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Keeping an eye on the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisories is always a smart move. These advisories are a key resource for American citizens heading abroad, providing important safety and security information to help you make informed decisions. Just this past week, the State Department updated advisories for several destinations around the globe. Let’s break down what these updates mean for six specific countries.

Understanding US Travel Advisories

So, what exactly are these travel advisories? Think of them as guidance from the U.S. government about potential risks in different parts of the world. They are designed to keep you informed about conditions like crime, terrorism, civil unrest, natural disasters, health risks, and other potential dangers you might encounter when traveling outside the United States. The State Department constantly monitors situations in foreign countries and updates these advisories as needed. They aren’t designed to tell you not to travel, but rather to inform you so you can travel more safely and be prepared for potential issues. Checking the advisory for your destination is a crucial step before booking your trip and again just before you leave.

The Four Advisory Levels: What They Mean

The State Department uses a clear, four-level system to rate the potential risks in a country:

• Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. This is the lowest advisory level. It means there are no significant safety or security risks that are out of the ordinary for travel. While you should always be aware of your surroundings no matter where you are, this level suggests typical travel safety measures are sufficient.
• Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. At this level, there are heightened risks to safety and security. This could be due to increased crime rates, specific health concerns, or potential for civil unrest. Travelers are advised to be more vigilant and take extra precautions.
• Level 3: Reconsider Travel. This level suggests serious risks to safety and security are present. This might be due to significant crime, terrorism, unstable political situations, or major health crises. The State Department recommends that travelers seriously think about whether they need to travel to this location.
• Level 4: Do Not Travel. This is the highest advisory level, reserved for countries where there is a very high likelihood of life-threatening risks. This could include active conflict, extreme levels of crime or terrorism, or severe health risks. The U.S. government may have limited ability to provide assistance to citizens in a Level 4 country.

Recent Updates You Should Know About

In the last few days of April 2025, the State Department refreshed its guidance for several nations. Here are the updates for six countries:

For Indonesia, the advisory was updated on April 30, 2025, maintaining a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Countries at this level often pose risks such as crime, terrorism, or natural disasters like earthquakes or tsunamis, which Indonesia is known to be susceptible to. Travelers are encouraged to be more aware of their surroundings, especially in tourist areas, and monitor local news and weather.

Paraguay also saw an update on April 30, 2025, and remains at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions. This indicates that typical safety precautions are recommended, similar to traveling within the United States. While petty crime can occur anywhere, Paraguay is generally considered a safe destination for tourists following standard safety practices.

The advisory for North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) was updated on April 29, 2025, and it continues to be at Level 4: Do Not Travel. This highest level reflects the significant and life-threatening risks present. The U.S. government warns of the serious risk of arrest and long-term detention of U.S. citizens. There is very limited to no consular assistance available in North Korea.

Papua New Guinea was updated on April 29, 2025, and holds a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory. High rates of crime, including violent crime and civil unrest, are common reasons for a Level 3 advisory. Travelers are advised to be extra vigilant, avoid traveling after dark, and be aware of potential for sudden civil disturbances.

Also updated on April 29, 2025, Burundi is currently under a Level 3: Reconsider Travel advisory. Political instability, civil unrest, and crime are often factors contributing to this level in Burundi. The State Department urges travelers to exercise extreme caution and reconsider their plans due to these serious risks.

Finally, the Solomon Islands advisory was updated on April 29, 2025, and remains at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Reasons for this level can include social unrest or crime. Travelers should be mindful of their personal safety and security, particularly in and around the capital, Honiara, and stay informed about local conditions.

Keeping informed about these advisories is an essential part of responsible international travel. Before your next trip, be sure to check the very latest information from the U.S. Department of State for your specific destination.

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Colombia – a nation pulsating with vibrant culture, stunning Andean landscapes, lush coffee regions, and Caribbean coastlines – continues to capture the imagination of travelers worldwide. From the historic streets of Cartagena to the bustling energy of Bogotá and the modern vibe of Medellin, its appeal is undeniable. However, amidst this allure, the U.S. State Department has issued an updated Travel Advisory, urging potential visitors to weigh the risks carefully.  

