The U.S. Division of State usually updates journey advisories to assist Americans make knowledgeable selections when touring overseas. In December 2024, a number of international locations had been flagged for numerous security and safety issues. From heightened crime charges to civil unrest, these advisories spotlight the significance of vigilance.
Under are the ten most important journey advisories issued in December 2024, together with key particulars.
1. Guatemala
The State Division has issued a Stage 3 advisory for Guatemala, urging vacationers to rethink their plans resulting from excessive ranges of crime. Violent crime, corresponding to armed theft, carjacking, and homicide, stays prevalent. The advisory highlights that native legislation enforcement typically lacks the sources to reply successfully to emergencies.
2. Belize
Belize is beneath a Stage 2 advisory, advising vacationers to train elevated warning. Whereas the nation is a well-liked vacationer vacation spot, it has seen an increase in crime, significantly in Belize Metropolis and different city areas. Guests are urged to keep away from strolling alone at night time and to stay alert to their environment.
3. Lebanon
A Stage 4 advisory has been issued for Lebanon, advising in opposition to all journey as a result of risky safety scenario. The nation continues to expertise political instability, civil unrest, and sporadic violence, together with bombings. The advisory strongly urges U.S. residents presently in Lebanon to contemplate departing.
4. Spain
Spain has a Stage 2 advisory in place, with the principle issues being petty crime and the potential for terrorist assaults. Vacationers are inspired to train elevated warning in crowded areas, corresponding to public transportation hubs and well-liked vacationer points of interest, the place pickpocketing is frequent.
5. Nepal
The State Division has issued a Stage 2 advisory for Nepal, citing civil unrest and pure catastrophe dangers. Political demonstrations can escalate into violence, and Nepal can also be susceptible to earthquakes and landslides, significantly in the course of the monsoon season. Vacationers are urged to observe native information and climate situations.
6. Vietnam
Vietnam is beneath a Stage 1 advisory, recommending vacationers train regular precautions. Whereas the nation is usually protected, the advisory notes the potential for petty crime, corresponding to bag snatching in city areas. Vacationers also needs to be cautious when crossing streets, as site visitors may be chaotic.
7. Nicaragua
Nicaragua stays beneath a Stage 3 advisory, with vacationers urged to rethink their plans resulting from ongoing political unrest and crime. Demonstrations and strikes are frequent and may grow to be violent with out warning. The advisory additionally notes restricted entry to medical care in sure areas.
8. Honduras
Honduras has a Stage 3 advisory, primarily resulting from widespread crime and gang exercise. Violent crimes, together with murder and armed theft, are prevalent, significantly in city areas. Vacationers are urged to keep away from strolling or driving at night time and to stay vigilant always.
9. Costa Rica
Costa Rica has a Stage 2 advisory, urging vacationers to train elevated warning resulting from crime. Petty theft, corresponding to pickpocketing and purse snatching, is frequent, particularly in vacationer areas. The advisory recommends securing valuables and avoiding remoted areas after darkish.
10. Israel
Israel is beneath a Stage 3 advisory for sure areas, together with the West Financial institution and Gaza, resulting from terrorism and civil unrest. Vacationers are urged to keep away from these areas and to remain knowledgeable of the safety scenario. The advisory additionally notes that violent incidents can happen with out warning.
Vacationers are inspired to go to the official State Division web site for detailed and up-to-date info on these advisories earlier than making journey plans.
Different advisories and U.S. embassy warnings issued in December: