Travel risks in the world's most popular destinations

Travel risks in the world's most popular destinations

Today's news of the bombing in Bangkok is tragic, and there's no doubt it makes you question just where is safe enough for Kiwis to go on holiday nowadays. 

Lonely Planet has just released a list of the top places in the world to visit. 

Story took a look at the top five and asked that question: are they safe enough for Kiwis to go on holiday? 

Angkor Wat is top of the Lonely Planet's must see list, but Cambodia is officially a high-risk destination, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT). 

Civil unrest, violent crime, land mines and terrorism are all flagged, but that hasn't deterred 101 New Zealanders currently registered in the country. 

At two on the list is Great Barrier Reef. But to be fair it's probably the wildlife that's of more concern visiting a place like this – sharks, spiders, snakes and jellyfish. 

There is no official risk level designation from MFAT's SafeTravel, but travel insurance is amongst the top tips should you need an air evacuation after meeting the locals.  

Peru is number three on the unmissable list, namely Machu Picchu. Travelling to this wonder of the world can be dangerous and it carries a high-risk warning. Drug traffickers, armed guerrilla forces, violent crime and kidnapping are prevalent. 

Only 32 New Zealanders are currently registered in the country. 

At four is the Great Wall of China. The official advice is that this is a low-risk destination, but unofficially sensible shoes are top of the must-take list if you want to outrun local vendors.  

Rounding out the top five is the Taj Mahal, one of the most photographed buildings in the world. Travelling through India to get there can be dodgy, as 259 New Zealanders who are currently there may be finding out. 

The official high-risk warnings for parts of India include terrorism, political violence and sexual violence against women. It is a case of traveller beware.  

Like all of these places, MFAT can't stop you from going. It's up to you to decide whether the risk is acceptable.