborhoods, and petty crimes like purse snatching.

However, even though Berlin has the reputation of being “super safe,” you still want the facts at hand when choosing a place to stay. This helpful information we’re about to cover will help you avoid selecting areas that might be more susceptible to crime.

Fortunately for you, the Berlin police department has organized its official website to help you identify the areas you might want to avoid. So, what are the neighborhoods to avoid in Berlin? Three of the top areas with the reputation of being the least safe include:

  • Alexanderplatz
    • Located in East Berlin, this area has lot of history, as its namesake, Tsar Alexander can testify. However, this neighborhood experiences common breakouts of massive brawls, drunken outbursts, drugs, and violent crime. There are also homeless communities around. Steer clear and keep a safe distance from sketchy characters that you may find there.
  • Leopoldplatz
    • The Leopoldplatz is a square located in one of the poorest districts in Berlin. Here you’ll find high unemployment and a large migrant community. There is a lot of subsidized housing in this area.
  • Gorlitzer Park
    • The main problem of this area is its infamous and the most extensive drug commerce, especially at night. This park is not somewhere you want to explore after sunset, as it’s been the site of multiple reports of violent crimes. Better just to stay away.

Map of the Areas to Avoid in Berlin

Map of the Areas to Avoid in Berlin
While Berlin is generally safe, better avoid the areas inside the red circles on this map. Source: Google Maps

Where To Stay When Visiting Berlin

Are you thinking of spending some time in Berlin but not sure where to stay? Well then, we’ve got great news for you – we’ve put together the top 3 places to stay when visiting Berlin.

The beauty of Berlin is that, on the one hand, it’s a city filled with an influential history that almost catapulted us to the brink of an all-out nuclear war during the Cold War. On the other hand, it’s a hustling and bustling electric city with a buzzing night scene. And it’s got everything in between.

Ps: If you are still in doubt about a move to Berlin or another city, check out our Expat Living City Guides, with information about cities for expatriates and digital nomads all over the world!

What’s good to know is that the city offers a great time, and Berlin’s neighborhoods also model that inviting atmosphere. So, are you wondering:

Where should I stay in Berlin?

Berlin welcomes any tourist or digital nomad looking to connect with the city. It has a range of places to stay that offer significant landmarks like the historic center of Mitte, the young and fresh Neukölln, and the little-bit-of-everything Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg. So get ready to find out why these top 3 destinations are the places to be.

Top 3 Places to Stay in Berlin

1.   Berlin Mitte – History and Art Haven

Berlin Mitte is a mix of the East and the West district. This neighborhood is the historic center of Berlin and offers noteworthy sites like the Jewish Memorial Potsdamer Platz and the Berlin Hauptbahnhof (a public transport hub). It is also within walking distance from the Berlin cathedral and the famous museum island, one of the most visited tourist attractions in the city. If you love history and the arts, this area is your spot.

2.   Neukölln – Young and Trendy

Neukölln is renowned for being unconventional, quirky, and welcoming to any type of alternate lifestyle. This area appeals to younger generations looking for a hip place to hang out, eat healthy at various vegan restaurants, or shop at one of the many vintage shops and markets. If you always like to keep it fresh and try new things, then this is where you gotta be!

3.   Friedrichshain-Kreuzberg – Work Hard, Party Harder

This district has the general “something for everybody” vibe. It has many great coworking spaces for digital nomads and remote workers to meet and connect. It reminds me of the Navigli in Milan, but less elegant. There’s a university atmosphere where you’ll find a large student population and excellent libraries. It also is home to one of the best party scenes in the capital. So if you’re the kind of person who likes to work hard but party harder, this is the spot for you!

There are some excellent and (surprisingly!) inexpensive hotels in the best areas of Berlin. You can find them below.

What More Should I Avoid In Berlin?

Berlin is a very welcoming and open metropolis with diverse cultures that attract tourists worldwide. Having said that, there are also unspoken rules in the culture that you should avoid breaking.

With this essential list of don’ts, we’ll have you blending in and shouting “Prost!” with all the locals.

  • Don’t put recycling materials in the ordinary trash can.
    • Berliners are very forward-thinking and respect the planet and healthy practices more than many other major cities. This goes especially for glass bottles – don’t put them in the trash. Instead, leave them next to the bin as many bottles can be taken back to supermarkets and get a refund.
  • Don’t break any crosswalk and traffic laws.
    • So you’re on foot and waiting to cross an intersection, but there isn’t a car anywhere in sight. Whatever you do, don’t cross! Crossing the road before the indicator flashes green for pedestrians will likely get you fined and embarrass you. Berliners can be very verbal when it comes to the laws. Be respectful of traffic laws.
  • Don’t walk in designated cycle lanes.
    • The German capital accounts for more than 500,000 daily cyclists, making up about 20% of the total traffic. Berlin has one of the highest rates of commuters on bicycles, with 710 bicycles per 1000 residents. Walking in cycle lanes is a sure way to stand out like a tourist, get verbally harassed, or, even worse, get seriously injured. As mentioned before, be very respectful of traffic laws while visiting Berlin.

So by now, you’ll be ready to fit right in when visiting Berlin. This city will be an unforgettable experience for any who stops by – and hey, what’s the hurry? Why don’t you stick around for a while and get the real Berlin experience? We’ll be seeing you there!

Berlin city center and the Berliner Dom. While far from being the safest city in Germany, visitors should not be worried when visiting Berlin. Follow our tips and enjoy your trip!
While far from being the safest city in Germany, visitors should not be worried when visiting Berlin. Follow our tips and enjoy your trip!

Other Tips for Visiting Berlin

Besides using your common sense like in any other major city, here are some extra tips to avoid safety issues:

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 — Areas surrounding airports and train stations can be dangerous.  Book a transfer in advance from the Berlin Brandenburg Airport (or from any station) to your destination and vice versa, so you can avoid scammers and criminals. I often used Get Transfer for that and it always worked fine.

3rd — If you want to walk around and see some historical spots without the risk of getting lost or wasting your time, hire a guide. You can find some amazing and reliable guides and tours at Viator. They will give you insider information about historical facts and curiosities, and also warn you of risky areas and keep you safe.

4th—As travel insurance for a trip to Berlin (or to most cities in Europe), I recommend Ekta.

5th—Stay in a good hostel. Hostels are usually in the safest parts of cities (at least in Europe and South America), unlike hotels. Most hostels have private rooms that are as comfortable as a hotel, plus a friendly staff to give information. When looking for hostels, I visit Hostelworld and filter for those above grade 7.


If you enjoyed this article answering the question Is Berlin Safe, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

The Most Violent Cities in Europe BY COUNTRY

Keeping Warm in Winter and Saving Money with Minimal Heating

THESE Are the Cheapest Cities to Fly to In Europe

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and 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.

Center of Milan. Italy is known for its culture, beauty, and history, but is Is Milan safe... City and Safety Guides

Is Milan Safe?

Easily one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, is Milan, Italy, still a safe place this year?

Table of Contents
  • The Criteria to Rank the Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
  • The Worst Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Venezuela
  • The 7 Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
  • The Best Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Argentina

Milan, one of the most famous Italian destinations, is a metropolis in Italy’s northern Lombardy region. This cosmopolitan hub is known as the mecca for fashion and design. It is also home to the national stock exchange – a very high-end, luxurious city filled with decadent restaurants and shops. In my personal opinion, they also serve some of the most delicious espressos I ever tried.

With all those pluses, one would wonder if Milan is safe for unaware tourists carrying around their Fendi bags.

Often, many tourists jump straight to Rome (the 2nd most beautiful city in Europe in my opinion, and relatively safe to visit), Venice, or even Florence. Still, those tourists miss out on this gem of a destination that offers many iconic sights and landmarks, such as the Duomo di Milano, the world’s largest and most beautiful gothic cathedral.

Milan is a testament to art and culture, as the Santa Maria Delle Grazie convent can attest. You’ll find Leonardo da Vinci’s mural “The Last Supper,” one of the most significant art pieces.

(After reading this article, we strongly recommend you check our list of the most dangerous cities in Europe.)

Moving Out, Working Abroad and Keeping Your Sanity Cover
Recommended book: Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity

With all the trendy restaurants, classic cafes, fantastic shopping, and opera performances, you’ll have nothing but options to choose from while you’re visiting Milan. But all that unbelievable touristic greatness aside, you may still be wondering:

Is Milan a Safe Place?

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Infographic for article Is Milan Safe
Our infographic with the answer to the question, “Is Milan Safe?” (Feel free to share, but please give proper credit by linking back to this article 🙂 )

The quick overall answer is yes. Milan is a relatively safe place where security guards and officials patrol the streets often. You’ll have no problem approaching them anytime if you feel unsafe. With a significant police presence, you can rest easy knowing they’ve got your back. That’s especially important if you’re a digital nomad walking around with your laptop in your bag everywhere you go.

However, that’s not to say that Milan is without its problems. Just like any major metropolitan center, there will be things you need to be aware of and some precautions to take.

But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ll cover some must-know facts and information about Milan, such as the crime rate, areas you might want to avoid, and some of the best places to stay. We’ll also explore how safe Milan truly is, especially for solo female travelers.

There are many charming areas in Milan, like the Navigli, but tourist areas have cases of scammers. We wrote a special article about common (and creative) tourist scams that you should check.

So get ready to start packing your bags and prepare your luggage because we’re about to give you all the research you’ll need to have a great stay in Milan!

Check out this article on the best European travel spots for the first half of the year.

Milan Crime Rate

As mentioned above, Milan is a relatively safe destination for tourists worldwide. There aren’t any major threats in the area, and travelers of all kinds should feel at ease while visiting the eclectic city. Actually, compared to many other parts of the world, you could say Milan is pretty much crime free – however…

Some areas are hot spots for a lot of pickpockets. There are areas around the city where petty theft is pretty standard. Even in some parts of the city center, you might run into some scams where people offer help or advice but may harass you for payment. Besides the sufficient police presence, bag-snatchers and pickpockets are still able to make a living – that’s what makes up most of the crime in Milan.

Overall Crime and Safety Situation in Milan

Statistics of different types of crime in Milan. Source: OSAC
Statistics of different types of crime in Milan. Source: OSAC

Last year, Milan placed at the top in terms of crime rate in Italy. The largest city in the Lombardy province recorded about 1 out of every 20 inhabitants. In Milan, petty crimes such as pickpocketing made up most of the crime rate. Still, Milan also ranked high in burglaries in shops and thefts. This may sound problematic, but it’s not time to sound the alarms just yet. Compared to North America, Milan has about the same crime rate as any average city in the United States.

There is good news in all of this. Milan is starting to see a decline in the crime rate. Petty theft, pickpocketing, muggings, and almost every other crime except for cybercrime networks and drug trafficking, where sectors of the Mafia are still operating. There definitely are some areas you’ll want to avoid.

Book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights
Recommended book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights

Areas To Avoid In Milan

Milan is a beautiful city with lots to explore and see, and if you live in America, it also has some of the cheapest flights into Europe.

It’s also a large city, and with any large city, there will be places you might want to avoid if you’re trying to stick around. Whether you’re a tourist looking to check off a bucket list or a remote worker on an extended stay in Milan, you’ll need to recognize and identify the neighborhoods and areas to avoid.

So, what are the areas to avoid in Milan?

Most neighborhoods outside the center don’t offer many attractive destinations or sights to see, so it might not even be worth venturing out too far. Places you’ll want to avoid might include Quarto Oggiaro, Lambrate, and Giambellino-Lorenteggio. That said, there really isn’t anywhere you should be afraid for your life. Just places to be extra on guard. Regarding the rest of Milan, it’s one of the safest cities in Italy.

What Are the Top 3 Areas to Avoid in Milan?

●    Quarto Oggiaro

This area is located to the North West of Milan in Zone 8. Situated at the fringe of Milan, its location isolates it from the rest of the city, attributing to higher crime. Quarto Oggiaro is notorious for its corruption.

●    Lambrate

This area is located to the North East of Milan, situated relatively far from the city center. This area is also considered somewhat dangerous but is on its way to becoming cleaner and safer.

●    Giambellino-Lorenteggio

This area is a two-for-one. Giambellino-Lorenteggio is a two-in-one neighborhood located pretty close to the city center. This area is mainly known for its drug trafficking and ties to the Mafia. Giambellino-Lorenteggio gets its name from the two ample avenues constructed in the 1920s. Here you’ll find a lot of poverty and immigrants from Italy and other countries. Here you’ll find most of the subsidized housing.

Places to Avoid in Milan

Map of areas to avoid in Milan, inside the red circles. Source: Google Maps
Areas to avoid in Milan inside the red circles. Source: Google Maps

Again, Milan is overall safe and has lots of fun things to do. It also has fantastic places to visit and stay, so try to avoid these places, and instead choose one of the suggestions below.

Ps: If you are still in doubt about a move to Milan or another city, check out our Expat Living City Guides, with information about cities for expatriates and digital nomads all over the world!

Best Neighborhoods In Milan To Stay

As we’ve said, Milan is a spectacular destination for any tourists or digital nomads looking to stick around anywhere from a few days to a few months. Also, on the outskirts of Milan, there are some smaller towns that are perfect for people willing to retire from the urban noise.

Here we’ve put together a mix of Milan’s safest, cleanest, most beautiful, and most exciting neighborhoods. Most of them are central and well-connected by public transport (something important, because Milan has one of the most expensive Uber prices in the world). So let’s get right to it!

What are the best places to stay in Milan?

Milan is a very diverse and eclectic major city in Italy. It offers fashion districts, historical centers, and beautiful places to stay and visit. Some of these places include Brera, San Lorenzo, Navigli District, and Porta Nuovo. Making your way around these areas and neighborhoods is easy as most of Milan is flat and not too big.

