By Vicky Anscombe on 09 March 2015

Heading abroad this year? Make sure you read this first.

We've taken a look at some of the potential risks associated with the top destinations for 2015, listed in ABTA’s latest Travel Trends Report.

However, before we begin assessing the risks, what are the top travel destinations for 2015?

Austria: Vienna is one of the most sophisticated cities in Europe and is also the host city for Eurovision this year.

Botswana: Known for incredible safaris and stunning scenery.

Cuba: Santiago de Cuba celebrates its 500th birthday with festivals and parties this year.

Dominican Republic: This part of the world is known for its beautiful beaches, and new direct flights from London and Glasgow have made it far more accessible.

Japan: Sterling is strong against the Yen, there's tax free shopping for all and the wonders of Tokyo and Kyoto are unmissable.

Latvia: Currently gearing up to host Europride in 2015 and home to unspoilt forests, lakes, rivers and waterfalls.

La Gomera, (Spain): It's warm all year round and largely undiscovered, with plenty of walking trails.

Norway: In March 2015, visitors will see the last solar eclipse visible in Europe before 2026.

Pacific Coast (USA): Look out for spectacular countryside in Washington, Oregon and northern California. Visit Seattle for the city buzz.

Singapore: Get set for a party - Singapore is celebrating 50 years of independence in 2015, and is also home to the Grand Prix and WTA tennis finals.

The Netherlands: The place that Van Gogh called home is also hosting the opening stages of the Tour de France in June.

The Peloponnese (Greece): New direct flights into Kalamata have improved access, and The Peloponnese boasts some of the most historic parts of Greece, with numerous archaeological sites to explore.

Holiday risks and how to stay safe:

There is a risk of dengue fever in Singapore, chikungunya virus in Dominican Republic and both dengue fever and chikungunya virus is prevalent in Cuba. There are currently no vaccinations available against these viruses and so it is important to take preventative measures against mosquito bites. We'd also advise you to check with the NHS to see if there are any other vaccinations that are needed for your holiday. If you don’t have the appropriate inoculations for the country you are visiting, it can result in a claim for medical costs being declined by your insurer. This is because you are effectively exposing yourself to unnecessary risk, whether you intended to or not.

If you are travelling to Botswana from West African countries that are affected by Ebola, screening facilities are in place at the airport but you should be warned that you may still be denied entry upon arrival.

There is a danger of avalanches in Austria and Norway when taking part in winter sports, and the hazard remains in Austria during the summer as areas remain covered by snow. Avalanche airbags and snow shovels should be considered when taking part in activities in the mountains, and travellers are advised to stay on piste and only ski in recommended areas.

The Dominican Republic and Cuba have hurricane seasons between June and November and Japan has typhoon season between June and December. Such adverse weather could affect your travel arrangements, so it is important to check your policy will cover travel delays, cancellation and curtailment. Japan is also at continuous risk of earthquakes and tsunamis and so it is important to check what is covered under these circumstances.

Visitors to La Gomera, (Spain) and the Netherlands need to be alert to street crime. Thieves tend to target money and passports so don’t keep them all in one place. Keep a copy of your passport somewhere safe.

Getting an illness or injury in Pacific Coast (USA)can be extremely expensive as costs for medical treatment there are some of the highest in the world. You should always have comprehensive travel insurance when visiting the United States.

The Peloponnese (Greece), Spain and Dominican Republic are great places to experience diving and other water sports. Many people think these activities are covered in their travel insurance, but that is not always the case. Check that any activity you plan to do on holiday is listed in your policy document.

Always check the FCO website before you travel as this will give the most up-to-date information and provides travel advice for 225 countries or territories.


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