All of these islands are classified as Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions by the U.S. Department of State. White this is the lowest level advisory and travelers should still be aware of the normal risks of any international travel.

Dominica

Lying south of Guadeloupe and north of Martinique in the Eastern Caribbean, Dominica is the youngest Caribbean Island and the last to be colonized, ultimately earning its independence on November 3, 1978. Air travelers can connect to Dominica directly from Miami on American Airlines and make regional connections from surrounding Caribbean hubs. 

An island without mega-resorts but full of some of the healthiest coral reefs, slumbering volcanoes, and verdant fauna, Dominica offers a range of hikes, waterfalls, and jungle adventures. 

Grenada

As the spice island of the Caribbean, Grenada is celebrating its 50th year of independence in 2024. The verdant island is home to tons of mona monkeys and is reliant on its agriculture and export crops like nutmeg, but is gaining traction amongst international travelers. 

The small island is known for its lush forests and waterfalls and the world’s first underwater garden The Molinere Underwater Sculpture Park.

Anguilla

Anguilla is known to have some of the most beautiful beaches, the island is ringed with 33 beaches, in the world. Lying just off-the-beaten-path, it can be still reached from three major gateways – Miami, FL (MIA), Puerto Rico (SJU), and St. Martin, (SXM), as well as private air transportation. 

Boasting a great culinary scene, major festivals and luxury accommodations, this Level 1 island hosts tons of attractions to allure tourists.  

Bermuda

The British island territory in the North Atlantic Ocean is made up of a string of islands in the Sargasso Sea. Famous for its picturesque beaches, like its pink-sand beaches, gorgeous reefs, and a complex cave network, it is also a global financial hub. 

Just a couple hours’ flight from New York City, the luxury island is only 21 miles in length but there is much to do from St. George’s to Hamilton to the Royal Naval Dockyard.

Barbados

Rich in cultural, heritage, sporting, culinary, and eco experiences, Barbados has something for every kind of traveler. As the Culinary Capital of the Caribbean, the island is home to over 400 restaurants and eateries and is also known as the birthplace of rum. 

Barbados is considered one of the safest countries in the Caribbean and tropical Atlantic and those traveling to this paradise in Summer will likely provide lower prices and less crowded beaches as it is the off-season in Barbados.

Antigua and Barbuda

Positioned where the Atlantic and Caribbean meet, the sovereign island country presents a twin-island Caribbean paradise. From its superb coastline and pink and white-sandy beaches, and crystal clear waters to its protective reefs, it is also the largest nesting colony of frigate birds in the Caribbean.

The island has no mountains or forests and its British history is still evident through its architecture and 18th century Nelson’s Dockyard. Along with the beaches, the culinary delicacies are another reason visitors come to visit.

To find a list of all advisory levels for each Caribbean destination from the U.S. Department of State, visit the link here.

The post 6 Safest Caribbean Islands To Visit In Summer 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

The US State Department has been advising citizens to “Reconsider Travel” to the border state of Baja California due to crime and kidnapping since August 2023.

In “Baja North,” the homicide rate has increased from 17.7 per 100,000 people in 2012 to 70.1 in 2024. The cities of Tijuana and Ensenada are the most concerning ones.

Most tourists come on short-term trips from California to visit the popular beaches of Rosarito and the famous brewery of Tecate.

Following the terrible murders of three tourists in Baja California last week, visitors must be wondering how safe traveling to this state is as of right now. Let’s see.

LATEST NEWS from Baja California:

May – One American and Two Australian Surfers Brutally Murdered in Baja California 

Callum Robinson and Jake Robinson, Australians and brothers, and Jack Road, an American, were killed when camping in the rural area of Santo Tomás, in Ensenada, Baja California.

The tourists set up camp in an uninhabited, remote area with no phone or internet access.

On May 2, the bodies were found inside a 15-meter deep well, 3.7 miles away from the campsite.  