  • Brera – great for sightseeing
    • A modern area where the city’s most important museum is located (the Pinacoteca de Brera).
  • San Lorenzo – the spot for a romantic getaway
    • This area has unique street art, lovely restaurants, and fantastic shops to take your date.
  • Navigli District – where the night comes to life
    • This is the most energetic and vibrant area in all of Milan. If the party scene is your jam, then be sure not to miss out on this district. It reminds some areas of Berlin, but it is much more elegant.

There are some excellent and (surprisingly!) inexpensive hotels in the best areas of Milan. You can find them below.

Is Milan Safe For Solo Female Travelers?

By now, you’ll know that Italy is a safe country, and Milan is no exception. A common concern for travelers is safety for solo female travelers. We assure you that women will feel safe and secure in Milan, with standard precautions you would take anywhere else. In my view, it is, for example much safer than Athens.

In this stunning city, violent crimes are highly negligent – only you should be on the alert for petty theft. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on your purse or bags and lock up luggage like in any big city. Traveling in groups is always recommended anywhere you go.

You may hear cat calls like “ciao bella” or “che bella.” If you hear any of this while you’re out and about, the best move is to keep on with your business and not give them the satisfaction of getting a reaction out of you.

That “open appreciation” for women isn’t regulated or policed. Still, if it gets to the point where someone won’t stop bothering you, the police are always around and ready to help.

Another essential piece of advice is to ensure you have an Italian SIM card or even an international one. Hence, you always have your phone ready to use. Hopefully, you never find yourself in an emergency, but it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

Emergency numbers:

  • 112 – Carabinieri (Italian force)
  • 113 – Emergency Police Help Number (also ambulance and fire)
  • 115 – Fire Department
  • 118 – Medical Emergencies

Is Milan Safe? Conclusion

Image of one of the most visited attractions in Italy: The Duomo of Milan.
One of the most visited attractions in Italy: The Duomo of Milan.

The streets of Milan are always bustling day and night, and there are always people and police roaming around. Milan is relatively safe for visitors, and solo female travelers shouldn’t be more worried about traveling here than most places worldwide.

So start packing your bags and planning your trip! This hub of history and culture is waiting to be explored!

Other Tips for Visiting Milan

Personal opinion: The best time to visit Milan is around November, since it is a low season and prices are very low.

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 — Areas surrounding airports and train stations can be dangerous.  Book a transfer in advance from the Malpensa Airport, Bergamo Airport, or from any station to your destination and vice versa, so you can avoid scammers and criminals. I often used Get Transfer for that and it always worked fine.

3rd — If you want to walk around and see some historical spots without the risk of getting lost or wasting your time, hire a guide. You can find some amazing and reliable guides and tours at Viator. They will give you insider information about historical facts and curiosities, and also warn you of risky areas and keep you safe.

4th—Stay in a good hostel. Hostels are usually in the safest parts of cities (at least in Europe and South America), unlike hotels. Most hostels have private rooms that are as comfortable as a hotel, plus a friendly staff to give information. When looking for hostels, I visit Hostelworld and filter for those above grade 7.


If you enjoyed this article answering the question Is Milan Safe? here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

Dublin, the city from James Joyce and Colin Farrell, should be on your bucket list, and here is why.

How to Keep Warm in Winter with Minimal Heating

The Most Violent Cities in Europe BY COUNTRY

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and 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.

Skyline of Vancouver to illustrate article about if the city is safe. City and Safety Guides

Is Vancouver Safe?

Is Vancouver, a densely populated urban center, a safe choice for tourists?

Table of Contents
  • We ranked the worst and the best Spanish speaking countries to visit (other than Spain). Here is it.
    • The Criteria to Rank the Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
    • The Worst Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Venezuela
    • The 7 Best Spanish-Speaking Countries to Visit
    • The Best Spanish-Speaking Country to Visit in 2023: Argentina

Canada is known for its friendly people and hospitality, but did you know that it’s also home to the fifth most livable city in the world? Vancouver is surrounded by magnificent misty mountains, blessed with shimmering sea sunsets and striking foliage all year round! Still, beauty can come in tandem with danger (Rio is proof of that), so, is Vancouver safe?

Vancouver can cater to just about any interest. Are you looking to shop until you drop? What about wine and dining? Are you ready to experience live electric entertainment? Or how about adventuring in the wide open outdoors? Don’t worry. Vancouver has got what you need.

It is one of the best places in the world for international students (although, differently than Saskatchewan in Canada, they will not pay you to study there), and also one of the top destinations to study medicine. We also wrote a guide about Canada as a retirement destination for pensioners and remote workers.

Alright, so I know what you might be wondering – what’s the catch? Although Canada is one of the cleanest and safest countries in the world (even some of the safest cities in Mexico, like Guadalajara, are more dangerous than Canada), some curious tourists may also be asking:

How safe is Vancouver?