On April 17, 2025, the State Department reissued its advisory for Colombia, maintaining the country at an overall Level 3: Reconsider Travel. This level sits just below the most severe warning, Level 4: Do Not Travel. A Level 3 advisory doesn’t mean Americans cannot go, but it signals serious risks to safety and security that warrant careful consideration before booking that ticket.  

Based on over 20 trips to Medellin within the last four years, I can sincerely attest to the importance of heeding official travel warnings. Although I have personally been fortunate enough to avoid major incidents, reports of robberies targeting foreign tourists are pervasive and occur almost daily. Spending even a short time browsing Medellin expat Facebook group offers a realistic understanding of the situation on the ground.

Why the Caution? Understanding the Risks

The advisory flags several major concerns across Colombia: crime, terrorism, civil unrest, and kidnapping. ^{Violent crime isn’t isolated to specific areas; incidents like murder, assault, and armed robbery are unfortunately common in many parts of the country. Organized crime groups are active, engaging in extortion, robbery, and kidnapping. Drive-by snatchings of phones and valuables by thieves on motorcycles are also a frequent hazard, particularly targeting those displaying signs of wealth like expensive watches or jewelry.}  

Terrorist groups, including dissident factions that refused to demobilize after peace agreements and organizations like the National Liberation Army (ELN), still operate and pose a threat. ^{They may attack with little warning, targeting locations frequented by tourists, transportation hubs, markets, government facilities, and other public areas.}  

Furthermore, civil unrest is a factor. Political demonstrations occur regularly and can shut down roads and highways unexpectedly, disrupting travel and sometimes turning violent.

“Do Not Travel” Zones: High-Risk Areas

While the country overall is Level 3, the State Department strongly advises against all travel (Level 4) to specific regions due to extreme danger:

1. Arauca, Cauca (excluding the city of Popayán), and Norte de Santander departments: These areas face significant threats from both crime and terrorism. Violent crime is particularly prevalent.
2. The Colombia-Venezuela border region: This zone is flagged for high levels of crime, kidnapping, potential conflict between armed groups, and the risk of accidental crossing into Venezuela, which could lead to detention.  

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to citizens in these Level 4 areas, and official U.S. personnel face severe travel restrictions there.  

A Specific Danger: Dating App Risks, Especially in Medellin

Beyond the general advisory, a critical security alert issued previously by the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá remains highly relevant, especially for visitors to major cities like Medellin, Cartagena, and Bogotá. Criminals are increasingly using online dating applications (like Tinder, Bumble, Grindr, and others) to lure victims, particularly foreigners.  

The pattern often involves matching with someone online and agreeing to meet at a public place like a bar or restaurant, or sometimes at the victim’s hotel or residence. Criminals, sometimes working in teams, then use drugs to incapacitate their victims – Scopolamine (also known as “Devil’s Breath”) is frequently used, as it can render a person unconscious and induce amnesia. Once drugged, victims are robbed of their belongings, including phones, wallets, bank cards, and computers. Tragically, numerous incidents involving U.S. citizens being drugged, robbed, and even killed after meeting someone via a dating app have been reported. The Embassy noted a significant spike in thefts and violent deaths involving foreign visitors in Medellin in 2023 and 2024, many linked to these dating app encounters and potential drugging or overdose scenarios.  

Traveling Smarter and Safer

If you decide to travel to Colombia despite the Level 3 advisory:

• Be Informed: Read the full Travel Advisory and Country Information page on the State Department website. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for alerts and easier location in emergencies.  
• Stay Aware: Maintain constant situational awareness. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Keep a low profile – avoid displaying cash or expensive jewelry.
• Transportation: Do not hail taxis on the street. Use reputable dispatch services or vehicle-for-hire apps. U.S. government employees are prohibited from using street taxis.  
• Dating Apps: Exercise extreme caution. If meeting someone new, do so only in very public places for initial encounters. Inform a friend or family member of your plans, who you are meeting, and which app you used. Never leave drinks or food unattended. Be wary of inviting strangers to your accommodation.
• Demonstrations: Avoid all protests and large crowds, as they can turn violent without warning. Monitor local media.  
• Have a Plan: Prepare for emergency situations and ensure you have adequate travel insurance covering medical evacuation.

