3. Jamaica

Why it's so dangerous: "Popular resorts are fairly safe but traveling beyond those borders will mean dealing with unwanted attention," says Pond. Indeed, the State Department warns that violent crime is a serious problem throughout Jamaica, particularly in Kingston and Montego Bay. And even if you're staying at a seemingly safe resort, beware: According to the State Department, "the U.S. Embassy received more than a dozen reports of sexual assaults against American visitors to Jamaica in a 12-month period. Most of these took place at all-inclusive resorts; most were allegedly perpetrated by resort staff. "

Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:

• The culture can be homophobic; if you’re traveling with your girlfriend, be very discreet.
• This is a great place for using a cross-body bag, but also not a destination where you have to be overly concerned about covering up.

4. India

Why it's so dangerous: "India is a Trip by Skyscannerfavorite destination for solo female travelers and one of the most complex, with wide variations across regions," says Pond. But the country continues to experience terrorist activities that may impact U.S. citizens, according to the State Department. "Past attacks have targeted public places, including some frequented by Westerners, such as luxury and other hotels, trains, train stations, markets, cinemas, mosques and restaurants in large urban areas," advises the State Department. "Attacks have taken place during the busy evening hours in markets and other crowded places, but could occur at any time."

Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:

• If you go, go with eyes wide open. Even with a companion, sexual assault remains a serious and ongoing problem.
• Wear long, loose clothing that covers your shoulders. Lots of female travelers we know even buy and wear Indian clothing upon arrival.
• Be prepared for staring; you’ll likely experience a lot of it.
• Start and end your days early to avoid being out at night.
• If taking the train, purchase the highest-class train tickets in advance and take women-only transportation options in cities like Delhi.
• Never walk alone on city streets at night. In smaller towns, try to have a male companion. Even then, this may not be enough of a precaution.
• Regions like Kerala and cities like Rishikesh (known for its regular influx of yoga students) are comparatively safe, as are Gujarat, Punjab and Calcutta. Family-run guesthouses can be lovely places to stay.
• Take a small doorstop with you in case you’re staying in accommodations that make you uneasy (Pond had an unexpected late overnight in Bangalore once and says she felt anything but relaxed). These can slow an intruder down for a few seconds, long enough to yell for help or find an escape route.

5. Peru

Why it's so dangerous: Armed robberies, express kidnappings, carjackings, petty theft and credit card fraud top the list of State Department concerns in this South American country known for Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail.

Trip by Skyscanner's advice for how to stay safe:

• Trip by Skyscanner's users recommend visiting the countryside, smaller towns and mountain regions over Peru’s big cities.
• Call an Uber or cab from your hotel — no hailing on the street in Lima. Your hotel can give you the number of a reputable company.
• When you’re in the taxi, put your purse on the floor under your feet and store your suitcase in the trunk.
• Stick to the beaten path when hiking, especially if you’re alone.
• Avoid flashing jewelry or other valuables; wear costume jewelry you wouldn’t miss too much and go for a “less is more” aesthetic.
• Even if you speak Spanish, pretend you don’t when approached by strangers who set off your internal alarm bells.
• Avoid sporting events after dark — that’s when gang activity is common.
• Don’t skimp on inter-city bus tickets. Cheap companies never enforce basic safety rules and the Andes are a notoriously dangerous place to drive. Always keep your valuables on you — don’t put any in the stowed luggage compartment.
• A cross-body purse is best — it’s hard for someone to simply grab it and run
• Carry only the amount of cash you might need for the day when you can — otherwise, leave credit cards and extra cash in a safe at your hotel.
• Consider renting a cell from the airport (recommended for calling taxis). Store useful emergency numbers in it like 105 for the police and 117 for an ambulance.

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