Updated travel warnings issued for these 2 popular tourist destinations

New York’s Staten Island. The U.S. Department of State has revised two travel advisories for well-known Central American tourist spots due to violent crime.

The U.S. Department of State issued travel advisories for Guatemala and Belize in late December because of violent crime, including gangs, robberies, and drug trafficking.

The second-highest warning issued by the Department of State, a level 3 rethink travel notice, is still in effect for Guatemala.

Belize falls into the category of level 2 exercise increased caution. The advisory warned that even during the day and in tourist locations, armed robberies, home invasions, sexual assault, and murder are frequent occurrences.

Guatemala advisory

The State Department advised anybody considering a trip to Guatemala to think twice because of the country’s gang, robbery, carjacking, drug trafficking, and violence issues in some regions.

According to the department’s advice, low arrest and conviction rates may result from local law enforcement’s sometimes poor response to significant offenses.

The State Department claims that although though tourists are not typically the targets of opportunistic crimes, they might nonetheless fall victim to them.

The San Marcos Department, Huehuetenango Department, Zone 18 in Guatemala City, and Villa Nueva are among the regions of the nation that are under a Level 4: Do Not Travel alert.

According to the caution, people can still travel to well-known places like Tikal, Antigua, Lake Atitlan, and the Pacific coast regions of Santa Rosa and Escuintla.

Belize advisory

There is a higher chance of violent crimes in several parts of the country, therefore travelers are encouraged to be extra cautious.

The State Department reminded tourists that even during the day and in popular tourist locations, violent crimes like murder, armed robbery, home invasions, and sexual assault are frequent in Belize.

According to the advice, gangs are involved in a sizable percentage of these crimes. Additionally, it stated that the majority of crimes remain unsolved by local police because they lack the tools and expertise necessary to respond appropriately.

Travelers were strongly advised by the State Department to exercise extra caution when visiting Belize City’s south side.

Visitors to Belize are encouraged to:

Be aware of their surroundings
Avoid walking or driving at night
Not to resist any robbery attempt
Be vigilant when visiting ATMs
Refrain from showing any signs of wealth
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