According to Baja California Attorney General Elena Andrade: “When [the murderers] spotted the white Colorado pickup vehicle, owned by the victims, they approached with the intention of taking the vehicle, removing the tires or other parts, to put them in their own pickup, an older model. When they approached and surprised these people, they probably resisted, and the aggressors took out a firearm and killed them,” she said. 

So far, authorities have arrested three suspects including Jesús Gerardo ‘N’, alias El Kekas, his girlfriend (who had one of the victims’ phones), and another man.

The gun used to kill the tourists has also been found. This is an ongoing investigation so more details will be provided over the next few weeks.

Areas to Avoid

Baja California contains the cities of Tijuana, Ensenada, Mexicali, and Tecate, known for having some of the worst rates of violent crime in the entire Mexican territory.

Travel there at your own risk.

Official Travel Advisories 

US Travel Advisory

US authorities advise citizens to “Reconsider Travel” to this state due to high levels of crime and kidnapping.

“Reconsider Travel” means that the government doesn’t forbid travel to this area but it doesn’t recommend it either. 

Canada Travel Advisory

The Canadian government urges citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution” when traveling across Mexico due to violent crime. 

Although the advisory mentions several states that Canadians shouldn’t visit, these don’t include Baja California in particular.

The government asks travelers to be vigilant at all times, avoid traveling to isolated or deserted areas, and stay at highly secure hotels because homicides, kidnappings, carjackings and assaults occur even in protected tourist hotspots.

Safety Tips for Baja California

Considering the horrendous murder of three tourists in Baja California last week, it’s important to follow safety recommendations to protect yourself and your beloved ones, now more than ever.

• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Always keep your family and friends back home posted about your whereabouts.
• When taking public transport, take a picture of the plate and send it to a friend.
• Do not travel to isolated or deserted areas and do not set up campsites at those places.
• Don’t walk alone at night.
• Refrain from excessive alcohol consumption.
• Don’t do or buy drugs.
• Stay calm and don’t resist if you are threatened by robbers.
• Only withdraw money from banks or shopping malls.
• If you happen to be an American, register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to help locate you in case of need. 

The post Is Baja California Safe To Visit This Summer? Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

As of today, the country has welcomed 1,016,185 air visitors and over 700,000 cruise passengers. This represents a 4.6 percent and 23 percent increase over last year, Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, told reporters this week.

Jamaica has been working non-stop on different fronts to achieve these extraordinary results.

“We will continue to aggressively market the destination and work assiduously with our partners to get there,”  Bartlett said. 

For Donovan White, Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, the island’s laid-back environment is the key to its success among tourists from all over the world, especially from the United States.

“Whether it’s our food, music, or entertainment, there is a vibe that only comes alive in Jamaica,” said White. 

Considering the country’s stats, Jamaica is on its way to achieving its five million annual visitor target over the next 4 years rather than the five initially forecasted by tourism authorities, said Bartlett.

On January 23, the US government updated its Travel Advisory due to a spike in crime and the lack of proper medical services available for visitors and locals.

Ironically, American tourists are the ones pushing up tourism figures in Jamaica in recent times.

Visitors from the US have risen by 16 percent over 2023, said the tourism minister. Americans represent 74 percent of all international tourists visiting the island.

This “speaks to the confidence our tourism partners and visitors have in the destination,” Bartlett concluded.

As per the advisory, US citizens should “Reconsider Travel” to this destination for the reasons mentioned above.

As a “Level 3” country, Jamaica is being impacted by violent crimes such as armed robberies, homicides, and frequent sexual assaults taking place even in all-inclusive resorts, the advisory reads.

This Caribbean island possesses the highest homicide rate in the Western Hemisphere and crimes are not frequently solved. Americans who get into legal trouble may not find justice.

If you still decide to visit this island, the government urges you to purchase travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as “the Department of State does not pay medical bills.”

Last but not least, it’s important to avoid bringing any types of firearms or objects related to them, avoid public transportation or physically resist any robbery attempts.

