Wednesday, 18 June 2025
Explore Oman

Unforgettable Oman: Top Experiences for Thrill-Seekers and Tranquility Lovers Alike in 2025

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Published: Saturday, April 05, 2025
Unforgettable Oman: Top Experiences for Thrill-Seekers and Tranquility Lovers Alike in 2025

Oman offers a wealth of activities for every type of traveler, from adrenaline junkies to those seeking tranquility in nature. Adventure enthusiasts can embark on thrilling canyoneering expeditions or conquer the sandy dunes with exhilarating dune bashing. For water lovers, flyboarding and surfing provide an exciting way to engage with the ocean. To take in the stunning landscapes, a helicopter tour reveals breathtaking vistas from above. No visit is complete without experiencing the magical ambiance of a sunset cruise, making Oman a truly captivating destination.

Helicopter Tours

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Oman from the sky with a helicopter tour aboard the Airbus H125. This aerial adventure allows you to witness the country's diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains, vast deserts, and pristine coastlines, all from a unique vantage point.

Details

  • Duration: The city tour lasts approximately 15 minutes, offering a quick yet comprehensive view of key attractions.
  • Location: Tours typically depart from Muscat.
  • Price: Approximately $150 per person for a 15-minute tour.
  • Highlights: Fly over iconic landmarks such as the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, the Al Jalali and Al Mirani forts, and the stunning coastline of Muscat. This is the perfect way to capture unforgettable photographs and gain a new appreciation for Oman’s natural beauty.

Special Tips

  • Book in Advance: Helicopter tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons (October to April).
  • Early Mornings or Late Afternoons: Schedule your tour during these times for softer lighting and stunning views.

Flyboarding and Wakeboarding

Oman has made a name for itself in the world of water sports, with activities like flyboarding and wakeboarding attracting thrill-seekers from around the globe. These motorized sports offer an exhilarating experience on the water, combining the thrill of speed with the beauty of the ocean.

Details

  • Location: Popular spots include Muscat and Salalah.
  • Price: Around $100 for a 30-minute session.
  • Safety: All activities are conducted by certified operators who prioritize safety, ensuring that participants have a secure and enjoyable experience.
  • Experience: Flyboarding allows you to soar above the water, while wakeboarding combines surfing and snowboarding techniques, providing a unique blend of excitement and challenge.
  • Variety: Operators offer a range of options, from short introductory sessions for beginners to more extensive courses designed for those looking to refine their skills.

Special Tips

  • Wear Sunscreen: The sun can be intense, so make sure to apply sunscreen before heading out.
  • Stay Hydrated: Bring water to stay hydrated during your activity.

Desert Adventures

The Wahiba Sands, stretching over 200 kilometers, is a striking desert landscape that offers unforgettable adventures. Visitors can explore this iconic environment through dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding, immersing themselves in the unique beauty of Oman’s desert ecosystem.

Details

  • Location: About 3 hours from Muscat, near Bidiyah.
  • Price: Desert safari packages range from $75 to $150 per person, depending on the inclusions (lunch, camel rides, etc.).
  • Activities: Experience the thrill of dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, or opt for a more traditional sunset camel ride, which allows you to take in the stunning desert scenery at a leisurely pace. For the adventurous, sandboarding or quad biking provides an adrenaline rush as you glide over the dunes.
  • Wildlife: The desert is home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, including over 180 plant species and 200 animal species, making it a fascinating ecosystem to explore.
  • Tour Details: Small-group excursions typically depart from Muscat or Bidiyah. Tours often include a traditional picnic lunch at a desert camp and a refreshing swim at Wadi Bani Khalid, a beautiful oasis with crystal-clear waters.

Special Tips

  • Best Time to Visit: October to April offers cooler temperatures, making outdoor activities more comfortable.
  • Pack Snacks: While many tours include meals, having some snacks on hand can be helpful during the day.

Sunrise Desert Yoga

Begin your day with a refreshing sunrise yoga session in the serene desert. This experience allows participants to connect with nature and find inner peace as they practice yoga amidst the tranquil desert landscape.

Details

  • Location: Various desert locations, often arranged by local yoga studios or tour operators.
  • Price: Approximately $40 to $60 per session.
  • Duration: Sessions typically last 1 to 1.5 hours.
  • Setting: Conducted in the serene environment of the desert, participants can enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature as the sun rises, creating a perfect backdrop for meditation and yoga practice.
  • Classes: Various styles of yoga are offered, catering to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners. This allows everyone to connect with their inner selves and the natural world around them.
  • Experience: The sessions emphasize relaxation and mindfulness, encouraging participants to embrace the beauty of the moment as they breathe in the fresh desert air.

