We’ve all heard the horror stories of what can go wrong when travelling overseas and common sense tells us that certain places are far safer to travel to than others. If you are considering travelling overseas make sure you stay safe and avoid the following tourist destinations. These countries and destinations are among the most dangerous in the world and its best to leave 
them off your world tour if you want to stay safe.
Papua New Guinea
While the country itself is very beautiful with a lot to offer visitors, Papua New Guinea is shown to have one of the highest incidences of murder in the world. In addition, armed robberies, car-jacking, and violent crimes also rank highly in a country where public transport can be a very dangerous option for tourists.
Colombia
With world famous surfing venues and gorgeous Caribbean coastlines, it’s hard for tourists not to be attracted to the shores of Colombia. Unfortunately, Colombia is also home to over 2300 kidnappings a year along with one of the highest violent crime rates in the world. Between drug cartel killings, bank robberies, highway robberies, muggings and assaults, Colombia is one destination you don’t want to visit anytime soon.
Sudan
With so many of its own people fleeing the country, it makes sense to avoid this particular part of the world. In addition to violence, terrorist attacks and militant fighting, this Northeast African country is also home to a number of very rare diseases that are not found anywhere else in world. Unless you wish to contract the Ebola virus or some other rare disease for which there is no known vaccine or cure, its best to stay clear of this part of the world.
Russia
If you are planning to visit Russia, be sure to stay within the cities of Moscow and St Petersburg. Many regions with Russia, particular the Caucasus region, North Ossetia and Degestan areas are very unstable with open Guerilla warfare. Regular attacks on hotels, buildings and schools still occur and tourists are often the target of kidnappings for the purpose of ransom. Do your research before you go and either avoid Russia altogether or stay where tourists are safe.
Zimbabwe
Home to the beautiful Victoria Falls, considered to be one of the natural wonders of the world by some, the glorious African nation of Zimbabwe is a no-go zone for tourist, thanks to the violence perpetuated by Mugabe’s rule.
Venezuela
One of the world’s greatest tourist destinations and a beautiful country full of natural wonders, Venezuela is unfortunately the home of the third highest murder rate in the world. As beautiful as this country is, it may be best to avoid it if you don’t want to become a statistic.
Dominican Republic
Yet another one of the world’s most beautiful countries with high crimes rates for everything from petty theft right through to murder. Sadly, violent crimes against tourists are climbing and public transport is extremely dangerous with many buses and taxis helping criminals to target tourists.
Brazil
A popular tourist destination with a lot of beauty including beaches, clear water, rainforests and a high-spirited culture, Brazil is also home to what some may call a ‘seedy underbelly’ where its citizens will do just about anything for money and the police are powerless to stop the drug cartels. Stay safe and avoid Brazil until the situation for tourists becomes much safer.
Sri Lanka
With some of the world’s most beautiful and luxurious resorts, Sri Lanka is certainly one of the more exotic countries on earth. Unfortunately, like many other countries these days, terrorism is a big issue and although it is still relatively safe for tourists, you need to be aware of the dangers if planning to travel to Sri Lanka.
South Africa
While some consider South Africa a beautiful place, it is a country that has been in turmoil for many years. Between high rates of murder, rape and HIV, South Africa and its many neighbours can be very dangerous places to visit. If you must go, make sure you do all you can to protect yourself during your visit.
We are lucky enough to live on a planet with some exquisite scenery and gorgeous cultures. Unfortunately, many of these beautiful destinations hide a dark side that makes travel dangerous for the unprepared. If you choose to travel to any of the countries mentioned, do as much research as possible and let someone back home know where you will be at all times. If you decide that you would like to supplement your income by taking on jobs while travelling, it may also be worthwhile to find out what your entitlements would be should you suffer personal injury and require workers compensation. May you travel safely.