In a remarkable ascent, Canada has emerged as the epitome of safe travel according to the latest report from Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection (BHTP). Climbing five positions since the previous year, Canada now enjoys the accolade of being the safest destination for travelers globally in the 2023-2024 period.
The Composite of Safety Measures
BHTP’s comprehensive ranking is the culmination of various safety dimensions, including the Global Peace Index and the State Department’s travel safety ratings, coupled with GeoSure Global scores for major cities. This melange of metrics creates a nuanced picture of a country’s overall safety landscape.
The Factors Behind Canada’s Rise
Canada’s unique combination of a sparse population spread across vast landscapes and its generally colder climate contributes to its perceived safety. The BHTP report, however, cautions travelers about potential wildfires, which have occasionally marred Canada’s air quality, posing risks to those with respiratory ailments.
Nonetheless, the sentiment around travel safety in Canada remains overwhelmingly positive, with a citation from Gap Year Travel Store affirming, “as travelling destinations go it really doesn’t get much safer than Canada … Violent crime is comparatively low and there is a low incidence of gun-related crime.”
A Closer Look at Canada’s Safety Rankings
In breaking down the safety ratings, Canada’s top-notch performance is evident across all sub-categories, which include:
- Safety from violent crime
- Safety from terrorism
- Transportation safety
- Health measures
- Safety for diverse groups (women, travelers of color, LGBTQ+ travelers)
Transportation safety, it should be noted, encompasses countries with either robust transportation infrastructures or those with limited travel distances.
Perception Variations by Demographics
BHTP’s research reveals that perceptions of safety can vary based on demographics like age and income, yet Canada consistently ranks within the top echelon.
Millennials’ Perspective: Canada stands as the fourth safest country, trailing Norway, Switzerland, and the UK.
Gen Z’s View: For Gen Z, Canada retains the number one spot.
High-Income Households: Canadians with an income exceeding $200,000 rate Canada as the second safest, following Portugal.
Frequent Travelers: Those spending over $25,000 on travel place Canada at sixth, behind nations such as the Netherlands and Hungary.
“Mature” Respondents: Although not strictly defined, this cohort ranks Canada ninth, with Iceland leading the group.
Parents: Parents regard Canada as the top choice for safe travel.
LGBTQ+ Community: Interestingly, LGBTQ+ respondents did not rank Canada within their top 10.
Canada’s prestigious title as the world’s safest country for travelers in 2024 is a testament to its commitment to maintaining a secure and welcoming environment for visitors. This status not only enhances Canada’s global image but also promises an assurance of safety that is increasingly sought after by international travelers. Whether you’re venturing into the urban sophistication of its cities or the untamed wilderness of its vast landscapes, Canada promises a sanctuary where safety meets adventure.
