Global and economic instability is reducing travel options in 2023

2022 was the year travelers really started getting back out there. But a global mix of international conflict, economic uncertainty, and political tensions has seen many dream destinations wiped off peoples’ bucket lists for the forseeable future. 

Dale Buckner, chief executive officer of US-based security service Global Guardian, believes there more uncertainty today than there was 80 years ago. According to his company’s updated interactive global risk map, there is a greater risk of unrest in many countries, with terrorism, health issues, and natural disasters being leading issues.

Countries where tourism has changed

• Russia: it’s invasion of Ukraine obviously makes it a virtual no-go for the forseeable future, thanks to limited flights out of the country, difficulty accessing money, and political tensions with the West. 

• China: Its ‘Zero-Covid’ policy made it off limits to travelers since the pandemic. Now, after its reopening, rising cases, its threats against Taiwan and clamp down on Hong Kong, and tensions with the West have many travelers reconsidering a visit.

• Lebanon: Beirut was once a party city for young travelers. But Lebanon’s economic collapse and shortages of daily necessities mean that it’d be best to wait.

• The United States: Canadians and Europeans are showing less interest in the US — partially as a ‘semi-protest’ against political beliefs of certain regions, but largely due safety concerns.

• Other destinations that have lost demand include Iran, Myanmar, Turkey, and Sri Lanka.

While you should evaluate any trip on a case-by-case basis, the state of these once-popular destinations serves as a reminder to research, plan ahead, and double check any travel warnings. 

On the flip side, tourism is bouncing back in a big way in places like like Colombia, Egypt, South Korea, and Costa Rica.