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IN BRIEF
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Exploring the world also means discovering how information flows in each country visited. Indeed, the state of press freedom can transform a travel experience, between authentic immersion or media blackout. Before embarking on a new adventure, it is therefore wise to know if the desired country shines with transparency… or if it prefers to keep its secrets well hidden. This adds a little extra thrill to the call of the sea, doesn’t it?
When packing your bags to venture far from home, one often thinks of landscapes, typical cuisine, or the weather. But have you ever considered checking the state of press freedom in your next travel destination? This often overlooked criterion can reveal much about the true face of a country and sometimes impacts the mood of your stay. Between golden beaches and historic streets, a glance at the thermometer – not for the weather, but for the freedom of information in the world!
State of Press Freedom in Travel Destinations
Northern Europe: The Golden Standard
Among all the destinations favored by travelers, Northern Europe stands out as a true star of press freedom. Norway, for the ninth consecutive year, tops the ranking, closely followed by Estonia and the Netherlands. Trekking on the ancient GR10 or GR11 trails, or marveling at the magical lakes of northern Italy, also means enjoying a calming social climate, where information flows freely, sometimes even in mountain huts. Generally, Western European countries, Australia, or Canada provide travelers with a secure environment where the media can play their role as enlighteners without hindrance.
Tense Destinations: Caution Advised
On the contrary, other regions of the globe offer a much more veiled media landscape. From China to North Korea, through Eritrea, the situation is deemed, according to Reporters Without Borders, as “very grave.” In these regions, more than half of the world’s population lives under strict control of information. Before opting for humanitarian travel, it is wise to research the local context through guides like how to do a humanitarian trip. Access to objective information is restricted, and travelers are advised to be discreet in their discussions and to stay away from any sensitive debates.
Recent Developments: The Shift in Temperature
The annual report highlights a worrying trend: in 2025, more than six out of ten countries in the global ranking saw their situation worsen year-on-year. The majority of popular destinations, particularly in Asia and the Middle East, show a declining score. This means that even when planning a simple walk on the Gouaux-Larboust hiking trails or tasting chestnut AOP cheese, it is better to inform yourself about the local media atmosphere. Some destinations do not hesitate to silence journalists and bloggers. Even if daily life appears peaceful, silence in the media can speak volumes…
What This Means for the Traveler
Why should the freedom of the press concern you while on vacation? Because a country where journalists are free to work generally signals a society that respects opinions, where visitors are informed in real-time about news, health alerts, or simply good local tips. In destinations where press freedom is declining, information flows less freely, sometimes distorting the traveler’s perception. A stay is no longer limited to postcards: it becomes a window into a plural reality, whether positive or problematic.