This country has a large number of places that should be avoided at all costs. Check them out here.

The post Jamaica’s Tourism Continues Booming Despite Negative Travel Advisory In Early 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Canada urges its citizens to “exercise a high degree of caution” when traveling to the entire Mexican territory.

The government had initially warned travelers about the deteriorating security situation in Guerrero State, but now it just advises citizens against all travel to that region.

One of the main reasons includes “the precarious security situation” in the aftermath of Hurricane Otis. This powerful tropical cyclone “made a devastating landfall in October 2023 near Acapulco as a Category 5 hurricane.”

Except for Ixtapa Zihuatanejo, a popular beach city highly visited between December and April where the government recommends “exercise a high degree of caution,” the rest of Guerrero State should be avoided due to its “threat of armed violence, banditry, and looting in cities and on roads,” reads the advisory.

Canada places special emphasis on the states of Sinaloa, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Chihuahua, Colima, Durango, Michoacán, Morelos and Nuevo León, where it urges citizens to “avoid all non-essential travel” due to “high levels of violence and organized crime.”

The low level of police action in these states makes it a breeding ground for rampant crime.

Presidential Elections 

Mexico will hold major presidential elections on June 2, in which citizens will elect the new president, 628 congressmen and thousands of other political positions.

Traveling around this date may pose special risks for Canadians and other international travelers.

“General elections are scheduled to take place on June 2, 2024. Demonstrations and other political gatherings could occur before, during and after the elections,” says the government.

A heightened military presence is expected on most roads and streets and there are strong possibilities of blockages in cities and towns.

Canadians should avoid demonstrations and must not take part in them, as protesting against the Mexican government is a right foreign citizens don’t have.

“You may face deportation if you participate in demonstrations as a foreigner,” reads the advisory.

Other Safety Concerns

Violent crimes like homicides, carjacking, assaults and kidnappings are still prevalent in Mexico, even in popular tourist hotspots such as Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, Tulum and Acapulco.

Unaware bystanders have fallen victim to random shootings for being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Cases of rape and sexual assault against Canadian women have happened at beach resorts and on public transportation. 

Visitors to this destination must be aware of their surroundings at all times, avoid walking around or traveling by road at night, and monitor local media outlets for last-minute information.

The post Canada Updates Mexico Travel Advisory Ahead of Summer 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Based on the situation on the ground, the agency determined it was prudent to emit minor modifications for one of the countries and leave the other one as it was.

In both cases, travelers are advised to be aware of their surroundings when in tourist or crowded places; register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive important security news and help locate you if needed; and have a plan ready if something unexpected happens.

Let’s review the updates. 

Germany – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

The US State Department reissued its travel advisory for Germany with a minor change regarding terrorism.

The change is “minor” only because the US government still ranks Germany at “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution,” which means the destination is pretty safe.

According to the agency, there are terrorist organizations willing to perpetrate attacks in German territory. 

Such attacks can occur at public or tourist venues, places of worship, public transportation, sporting and cultural events, educational centers, and all types of gatherings.

Poland – Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The American government reviewed its travel advisory for Poland and determined the destination continues to be one of the safest places in the world.

Travelers only need to exercise common sense precautions when visiting this nation.

This travel alert is relevant because Poland shares an extensive international border with Ukraine, a country at war with Russia, and with Belarus, a country from where Russia has launched multiple attacks against Ukraine.

The post U.S. Issues Travel Advisory Updates For Two Popular European Countries appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Alert levels go from “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution,” to “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” and “Level 4: Do not travel.”

In most cases, these alerts were emitted due to concerns regarding terrorism, armed conflict, and civil unrest.

Without further ado, let’s explore what the US government advises about these seven nations and territories. 

Iraq – Level 4: Do Not Travel

According to the US State Department, Americans who engage in tourism in Iraq are at “their own risk.” In case they still want to visit Iraq for leisure purposes, they should purchase travel insurance that offers medical evacuation.

