Big Cities, what areas are safe?

Living close to LA there are bad areas, but I travel for work to most major cities, in the US and just about any other Country you can think of. Having said that, I have always gone by gut feelings, if you feel uncomfortable, don't stop, keep driving right on through. I doubt anyone will bother you if you are passing through, or at least that has been my experience. I was in Seattle once and ended up in Rainer Valley. While it does not look like your typical ghetto, it is a gang infested, and I knew right away from peoples mannerisms I did not want to stop there. I drove through, no problem. Just be aware of your surroundings, and if something does not feel right, it probably isn't. I will say this, how many times on the news have heard people say "This just doesn't happen around here"? Crime can happen anywhere.