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Black America Web
3 days ago
- Black America Web
8 Safest Countries To Visit In Africa In 2025
Africa is a continent rich in natural beauty, vibrant cultures, and extraordinary wildlife. Despite common misconceptions about instability and poverty, many African countries are both safe and thriving, with warm hospitality and growing economies. If you're planning a trip to Africa in 2025, these eight destinations stand out for their safety, charm, and unforgettable experiences. Source: miroslav_1 / Getty Located in the Indian Ocean, Mauritius is a small island nation known for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and multicultural charm. It boasts one of the lowest crime rates in Africa and a strong infrastructure for tourists, according to Altezza Travel. Mauritius consistently ranks among the safest countries not only in Africa but globally. According to the 2024 Global Peace Index , it holds an impressive rank of 22 out of 111, scoring 1.577, ahead of nations like Spain, Norway, the UK, and the U.S. Numbeo's 2025 safety index rates Mauritius at 50 out of 81, indicating a moderately low crime rate. The majority of reported incidents are minor, such as pickpocketing in crowded markets or tourist-heavy areas like downtown Port Louis, World Nomads reported in 2020. Violent crime is extremely rare. Travelers are advised to stay alert in busy areas and keep valuables secure, especially in markets. Source: Patrick Petitjean / Getty Tunisia combines North African culture with Mediterranean flair. With a mix of ancient history and beachside relaxation, it's a favorite for visitors exploring the ruins of Carthage or relaxing in Sousse. Although Tunisia has faced political and security challenges in the past, the situation has greatly improved in recent years. According to the Global Peace Index , Tunisia ranked 73 in 2024 with a score of 2.044, putting it on par with several Eastern European nations. The government has significantly increased its investment in tourism security, especially in popular areas like Tunis, Hammamet, and Djerba. Crime levels are moderate, with most incidents involving petty theft or scams in urban areas. A visible police presence and heightened security around major attractions have contributed to a steady rise in traveler confidence. Source: Wirestock / Getty Namibia offers breathtaking desert vistas and some of the most unique landscapes on the continent, such as Sossusvlei and the Skeleton Coast. It's a dream for photographers and wildlife lovers. Namibia is known for its safety and calm social environment. Thanks to a low population density and minimal urban congestion, crime rates are generally low, particularly outside of Windhoek (the capital). Most reported issues are non-violent, such as opportunistic theft. The Global Peace Index r anked the country at 62 with a score of 1972, an indication of medium peace. Travelers enjoy well-maintained roads, a stable political climate, and a tourism infrastructure that supports independent travel. It's considered one of the safest countries in Southern Africa for road trips and outdoor exploration. 4. Egypt: Best for ancient history, Nile cruises, and iconic landmarks . Source: Luis Diaz Devesa / Getty Egypt is one of the world's top destinations for history and archaeology, with its awe-inspiring pyramids, ancient temples, and bustling cities like Cairo and Luxor. Tourism is a priority for Egypt, and the government has implemented robust safety measures in key tourist zones. Security forces are highly visible at major sites such as Giza, the Egyptian Museum, and airport entry points. While Egypt's overall peace index score varies due to regional instability, tourism-heavy regions are heavily monitored. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing and occasional scams are more common than violent crimes. Travelers are advised to remain cautious in crowded public areas and to follow government travel advisories for remote or desert regions. Source: Alexpunker / Getty This Indian Ocean paradise is famous for its postcard-perfect beaches and tranquil atmosphere, attracting honeymooners and nature enthusiasts from around the world. Seychelles is among the safest nations in Africa, largely due to its small population and tourism-dependent economy. Violent crime is extremely rare, and even petty crime levels remain low. Law enforcement maintains a strong presence in the capital, Victoria, and resort areas. The nation's political stability and high standard of living contribute to a secure environment for travelers. Tourists typically report feeling very safe while exploring beaches, nature reserves, and islands. 