The vast majority of places are safe to visit, but it is always a good idea to be informed before traveling and stay informed about travel advice. The U.S. Department of State closely monitors potential threats around the world.
These are the most important updates to the travel advice issued in the first month of 2024.
Cuba – Level 2
Travelers to Cuba this winter should be extra cautious due to crime, according to a Jan. 5 update from the U.S. Department of State. Visitors are advised to be alert to their surroundings, not to physically resist an attempted robbery, not to flaunt their wealth by not wearing expensive jewelry or watches, and to sign up for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts and facilitate emergencies. place.
The Bahamas – Level 2
Due to the increase in crime this winter, visitors to the Bahamas should travel with extra caution. Since the beginning of 2024 there have been eighteen murders in the Nassau Region; therefore, the US embassy there recently advised visitors to exercise caution and keep a low profile.
Nicaragua – Level 3
Nicaragua is a level 3 country in Central America this winter. “Reconsider traveling to Nicaragua due to arbitrary enforcement of laws, risk of unlawful detention, and limited availability of health care,” the State Department warns. “Exercising more caution in Nicaragua because of crime.”
Jamaica – Level 3
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has updated the Jamaica Travel Advisory due to crime and inadequate medical care. The State Department does not cover medical expenses, so officials “strongly encourage you to obtain traveler insurance, including medical evacuation insurance, before traveling to Jamaica.”
Visit the official website for the full list of areas to avoid in Jamaica.
Saudi Arabia – Level 3
The risk of drone and missile attacks should prompt Americans to reevaluate their plans to visit Saudi Arabia. Travelers to the Middle East should be particularly careful due to the threat of terrorism, the possibility of arrest for using social media and the importation of prohibited goods.
The cities of Abha, Jizan, Najran and Khamis Mushayt; the airport and Qatif in the Eastern Province; and the suburbs of Awamiyah and Abha should all be avoided due to the threat of missile and drone attacks and terrorism. These areas are also within 50 miles of the Saudi Arabia-Yemen border.
Lebanon – Level 3
Armed conflict, unexploded landmines, kidnappings, terrorism, civil unrest and crime should make you think twice before visiting Lebanon. In some places the risk is higher, especially near the border. View the entire travel advice.
Avoid visiting the following places: refugee settlements due to the possibility of armed conflict; the border with Syria due to terrorism and armed conflict; and southern Lebanon due to the possibility of armed conflict.
Colombia – Level 3
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reissued a level 3 travel advisory for Colombia at the start of the new year. Due to terrorism and crime, officials are advising Americans to think twice before visiting the South American country. A higher level of caution is also recommended for visitors in light of civil unrest and kidnapping.
Special regions you should stay away from are the Colombia-Venezuela border region due to crime, kidnapping and the possibility of being detained when entering Venezuela from Colombia, as well as the departments of Arauca, Cauca (except Popayán) and Norte de Santander due to terrorism and criminal activities.
Israel, the West Bank and Gaza – Levels 3 and 4
In light of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, Americans are still urged to think twice before traveling to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest. Due to the armed conflict and terrorism in Gaza, American citizens must also refrain from visiting.