Special Tips

  • Dress Comfortably: Wear loose, breathable clothing suitable for yoga.
  • Arrive Early: Get to the location a bit early to enjoy the serene atmosphere and set up your space.

A Day in Paradise (Full Day Beach Pass)

The Shangri-La Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa offers an exquisite retreat along a stunning bay, where deep turquoise waters meet majestic mountains. The ‘Day in Paradise’ escape promises a luxurious experience for all guests.

Details

  • Location: Barr Al Jissah, Muscat.
  • Price: Approximately $100 per person for a full-day pass, including lunch.
  • Facilities: Enjoy access to six stunning swimming pools, two private golden-sand beaches, and a meandering lazy river perfect for relaxation. Water sports activities are also available for those looking to add a bit of adventure to their beach day.
  • Amenities: Towels and bottled water are provided for your convenience, ensuring a comfortable visit. Guests can indulge in a lavish buffet lunch featuring a variety of dishes, including fresh seafood, international cuisines, and local specialties.
  • Relaxation: The resort’s serene environment, combined with high-quality service, allows visitors to unwind and rejuvenate, making it a true day in paradise.

Special Tips

  • Reservations: It’s advisable to book your day pass in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
  • Bring a Book: The tranquil environment is perfect for relaxation, so consider bringing a book for leisure time by the pool.

Additional Recommendations

Cultural Experiences

  • Visit Nizwa Fort: Located about 1.5 hours from Muscat, this historical site offers insight into Oman's heritage. Entry is around $5.

Local Cuisine

  • Try Shuwa: A traditional Omani dish made of marinated lamb, slow-cooked in an underground sand oven. Look for local restaurants offering this delicacy.

Souqs

  • Explore Mutrah Souq: A vibrant market in Muscat where you can shop for spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Bargaining is common, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.

With so much to explore, Oman is a destination that promises a wealth of unforgettable experiences, whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature.

Over 43,000 tourists visit Sri Lanka in early June

Published: Monday, June 16, 2025
Over 43,000 tourists visit Sri Lanka in early June

Sri Lanka’s tourism sector is showing promising signs of recovery, with a 33% year-on-year (YoY) increase in tourist arrivals during the first 10 days of June 2025. The island welcomed 43,962 visitors compared to 33,017 in the same period last year.

The daily average number of tourists also rose significantly, reaching 4,396 visitors per day, up from 3,302 during the first 10 days of June 2024. This uptick is encouraging, especially given that June is traditionally an off-season month for travel to Sri Lanka.

The Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority (SLTDA) projects 177,257 arrivals for the entire month of June. However, industry stakeholders remain cautious due to a shortfall in arrivals during the first five months of 2025. From January to May, tourist arrivals missed projections by a cumulative 279,452 visitors, underscoring ongoing challenges in converting interest into actual visits despite improving macroeconomic conditions.

Between January 1 and June 10, 2025, Sri Lanka welcomed over 1.07 million tourists, marking a 16% increase compared to 927,196 visitors during the same period in 2024. Notably, arrivals in January, February, and May 2025 exceeded pre-pandemic levels seen in 2018, highlighting Sri Lanka’s renewed appeal as a travel destination.

Despite these positive trends, consistent growth remains elusive. A key hurdle has been the delay in launching a global tourism campaign, which has not been updated in 16 years. The much-anticipated ‘Nation Branding’ campaign, set to launch on June 26, is expected to boost Sri Lanka’s visibility in key markets and drive higher arrivals during the lucrative winter season.

In June 2025, India, the UK, and Bangladesh emerged as the top source markets, contributing 12,362, 3,740, and 2,717 tourists respectively. Year-to-date, India leads with 216,422 arrivals, followed by Russia (111,285) and the UK (100,014). These markets remain central to Sri Lanka’s tourism recovery strategy.

Sri Lanka aims to attract 3 million tourists and generate $5 billion in tourism revenue by the end of 2025. To meet this target, the industry needs to draw approximately 1.93 million visitors 64.2% of the annual goal during the remaining months of the year. So far, the sector has generated over $1.54 billion in revenue in the first five months, with $3.46 billion still needed to reach the target.