6. Ghana: Best for culture, history, and Afrobeat vibes. Source: Ernest Ankomah / Getty Ghana is a cultural powerhouse in West Africa, drawing visitors to historical sites like Elmina Castle, lively urban centers, and vibrant festivals. Ghana stands out for its safety relative to the region. The Global Peace Index places it above countries such as France, China, and Jamaica. It also receives a zero rating on the Terrorism Index, a rare achievement. Compared to many countries globally, violent crime rates are relatively low. According to Altezza Travel , Ghana even surpasses Canada and Australia in crime statistics. Tourists generally feel welcome and safe, especially in cities like Accra and Cape Coast. While petty theft can occur, especially in crowded markets, incidents are infrequent and often preventable with standard precautions. Source: Miguel Horta / Getty Morocco offers a rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, blending Arab, Berber, and European influences. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the calm Atlas Mountains, the country is a traveler's delight. Morocco has invested heavily in tourism safety over the past decade. The country maintains a visible and proactive police force, particularly in tourist-heavy areas like Fes, Marrakech, and Casablanca. Petty crimes such as bag snatching and scams can happen, but violent incidents are rare. According to multiple safety indexes, Morocco is considered one of the safest destinations in North Africa. Reliable infrastructure and organized transport options further enhance traveler security. Visitors are advised to be mindful in markets and when navigating unfamiliar neighborhoods at night. Source: EL Studio / Getty Zambia is a land of natural wonders, with its crown jewel being Victoria Falls. It's also a gateway for unforgettable safari experiences in unspoiled national parks. Zambia is widely regarded as one of the more peaceful nations in Southern Africa. Political stability and a culture of hospitality contribute to low violent crime rates, particularly in rural areas and nature reserves. Cities like Livingstone and Lusaka have occasional petty crime, but travelers typically report feeling safe. Zambia's safety reputation is reinforced by its status as a popular safari destination, where guides and tour operators maintain strict safety protocols. The friendly nature of the locals also helps create a reassuring and travel-friendly environment for visitors. Are you thinking about visiting Africa on your next trip? Tell us in the comments section. SEE ALSO: Race-Friendly Countries For Black Americans Looking To Relocate Abroad Where Is The Black Population In The US Growing The Most? SEE ALSO 8 Safest Countries To Visit In Africa In 2025 was originally published on Black America Web Featured Video CLOSE
Miami Herald
3 days ago
- Politics
- Miami Herald
Map Shows U.S. Middle East Travel Warnings as Possible Iran War Looms
A map of U.S. State Department travel warnings for the Middle East shows Americans being advised to steer clear of many of the region's countries or to show extra caution, with Iran and Israel at war and the possibility of a looming U.S. attack on Iran. A Level 4: "Do Not Travel" update for Israel was issued for Israel on June 16 as it came under heavy missile bombardment from Iran. Newsweek contacted the State Department for comment. The travel warnings show the high levels of tension across the region and risk for travelers of being caught in open conflict or of falling victim to attacks by U.S.-designated terrorist groups. Those risks are potentially rising as signs grow from U.S. President Donald Trump and from military deployments that the United States itself could become involved in attacks on Iran and its nuclear program. Travel advisories are not only a warning for travelers, but are also taken into account by insurance companies, meaning that those who travel to the highest-risk areas are not insured unless they take out expensive specialist cover. Israel has now joined the highest level of State Department advisories against all travel following the missile barrages fired by Iran since Israel launched airstrikes on its military establishment, nuclear program and other targets late last week. The U.S. embassy in Jerusalem has been closed. Iran has fired some 400 missiles towards Israel along with drones in retaliation for the Israeli attacks, according to The Associated Press. At least 24 people have been killed in Israel, it said, while quoting a Washington-based Iranian rights group as saying at least 585 people had been killed in attacks on Iran. "Do not travel due to armed conflict, terrorism, and civil unrest," says the updated travel advice for Israel. "The security situation in Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is unpredictable, and U.S. citizens are reminded to remain vigilant and take appropriate steps to increase their security awareness as security incidents, including mortar and rocket fire and armed