Is It Really Safe to Travel There?

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The State Department recently launched a new website with a new travel advisory system.  What does this mean for you?  Simple, more clear and updated information on travel and safety for countries around the globe.  The State Department has come up with four distinct levels of advisory with clear warnings in a language we all can understand.  No subtle nuances or distinctions that could be misconstrued to worry about.  Now you have a one-stop shop to find information about each country and the travel advisories include for each country.

 

The website also has a map that is color-coded for your convenience and allows you to see if there are any issues in the country you are planning to visit.  This map is updated daily and has a simple to understand color-coded guide to advisories. 

 

So, what are the four levels of advisory?  Glad you asked.  Here they are:

 

          Level 1 – Exercise Normal Precautions:  This is the lowest advisory for security and reminds you to use common sense and precautions while traveling.

 

          Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution:  Beware of heightened risk for security and safety.  It might surprise you that both Mexico and the United Kingdom have the same advisory though for different reasons.  Mexico for an increase in criminal activity and the United Kingdom for an increase in terrorist activity.

 

          Level 3 – Reconsider Travel:  Avoid travel to this area due to a serious risk to safety and security.  You can still travel there but it is highly recommended that you don’t.

 

          Level 4 – Do not Travel:  This is the highest advisory level and is due to the likelihood of life-threatening risk.  During an emergency the government may not be able to assist you should you run into trouble.  It is recommended that you do not travel there at all and if you are there leave as soon as it is safe to do so.  Currently, there are ten countries rated at this advisory level and include Iran, Iraq, Somalia, North Korea, and Yemen. 

 

In addition to these levels, the State Department has provided information on why each area has been assigned that advisory level.  Like the above-mentioned crime in Mexico and terrorist activity in the United Kingdom, the advisories come with an explanation for the ranking.

 

Thanks to the State Department you can now know the risks involved in traveling to all areas of the globe.  If you are still unsure, contact us and we can guide you through the ins and outs of traveling the world.  We specialize in creating custom vacations whether it be a sophisticated luxury vacation to celebrate a milestone or a family-friendly adventure.  We are your friendly travel experts.