Colombia offers incredible experiences, but the current security landscape demands caution. By understanding the risks outlined by the State Department and taking proactive safety measures, travelers can make more informed decisions to protect themselves while exploring this captivating country.

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If you thought ranches and rodeos were the only place for cattle herds, you haven’t been to an airport!

There’s no doubt TSA agents have a tough job keeping travelers safe, and it’s easy to see all the potential threats they deal with daily, from questionable liquids to sharp objects and always that one traveler who forgets to pack deodorant.

But on the receiving end, it’s a frustrating ordeal being moved like livestock in tight spaces where every airport seems to have different rules, which can add precious time to getting to your gate.

Plus, just when you think you’ve struck gold with a TSA PreCheck emblem on your boarding pass, somehow the PreCheck line always seems to be longer than the standard line of normies.

Security checkpoints and the boarding process may be the most annoying parts of travel, and a busy spring season surely won’t change that, but the TSA just issued a new travel alert urging travelers to follow 4 essential tips to make your experience at airports as seamless as possible.

Pack Wisely And Think Ahead

We’ve all been behind that one person who seems like they’ve never traveled before. Oh, that’s me. Sorry.

Despite having traveled to nearly 40 countries, that should speak volumes about how unorganized each airport around the world can be.

Well, with the exception of Oman – that place is spotless and a well-oiled machine!

But here in the U.S., it’s a fustercluck come spring, followed by summer. No matter how many places I go, it’s always a guessing game if liquids and electronics need to be removed and if I remember to take off my metal-clasped bracelet that always sets off that stupid machine.

TSA is asking travelers to meticulously organize their carry-ons for when these situations arise. This means having your liquids and electronics accessible so as not to hold up the line.

Sorry, guys. I’ll be better.

Furthermore, you can text or tweet (is that still a thing?) TSA with any questions regarding compliance.

Text: 275-872
X: @AskTSA

Arrive Early: Don’t Believe The ‘Airport Theory’

Just like we’ve all been behind people like me in airport lines, we’ve surely also tested fate by arriving way too close for comfort, ultimately missing our flight entirely or making it by the skin of our teeth.

TSA is urging travelers to arrive early and not take part in the current TikTok ‘airport theory’ which tests if you really need to arrive the suggested 2 hours before flight departure.

Newsflash: it doesn’t work!

As spring is one of the busiest times of year, it’s best to face the music and arrive early to ensure you make the vacation you’ve been waiting for all winter.

TSA considers spring’s peak season March 6 – 24, so if your trip falls in this window, expect crowds.

Last Call For REAL IDs!

The time has finally arrived. REAL IDs will be required for all flights this spring with few exceptions.

The goalpost has been pushed back until May 7, 2025 when TSA will be enforcing the new requirement to board flights.

While nobody wants to visit the DMV, nobody wants to miss their flight either over something so simple.

Every passenger aged 18 and over must show a valid ID or U.S. Passport or U.S. Passport Card.

There are some other options to bypass the new REAL ID requirements. For example, I don’t need one since I have a SENTRI card.

To view a full list of exemptions, click here.

A Little Patience Goes A Long Way

As frustrating as airports can be, try to remember TSA agents are human like you and me and are simply doing their job to keep us all safe.

While certain tactics and rules may seem over the top, it’s for our own good whether we like it in the moment or not.

The truth is if you’re an avid traveler this spring, you’re going to experience some airport headaches, so it’s best to simply embrace it’s going to happen.

A little patience goes a long way and helps keep the security process running smoothly. And just know it’s illegal to harass and impede the work of federal employees, including TSA.

Sam Sears

Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 30 countries and written over 400 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.

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Last Updated 2 years ago

As monkeypox spreads globally, the Canadian government has issued a travel advisory for Canadians traveling overseas. The new Level 2 travel advisory suggests Canadians should practice enhanced health precautions following the emergence of monkeypox. 