UAV intrusions and missiles, can take place without warning." Israel joins countries in the region that had long been on the list of those where all travel is advised against, including Iran itself, Syria, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya and Yemen. In the next category down of Level 3: Reconsider travel is Egypt, a U.S. ally and also a popular tourist destination with archaeological attractions such as the pyramids and beach resorts. Much of the region falls in the category of Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. That includes countries such as Saudi Arabia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates - which actually has five of the top 10 safest cities in the world according to the Numbeo safety index. Only two countries fall into the lowest risk category of "Exercise Normal Precautions": Qatar and Kuwait, both of which have U.S. military installations. U.S. State Department: "The Department of State has no higher priority than the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas. Information contained in these advisories reflects an assessment of threats only insofar as they may impact U.S. citizens, nationals, and legal residents." The security situation in the Middle East is evolving rapidly and much will depend on whether the United States also gets involved in the war with Iran, which could raise a greater risk for U.S. bases and citizens across the region. Related Articles American Killed in Deadly Russian Strike on KyivUS Aircraft Carrier USS George Washington Counters China Navy PresenceHow Iran Could Retaliate Against US. Three Possible OptionsU.S. Tanker Aircraft Head to Middle East as Threat of Iran War Rises 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
IOL News
3 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Soaring living costs add over R21,000 a year to household bills
Statistics South Africa's latest inflation publication, for the May 2025 period, shows that the consumer price index was 2.8% on a yearly basis last month. This compares well with a year ago, when it was 5.2%. However, inflation compounds and items keep going up every month. Image: Kampus Production Even though the increase in the cost of living has slowed substantially over the past year, declining by 2.4 percentage points year-on-year, your average monthly bills will still, in theory, have increased 2.6% between last May and now – adding R21 000 to bills over a year. However, Numbeo figures show that Johannesburg is among the cheapest cities in which to live, with only Delhi (India) and Rio de Janeiro in Brazil having a lower index. Statistics South Africa's latest inflation publication, for the May 2025 period, shows that the consumer price index was 2.8% on a yearly basis last month. This compares well with a year ago, when it was 5.2%. However, inflation compounds and items keep going up every month. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Based on a basket of goods the average South African may be spending their money on each month, and taking compounding into account against the base price, every day items will have cost R1 808 more than a year ago. The figures were worked out using a nifty inflation adjustment calculator. This is based on the most recent prices for this year, so it doesn't take cost variations into account. Even without historical price data on items such as DSTV Compact Plus not being readily available, the increase amounts to R21 702 over the year. And that's allowing for lower price hikes of one item offsetting the increase in others somewhat. It's worse if you smoke or drink – those items on average went up year-on-year by 4.3%. If your weekend party stash of drink cost R1 000 last May, it went up by R43. That, based on advertisements from liquor stores, is worth almost half the cost of a six pack of beer. Investec economist Lara Hodes breaks down the contributors to May's inflation print. 'Within the food basket, meat price inflation, which holds the highest weighting rose to 4.4% year-on-year from 3% year-on-year in April,' she wrote in a note. Moreover, Hodes wrote, oils and fats prices increased 5.6% year-on-year, while the price of fruits, nuts, and vegetables jumped between 10.3% and 13.5% year-on-year. The good news is that the rate of increase in the cost of living was in line with economist's consensus. IOL
Daily Record
3 days ago
- Daily Record
Scotland's five 'safest cities' named where locals feel most protected