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Infographic for article Is Vancouver Safe
Our infographic with the answer to the question, “Is Vancouver Safe?” (Feel free to share, but please give proper credit by linking back to this article 🙂 )

Vancouver overall is a generally safe place for any tourist to visit. For being such a large and densely populated urban center, Vancouver is mostly without major crime. But like any major city, you should always take the appropriate precautions. In this article, we’ll dive deeper into how safe the city is, areas you have to see, places you should avoid, and what downtown Vancouver offers.

So if you want to find out if Vancouver is the right destination to visit, you’ve come to the right place!

What Is The Crime Rate In Vancouver, Canada?

When you want to look at the crime rate in Vancouver, you almost have to break it up into two categories: Vancouver and Metro Vancouver.

Overall, in Vancouver, although some minor crimes are reported, major violent crimes and assaults are rare. Personal safety when walking alone down the streets is very good, especially when speaking about tourists.

That being said, Vancouver isn’t without its problems (just like Montreal, which we covered in this article, or Toronto, that we covered here). Although crime is moderately low, it is on the rise. The crime that is common in Vancouver is petty theft and property crime. Leaving items unattended invites them to be taken. That means, even if you’re going to step away for one second, you should always have your belongings on or right next to you with a vigilant eye.

Another crime wave that is trending is car break-ins.

Just because you locked away your items inside your car doesn’t mean they are safe. It’s advised by the Vancouver Police Department not to leave any valuables unattended in your vehicle. Actually, it is best not to leave anything that may be visible, even if you think it has no value. Something to note is that a car break-in is not likely to happen where there are many people around.

I know that all sounds a little scary, but good news exists. The trend of car thefts has recently dropped over the last couple of years, and it’s looking like 2022 will follow that same direction.

Number of Incidents

Number of car break-ins in Vancouver per year.
Is Vancouver safe? Yes, but crime does exist. The numbers above are related to car break-ins. Source: Vancouver P.D.

Vancouver is the largest city in British Columbia, Canada. And with every major city, there will be some bad apples. But relax. You shouldn’t worry too much if you’re heading to Vancouver.

Canada has a reputation for being welcoming and friendly. By taking these few precautions, you can rest assured that you won’t likely have anything broken into or have any valuables stolen.

So what is the crime rate in Canada?

  • Vancouver’s crime rates are higher than the national average.
  • However, violent crimes are 6% lower than the average.
  • Compared to British Columbia, Vancouver’s crime rates are 12% lower.
  • Vancouver is safer than more than half of the cities in Canada.
  • Crime rates in Vancouver are dipping year over year by 5%

In the next paragraphs, there are some important key takeaways if you are visiting or moving to the city. Take note of them, especially the districts mentioned.

Book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights
Recommended book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights

Bad Areas of Vancouver

Okay, so you’re headed over to visit Vancouver for a few days, and you might be wondering, what are the bad areas of Vancouver?

As mentioned before, Vancouver is relatively safe and very livable. It also ranked the #6 city in the world for health and safety! That being said, some bad neighborhoods have higher crime rates, such as Downtown Eastside, Mole Hill, and Historic Japantown. While these aren’t places tourists should avoid at all costs, you’ll have to be more careful when traveling with valuables or walking alone at night.

Top 3 Bad Areas of Vancouver

1.   What is Downtown Eastside Like?

Depending on who you ask, Downtown Eastside is an area that covers anywhere from 10-50 blocks in size and sits a few blocks east of Downtown Vancouver’s central business district. Hence, “Downtown Eastside.” This is one of the oldest areas in Vancouver, along the intersection of Main Street and Hastings.

The Downtown Eastside area has had a rather bad reputation for some time now. Compared to the other areas, the Downtown Eastside has an almost 50% higher crime rate than the overall average in Vancouver. This place isn’t dangerous to pass through during the day. Still, drug addicts and an increasing homeless problem make things a bit erratic after sunset.

2.   What is Mole Hill Like?

Mole Hill is a small Vancouver area with deep history and heritage. Unfortunately, this area is one of the most crime-ridden areas. Mole Hill scored almost twice as high compared to the rest of the national average. Here in this small community with a population of about 500, you have a 1 in 13 chance of becoming a victim of crime. Once again, if proper precautions are taken, you will be fine. The risk of encountering danger while traveling through this area is low, just try not to travel alone and always keep an eye on your possessions.

Daily Crime in Mole Hill, Vancouver per 100,000 People

Crime statistics of Mole Hill, Vancouver, Canada.
Mole Hill is not among the safest places in Vancouver. Source: areavibes

3.   What is Historic Japan Like?

The area has a population of about 6,000 citizens. Still, it makes up a large percentage of the crime rate in Vancouver. A lot more tension was added to the area once the pandemic hit. This area was one of the hardest-hit regions in Canada. Not only that, but a lot of fear and uncertainty about the origin of Covid-19 contributed to a lot of Asian discrimination.

