Why You Should Avoid These Countries for Your Next Travel
When planning your next adventure, certain destinations might not top your list due to a variety of reasons including political instability, human rights concerns, and safety issues. Here are some countries you should consider avoiding:
Bhutan: A Land of Contrasts
Bhutan, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, is known for its unique concept of Gross National Happiness, where the government measures progress based on the happiness of its citizens. However, this idyllic image can be deceiving. Bhutan still practices a system of serfdom, where people are bound to the land they work on, a form of bondage that starkly contradicts the nation's claim to happiness and progress.
Eritrea: A Land of Suppression
Eritrea's autocrat President Isaias Afwerki has ruled the country since 1993. Eritrea is often dubbed as a nation of 'forced tolerance,' where freedom of speech and independent thought are severely restricted. The government's strict control over dissent can render any visit to this country a risky endeavor.
Turkmenistan: Where Knowledge Is Suppressed
Under the paranoid rule of dictator Saparmurat Niyazov, libraries were banned, as the regime claimed that citizens didn't need books because Niyazov himself had encompassed all useful knowledge in a single tome. This autocratic control over information is one of the many reasons why visiting Turkmenistan might not be the best choice for a traveler.
War-Torn Somalia: A Rebuilding Effort in Progress
Warlords, piracy, and a lack of a functional government make Somalia a challenging place to visit. Even after decades of conflict, the country is still struggling to rebuild. The combination of lawlessness, violence, and rampant corruption makes Somalia a travel destination best avoided, unless absolutely necessary.
Papua New Guinea: A Place of Tribal Conflicts and Cannibalism
Papua New Guinea is a place of contrasts. While it boasts breathtaking natural beauty, it is also plagued by tribal conflicts and violence, with some tribes still practicing cannibalism. Poor infrastructure and limited access to basic services like healthcare and education present significant challenges to navigation.
Djibouti: A Country With a Dismal Human Rights Record
Djibouti, a small but strategic nation in the Horn of Africa, has a disturbing human rights record. Reports of torture and arbitrary detention are common. Its location near the Gulf of Aden makes it a hub for military bases, but it is not a tourist destination that should be on your radar.
Equatorial Guinea: A Country Struggling With Inequality
Equatorial Guinea is notorious for its government embezzling oil revenues, leaving the majority of its population in poverty. This stark inequality is further exacerbated by the long-term rule of dictator Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, who has suppressed all dissent since 1979. Traveling to Equatorial Guinea might come with significant risks for both safety and human rights.
North Korea: The Ultimate Travel No-No
North Korea is perhaps the most challenging destination for travel. The lack of freedom, limited access to information, and severe human rights issues make it a place that should not be on any traveler's list. Political tension, restricted movement, and substance control further complicate any potential visit.
When planning your travels, do your due diligence and consider the political, social, and safety risks associated with each destination. While some of these countries may offer unique experiences, the risks often outweigh the benefits for the average traveler.