The U.S. Division of State frequently updates journey advisories to assist Americans make knowledgeable choices when touring overseas. In December 2024, a number of nations have been flagged for varied security and safety issues. From heightened crime charges to civil unrest, these advisories spotlight the significance of vigilance.
Beneath are the ten most vital 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 because of excessive ranges of crime. Violent crime, similar to armed theft, carjacking, and homicide, stays prevalent. The advisory highlights that native regulation enforcement typically lacks the sources to reply successfully to emergencies.
2. Belize
Belize is underneath 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 because of the 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 at the moment in Lebanon to think about 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, similar to public transportation hubs and common vacationer points of interest, the place pickpocketing is widespread.
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 vulnerable to earthquakes and landslides, significantly throughout the monsoon season. Vacationers are urged to observe native information and climate circumstances.
6. Vietnam
Vietnam is underneath a Stage 1 advisory, recommending vacationers train regular precautions. Whereas the nation is mostly secure, the advisory notes the potential for petty crime, similar to bag snatching in city areas. Vacationers also needs to be cautious when crossing streets, as visitors will be chaotic.
7. Nicaragua
Nicaragua stays underneath a Stage 3 advisory, with vacationers urged to rethink their plans because of ongoing political unrest and crime. Demonstrations and strikes are widespread and might develop into 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 because of 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 because of crime. Petty theft, similar to pickpocketing and purse snatching, is widespread, particularly in vacationer areas. The advisory recommends securing valuables and avoiding remoted areas after darkish.
10. Israel
Israel is underneath a Stage 3 advisory for sure areas, together with the West Financial institution and Gaza, because of 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: