‘I’m afraid to travel to America right now…’

As an American living in Australia, I often find myself in conversations with my Aussie friends, which frequently lead to discussions about travel to America, culture, and, inevitably, safety.

Having travelled extensively around the globe, I’ve learned that street smarts and awareness of your surroundings are crucial for staying safe while exploring new places. Yet, the sheer volume of violence and tragedy reported in the USA raises alarm bells. Recent examples, like the recent death of an activist speaker at a university campus while exercising his right to free speech, school shootings (that have become tragically common), and attacks targeting places of worship, to mention a few, all contribute to a growing unease about what it means to live in or visit America today.

I often remind those hesitant about visiting the U.S. that, generally, they will be safe and that America is undoubtedly a beautiful country with diverse landscapes and cultures, making it a worthy destination for exploration. But each time I read about another act of violence, my conviction wavers. What the hell?

When people can’t feel safe sending their children to school, attending religious services, or simply listening to a speaker on a university campus, I can’t help but wonder what the root cause is.

• What needs to change?

• How can we foster a society where safety and freedom coexist harmoniously?

• Can genuine change occur?

For those considering a trip to America or, frankly, anywhere on the globe, do your research, know your risks, trust your instincts, and maintain perspective as the media can easily alter reality. The world may seem fraught with challenges overall, but it also offers unparalleled opportunities for growth and understanding. Ultimately, every journey begins with a single step, one that can lead to unexpected discoveries, connections, and change.