The Canadian government released the travel advisory on June 7, 2022. 

The Full Details Of The Level 2 Travel Advisory 

According to the Canadian government, a Level 2 travel health notice “indicates an increased risk to travellers or certain groups of travellers (for example, pregnant women, campers, people visiting friends and relatives) and reminds them to practise enhanced health precautions.”

The Canadian government suggests all Canadians should follow these precautions:

• Use personal protective equipment—such as masks—to minimize the spread of monkeypox
• Delaying all travel until the risk is lower
• Avoiding higher-risk activities 
• Taking recommended vaccinations for some groups 
• Washing hands at all times, especially after being in close contact with some people
• Being careful if you’re attending mass gatherings or parties 
• Being aware of any symptoms, such as a new rash 

The Canadian government has issued the advisory if you’re traveling to these destinations:

• Argentina
• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• Bolivia
• The Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Hungary
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Malta
• Mexico
• Morocco
• Netherlands
• Norway
• Portugal
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• The United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States

The Canadian government says: “During your travel, you may be subject to procedures at your destination put in place to limit the spread of monkeypox, such as isolation, should you become infected. You may have limited access to timely and appropriate health care should you become ill, and may experience delays in returning home.”

“PHAC is working closely with international, provincial, and territorial health partners to gather information on this evolving issue. Further investigations are underway to determine the likely source of infection and to limit further onward spread.”

The Canadian government says you should see a healthcare professional if you develop symptoms when you’re traveling. In addition, if you have monkeypox symptoms during the flight: “tell the flight attendant before you land or the border services officer as you enter the country.”

What Is Monkeypox?

The Canadian government states: “Monkeypox is a disease that is caused by a virus. It is regularly found in parts of Central and West Africa, where it has been re-emerging in recent years”

They suggest monkeypox can spread in three ways:

• From animals to humans
• From person to person
• Through direct contact with contaminated objects

In addition, monkeypox can spread from person to person via close contact in the following ways:

• Scabs or skin lesions (which may resemble chickenpox)
• Body fluids or blood 
• Mucosal surfaces (including eyes, mouth, throat, and rectum.)
• Contaminated clothing or linens
• Respiratory droplets (coughs and sneezes) may transmit the monkeypox virus, but scientists are still learning.

However, the Canadian government suggests that: “symptoms usually last between 14 and 28 days. Monkeypox is usually a mild, self-limited disease. In rare situations, people may become very sick and death may occur.”

They add: “Treatment for monkeypox is mainly supportive. Vaccines and medications for prevention and treatment are not commercially available at this time.”

Have Other Countries Issued Travel Advisories? 

The Canadian government isn’t the first nation to introduce a travel advisory for monkeypox. The United States issued a travel advisory due to monkeypox almost two weeks ago.

The CDC advises Americans to avoid:

• Close contact with sick people, particularly those with skin or genital lesions.
• Touching any dead or live wild animals, such as rats, squirrels, monkeys, and apes.
• Handling all materials used by monkeypox-infected individuals as they could be contaminated.

We will keep you updated on how monkeypox may affect travelers going forward. 

Read More:

Travel Insurance That Covers Covid-19 For 2022

Romania And Hungary Launch New Digital Nomad Visas

Italy Planning To Launch A Digital Nomad Visa

Riu To Open Two New All Inclusive Resorts In Cancun This Year

Your Phone Could Be Searched When Entering Canada With New Proposed Law

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Last Updated 7 seconds ago

Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned traveler, you might be used to checking the U.S. Department of State for updates regarding the security situation in a number of countries:

It’s strange times we’re living in, after all, with all these geopolitical conflicts, and there’s nothing wrong with wanting some reassurance.

For Americans, this means checking their destination’s status on the State Department’s official website: if it’s Level 1 or 2, they’re good to go, though some caution is advise for the latter, if it’s Level 3, they should maybe reconsider traveling, and at Level 4…

Well, that’s the likes of Russia, North Korea and Iran for you.

This week, the entity updated its list, reissuing travel advice for 5 destinations, including 3 popular Caribbean getaways some Americans might have on their radar this winter, and we have good news for you:

Updates have been mostly positive. Let’s start with the Caribbean.

