The world is filled with breathtaking destinations just waiting to be discovered. With so many places to explore, there are times when we simply want to lace up our boots and start adventuring. While there are countless countries we could visit, political and geopolitical issues in certain regions have made it either difficult or nearly impossible for travelers to go there. Here are a few countries we dream of visiting, even though it might not happen anytime soon.
Ukraine
Ukraine is a country of contrasts, with vast rolling hills stretching to the horizon and a unique blend of European and Asian influences reflected in its architecture and culture. While much of Ukraine remains unexplored, those fortunate enough to visit often speak passionately about the serene nights in Myrhorod, the vibrant city life in Kyiv, the historic churches in Lviv, and the majestic peaks of the Carpathian Mountains. However, since 2014, the ongoing conflict with Russia has kept many tourists away. Despite this, Ukraine is generally safe to visit, as long as you stay clear of the eastern border regions.
Iran (featured image)
Iran is a country that’s hard to dislike when it comes to tourism. The majestic Zagros mountains, the ancient ruins of Persepolis, the vibrant colors of Esfahan, the stunning mosques in Shiraz, and the impressive Elamite Ziggurat in Choqa Zanbil are just a few of the many places that will capture your heart and make you fall in love with Iran.
There was once a time when you could visit a local teahouse, enjoy a cup of the famous Iranian chai, and then wander through the bazaars to admire the intricate designs of Iranian crafts and textiles. However, due to extremism, civil unrest, and other challenges, Iran has sadly ended up on the “not-to-visit” list for many countries.
Iraq
Home to one of the oldest civilizations in the world, Iraq is a country that cherishes its millennia-old history, and struggles with its recent wars. Iraq is surrounded by lofty mountains, and the interiors are spotted with countless archaeological sites, with historians trying to piece together the mystery of the ancient Mesopotamian civilization.
From Erbil to Sulaymaniyah, or just the beautiful mosques and bazaars in Baghdad, Iraq is a country brimming with history. Unfortunately, following the war in 2003, and the more recent strife in 2014, it is becoming more and more difficult for tourists to visit the country.
Venezuela
Venezuela is home to some of the most stunning vistas in the world. The country has everything – the Andean peaks, isolated islands, rolling green grasslands, beautiful Caribbean coastline, and even the world’s highest waterfalls – the Angel Falls. If you could visit, Venezuela would be the trip of a lifetime.
However, the country is quite dangerous. Internal rioting and crime have resulted in one of the world’s worst murder rates. Hyperinflation has made currency cheap for those visiting from outside, but has also had crippling economic impact on the citizens themselves. Similar to Colombia, there have been warnings against traveling to Venezuela, which have been tightened due to the Zika outbreak.
Syria
Syria, for the past few years, has been voted the most dangerous place on the planet. It is the only country on this list that you should most definitely not travel to. The bloody civil war started in 2011, with discontent about President Bashar al-Assad’s regime, and it shows no sign of stopping. Before the conflict, however, Syria was one of the most prosperous countries in the Middle East.
Damascus has been the center of learning for millennia now, whereas the beautiful Roman ruins in Palmyra, and the waterwheels of Hama have previously attracted a number of tourists. As of now, these places are forbidden for visitors. All we can do is hope for a peaceful solution to the conflict, for the sake of the people, and for the beautiful country they call home.
Colombia is a stunning country that has been facing a barrage of problems over the past few decades. The conflict with the FARC brought instability to the region – but conflict has existed in the area since the 1960’s. The guerrilla war has made it hard for tourists to visit the country, even though the security conditions had improved for a while.
Colombia is a country of colors – the beautiful town of Cartagena, or the stunning sand dunes at La Guajira, and the tranquil streams in El Cocuy will all inspire you – and make you yearn to see them in real life. However, travel restrictions have been in place for a while – and the recent Zika outbreak has further restricted entry into the country!
Sudan, unfortunately, still remains vastly unexplored. The country has been torn by years of civil war, which has been waging on and off since 1955. There are still warnings against visiting Sudan due to the on-going crisis. However, the country is a beautiful mystery waiting to be explored.
It is where the two Niles meet, where the deserts promise mystery and adventure. From the Meroe Pyramids, to the National Museum of Khartoum, or the beautiful Khatimiyah Mosque in Kassala, there is abundant beauty all over the country.
We hope that all these conflicts see a swift and peaceful end. The Earth is a beautiful place meant to be shared. After all, there is definitely enough for all of us to explore, without any conflict!