Staying Safe Abroad - Countries to Treat With Care

By Patrick Chong

There will no problem insuring your holiday if you're off to sunny Spain or sophisticated France. The insurers will be more than willing to offer comprehensive policies, because they understand the risks are fairly minimal. However, you will find it much harder to secure a policy if you are visiting the dangerous countries listed in this article.

Somalia

The effects of enduring famine and civil warfare have unfortunately, devastated Somalia. A group of militant Islamists have dominated the capital city, Mogadishu, for some time and great numbers of civilians have lost their lives in the savage battles in the northern region. It is little wonder that the FCO have advised against travel to any parts of this country.

South Africa

There are a number of travel companies offering tailored South African holiday packages. They include visits to world-class attractions such as Johannesburg Zoo and the Two Oceans Aquarium. However, do be aware you may have difficulty insuring your holiday to South Africa because crime rates are particularly high in this part of the world.

Colombia

You may be tempted by the thought of exploring the historic streets of Categena and the awe inspiring Santa Marta mountains. However, be aware you may struggle to find a company willing to go ahead with the process of insuring your holiday to Colombia. One reason is the considerable risk of kidnappings in this country, and there have also been reports of warfare in the cocaine growing regions. Having said that, it has become increasingly safer to travel around Colombia in recent times, so make your decision based on all the facts at hand.

North Korea

It is perhaps unsurprising that there is a lack of advertisements for holidays in North Korea. It is known that the communist dictatorship exerts strict control over the people. In terms of tourism, it has been claimed bugs have been set up in the hotels and that people who do not fall into line with the national rules are treated extremely harshly. However, thousands of inquisitive tourists ignore the warnings and spend holidays in North Korea every year so once again, make your own informed decision.

Russia

Insuring your holiday should be a relatively easy task if you are planning on visiting the tourist areas of Russia. However, you are advised to stick to the popular attractions such as the Moscow Zoo, Gorky Park and Kizhi Island. Individuals who are tempted to venture beyond the tourist path are at risk of kidnapping and violent attacks. The risks are particularly high in Chechnya.

Afghanistan

It is a real shame the beautiful country of Afghanistan has been plagued by almost continuous warfare in recent years. However, it is hoped that the country will enjoy some stability and that keen explorers will have the opportunity to experience the beauty of Pamir Mountains and Tora Bora in the not-to-distant future. For now, however, tread very carefully and consider the very serious risks.

Patrick Chong is the Managing Director of Insuremore. We provide low cost travel insurance and offer a range of policies for insuring your holiday, including single-trip, multi-trip and family insurance. For all your insurance needs, Insuremore can help you in the quickest and most cost-efficient way.

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