3 Caribbean Islands Placed At Level 1

Featuring at Level 1, the most desirable status any country can aim for, we now have Bermuda, a British island territory famous for its pink sands, picturesque capital Hamilton, featuring pastel-colored buildings and red telephone boxes, and luxury resorts.

According to the State Department, Americans visiting Bermuda this season should exercise ‘normal’ precautions, as levels of crime on the island aren’t significant, and the vast majority of vacationers have a hassle-free stay.

After Bermuda, U.S. authorities included an offbeat, yet incredibly-beautiful Grenada in their Level 1 advisory: an archipelago-nation comprising a mountainous main island and several satellite islets, it boasts a rich British-colonial heritage, with historic plantations and 18th-century forts galore.

Grenada is also highly sought-after for its unruffled golden sand beaches, that are nowhere as crowded as in other resort islands, and the fact safety risks are minimal makes it particularly appealing to U.S. guests.

That being said, the islands of Carriaocu and Petite Martinique are still recovering from Hurricane Beryl, as noted in the advisory, and some services may yet to be re-established.

Last but not least, there’s Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, yet another independent collective of islands distinguished by yacht-lined harbors, dramatic volcanic landscapes, especially in St. Vincent, the largest landmass, and paradisiacal isles that host private villas.

Be it lounging on a deserted Princess Margaret Beach, where the sands are powdered-sugar white, or sailing along a reef-fringed Bequia Island, this safe, mostly crime-free island is perfect for unwinding, with overnight stays in beachfront hotels starting at $220.

Similarly to Grenada, however, you should know the islands of Canouan, Mayreau, Palm Islands, and Union Island are still recovering from Hurricane Beryl.

One Of The Safest Destinations In The World Is Now At Level 2

Greenland is one of the safest destinations in the world, as an autonomous country within the Kingdom of Denmark only 56,865 people call home, with low, to negligible crime, so you’d naturally expect it to be part of the Level 1 crowd.

That’s no longer the case, but not for the reason you may be thinking.

Greenland continues to be a low-risk adventure when personal integrity is concerned, but on the downside, its extreme weather conditions and limited emergency services may pose a problem to American visitors in need.

As the State Department reiterates, consular assistance in Greenland is extremely limited, and as the weather can be harsh, most notably in winter, and resources are scarce away from larger settlements like Nuuk, visitors should proceed with ‘increased’ caution.

In other words, as fun as those can be, don’t go snowmobiling or dog-sledding by yourself, as it can take search and rescue efforts several days to reach the site of an accident.

South Africa Remains At Level 2 Despite Rising Crime

To end this story on a good note, advice has been reissued for South Africa, a bucket list country for millions of travelers, and we’re glad to report it is officially considered moderately-risky to visit.

Though a lot has been said in the media about South Africa in recent years, following the significant spike in inter-communal violence and incessant power outages, Washington officials have refrained from issuing their feared Level 3, or even Level 4 alert.

It continues at Level 2, as per the November 7 review.

That’s not to say Americans should let their guard down when traveling in Africa’s southernmost state, with crime, civil unrest, and even kidnapping remaining major concerns––still, incidents involving foreigners do not occur at alarming rates so as to warrant more serious warnings.

The advisory reads that ‘violent crime is common and includes armed robbery, rape, carjacking, and mugging’, as well as ‘smash-and-grab attacks’ on private vehicles, so you should be vigilant at all times when traveling through urban areas.

Here are some safety tips for South Africa:

• Keep your valuables in a hotel safe, if you’re traveling with jewelry and/or luxury watches
• Do not use your phone in public (newer iPhones and other expensive models are most-targeted)
• Avoid joining demonstration and protesting crowds as these have the potential to turn violent
• Do not go to suburban areas unaccompanied
• Beware of existing racial tensions within certain communities
• If traveling inside South Africa, plan your route in advance and stick to the main highway (shortcuts are not advised as these may be controlled by militia)
• Roll up windows and lock doors when driving
• Avoid walking alone at night in poorly-lit, deserted areas

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.