The U.S. is urging Americans to reconsider travel to Trinidad and Tabgo as the country extends its State of Emergency.
Trinidad and Tobago has been added to the U.S. Level 3 travel advisory list, joining countries like Pakistan, Egypt, Colombia, Jamaica, Guyana, and others.
Bangladesh, Guyana, New Caledonia, and Macau have also been added to the list of countries in which U.S. travelers are urged to reconsider visiting due to growing security concerns, Travel and Tour World reported. The advisory, issued in response to rising violent crime and a nationwide State of Emergency, places Trinidad and Tobago alongside destinations flagged for terrorism, civil unrest, and limited consular support.
The State of Emergency was initially declared in December. The State Department advises Americans traveling to Trinidad and Tobago to purchase travel insurance, avoid displaying signs of wealth such as jewelry, and remain cautious of online dating scams, among other safety precautions.
“Foreigners and a U.S. legal permanent resident have been recent victims of kidnapping,” the advisory warned. “Violence and shootings occur regularly in some areas of Port of Spain.”
Due to security risks, U.S. government employees stationed in Trinidad and Tobago are restricted from traveling to specific areas on the island, including:
Laventille
The southern end of Charlotte Street between Oxford Street and Park Street (past the General Hospital)
Piccadilly Street
Besson Street
Beetham, Sea Lots, Cocorite, and the interior of Queens’ Park Savannah
After dark:
Downtown Port of Spain
Fort George overlook and all beaches
The advisory says common violent crime include:
Murder
Robbery
Assault
Sexual assault
Home invasion
Kidnapping
The classification comes at a crucial time, coinciding with the twin-island nation’s peak tourism season. The designation raises concerns about a potential drop in international visitors and undermines traveler confidence in the safety of the popular Caribbean destination. A decline in tourism could also pose significant risks to the country’s overall economy.
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Source: Black Enterprise