Female travelers have been reportedly subject to “threats, kidnappings, abuse, and extortion, loss of custody of children and forced marriage.” 

However, terrorism in Iraq’s territory is its major concern. According to the agency, terrorists are not only using bombs but also knives, firearms, and vehicles to attack citizens.

Targeted venues include all types of public events, places of worship, educational centers, shopping centers, and transportation systems.

Make no mistake. ISIS, militia groups, and criminal gangs are actively targeting U.S. citizens “for attacks and hostage-taking.”

U.S. Embassy in Mexico Message

On April 19, the U.S. Embassy in Mexico informed its citizens on receiving embassy alerts via WhatsApp.

Ecuador – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Ecuador is a relatively safe country to visit. There are cases of civil unrest, murder, armed robbery, and kidnapping. But it doesn’t happen in the entire territory.

Do not travel to Guayaquil, south of Portete de Tarqui Avenue; Huaquillas, Arenillas Quevedo, Quinsaloma, Pueblo Viejo, the canton of Duran and Esmeraldas due to crime.

Tourists entering Ecuador through Colombia and Peru land border crossings must present immigration officers with an apostilled certificate showing a criminal record. This certificate is issued by your local police department and has to be done in person.  

U.S. Embassy in Australia Alert

On April 15, the U.S. Embassy in Australia issued a “message” for American tourists visiting Australia due to a random attack at a shopping mall. 

Joel Cauchi (40) murdered 6 people and injured twelve at Bondi Junction’s Westfield shopping center. The attacker was specifically targeting women.

In a second case, a teenager stabbed a bishop and a priest in a church in a “religious-motivated extremism” act on April 16.

Americans must “remain vigilant” at all times when surrounded by large crowds in all types of public venues in Australia.

China, Hong Kong, Macau

Mainland China – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

American tourists must know that China has issued exit bans and wrongful detentions on US citizens.

In such cases, US nationals may not have access to consular aid and may not be informed about their alleged crimes. This mostly happens to businesspeople, ex-government personnel, academics, and journalists.

These exit bans have been used to force Chinese family members to return home, resolve legal matters in favor of the country’s nationals, and negotiate with international governments. 

Keep in mind that the Chinese government doesn’t recognize Americans’ dual nationality. Thus, if you get in legal trouble, you won’t be considered an American.

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Civil liberties in Hong Kong have been severely restricted since June 30, 22. 

Hong Kong SAR officials further restricted these liberties starting March 23, 2024.

According to the SAR government, foreigners and nationals can incur in “vaguely defined offenses, such as treason, insurrection, theft of state secrets, sabotage against public infrastructure, and external interference.”

Taking part in public demonstrations can lead you to prison due to “acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, or collusion with a foreign country.” 

Hong Kong doesn’t recognize your dual nationality. To all effects, you are only Hongkonger. 

Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

The US government has limited to zero consular capacity to assist you if you get in legal trouble in Macau.

US citizens with dual nationality are subject to increased harassment. Macau is another Chinese territory that doesn’t recognize your dual nationality. If you get into legal trouble, you can only rely on your local nationality. 

Do not participate in political demonstrations. That can lead you to jail.

Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza

Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza had five different travel alerts in April 2024 alone due to the changing political and safety situation in these territories.

According to the latest travel advisory issued on April 20, US citizens must remain alert at all times as security incidents are taking place with little to no warning.

Avoid all demonstrations and large gatherings and register in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive alerts regarding the security situation in the area. 

Israel – Reconsider Travel

The security situation in Israel remains unstable due to terrorism and civil unrest.

US citizens must be prepared to easily locate bomb shelters as soon as possible in case of rocket fire, which is happening without warning.

U.S. government employees under the Chief of Mission security responsibility can be subject to increased security restrictions with no notice.

West Bank – Reconsider Travel

Americans should reconsider travel to the West Bank due to terrorism, civil unrest and an increase in violence over the last few months.

U.S. government employees in Israel under the Chief of Mission are not allowed to travel to the West Bank for the time being. (It doesn’t apply to some restricted areas).

Gaza – Do Not Travel

American nationals must not travel to Gaza due to terrorism and armed conflict.

Israel is carrying out large-scale military operations in Gaza against Hamas, so the US government is not providing citizens with any consular assistance for the time being. 

So, if you travel to Gaza, you must have a safety plan that doesn’t rely on US government assistance.

If you decide to travel to Gaza despite this, be prepared to get trapped in Gaza for an indefinite number of days because borders can close at any time with no warning.

Make sure to bring your medication and leave DNA samples with your medical provider back home in case you get murdered.

Armenia – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Armenia is a relatively safe country to travel to. However, there are some areas you should not visit. 

This country is currently having an armed conflict. Thus, do not travel to the border region with Azerbaijan; Gegharkunik region east of Vardenis; Syunik region east of Goris; Syunik region south of Kapan; and Yeraskh village.

Sometimes travelers unintentionally cross international borders. Not knowing this can get you into legal trouble, so make sure you know exactly where you are.

The post 8 Important U.S. Travel Advisories And Alerts Issued In April 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

LATEST NEWS from CANCUN

April 24: Cancun taxi driver arrested for overcharging tourist $1000 USD

The latest viral incident happened to a Canadian tourist who was charged 1000 U.S. dollars for a short ride between airport terminals. Xavier Cormier recorded the whole accident and exposed the whole scam. He was able to get help from the police and the taxi driver was later arrested by the National Guard.

April 19: The U.S. Embassy in Mexico informs its citizens they can receive the latest travel alerts on WhatsApp

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico issued a message for U.S. travelers in Mexico: “U.S. citizens in Mexico can receive messages and alerts from the U.S. Embassy and Consulates via WhatsApp, as well as email via enrollment in STEP . To follow the U.S. Citizens in Mexico WhatsApp Channel, use the QR code below or click here using your device with WhatsApp installed. You can unfollow the channel at any time.”

March 24: Uber driver shot in the city of Cancun

On March 24, an Uber driver was shot and injured after picking up two female passengers near Paraíso Motel. According to the two witnesses, 2 individuals attempted to steal the driver’s car and opened fire. The driver was seriously injured with multiple gunshots and taken to hospital.

Official Travel Advisories

U.S. Travel Advisory

The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Quintana Roo, which includes Cancun and well-known resort areas like Tulum and Playa del Carmen. It implies that the area is safe, but people should exercise caution when visiting.

Canada Travel Advisory

“High rates of violent crime, such as homicides, kidnappings, carjackings, and assaults, including in popular tourist destinations such as the Mayan Riviera (Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos, and Tulum), and Acapulco,” is the current warning issued by Canada. It claims that there are drug cartels in the tourist destination. Intergang fighting has occurred at tourist-frequented locations, resulting in the deaths or injuries of innocent bystanders.

Areas to avoid

Certain neighborhoods, like Bonfil, Tres Reyes, Santa Cecilia, and Valle Verde, should be avoided due to their higher-than-average crime rates. These locations have been noted as hubs for criminal activity, with increased rates of robberies and killings.

Common Scams

Tour Scams: it’s extremely important to use a trustworthy company when making online reservations for tours because it happens frequently for travelers to believe they have a fantastic tour, only to discover the company is nonexistent.     

If you’re not sure, you can always make a reservation via a reliable travel agency website, such as Viator.  

Taxi Scams: cab drivers will occasionally quote you in pesos but later claim to have quoted you in dollars. In other cases, when you arrive at your destination, they will merely inform you of a different price than what they quoted.   

The best way to prevent this is to settle on a price—including the currency you’re being quoted in—before you get into the car. 

Airport Transportation Scam: you will pass through “the shark tank” as you exit the airport. In order to get you into their cars, lots of people will flat-out lie about being your mode of transportation.   

Your actual transportation will only be waiting outside, so respectfully decline to engage with them.  

The Bill Swap Scam: a typical con is for a seller, taxi driver, or other person who takes payments to claim that you gave them a smaller bill than you actually did.   

Because the 50 peso and 500 peso bills look so similar, this is especially common with them. Tell them what you’re giving them as you’re doing it, and it will be harder for them to pull off this scam. 

Safety Tips for Cancun 

• Plan an itinerary: Conduct some research about the areas you’ll be visiting, especially for solo female travelers.
• Choose authorized tour agencies: Opting for accredited tour agencies can provide a sense of security with adequate supervision.
• Conduct thorough research on accommodations: Check reviews, especially when considering budget accommodations.
• Drink alcohol in moderation: Remaining sober reduces vulnerability to exploitation. Politely decline drinks from unfamiliar individuals.
• Stick to tourist areas: It’s recommended to stay in bustling locations, such as populated all-inclusive resorts like Cancun’s Riviera Maya. Solo travelers should be particularly mindful of their surroundings.
• Obtain travel insurance: It’s advisable to have insurance coverage when traveling in Mexico.

The post Is Cancun Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Back in February, the (RSLPF) revealed the country had 75 homicides in 2023.

So far the government’s main response to this crisis has been increasing bureaucracy. But it has failed to present any solid military strategy to address this issue. 

Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has reportedly assured he’s willing to do anything or receive any helpful advice to halt this violence. 

Regardless, according to the US, UK, and Canadian governments, most visits to the country are trouble-free and the level of alert is the lowest possible. 

LATEST NEWS from St. Lucia:

St. Lucia has seen 30 murders in only 2024 – No solution in sight

St. Lucia is going through worrisome homicidal violence with more than 28 people being murdered in the first three months of 2024, Guy Joseph, deputy political leader of the United Workers Party (UWP) told reporters.

“This is a crisis situation, and we are not here gloating,” he said.

He also denounced that the government’s response was to designate three more ministers to bring this matter under control. But since then, crime has done nothing but increase.

“We are paying hundreds of thousands of dollars for their salaries,” he said. “We need to realize that this government cannot manage the crime situation,” Joseph concluded. 

Criminals in St. Lucia are “more organized than the government,” says official

The government has no crime plan. At least this is what opposition spokesman Lenard Montoute told reporters after learning the country reached its 30th homicide so far in 2024.

According to the official, the government wants to create another ministry to tackle crime. But his party disagrees.

“What we want is not necessarily new ministries or new ministers, what we want is the curbing of crime.”

“The Government does not have a plan for crime,” Montoute said. And “it appears at this time that the criminals are more organized than the government.”

The official called for a symposium where all political parties could offer useful solutions to this crisis. 

Areas to Avoid

The US government doesn’t advise citizens against visiting any areas in Saint Lucia.

However, stay away from the neighborhoods of Chaussee Road, Leslie Land, and Wilton’s Yard, as well as Vieux Fort, as they have become ghettos with high rates of criminality.   

Official Travel Advisories 

US Travel Advisory

Regardless of what the local media reports, the US government considers that traveling to Saint Lucia is extremely safe. It only asks Americans to exercise normal precautions when visiting. 

Canada Travel Advisory

Violent crime and gang-related violence have increased over the past year in Vieux Fort, St. Lucia. 

Purse snatching and pickpocketing are a common practice during national festivities. 

Also, there have been reports of solo female travelers being subject to harassment, verbal abuse and sexual assault. 

PDA among the 2SLGBTQ1+ community is frowned upon. Harassment can happen. 

Safety Tips for St. Lucia

Saint Lucia is still safe but some precautions should be taken. 

