New Travel Advisories Impact Major Tourism Destinations

17.12.2024 - 21:25 / travelpulse.com / Central America / Lacey Pfalz

On December 10, the U.S. Department of State released new travel advisories to two Central American countries that are frequent cruise stops for American travelers during the winter Caribbean cruise season: Honduras and Costa Rica.

One large piece of advice for cruise travelers of any destination who are worried about their personal safety is to book an excursion with the cruise line. Remaining with a tour group that provides transfers to and from the attraction they’ll be visiting is the easiest way to avoid much of the risk associated with visiting a destination with a higher risk for theft, violence or other crime.  

Honduras was elevated to a Level 3 this week, with the department urging travelers to reconsider traveling to the country due to crime, most often perpetrated by gangs and ranging from common robberies to sexual violence, human trafficking and murder. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean International and Carnival Cruise Line often visit Roatán, an island off the coast of Honduras. 

However, it’s not time to panic. The State Department’s advisory about Honduras states: “Around resort areas in the Bay Islands, which include Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja, there is a concentration of resources, and these areas are better policed.” 

Those traveling to the country should read the full advisory and make their own decisions about their personal safety while there, and whether or not to reconsider traveling to Honduras. 

The second Central American country with an updated travel advisory is Costa Rica, which is now at Level 2, with the State Department suggesting travelers exercise increased caution. Cruise lines stop at Limón in Costa Rica, and it’s a popular destination for land-based travel. 

The State Department warns travelers to be aware of criminal activity, especially affecting tourists: “Petty crime is common throughout Costa Rica. Violent crime, including armed robbery, homicide, and sexual assault, also affects tourists.” 

While it’s a far cry from a Level 4 travel advisory, travelers should take precautions not to advertise any wealth on their person, not to follow locals to less crowded areas, to be aware of their surroundings and avoid dimly lit areas at night. Should they be the victim of a robbery, it’s also advised not to resist. 

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