Bad Areas of Vancouver

In the red circle, some bad areas of Vancouver. Source: Google Maps
In the red circle, some bad areas of Vancouver. Source: Google Maps

Things are starting to shape up in these bad areas. Renovations and a lot of funding are coming in to try and preserve these historic regions as national landmarks. These areas shouldn’t sway you from visiting Vancouver’s fantastic cultural hub. Just mind essential safety tips, and you’ll be fine!

Moving Out, Working Abroad and Keeping Your Sanity Cover
Recommended book: Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity

Where To Stay In Vancouver?

Vancouver is a top destination for outdoor adventures such as hiking, boat rides, and even a “skip” in a seaplane! Vancouver is swimming with all types of ethnic foods, top-notch shopping, and great sightseeing. But while you’re there, check out Downtown Center, Gastown & Chinatown, and the famous West End!

There are some excellent and (surprisingly!) inexpensive hotels in the best areas of Vancouver. You can find them below.

Downtown Center

If you’re checking out Vancouver, you’ll most likely spend some time in the Downtown area. The City Center is where you’ll find several suitable hotels down the Financial District. Many travelers are in this part of town for business. Still, even tourists should consider staying close to the fun, where you’ll find excellent public transportation to get you around!

Gastown & Chinatown

While visiting the largest city in British Columbia, you’ll have to check out some of its oldest architecture in Vancouver. This area is beaming with life and has a history all over its cobblestone streets and Victorian buildings. There’s a great photo op at the Gastown Steam Clock that bursts with hissing steam every 15 minutes on the dot. You’ll also find tons of souvenir shopping and fabulous authentic ethnic restaurants and bars!

The West End

Located just a stone skip away from the beautiful Central Business District Downtown, the West End of Vancouver is one of the most famous destinations for tourists. It’s straightforward to get to using public transportation and houses the most famous tourist attraction in the entire city, Stanley Park.

Vancouver skyline during the day.
Some of the safest neighborhoods in Vancouver also have amazing views!

Is Downtown Vancouver Safe?

Downtown Vancouver is where it’s at if you’re looking for a booming, trendy, and top-rated urban center. In Downtown Vancouver, you can rest easy knowing that it’s ranked one of the safest places to visit in the world! As of late, it’s been a hub for young business professionals of all types to meet up and connect.

Just remember, as mentioned previously, to avoid Downtown eastside.

In the other parts of Downtown Vancouver is where you can shop at the epic Pacific Centre Shopping Mall, check out the latest art and fashion at the Vancouver Art Gallery, and also explore the Vancouver Public Library. Some curious good news: Uber rates in Vancouver are far cheaper than in large American cities like NY.

You’ll be able to enjoy all of what Downtown Vancouver offers and feel safe and secure while doing it. This place is fantastic and a must-visit if you’re thinking of having a stay in British Columbia, Canada. So join the over 8 million people visiting this city every year

Ps: If you are still in doubt about a move to Vancouver or another city, check out our Expat Living City Guides, with information about cities for expatriates and digital nomads all over the world!

Other Tips for Visiting Vancouver

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 — Areas surrounding airports and train stations can be dangerous.  Book a transfer in advance from the Vancouver International Airport (or from any station) to your destination and vice versa, so you can avoid scammers and criminals. I often used Get Transfer for that and it always worked fine.

3rd — If you want to walk around and see some historical spots without the risk of getting lost or wasting your time, hire a guide. You can find some amazing and reliable guides and tours at Viator. They will give you insider information about historical facts and curiosities, and also warn you of risky areas and keep you safe.

4th—Stay in a good hostel. Hostels are usually in the safest parts of cities, unlike hotels. Most hostels have private rooms that are as comfortable as a hotel, plus a friendly staff to give information. When looking for hostels, I visit Hostelworld and filter for those above grade 7.


If you enjoyed this article answering the question Is Vancouver Safe? here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

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

The Most Violent Cities in Europe BY COUNTRY

THESE Are the Cheapest Cities to Fly to In Europe

Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and 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.

Image from Gdansk, the 2nd best place to live in Poland Digital Nomads

The Best Place to Live in Poland

Using 12 Different Criteria, This Is the Top 10 Best Places to Live in Poland


There are only 107 cities in Poland.

The low number is due to Poland’s distinction between towns and cities. While a town mayor is called the burmistrz, a city mayor is the prezydent miasta. Other differences are some public services, like specific courts, and so on.

There isn’t any city in Poland with less than 35,000 residents, though some towns might have a larger population.

However, 107 is not a small number, and when considering a move, many expatriates wonder where in Poland they should settle (at least this is a question I asked myself six years ago when I was planning to move here).

