By
- Leada Gore | lgore@al.com
The U.S. State Department issued aworldwide travel alert this week over concerns that the ongoing conflict with Iran could lead to violence against Americans at home and abroad
All travelers were advised to exercise increased caution and be prepared for flight cancellations in some areas near the conflict
4-tier of travel alerts
While worldwide security alerts aren’t common, the State Department regularly updates safety levels for countries around the world. The alerts are based on a four-tier system:
- 1 – Exercise normal precautions
- 2 – Exercise increased caution
- 3- Reconsider travel
- 4- Do not travel
Travel alerts were recently issued for 5 popular Caribbean tourist destinations. None are higher than a level two but there are special things to know about each location
Here are 5 travel alerts visitors need to know about:
Montserrat is at Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions and is considered generally safe for travelers. Travelers are advised to be on alert for the possibility of volcanic activity. The Soufrière Hills volcano has been active since 1995 with the last major activity in 2010. There are 5 exclusion zones around the volcano and visitors must obtain special permission to enter the most restricted zone in southern Montserrat. Do not enter these zones without a special permit
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts and Nevis are under a Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions travel alert. They are considered safe and tourists are not generally targeted by criminals. Crimes of opportunity like petty larceny, burglary and auto break-ins do occur but serious crimes are rare
St. Lucia
The travel alert in Saint Lucia was recently updated to a Level 2 due to the risk of crime. Visitors to the country have been victims of armed robbery, assault, burglary and rape. Petty crime is common, especially in tourist areas. Tourists should also be aware of overcharging scams in tourist areas, especially from aggressive vendors
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
St. Vincent and the Grenadines are under a Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions advisory. The risk of crime is low and travelers are generally safe. Travelers should exercise normal precautions and avoid walking alone, especially at night, on beaches or in isolated, poorly lit areas
Turks and Caicos
Turks and Caicos Islands are under a Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution alert due to crime. There have been reports of sexual assaults on the islands and petty crime, especially in popular tourist locations, is common. Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing. Tourists should also be aware of overcharging and scams in tourist areas
The State Department issues a special notice for Turks and Caicos to warn people about strict laws against firearms and ammunition. It’s illegal to have firearms and ammunition in Turks and Caicos and U.S. firearm licenses or permits are not valid. Travelers with either item can face arrest, jail time, or heavy fines