In 2024, Sri Lanka’s tourism revenue reached $3.16 billion, a substantial 53.2% increase from $2.07 billion in 2023, reflecting the sector’s strong recovery momentum.

Stay tuned for updates on the upcoming Nation Branding campaign and further developments in Sri Lanka’s tourism industry.

Top 10 Cleanest Countries in the World 2025

Published: Monday, June 09, 2025
Top 10 Cleanest Countries in the World 2025

In 2025, the world’s cleanest countries are not just global leaders in environmental health—they are also innovators in climate policy, renewable energy, and sustainable development. These nations have earned top rankings through rigorous assessment by the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) and the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), which together provide the most authoritative and data-driven evaluations of national environmental performance.

The EPI, developed by Yale and Columbia Universities, uses 58 indicators across 11 categories—ranging from air and water quality to biodiversity and climate policy—to rank 180 countries on how well they meet sustainability targets. The CCPI, meanwhile, evaluates 63 countries and the EU, covering over 90% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and assesses performance in GHG emissions, renewable energy, energy use, and climate policy.

These indices are vital tools for policymakers, businesses, and communities, offering a granular view of each country’s strengths and weaknesses, helping to set targets, track trends, and identify best practices for a sustainable future. High-ranking countries benefit from advanced regulatory frameworks, greener infrastructure, and new market opportunities for sustainable technologies. Here’s a closer look at what sets each of the top 10 apart in 2025:

1. Estonia (EPI Score: 75.3)

Estonia leads the world in cleanliness and sustainability, thanks to its extensive forest cover, effective use of bioenergy, and a strong focus on natural resource management. The country has set ambitious climate goals, including a 70% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050.

Estonia achieved an 11.3% emissions reduction in late 2024, outpacing the rest of the EU, even as its economy grew. The capital, Tallinn, has become a beacon of urban sustainability, winning the ITB Earth Award 2025 for its zero-waste Song and Dance Celebration, which drastically cut single-use plastics and promoted circular economy practices.

Estonia’s environmental policies have also led to Europe’s cleanest air and ongoing investments in wind, solar, and energy storage. However, the country faces challenges in fully phasing out fossil fuels and balancing biomass production with forest conservation.

2. Luxembourg (EPI Score: 75.0)

Luxembourg stands out as a small nation with outsized environmental achievements, earning an EPI score of 75.0 in 2024 and a 4.1-point rise over the past decade. The country leads the world in water management, boasting a near-perfect score of 90.6 in Water Resources and an astounding 99.8 in Sanitation & Drinking Water. Over 55% of Luxembourg’s land is protected, contributing to a top-tier biodiversity score of 84.8.

The nation’s capital has pioneered green investments, while advanced wastewater treatment and strict EU-aligned standards keep pollution low. While Luxembourg excels in ecosystem vitality and heavy metal pollution control, it continues to work on reducing per capita greenhouse gas emissions and curbing tree cover loss.

3. Germany (EPI Score: 74.6)

Germany ranks third globally with an EPI score of 74.6 in 2024, marking a 4.4-point improvement over ten years. The country treats 100% of its urban wastewater, achieving a high 89.1 in Water Resources, and protects a significant share of its land and seas, reflected in its 82.4 Biodiversity & Habitat score.

Germany’s robust environmental policies are complemented by massive investments in green infrastructure and renewable energy. The nation’s cities are recognized for clean air, efficient public transport, and progressive urban planning. Germany’s approach demonstrates that sustainability can go hand in hand with industrial progress, though ongoing industrial emissions remain a challenge.

4. Finland (EPI Score: 73.7)

Finland secures the fourth spot with a 2024 EPI score of 73.7, though this reflects a slight decrease from its 2014 score. The country is a global leader in public health, scoring a perfect 100.0 in both Sanitation & Drinking Water and Heavy Metals. Finland’s well-managed forests, protected natural areas, and clean air contribute to its strong ecosystem vitality.

The nation’s deep cultural connection to nature is evident in its policies, which seamlessly integrate sustainability into daily life. Finland’s challenge lies in maintaining its high standards amid growing urbanization and climate pressures.

5. United Kingdom (EPI Score: 72.7)

The United Kingdom earns an EPI score of 72.7 in 2024, up by 2.1 points over the past decade. The UK has made significant progress in reducing carbon emissions, largely through aggressive wind energy deployment and expanded recycling programs. Urban green spaces and biodiversity conservation have improved city livability and environmental health.