Fortunately, an interesting study conducted by the consulting firm ThinkCo and the Polish portal Otodom helped us find the answer to this question about Poland. Yes, Poland, a place where the economy is expanding so rapidly that it is causing a reverse-immigration, and bringing back the citizens who long ago left the nation. It is also one of the best countries in the world for education.

In this guide, we will share with you the criteria and the highlights of the best cities in this guide, as well as my personal opinion about those that I know personally.

Criteria used to define the best place to live in Poland

How happy do you feel in the city where you live?

Almost 36 thousand people living in Poland responded to this question in the survey that Otodom conducted between the end of 2021 and the beginning of 2022. The respondents gave their opinions on a scale from 1 (completely unhappy) to 5 (extremely happy).

The study’s objective was to determine what factors affect people’s subjective feelings of happiness in the city and its nearby areas. Therefore, in addition to providing a general assessment of their level of happiness, the respondents also provided information on the factors that had a positive and negative influence on it.

These components (in the report, some smaller cities lacked a breakdown of results by each factor) included:

  • Availability of shops
  • Public transportation
  • Natural environment
  • Security
  • Availability of entertainment and cultural attractions
  • Cost of living
  • Availability of sports and recreation venues
  • Relations with neighborhood and community
  • Cleaning and maintenance of the city
  • Availability of health services
  • Infrastructure for kids
  • Infrastructure for animals

Without further ado, let’s dive into the best places to live in Poland according to the research.

10: Kraków

Score: 3.69 (where 1 means completely unhappy, while 5 means extremely happy)

Best evaluated factors: The things that Kraków residents liked best were public transportation (39% said it has a positive impact on their lives), commerce (36%), and entertainment and cultural attractions (34%).

A curious result is that Kraków scored better than any other large Polish city in the availability of health services (20%).

Worst evaluated factors: Living costs (54% of the respondents considered that it has a negative impact on their life) and the natural environment (48% of negative evaluations — the worst among all large cities).

Picture of the center of Krakow, the city that opens our top 10 of the best places to live in Poland
Krakow opens our top 10 of the best places to live in Poland

My personal opinion about Kraków

Although I live in Warsaw, I consider Kraków a more pleasant place in almost all aspects (an exception would be the job market), and it is probably the best place to visit in Poland if you have only a few days.

They do have a great (and cheaper than Warsaw) public transport system, and the city has plenty of cultural attractions that are often not present even in Warsaw (e.g., the Cirque du Soleil during the 2022 tour will make presentations both in Gdańsk and Kraków, but not Warsaw).

The critics are also in line with my own experiences, which may be shocking if you read a previous article where I put Kraków as one of the best cities in the world for digital nomads, in part because of its low cost of living. It is also a favorite among international students in Poland.

The thing is: compared to other similar cities in the European Union, Kraków is inexpensive, but compared to other Polish cities, except for Warsaw, it is expensive. That explains why locals complain about the cost of living: they are not comparing it with Valencia or Lyon, but with smaller cities in Poland.

Inflation is also hitting hard: 2 years ago, I wrote an article about cities in Europe that you could visit for less than 25 euros per day, nowadays, I doubt this is still possible.

The locals’ complaints about the environment are also understandable since during the winter Kraków has some of the worst air quality of any city in the world.

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Recommended book: Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity

9: Poznań

Score: 3.73

Best evaluated factors: Public transport (34% of the respondents affirmed it has a positive impact on their life), and availability of entertainment and cultural attractions (31%).

Worst evaluated factors: Living costs (49% of the respondents considered that it has a negative impact on their life) and the natural environment (31%).

My personal opinion about Poznań

While the best-evaluated factors are no surprise for me and I completely agree with them, it is a surprise to see that people in Poznań have so bad remarks about the natural environment. The city is not even close to having air as polluted as Kraków or Warsaw during the winter. 

I also expected more criticism about security, since it is one of the most violent cities in Poland (however, since Poland is a very safe country, it is still much safer than other similar-sized European cities).

8: Katowice

Score: 3.75

Best evaluated factors: Availability of shops (32% considered it a positive impact). Katowice also had the best results among all large cities in Poland in 2 factors: availability of sports and recreation venues (24%), and Infrastructure for kids (18%).

Worst evaluated factor: Katowice had the worst score among all large cities in Security, with 25% of the respondents affirming it negatively impacts their life.

My personal opinion about Katowice

Katowice has indeed a remarkable infrastructure, both for commercial activities but also for sports and recreation. Lately, the city and its metropolitan area became the host of multiple fairs and large events in Poland that before would be in Warsaw or Krakow.

The bad result in security isn’t because of the city itself, but I guess it is because of the areas around it. For example, poor towns like Bytom and Sosnowiec never got back on their feet after the coal mining industry collapsed.

