Dangerous Destinations: My Travel Experiences Around the World
Traveling to new places can be thrilling, but it can also bring unexpected challenges and dangers. In this article, I share my real-life experiences during my travels, highlighting the moments when I felt the most vulnerable. From the unexpected security checks in Egypt to the nervous guides in Jordan, and the unforgettable knife robbery in South Africa, my journeys have exposed me to a mix of thrilling and scary moments.
Scary but Scenic: Egypt and Jordan
My journey to Egypt and Jordan during the build up to the Arab Spring was marked by heightened security measures. Upon landing in Cairo, the airport did not allow passengers to disembark directly at the terminal. Instead, we were taken off the plane far out on the tarmac and bussed to the terminal, a precaution that made me wary. The hotels had strict security checks, including bomb-detection procedures and pillars that retract as you approach the entrance. My guide pointed out that terrorists had killed tourists at Hatshepsuts temple, which added to the tension. In Jordan, I was met by a nervous tour representative who was frightened that we might encounter dangerous situations, especially given my nationality.
Threats in Close Proximity: South Africa and Brazil
South Africa and Brazil offered some of the most alarming experiences. In Nelspruit, I was robbed at knifepoint in broad daylight, with dozens of witnesses around. The bustling tourist area in Durban was also notorious for its pickpockets, and I was lucky to remain unscathed. Although the police presence was extensive, several people were still robbed in the area. Even in Salvador, Brazil, where the police were visibly present, my hostel friends reported being robbed. These incidents left a lasting impression on me and the people around me, but despite the warnings, my interactions with the locals were overwhelmingly positive and welcoming.
A Near Miss in the U.S.
Unfortunately, my most alarming experience was in the United States. In Memphis, Tennessee, I narrowly escaped a knife encounter with two suspicious individuals at a gas station. Despite the warning to avoid the subway at 3 a.m. in Chicago, I took a cab instead. Ironically, my most serious near miss occurred in Toronto, Canada during a shooting. The incident made me question the safety of Canada, though I later realized that bad things can happen anywhere. In Minnesota, after the George Floyd incident, I witnessed a riot but felt safe, understanding that burning an AutoZone did not address the underlying issues.
Lessons Learned
The most dangerous places I faced were often the highways where the potential for accidents was high. A terrifying incident in North Carolina highlighted the immediacy of danger when you are near moving vehicles. The closest I came to being hit by lightning was in Kansas, and I narrowly avoided drowning in the Lake Mendota in Madison, Wisconsin, during a kayak trip in rough waters. My experiences have taught me that while travel can be perilous, the threats often come from unexpected sources, and the utmost danger can be found in any random highway, early morning city streets, or poorly managed public transport.
Despite these experiences, I have chosen not to let them discourage me from traveling abroad. The most significant danger often lies in my own country, indicating that safety isn’t solely contingent on the country but on one's vigilance, preparedness, and awareness. My travels have not only been about adventure but also about understanding and respecting different cultures, even when they reveal less savory truths.
Travel is a fantastic way to broaden one's horizons, but it should also be approached with caution and an open mind. My experiences have equipped me with a deeper appreciation for the people and places I visit, and a wiser approach to safety.
Keywords: travel safety, tourist experiences, dangerous places