• Don’t visit isolated areas by yourself, especially at night.
• Don’t flash your money. 
• Don’t dress like a tourist; don’t make yourself a target.
• Wearing camouflage clothing is illegal. 
• Refrain from purchasing drugs.
• Put on repellent as dengue fever mosquitoes are an issue.
• Keep in mind that hurricane season goes from June to November. So plan accordingly.
• Never swim alone; currents are dangerous.
• Female travelers should avoid opening their doors after dark.

The post Is St. Lucia Island Safe? Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Despite its small size of 104 square miles (269.4 square kilometers), the country boasts crater lakes, hiking paths, beaches, wildlife, and even a volcano.

Both the US and Canadian governments advise taking standard precautions while visiting t this country.

LATEST NEWS from Saint Kitts and Nevis:

April 21, 2024: 18-year-old man from the Dominican Republic shot dead in St. Kitts

On April 18, loopnews.com reported a homicide of a young man in John Street, Newtown. A Dominican Republic national was found dead with multiple gunshots. Local police launched an investigation into this tragic event.

St. Kitts and Nevis Deputy Prime Minister Dr Geoffrey Hanley released a statement about this murder on his Facebook: “We are known to be a loving and supportive community. This is not what we represent as a people and I am disheartened at the news of such deadly violence.”

“We will continue to work together with the security forces to make our streets safe. I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the families and friends who are grieving the loss of their loved ones.” he continued.

This murder is the 10th in Saint Kitts and Nevis in 2024, which raises concerns about the crime on the island.

February 29 – National student congress starts discussion on how to decrease crime and violence

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Youth Empowerment, the Honourable Dr. Geoffrey Hanley, said that hosting the Congress is “an indication that the Ministry of Youth Empowerment is very serious about our young people, and their voices [do] matter,” Dr. Hanley said.

The forum was a component of the government’s plan to tackle criminal activity as well as issues related to public health. The student leaders made numerous recommendations, such as setting up support centers to deal with bullying in schools, giving at-risk youth more access to education and employment opportunities, growing community policing initiatives, bolstering closed-circuit television surveillance, and more.

The forum continues today. 

Official Travel Advisories

U.S. Travel Advisory

As of April 21, 2024, there have been no additional changes to the official U.S. travel advisory issued on July 17, 2023.

The U.S. State Department only requires citizens to exercise normal precautions (Level 1 Advisory) when visiting the islands. This means the U.S. government considers it a safe destination for American travelers.

Canada Travel Advisory

Canada issued a brief update of its Travel Advisory for St. Kitts and Nevis on April 15, 2024. Travelers are encouraged to check the updated section: The Health section – travel health information.

The Canadian government informs citizens that there is petty crime, like pickpocketing and purse snatching. There are also violent crimes, like sexual assault and armed robbery.

Continue reading to learn about safety tips you can fallow when visiting the islands.

Areas to Avoid

Due to the growing tourism industry, more and more violent crimes have been recorded in the region.

The local government advises avoiding walking in sparsely populated areas, especially at night.

Pay special attention when walking around Basseterre and Sandy Point Town. 

Common Scams

Saint Kitts and Nevis do not have as many street scams as you can see in other Caribbean countries. It does not mean they do not exist. They do, but they are, let’s call them, more sophisticated. 

On these islands, scammers have been employing various methods such as phishing emails, card hacking, relationship scams, direct social media outreach, and business-related schemes to deceive victims.

According to local media, these scams typically involve emails falsely claiming that the recipient is entitled to a substantial sum of money, often under the guise of lottery winnings. Victims are instructed to send money to cover taxes and fees before receiving their supposed windfall.

Additionally, some individuals are lured into fraudulent romantic relationships under false pretenses, where they are financially exploited instead of experiencing genuine companionship.

Safety Tips for Saint Kitts and Nevis

While most visits to Saint Kitts and Nevis are typically uneventful, it’s essential to exercise caution at all times during your travels. Here are some key precautions to keep in mind:

• Ensure that you use only licensed taxis for transportation.
• Store valuables and travel documents securely in a safe at your accommodation.
• Avoid isolated areas, including beaches, especially after dark.
• Exercise caution when attending late-night street parties or during the festival season.
• Refrain from carrying large sums of cash.
• LGBTQ+ travelers should refrain from displaying physical affection in public areas, as laws that decriminalize it are quite new. 
• Remain vigilant when walking alone, particularly in less crowded areas off the main roads.