The UK continues to update its climate policies to meet international targets, but faces ongoing challenges with air quality in some metropolitan areas and the need for further emissions reductions.

6. Sweden (EPI Score: 70.5)

Sweden ranks sixth with a 2024 EPI score of 70.5, showing a modest 1.6-point increase over ten years. The country’s energy mix is dominated by hydropower and wind, and it is a pioneer in negative emissions technologies.

Sweden’s cities are models of sustainable urban development, and the nation’s commitment to clean air, water, and biodiversity is unwavering. However, Sweden faces pressure to further reduce emissions from transportation and industry to meet its ambitious climate goals.

7. Norway (EPI Score: 70.0)

Norway holds the seventh position with a 2024 EPI score of 70.0, up 3.6 points over the last decade. The country boasts nearly universal access to clean drinking water and sanitation, and its electricity is almost entirely supplied by hydropower.

Norway’s proactive climate policies and investments in electric mobility and carbon capture have resulted in some of the world’s lowest per capita emissions. The country’s challenge is balancing oil and gas exports with its climate commitments.

8. Austria (EPI Score: 69.0)

Austria scores 69.0 on the 2024 EPI, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.3 points over ten years. The country excels in maintaining clean cities and countryside through strict agricultural and chemical regulations. Austria’s public transport system and urban planning support eco-living, while strong environmental laws ensure high water quality and effective waste management.

Austria’s challenge is to address areas of stagnation and reinvigorate progress on climate adaptation and emissions reduction.

9. Switzerland (EPI Score: 68.0)

Switzerland earns a 2024 EPI score of 68.0, up 1.8 points over the last decade. The country is renowned for its pristine landscapes, robust waste management, and advanced water treatment systems.

Switzerland’s environmental protection laws and public engagement in sustainability initiatives help maintain high living standards and ecological health. However, Switzerland must continue to innovate in renewable energy and reduce its ecological footprint to stay ahead.

10. Denmark (EPI Score: 67.9)

Denmark rounds out the top ten with an EPI score of 67.9 in 2024, a 1.7-point increase over ten years. The nation is a global leader in wind energy and urban planning that prioritizes cycling and green spaces. Denmark’s comprehensive recycling policies and low pollution levels make it a model for clean living. 

The country’s ongoing challenge is to further cut emissions from agriculture and transportation while maintaining economic growth.

How Are These Rankings Determined?

Environmental Performance Index (EPI):

  • Uses 58 indicators across 11 categories, including air quality, water and sanitation, biodiversity, habitat protection, and climate policy.
  • Weights environmental health (40%) and ecosystem vitality (60%) to reflect both immediate human well-being and long-term sustainability.
  • Draws data from the WHO, UN, and other global agencies, providing a scorecard for each country and highlighting leaders and laggards.

Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI):

  • Assesses four main categories: GHG emissions (40%), renewable energy (20%), energy use (20%), and climate policy (20%).
  • Uses 14 indicators, combining quantitative data (from IEA, FAO, UNFCCC) and qualitative expert assessments of national and international climate policy.
  • Covers 63 countries and the EU, representing over 90% of global GHG emissions.

These indices are not just academic—they guide policy, inform investment, and help countries benchmark progress toward sustainability goals. High-ranking countries typically have strong regulatory frameworks, transparent governance, and engaged civil societies, making them attractive for sustainable business and investment.

Why Does This Matter?

  • Policy Guidance: Countries use EPI and CCPI data to set targets, track trends, and refine environmental policies.
  • Business and Investment: High scores signal a favorable environment for green investment and sustainable business operations.
  • Public Health: Clean air, water, and effective waste management directly improve quality of life and reduce healthcare costs.
  • Global Leadership: These nations serve as models for others striving to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.

Summary point

As environmental challenges grow increasingly urgent worldwide, the achievements of these top 10 cleanest countries in 2025 offer both inspiration and a practical roadmap for sustainable development. Their success demonstrates that with visionary leadership, innovative technologies, and committed public participation, it is possible to safeguard natural resources, improve public health, and foster economic growth simultaneously.

