4. Yangon, Myanmar (Burma)
In terms of sheer risk, Myanmar actually ranks fairly low on the list of most dangerous places to visit. Yangon, the country’s biggest city, however, is a place you want to watch yourself. Violence is common, and the state leadership is notoriously wary of outsiders. Not only that, the country’s infrastructure necessitates using cash only, a fact that makes the country’s visitors potential targets for assault and theft. That said, for the truly adventurous traveler, a trip down the famed Irrawaddy River is one for the “someday” wishlist.
5. North Korea
Just … just don’t go to North Korea. Is the country scenic? Yes, North Korea’s natural beauty holds a majesty that is rarely found in nature. Unfortunately, the easily excitable country is held in the clutches of a crazy person, someone who manages to love Western culture and despise it with every breath he takes. How can you love Dennis Rodman and hate America? It’s nonsense, and you don’t want to go anywhere near a man who thinks like that and has his hand on the big, red button (even if that button isn’t really connected to anything).
6. Rural Colombia
There are tourism opportunities galore to be found in Colombia, and it’s a popular destination for adventurous backpackers. It’s a gorgeous country with a vibrant culture and a people who are famous for their hospitality. Of course, Colombia is also home to some of the biggest cartels in the world, cartels who make a good chunk of change kidnapping tourists and holding them for ransom. That said, instances of kidnapping have diminished since 2000 as the Colombian government is working to make the country safe for travelers … there’s still work to do, though. Some rural areas, in particular, and the city of Cali should be avoided for the time being.