Join our Travel Advice & Support FB Group Community

The post Is Saint Kitts and Nevis Safe To Visit? Travel Advisory 2024 appeared first on Traveling Lifestyle.

Starting April 13, the Jordanian government closed its airspace due to the imminent retaliation of Israel against Iran. Consequently, local and international carriers have had to cancel and reschedule flights over the short term.

Jordan itself is a wonderful travel destination considered to be mostly safe by multiple countries around the world. Entering the territory is still safe via land crossings from Saudi Arabia. 

The government said it’s closely monitoring the situation to determine when it can safely reopen its airspace, but it’s uncertain when it will happen. 

LATEST NEWS from Jordan:

Official travel advisories from multiple governments recommend avoiding visiting the Jordanian border with Syria and Iraq and Zarqa and Rusayfah due to terrorism concerns.

Other than that, the vast majority of the country’s territory is considered relatively safe to visit. 

Authorities have assured that they are committed to ensuring the well-being of all visitors with whom they are willing to share their unique culture and history.

“We understand that tensions around the world can raise concerns, but we believe in the power of travel to foster understanding and build bridges between nations,” said officials.

As Jordan airspace is closed for the time being, an alternative to entering the territory is by land from Saudi Arabia via private car or taxi services.

Areas to Avoid

Jordan is classified as a relatively safe country but it has regional advisories. That means that a few areas are considered risky, including – as it was mentioned before,- the Jordan-Syria and Jordan-Iraq borders, along with Zarqa and Rusayfah due to potential terrorist attacks.

Syrian refugee camps are not particularly dangerous but access to these territories is restricted by the local government.

Amman, the country’s capital, is generally considered safe day and night even for solo female travelers. However, due to political demonstrations that have been happening over the last few months near the Israel and US embassies, it’s recommended to avoid these areas.

Official Travel Advisories

US Travel Advisory

Although the US government ranks Jordan at “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution,” which means it’s quite safe, it informs citizens that terrorist organizations have the potential to attack tourist venues, transportation centers, shopping malls, and similar facilities.

To minimize risks, monitor local news channels to learn about breaking events; be aware of your surroundings; and don’t take part in or be in close proximity to large demonstrations.

Not all Jordanian territory is safe. So check out our “Areas to Avoid” section to learn about what places you must refrain from visiting.  

Canada Travel Advisory

“Exercise a high degree of caution” when visiting Jordan. Land border crossing hours may be affected by the Israel-Hamas ongoing war. So, verify the status of the border you intend to cross before departure.

Large gatherings and demonstrations are mostly peaceful and typically occur on Fridays near places of worship, some refugee camps, and the American and Israeli embassies in Amman. But avoid taking part in them.

Domestic or international terrorists can attack Jordan at any time. So, make sure to register or update your personal information at the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to obtain information about “departure options.

Safety Tips for Jordan

These recommendations will help you stay safe.

• Monitor the national news to always be aware of the military decisions taken by Israel and Iran that can hurt Jordan.
• Don’t take part in political demonstrations.
• Dress modestly, especially on religious sites.
• Watch out for traffic; it can be dangerous when crossing roads. 
• Be vigilant in tourist areas to avoid pickpockets.
• Vaccinations against hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, and typhoid are recommended.
• Don’t drink tap water. 
• Keep the local emergency numbers and the numbers of your embassy or consulate handy. 
• There have been reports of Bedouin men who woo single women in Petra and Wadi only to ask them for money later.
• Ask your taxi driver if the meter is in fils or dinars before traveling so you know how much you are expected to pay. Some drivers take advantage of the confusion. 

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