The US State Department reissued seven travel advisories for nine destinations in June.
This time around, the agency advises Americans to avoid all travel to three destinations; reconsider travel to one country and exercise increased precautions to two more. Only one destination was ranked as very safe.
In almost all cases, the government urges citizens to register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive news and help locate you in case of need as well as to monitor local media outlets to make travel plans accordingly.
Israel, the West Bank and Gaza – (Reconsider Travel and Do Not Travel)
On June 27, the US government updated its travel advisory for these territories regarding new restrictions for U.S. government staff under the Chief of Mission security responsibility.
These people must not travel to Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict and reconsider travel to Israel and the West Bank due to terrorism and civil unrest. Thus, you should follow suit.
According to the agency, terrorist groups and lone-actor terrorists can attack at any time in tourist venues including airports and public transportation, and government venues.
If you still decide to travel to Israel or the West Bank, be aware of your surroundings at all times, purchase health insurance that covers evacuation before traveling and locate the nearest bomb shelter wherever you go.
If you are traveling to Gaza, in addition to the previous recommendations, be prepared to get trapped there for an undetermined number of days; bring your own medication if you need it; and make arrangements back home regarding the custody of your children and funeral preferences in case something goes wrong. Leaving DNA samples is highly recommended as well.
Russia – Level 4: Do Not Travel
Some minor changes have been added to Russia’s travel advisory. For the time being, the country continues to be ranked at Level 4: Do not travel.
Americans traveling to or living in this country are at risk of wrongful detentions and should leave that country at their earliest convenience. Limited inbound and outbound flights and potential terrorist attacks are also a concern.
Posting your political views against Russia or pro the LGTB community on your social media networks can get you jail time.
If you are a Russian-American citizen, be reminded that Russia does not recognize your dual citizenship so if you get in trouble in that country you can only rely on Russian authorities to help you out.
Consular services for the rest of Americans are quite limited, especially outside Moscow.
Myanmar (Burma) – Level 4: Do Not Travel
The State Department does not recommend traveling to Myanmar, a Southeast country that underwent a military coup in 2021.
“If you decide to travel to Burma” the US government has added more recommendations for you.
First and foremost, you should learn about the local laws and purchase travel medical insurance that covers evacuation before traveling.
The US government does not explain why, but it recommends avoiding touching unknown metal objects. There must be a reason behind it, so be aware of this.
Finally, keep your travel ID and travel documents handy; do not use unknown roads and; have a plan to leave the country ready in case you need it.
New Caledonia Travel Advisory – Level 3: Reconsider Travel
This collection of French islands in the South Pacific has been elevated to Level: 3 Reconsider Travel due to civil unrest and crime.
Americans should rethink their plans to travel to any of these islands or even consider leaving them due to their volatile situation.
A series of political changes have ignited demonstrations and violent riots across the territory affecting inbound and outbound flights as well as land travel.
Have an exit plan ready but do not rely on US government assistance to execute it, the agency says.
Dominican Republic – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution June 18, 2024
This Caribbean island continues to rank at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, meaning the country is safe enough for Americans to visit it.
This does not mean, however, that traveling to this country is completely risk-free.
Locals have wide access to fire weapons so it translates into higher levels of criminality. Violent crimes, including murder, sexual assault and armed robbery happen frequently across the island, particularly outside of tourist areas.
It’s recommended to stick to tourist areas in Punta Cana and Santo Domingo, where professional tourist corps patrol.
If you get in trouble, contact local authorities at 911.
Bolivia Travel Advisory – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Bolivia has suffered some political instability in recent days due to a failed coup attempt led by former top military commander, Juan Jose Zuniga on June 26, 2024.
However, the country continues to be ranked at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, meaning the country is quite safe to travel to.
Bolivia is prone to civil unrest, where demonstrations and roadblocks can happen at any time affecting domestic and international flights.
For now, do not travel to the Chapare region due to crime.
Bhutan – Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions
After reviewing the current security situation in Bhutan the US government continues to believe this is one of the safest destinations for Americans to travel to.
Just make sure to exercise normal precautions when traveling to this beautiful country.