Assessing safety as an Expat is best done BEFORE relocating. Let’s talk about how we can find out:
Moving overseas for a new life as an expat can be thrilling. But you want your adventure to be safe – not scary! Before picking a destination, take time to check out any risks. Don’t just read the hype. Do the research to find a place right for you.
Understanding Organized Crime Abroad
Some areas have groups that target newcomers. Make sure you know what you’re getting into:
- – Drug cartels – Places like Mexico have zones ruled by gangs and cartels. Stay far away from these!
- – Terrorism – Sadly, some groups hate foreigners. Places prone to radical attacks are too unsafe.
- – Civil unrest – Protests or coups can turn violent. See if it’s frequent or rare.
- – Kidnapping – Criminals seeking ransoms may grab wealthy foreigners. A big risk in certain regions.
The basic response here is simple. Avoid if you can, leave if you have to.
Opportunistic Street Crime
Crooks worldwide target unsuspecting tourists and expats. But some spots have way more than others:
- – Pickpocketing – Snatching wallets and phones is most common. Watch out in crowded areas.
- – Muggings – Getting physically threatened or robbed is scary. Ask if it’s frequent.
- – Home break-ins – Make sure your valuables would be secure. Alarms and guards help.
- – Scams – Many cons try to trick you out of money. Know the local rip-offs to avoid.
This is one of those judgement-call areas. It happens abroad, it happens at home – and you have to decide about your specific situation. Ask locally-based expats what their opinion on street crime is — and listen critically.
Health and Accident Hazards
New germs and dangers can make you sick or hurt if you aren’t vigilant:
- – Diseases – Check if malaria, dengue, or other illnesses are common risks.
- – Food poisoning – Can ruin your trip. Take precautions with water and eating.
- – Motorbike hazards – Injuries are common in places where bikes are ubiquitous.
- – Natural disasters – Is the area prone to quakes, floods, volcanoes or tsunamis?
- – Healthcare access – Will you have language barriers or trouble getting treated?
This is a big one. Check for diseases in your prospective home — and insects, animals, germs, or OTHER that may present a threat.
Doing Your Research in Advance
Scout out objective reports before you go:
- – Government sites – Check travel advisories for alerts on crime and unrest.
- – Expat forums – People living there know the real scoop. Ask about safety!
- – News sites – Scan local headlines for recent incidents.
- – Crime maps – Seeing hotspots provides perspective.
- – Facebook groups – On-the-ground tips from foreign residents.
Gauge Your Risk Tolerance
Be real with yourself:
- – If you’ll worry nonstop, pick another place. Anxiety ruins your experience.
- – If you must take drastic measures to feel safe, that’s a red flag.
- – Don’t let others downplay real risks. Go with your gut.
- – But try not to overreact to hype either. Perspective helps.
- – Talk to past visitors. Did they feel comfortable?
Relocating If Trouble Arises
Sometimes bad stuff happens after you move. Have an emergency plan:
- – Know embassies’ locations and your evacuation options.
- – Consider backup residences in safer countries.
- – Insurance can be life-saving if injured or sick.
- – Store vital documents and cash abroad in case you must leave quickly.
Finding the Right Fit
Bottom line — if it’s unsafe, it isn’t home. Everyone will have their own specific tolerance for risk and insecurity, but smart expats err on the side of caution. If you have to stay indoors after dark or worry every time you hear a siren, then you are in the wrong place. It may be fine to travel to or through — but not to live.
The world is huge! There are so many places to safely call your new home. Do research, trust your intuition and don’t ignore red flags. Moving abroad is an adventure. But your safety has to come first!
With some wise planning, you’ll find the expat destination that fits you best. The peace of letting your guard down in your new community is priceless. Happy travels!