7: Rzeszów

Score: 3.76

6: Szczecin

Score: 3.82

Best evaluated factor: Natural environment, where 36% of the respondents considered it a factor with a positive impact on their lives.

Worst evaluated factors: Living costs (43% considered it a factor with a negative impact) and public transportation (26%).

5: Bielsko-Biała

Score: 3.85

My personal opinion about Bielsko-Biała

It is a lovely city close to the Beskid mountains (one of the most beautiful places in Europe during autumn). It is medium-sized, with close to 170,000 residents. This city has the advantage of being located 1 hour or less from major urban centers like Katowice or Ostrava (Czech Republic) but without the cons of these larger cities.

It is a bit colder than the other cities on this list, so you may spend a bit more on heating bills (although there are some extreme ways to reduce heating expenses).

If in the future I move out from Warsaw, Bielsko-Biała is on the list of the cities that definitely I would live in.

4: Tychy

Score: 3.91

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Recommended book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights

The 3rd Best Place to Live in Poland: Zielona Góra

Score: 3.95

I have never been to Zielona Góra, but from what I know, the city (which has around 140 thousand inhabitants) offers great opportunities for anyone that likes nature or students seeking higher education. The University of Zielona Góra provides a diverse range of programs, including foreign languages and computer science.

Zielona Góra is also known for its beautiful nature. There are many lakes, forests, and mountains near the city, which makes it a perfect place for hiking and other outdoor activities. Attributes enough to put Zielona Góra as the 3rd best place to live in Poland.

The 2nd Best Place to Live in Poland: Gdańsk

Score: 3.96

Best evaluated factors: Natural environment, with 37% considering it a positive factor, the same percentage that also evaluated positively the availability of entertainment and cultural attractions

Worst evaluated factors: Cost of living, with 56% considering it a negative impact, and availability of health services (23%).

Picture of Gdańsk downtown, one of the 3 best places to live in Poland.
Gdańsk, one of the 3 best places to live in Poland.

My personal opinion about Gdańsk

Gdańsk is one of the most popular summer cities in Poland, although its beaches may be overshadowed by those of neighboring Sopot. The city has plenty of nice parks and one of the best air quality indicators in the entire country despite its size. It is relatively expensive if compared to other cities that are off the beaten tourist path, but still much cheaper than Warsaw.

The Best Place to Live in Poland: Gdynia

Score: 4,03

Best evaluated factors: Public transportation (39% consider it a positive factor) and natural environment (36%).

Worst evaluated factor: 57% evaluate the cost of living negatively, and this is the worst result on this factor in the entire country.

My personal opinion about Gdynia

Just like Gdańsk (which is a few minutes farther east), Gdynia has wonderful clean air, beautiful parks, and great public transport. The cost of living is pumped during the summer by large touristic inflows, and I guess that this, together with the proximity to Sopot, the most expensive city in Poland, inflates the prices inside the city and causes some dissatisfaction among locals.

Check also: The Most Beautiful Capital Cities in Europe

Why Warsaw is Not Among the Best Places to Live in Poland?

Warsaw downtown at night. One of the reasons why Warsaw is not one of the best cities in Poland is that it feels a bit too crowded sometimes.
One of the reasons why Warsaw is not one of the best cities in Poland is that it feels a bit too crowded sometimes, as you can see. Picture by Levi Borba.

One could ask why Warsaw is completely absent from the list of the best cities to live in Poland, even when we consider only the largest cities.

But I would rather ask: why would Warsaw be among the best places to live in Poland?

Yes, the Polish capital does have plenty of cultural and entertainment attractions, the availability of numerous health services, very decent infrastructure for sports, and a good public transport system.

BUT….

Everything goes down when we talk about pollution (although not as bad as Kraków), traffic jams, and the worst of all: the price. Warsaw is much more expensive than nearly all Polish cities, except for resort municipalities like Sopot (during the summer) or Zakopane (during the winter).

For example, housing prices in Warsaw are 56% higher than in Szczecin.

Yes, Warsaw is still one of the most inexpensive capitals in the European Union (it also has one of the cheapest Uber rates in the world), but it is pricey when compared to the rest of the country.


If you enjoyed this article about the best place to live in Poland, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

The 10 Most Dangerous Cities in Europe This Year

The Best Cities to Retire in the European Continent

The Miracle on the Vistula 1920: How Poland Saved Europe from the Soviet Union

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Levi Borba is the founder of the Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and 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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Expatriate Consultancy Levi Borba

I'm Levi Borba, and after living on multiple continents during my career as an airline specialist, I started a company to help expatriates, producing 3 books about moving abroad. Check out my podcast, our YouTube channel The Expat, my LinkedIn profile, or my Twitter. Also, you can find my writings on Medium (where I am one of the top-writers on my field of expertise).

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