The US Department of State reissued seven travel advisories for nine destinations in June.
This time, the agency is advising Americans to avoid all travel to three destinations; reconsider travel to one country and take increased precautions for two others. Only one destination was rated as very safe.
In almost all cases, the government encourages citizens to register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive news and help locate you in an emergency, and to monitor local media to make travel plans accordingly.
Israel, the West Bank and Gaza – (Reconsider travel and don’t travel)
On June 27, the US government updated its policy travel advice for these areas regarding new restrictions on US government personnel under the security responsibility of the Head of Mission.
These people should not travel to Gaza because of terrorism and armed conflict and should not reconsider their travel to Israel and the West Bank because of terrorism and civil unrest. So you should follow suit.
According to the agency, terrorist groups and lone terrorists can attack tourist locations, including airports and public transportation, and government locations at any time.
If you do decide to travel to Israel or the West Bank, be aware of your surroundings at all times, obtain health insurance that covers evacuation before traveling, and locate the nearest fallout shelter wherever you go.
In addition to the previous recommendations, if you travel to Gaza, be prepared to be stuck there for an indefinite number of days; bring your own medication if you need it; and make arrangements at home about child custody and funeral preferences in case something goes wrong. Leaving DNA samples is also highly recommended.
Russia – Level 4: Do not travel
Some minor changes have been added to Russia’s travel advice. For the time being, the country remains in the rankings Level 4: Do not travel.
Americans who travel to or live in this country are at risk of unlawful detention and must leave as quickly as possible. Limited inbound and outbound flights and possible terrorist attacks are also a concern.
If you post your political views against Russia or in favor of the LGTB community on your social media networks, you could face jail time.
If you are a Russian-American citizen, please note that Russia does not recognize your dual citizenship. If you get into trouble in that country, you can only rely on the Russian authorities to help you.
Consular services for the rest of Americans are quite limited, especially outside Moscow.
Myanmar (Burma) – Level 4: Do not travel
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs advises against travel to Myanmar, a country in the southeast that underwent a military coup in 2021.
“If you decide to travel to Burma,” the U.S. government has added even more recommendations for you.
First and foremost, you need to know the local laws and get travel medical insurance that covers evacuation before you travel.
The US government doesn’t explain why, but it recommends not touching unknown metal objects. There must be a reason behind it, so be aware of this.
Finally, have your travel ID and travel documents ready; do not use unknown roads and; Make sure you have a plan to leave the country in case you need it.
Travel advisory for New Caledonia – Level 3: Reconsider travel
This collection of French islands in the South Pacific has been elevated to Level: 3 Rethink travel due to civil unrest and crime.
Americans should reconsider their plans to travel to any of these islands or even consider leaving them due to their unstable situation.
A series of political changes have led to demonstrations and violent riots across the territory, affecting inbound and outbound flights and land travel.
Have an exit plan ready, but don’t rely on U.S. government help to implement it, the agency says.
Dominican Republic – Level 2: Be extra careful on June 18, 2024
This Caribbean island remains on the rankings Level 2: Be extra carefulmeaning the country is safe enough for Americans to visit.
However, this does not mean that traveling to this country is completely risk-free.
The local population has ample access to firearms, so this translates into higher crime levels. Violent crimes, including murder, assault and armed robbery, are common on the island, especially outside the tourist areas.
It is recommended to visit the tourist areas in Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, where professional tourist corps patrol.
If you get into trouble, contact local authorities at 911.
Travel advice for Bolivia – Level 2: Be extra careful
Bolivia has seen some political instability in recent days following a failed coup attempt led by former top military commander Juan Jose Zuniga on June 26, 2024.
However, the country remains in the rankings Level 2: Be extra carefulmeaning the country is quite safe to travel to.
Bolivia is prone to civil unrest, where demonstrations and roadblocks can occur at any time, affecting domestic and international flights.
Do not travel to the Chapare region for the time being due to crime.
Bhutan – Level 1: Take normal precautions
After an assessment of the current security situation in Bhutan, the US government continues to believe in it this is one of them the safest destinations where Americans can travel.
Make sure you take normal precautions when traveling to this beautiful country.
