Do American tourists get kidnapped ?

Do American tourists get kidnapped if they visit rogue nations like China, North Korea, Iran and Russia ?

Answer from real people

1)

First, Remember you are visiting a foreign country the laws of the land maybe very different then anything you’ve ever seen. If your going to travel to any foreign country you should be familiar with local laws, customs and what is considered acceptable

China not likely unless you break the laws of China. They are very tolerate of alternate lifestyles but I would not push it.

North Korea they won’t kidnap you but a high probability of being found guilty on made up charges then tortured to death in one of the special camps. You will be watched 24/7 and they will tell you were you can go or not go. When they take you shopping everyone you see is an actor for your benefit

Iran I have been told that the people are friendly towards outsiders. As to the Government it depends on how you act. Try to blend in with the natives and you should be OK. The morality police will keep an eye on you.

Russia anyone that is LGBTQ+ is at risk of being kidnapped, Imprisoned, Tortured by the system and street gangs. Any straight person that looks gay to others might have a hard time depends on how you look. Of course if you happen to catch the eye of Putin he might have you assassinated.

2)

I would be cautious when using an expression like “rogue nations”.

While I personally don’t care at all for the governments of any of the countries you listed, and take that (among many other things) into account when choosing a destination, only North Korea, from your list, really deserves the title of a “rogue nation”.

Have you seen the statistics regarding how many tourists from the US, not to mention all other western countries, visit China every year? How many of them do you think are kidnapped? Just about zero. Russia is also a fairly popular destination despite chilly government to government relations.

I know people who have been to Iran and they have nothing but praise. Again, separate the people from the leaders. People in Iran are very friendly and welcoming to tourists.

Then we get to North Korea. If a foreigner is kidnapped there it’s government sanctioned. I know there are adventure seekers who get a thrill out of the idea of travelling there. Personally I think they’re nuts.

Especially when you consider how many beautiful, unthreatening countries all over the world there are to visit.