By learning from their policies and practices, other nations can accelerate their own journeys toward a cleaner, greener, and more resilient future—ensuring a healthier planet for generations to come

Vietnam Welcomes 9.2 Million Tourists in First Five Months

Published: Sunday, June 08, 2025
Vietnam Welcomes 9.2 Million Tourists in First Five Months

Vietnam’s tourism industry is making headlines in 2025, as the country rolled out the welcome mat for a staggering 9.2 million international visitors in just the first five months of the year. This impressive milestone marks a dramatic leap—up nearly 24% compared to the same period last year—and signals a vibrant comeback for Vietnam as a global travel hotspot.

The surge is powered by a wave of travelers from key Asian markets. China tops the list, sending over 1.58 million tourists between January and March—a jump of more than 78% year-on-year, according to the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT). South Korea follows closely, with 1.3 million arrivals, while India, Japan, and Taiwan are also showing robust growth.

Notably, neighboring countries like Cambodia and the Philippines have doubled their visitor numbers, reflecting a broader regional enthusiasm for Vietnam’s unique blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.

European tourists are returning in droves, too, especially from visa-exempt countries like the UK, France, and Germany. Russia stands out with a remarkable 110% increase in arrivals. Meanwhile, long-haul travelers from the United States and Australia continue to flock to Vietnam’s vibrant cities and scenic landscapes.

This tourism boom is no accident. The Vietnamese government has actively relaxed visa policies, launched savvy promotional campaigns, and invested in infrastructure to make travel smoother and more appealing. The Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday in early 2025 provided an extra boost, with tourism revenues in some provinces surpassing VND 1 trillion (about US$39.5 billion) and foreign arrivals spiking by 30% during the festive season (VNAT, 2025).

With these record-breaking numbers, Vietnam’s tourism sector is not just bouncing back from the pandemic—it’s setting new benchmarks and fueling economic growth through job creation, increased spending, and stronger global connections. If this momentum continues, Vietnam is well on its way to becoming one of Asia’s most sought-after destinations (VNAT, VietnamPlus, 2025).

Malaysia Tops Asia as Most Visited Country in Q1 2025, Surpassing Thailand and Singapore

Published: Friday, June 06, 2025
Malaysia Tops Asia as Most Visited Country in Q1 2025, Surpassing Thailand and Singapore

Malaysia has firmly established itself as Asia’s most visited country in the first quarter of 2025, attracting over 10.1 million foreign tourists and surpassing long-time regional leaders such as Thailand and Singapore. This impressive 22% year-on-year increase signals a significant shift in the region’s tourism dynamics, highlighting Malaysia’s growing prominence as a top global travel destination.

Visa Relaxation Fuels Tourism Surge

A key factor driving this surge is Malaysia’s progressive visa policies. The government extended visa-free entry for Chinese nationals for five years, with the possibility of further extension until 2036, and granted Indian tourists visa-free access through 2026.

These initiatives have dramatically lowered travel barriers for two of the world’s largest outbound travel markets, resulting in a substantial influx of visitors. Additionally, Malaysia has implemented streamlined e-visa and eNTRI (Electronic Travel Registration & Information) systems, enabling faster and more convenient entry for tourists from over 60 countries.

Singapore Leads as Top Source Market

Singapore remains Malaysia’s largest source of visitors, with nearly 5 million arrivals in Q1 2025, reflecting strong bilateral ties and seamless cross-border travel facilitated by improved transport links such as the Rapid Transit System (RTS) connecting Johor Bahru and Singapore.

China follows closely as the second-largest market, contributing 1.12 million visitors, while Indonesia ranks third with 1.08 million tourists. Other notable source countries include Thailand, Brunei, India, and Australia, indicating Malaysia’s broad regional and international appeal.

Regional Competition and Changing Travel Patterns

Malaysia’s rise comes amid evolving regional tourism trends. Thailand, historically Southeast Asia’s tourism leader, recorded 9.55 million visitors in Q1 2025, placing it second behind Malaysia. Vietnam and Singapore followed with 6 million and 4.3 million arrivals, respectively.

Malaysia’s reputation for safety, family-friendly environments, and cultural diversity has attracted travelers seeking alternatives to traditional hotspots. Meanwhile, Thailand has faced challenges including political unrest and security concerns that have impacted tourist confidence.

Strategic Infrastructure and Connectivity Investments

Malaysia’s tourism revival is supported by significant investments in infrastructure and connectivity. Since mid-2024, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture has facilitated over 3,100 weekly international flights with a combined seating capacity exceeding 620,000, enhancing accessibility from key markets in Asia, Europe, and North America.