Edinburgh and Glasgow both appear in the top five. Scotland's"safest cities" have been named in a new report. Topping the list is one of the country's biggest and most iconic settlements. When choosing where to live or even where to head for a holiday, there are lots of different factors to consider—from amenities to the number of green spaces. For many people, however, how safe a place is is the most important thing to think about. On Wednesday, June 18, Reolink shared a report of Scotland's safest cities based on their 'safety index'. The safety index is a rating from database Numbeo and is based on factors such as crime severity, concerns about specific crimes, perceived safety during daylight and nighttime, and the general perception of crime levels. A total of five Scottish cities are named in the roundup, with Edinburgh topping the experts' list. The Scottish capital was found to have a high 'safety index' score of 68.98. Meanwhile, Edinburgh was also reported as having a low 'crime index' of 30.99. The figure estimates the overall level of crime, with Reolink reporting that regular crime reports in the city include theft, dishonesty, and house break-ins. The experts also report that a high number of Edinburgh residents feel safe living in the city. Reolink states that more than 82 per cent of locals feel secure. Reolink stated: "Edinburgh is ranked as the safest city in Scotland. It has a safety index of 68.98 according to Numbeo, with the lowest crime index of 30.99. It usually reports cases of theft, dishonesty, house break-ins, and offenses. "According to the reports, over 82 per cent of the residents feel safe living there. It's a student-friendly city where continuous patrolling has been done in heavy traffic areas." Coming in at number two on the experts' roundup is Aberdeen. According to the report, the Granite City has a safety index score of 63.20. Meanwhile, placing third on the list is Inverness. Reolink states that the cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands has a safety index score of 62.13. Following behind as the fourth "safest" city in Scotland according to Reolink is Glasgow. Scotland's biggest city was found to have a safety index score of 54.56, with a "moderate crime rate". Dundee rounds out the list at number five, with a safety index of 51.40. According to Reolink, Dundee has a higher crime rate than other cities on the roundup due to "an increase in theft and house break-in cases". Reolink added: "Safety ranks as one of the major concerns for people visiting and living in Scotland. It is necessary to inquire about the safety of everywhere you stay or travel. "You must pre-check the location with the help of stats or the information we have provided." Edinburgh Aberdeen Inverness Glasgow Dundee
Business Insider
5 days ago
- Business
- Business Insider
Top 5 African cities with the smoothest traffic mid-2025
Unlike congested cities, several African cities are growing as mobility models. A low traffic index, which indicates efficient flow of people and products, shorter commute times, and less congestion, provides a number of advantages that can boost economic growth and improve urban life. Business Insider Africa presents the top 5 African cities that spend the least time in traffic in mid-2025. This list is courtesy of Numbeo. Windhoek ranks number 1 on the list. As African towns expand fast, those that plan to keep traffic moving are considerably more likely to attract investment, tourism, and talent. Time saved by seamless transit switches directly into increased economic production. Employees arrive at work on time and with less stress, and organizations can run more effectively with dependable logistics. Residents in cities with low congestion have more time for family, pleasure, and rest. This leads to increased life satisfaction and a more enjoyable urban living experience. Fewer delays result in lower fuel usage and vehicle wear and tear. Businesses gain from cheaper logistical and last-mile delivery expenses. Emissions are reduced when driving for shorter periods. Cities with efficient traffic flow promote environmental and public health objectives by reducing air pollution. A city that has a low traffic index attracts more tourists and foreign direct investment, two factors that are essential for economic diversification. Generally speaking, improved road safety is correlated with more efficient traffic networks. Roads are safer for bikers and pedestrians when there is less traffic, which also reduces the likelihood of accidents. A low traffic index is a sign of a city that values its residents' time, well-being, and productivity in addition to being a measure of transportation efficiency. Cities that function well will be the ones that advance as African countries compete on the international front. With that said, here are the African cities with the best traffic situation mid-way into 2025, as per Numbeo. Top 5 African cities with the smoothest traffic in mid-2025 Rank City Traffic time-commute index mid-2025 Country Index at the start of 2025 1. Windhoek 23.7 Namibia 23.7 2. Durban 25.5 South Africa 25.5 3. Port Elizabeth 33.9 South Africa 33.9 4. Johannesburg 40.7 South Africa 40.8 5. Cape Town 42.4 South Africa -
