Top 5 Countries I Would Never Visit (And Why You Shouldn't Either)

Published on July 14, 2023
Duration: 7:33

Former CIA officer Jason Hanson identifies Russia, Ukraine, China, Cuba, and Mexico as countries to avoid due to risks like arbitrary imprisonment, active war zones, extreme surveillance, communist regimes, and cartel violence. He emphasizes consulting official travel advisories and shares practical safety tips for safer travel, including hotel floor selection and avoiding late-night outings.

Quick Summary

Former CIA officer Jason Hanson identifies Russia, Ukraine, China, Cuba, and Mexico as countries to avoid due to risks like arbitrary imprisonment, active war zones, extreme surveillance, communist regimes, and cartel violence. He emphasizes consulting official travel advisories and shares practical safety tips for safer travel.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Why Avoid Certain Countries?
  2. 00:22Country #1: Russia Risks
  3. 00:39Country #2: Ukraine War Zone
  4. 00:49Country #3: China Surveillance
  5. 01:33Country #4: Cuba Dangers
  6. 01:41Country #5: Mexico Cartel Violence
  7. 02:47Other High-Risk Regions & Official Advice
  8. 03:15Safer Travel Destinations
  9. 03:22Essential Travel Safety Tips
  10. 04:24Hotel Security: Floor Recommendations
  11. 05:24General Safety Rules for Travelers

Frequently Asked Questions

Which countries does Jason Hanson recommend avoiding for travel and why?

Jason Hanson, a former CIA officer, advises avoiding Russia (arbitrary imprisonment risk), Ukraine (active war zone), China (extreme surveillance), Cuba (communist regime risks), and Mexico (cartel violence and kidnapping).

What are the main safety concerns when traveling to China, according to Jason Hanson?

China is flagged for extreme electronic surveillance. Hanson warns that hotel rooms are frequently searched by authorities and recommends using 'dummy' electronics to mitigate risks.

What is Jason Hanson's advice regarding hotel security for travelers?

Hanson suggests staying on hotel floors between the 3rd and 6th. This range is high enough to avoid ground-level threats but low enough for fire department ladders to reach in emergencies.

What general safety rules does Jason Hanson recommend for travelers?

Hanson emphasizes two key rules: avoid 'bad places' like strip clubs where criminal elements gather, and avoid being out after midnight to minimize exposure to danger.

More Self Defense Videos You Might Like

More from Jason Hanson

View all →