Major airports such as Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and Penang International Airport have undergone upgrades to improve passenger experience. The government has also expanded tourism corridors and improved road and rail networks to popular destinations like Langkawi, Penang, and the Cameron Highlands.

Economic Impact and Industry Growth

The tourism sector’s resurgence is delivering substantial economic benefits. Malaysia welcomed 6.7 million international visitors in the first two months of 2025 alone, a 31.3% increase compared to the previous year and 14.5% above pre-pandemic levels. Total tourist receipts reached RM106.78 billion in 2024, representing a 43.7% increase over 2023 and surpassing pre-pandemic figures by 20%.

This growth has spurred job creation across hospitality, retail, transportation, and cultural sectors, contributing significantly to Malaysia’s GDP and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in rural and urban areas alike.

Diverse Attractions and Global Recognition

Malaysia’s diverse attractions continue to captivate travelers worldwide. Visitors are drawn to iconic landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers and Batu Caves, alongside natural wonders including the pristine beaches of Langkawi and Tioman Island, and the biodiverse rainforests of Sarawak and Sabah, home to unique wildlife like orangutans and proboscis monkeys.

The country’s vibrant cultural festivals, world-class cuisine, and warm hospitality further enhance its appeal. In 2024, Malaysia was named Asia’s “most loved country” by Insider Monkey, a testament to its growing international reputation.

Sustainability and Future Prospects

Malaysia is also committed to sustainable tourism development. Initiatives promoting eco-tourism, community-based tourism, and conservation efforts are gaining momentum, aligning with global trends and traveler preferences. The government’s 2024-2026 tourism roadmap emphasizes responsible tourism practices, digital innovation, and diversification of tourism products to include wellness, adventure, and cultural tourism.

Looking ahead, Malaysia is poised to surpass 26.2 million tourist arrivals by the end of 2025, fully recovering from the pandemic’s impact and setting new records. The upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign is expected to further boost international arrivals, supported by continued marketing efforts, enhanced infrastructure, and strategic partnerships with global travel stakeholders.

With its blend of strategic policy, enhanced connectivity, rich cultural heritage, and commitment to sustainable tourism, Malaysia is not only leading Asia’s tourism recovery but also redefining the region’s travel landscape as a premier destination for travelers worldwide.

Singapore Named Asia’s Safest, Philippines Least Safe in 2025 Travel Safety Index

Published: Thursday, June 05, 2025
Singapore Named Asia’s Safest, Philippines Least Safe in 2025 Travel Safety Index

A recent study by comparison platform HelloSafe has identified Singapore as the safest country in Asia for travelers in 2025, while the Philippines has been ranked as the least safe destination not only in Asia but globally.

According to the HelloSafe Safety Index, which evaluates countries on a scale where 0 represents the safest and 100 the least safe, Singapore achieved a score of 19.99, placing it second worldwide behind Iceland, which leads with 18.23 points. Denmark, Austria, and Switzerland round out the global top five, with Singapore being the only non-European nation in this elite group.

The HelloSafe index is based on 35 objective criteria across five categories: natural disasters, societal violence, involvement in armed conflicts, health infrastructure, and militarization. The company emphasizes that the ranking is designed to reflect overall security and safety, not the attractiveness of a country as a tourist destination. The methodology assigns up to 30 points for natural disasters, 20 each for societal violence, armed conflict involvement, and healthcare infrastructure, and 10 points for militarization.

In contrast to Singapore’s high ranking, the Philippines received a score of 82.32, making it the least safe country for travelers in 2025. Colombia (79.21), Mexico (78.42), India (77.86), and Russia (75.65) follow as the next least safe destinations. The United States, notably, ranked 14th least safe with a score of 59.47.

The study also highlights regional differences within Southeast Asia. Malaysia, with a score of 36.92, is categorized as "Safe," while Vietnam (51.33) and Thailand (52.39) are considered "Not Very Safe." Indonesia, with a score of 72.94, falls into the "Dangerous" category.

Europe remains the safest continent for travelers, with 12 of the top 15 safest countries located there. Bhutan and Qatar are the only other non-European countries to make the top 15, ranking 11th and 12th, respectively. France, however, is an exception among European countries, ranking 80th globally due to ongoing concerns about terrorism.

HelloSafe’s findings challenge some common perceptions about travel safety, revealing that some popular destinations may not always align with travelers’ assumptions about security