Is It Safe to Travel Right Now? Reframing Fear and Embracing Adventure
In conversations lately, I’ve been hearing a common theme: “I want to travel, but I’m nervous. Is it really safe to go abroad right now?” With unrest in parts of the Middle East and a 24/7 news cycle that seems to spotlight every crisis, it’s no surprise that many are feeling hesitant about international travel.
First of all, let’s acknowledge that this fear is valid. When we care about our safety—and the safety of our loved ones—it’s natural to pause, gather information, and evaluate risk. That’s actually a smart instinct. But sometimes, fear can become a little too loud and start to drown out the facts, the context, and—most importantly—the joy and wonder that travel brings.
So let’s take a moment to unpack this together.
1. The world is big—and the trouble isn’t everywhere
Headlines often make it feel like the whole globe is on fire. But in reality, unrest is often isolated to specific regions or borders, while the vast majority of the world remains calm, welcoming, and vibrant. For example, conflict in parts of the Middle East does not impact safety in countries like Portugal, Japan, Argentina, or even Turkey, which are hundreds or thousands of miles away from any affected areas.
Just as you wouldn’t cancel a trip to California because there’s a storm in Florida, it’s helpful to look at each destination independently rather than viewing the world as one dangerous monolith.
2. We rely on expert guidance
At Chicas Abroad, your safety is our top priority. We don’t choose destinations lightly. Every itinerary is built with intention, care, and up-to-date travel intelligence. We closely monitor guidance from trusted sources like the U.S. Department of State, local governments, and in-country partners who live and work in these destinations every day.
If a country or region becomes unsafe, we simply won’t go. Period. We’re in this together, and your peace of mind matters.
3. Fear can rob us of life’s best experiences
Here’s the truth that fear doesn’t want you to hear: some of the most powerful, joyful, perspective-shifting moments of your life are waiting on the other side of your comfort zone.
No one regrets watching the sunrise over Machu Picchu or floating in Iceland’s hot springs or sharing laughter with new friends over pasta in Tuscany. But many do regret letting fear make their world smaller.
Travel teaches us that humanity is good. That cultures are rich. That strangers are kind. And that the world, for all its messiness, is full of beauty and connection.
If you’ve been feeling unsure about traveling internationally, you’re not alone—and you’re not wrong to be thoughtful. But I gently encourage you to look beyond the headlines. Talk to travelers who have just returned. Ask questions. Do your research. And when it feels right, take that leap.
Pro Tip: Visit the US Department of State for any travel advisories: US Department of State. Be sure to zoom into the details and not look at the country as a whole. In many countries there are specific areas to avoid, but other parts are perfectly safe.
There’s a big, beautiful world out there—and it’s not waiting for things to “calm down.” It’s already full of magic. And you deserve to experience it.
Ready to explore with confidence?
Check out our upcoming adventures www.chicasabroad.com—we’ve got some incredible journeys planned for 2026, and we’d love for you to come along.