Worst Countries to Visit for Allergies
Whether you struggle with hay fever, pollen or food allergies, symptoms can make life uncomfortable. Allergies can also make it tough to enjoy a vacation. If you want to stay safe and comfortable and not have your vacation derailed by an allergic reaction, here's a list of some of the worst countries to visit for allergies.
1. United Kingdom - Worst for Wheat
If you have a wheat intolerance, you're going to struggle if you visit the United Kingdom and not have an allergic reaction or two. This is largely because wheat is the foundation of the English diet, due to the fact that it's one of the top wheat producers in the world.
Some of the top English foods include sandwiches, pizza, bread and baked goods, all of which feature wheat. Even fish and chips and Cornish pasties, two other popular foods, contain wheat as one of their top ingredients. You also won't be able to enjoy a beer at the local pub, which is one of the most quintessential English experiences you can have.
2. Scandinavia - Worst for Seafood
From shellfish and salmon to mackerel and herring, seafood is by far the most popular type of food in Scandinavia, and many other Nordic countries. Seafood is often consumed in every meal, and you'll have a hard time getting the true Scandinavian experience if you can't partake.
Additionally, fish oil is one of the most common cooking ingredients in Scandinavia. Even non-seafood dishes may cause an allergic reaction.
3. Italy - Worst for Dairy
Italy is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, as millions of people travel to it each year to visit everything from Rome and Milan to the Dolomites and the Amalfi Coast. However, Italy is also famous for being one of the biggest cheese and dairy producers in the world, as it exports hundreds of different types of cheeses.
Cheese is in most of their foods and drinks, especially coffee beverages and ice cream. You should be cautious about visiting Italy if you have a bad dairy allergy. As an added bonus, Italy is also one of the worst countries to visit if you're intolerant to gluten or wheat, as pasta and pizza are dietary pillars.
4. Australia - Worst for Gluten
If you have a gluten intolerance or Celiac disease, you may want to cross off the Land Down Under as a travel destination. Similar to the UK, wheat and other gluten-containing products play a huge role in the Australian diet.
Wheat is also a big part of Australia's economy, as they produce more than 16 million tons per year! Even if you don't eat food or drink beer containing wheat, there may be trace amounts of it in the air which can trigger your allergies.
5. Ireland - Worst for Pollen Season
Millions of Americans struggle with pollen allergies, and it's one of the most common allergies worldwide. Some people react worse to it than others. If you have a severe pollen allergy, it's best to avoid Ireland, especially in autumn and winter months.
Whether you struggle with tree, grass or weed pollen, Ireland has them all in spades. As such, it's also the worst place for hay fever allergies, especially in the capital city of Dublin.
6. India - Worst for Asthma Induced Allergies
India has some of the most famous and historic sites and monuments in the world. From the Taj Mahal and Red Fort to the Amber Palace and towering mountains, India has something for everyone.
However, it also has some of the most polluted air in the world and is easily the top country to avoid if you have asthma induced allergies. Smog is the main reason for air pollution in India, especially in larger cities such as Kolkata, Delhi and Mumbai.
7. Saudi Arabia - Worst for Asthma Induced Allergies
Saudi Arabia is another country you'll want to avoid if you have asthma induced allergies due to dust and air pollution. While Saudi Arabia has tons of sights and sounds you won't be able to experience anywhere else in the world, it's also one of the dirtiest.
Between frequent dust storms, thick smog and air pollution due to energy production and fracking, Saudi Arabia's air can sometimes become unbreathable. As such, if you have asthma or asthma induced allergies, steer clear of this popular destination.
Protect Yourself From Allergies During Your Travels
If you struggle with allergies of any kind, it's important to protect yourself while traveling abroad. You can do this by avoiding non-allergy friendly destinations and opting for alternatives more suited to your needs. For hay fever and pollen allergies, you should also research what time of year the worst pollen season occurs and avoid certain countries during those times. To be safe, always purchase travel insurance in case you need to see a doctor or seek medical help while traveling.