You might want to do some extra research before that next international trip. The State Department has issued new travel advisories due to increased risk of crime, terrorism and civil unrest in several popular destinations.
Predictably, Americans have been warned against travel to Russia and Belarus, which were each moved to a Level 4 Travel Advisory due to a “greater likelihood of life-threatening risks.”
The more surprising change comes from travel hotspots Italy and France being moved to Level 2. Travelers to each country are advised to “exercise increased caution” and to “be aware of heightened risks to safety and security” due to increased civil unrest and threats of terrorism, particularly in Paris amidst an increase in protests against Iranian leadership.
Popular vacation destination Belize was also bumped up to Level 2 due to an increased risk of violent crimes including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies, and murder — each of which the State department warns are common even during daylight hours and in tourist areas.
To see the full list of travel advisories, you can visit the State Department website and sort by ‘date updated’ or search for your destination country.