Warnings and Alerts

in Spain due to terrorism and unrest.

Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in Spain. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning and target:

• Tourist locations
• Transportation centers like airports and train stations
• Markets and shopping malls
• Local government facilities
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship and educational institutions
• Parks
• Major sporting and cultural events

Demonstrations are common. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events.

Reconsider travel to Ceuta due to unrest.
 

in Bangladesh due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Unrest

Protests can occur and turn violent without notice. Avoid all gatherings, even peaceful ones.

Crime

In Bangladesh’s major cities, common crimes include muggings, burglaries, assaults, and illegal drug trafficking.

Stay aware of petty crime in crowded areas, such as pickpocketing. These crimes tend to be based on time and location. There is no evidence that foreigners are targeted because of their country of origin.

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other terrorist activity, in Bangladesh. Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more

Kidnapping

There is risk of kidnapping in the Chittagong Hill Tracts Region, areas near the border with Burma, and refugee camps near Cox’s Bazar. Review the Risks in Specific Areas section to learn more. 

Restrictions on movement for U.S. government employees

U.S. citizens in Bangladesh are advised to take similar precautions as U.S. government employees.

• U.S. government employees in Bangladesh must consult with the embassy security office before any overnight travel within Dhaka, or before any travel outside Dhaka for non-essential reasons. They must take appropriate security and accountability precautions during this travel.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Bangladesh, particularly outside of Dhaka. This is due to these travel restrictions, a lack of infrastructure, and limited emergency responses from the local government.

Do not travel to:

• Chittagong Hill Tracts Region for any reason due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping.
• Areas near the border with Burma and refugee camps near Cox’s Bazar for any reason due to unrest, crime, and kidnapping.

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. 

Exercise normal precautions in Mongolia.

Advisory summary

Mongolia is generally a safe destination for travelers. Review our travel guidance for Mongolia to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

If you decide to travel to Mongolia:   

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Mongolia.  
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel and return to the United States. 
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel, especially if you plan on engaging in outdoor activities. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

in Mongolia. 

Mongolia is generally a safe destination for travelers.

Review our Travel Guidance for Mongolia to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

There are no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in The Bahamas due to crime.

Advisory summary

Crime
Violent crime, including armed robberies, burglaries, and sexual assaults, can occur anywhere in The Bahamas.

Most crime occurs in Nassau and Freeport on New Providence and Grand Bahama islands. Stay alert in the “Over the Hill” area in Nassau, south of Shirley Street, where gangs have killed residents.

Stay alert in vacation rental properties, especially where private security is not present.

Jet skis, boating, and licenses

• Boating is not well regulated. Injuries and deaths have occurred.
• There have been reports of sexual assaults by jet ski operators.
• Due to safety risks, U.S. government employees are not allowed to use or rent jet skis and personal watercraft from independent operators on New Providence and Paradise Islands. 
• Watercraft may not be safe, and some operators are not licensed or insured.
• Watercraft operators sometimes ignore weather forecasts. Always follow local weather and marine alerts.
• Do not operate a fishing boat or other charter in Bahamian waters without a license from The Bahamas Port Department. Police have detained American boaters and seized their vessels. Penalties include a fine of up to $100,000 and 3 years in prison.

Beach safety

• Never swim alone and beware of jet skis or other watercraft operating close to shore. 
• Sexual assaults have occurred on and near downtown Nassau beaches. Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in public restrooms.
• Be aware of your own fitness and swimming capabilities.  
• If you are new to snorkeling, understand the risks. Swimmers and snorkelers have died after overestimating their physical fitness or health.  
• Stay alert for sharks. Shark attacks have led to serious injury and death. 
• Be aware of weather and water conditions and follow local warnings.

Weapons and ammunition
Firearms and ammunition are illegal, including small quantities in carry-on bags or luggage. Police strictly enforce these laws, even at the airport when travelers are leaving.

Travelers with firearms or ammunition can face arrest, jail time, and fines.  

Authorities have detained U.S. citizens for several days or more after finding firearms or ammunition, preventing them from leaving.

Hurricanes
The Bahamas regularly experiences hurricanes. Review our information on Weather and Natural Disasters in The Bahamas.

Review our Travel Guidance for The Bahamas to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

If you decide to travel to The Bahamas:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Review the Country Security Report for The Bahamas.
• Do not answer your door at your hotel or residence unless you know who it is.
• Lock doors and windows and use other security features, especially on balcony doors.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Visit The Bahamas Port Department’s website if you plan to operate a charter or sail in Bahamian waters.
• Always check your personal belongings. Officials have detained travelers entering and exiting the country for carrying guns, ammunition, or other prohibited items.
• You must follow local laws abroad. If you break laws in The Bahamas – even by mistake – you could face deportation, fines, or imprisonment.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for The Bahamas.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.

There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated.

Exercise increased caution in Uruguay due to crime.

Advisory summary

Crime is most common in these departments:

• Montevideo
• Canelones
• Maldonado
• Rivera

Violent crime occurs across the country. Crimes include homicide, armed robbery, carjacking and theft. These crimes can happen at any time and have affected U.S. citizens.

Criminals often travel in pairs on motorcycles. They may approach victims with a weapon and demand personal belongings. Armed criminals also target grocery stores, restaurants, financial centers, and small businesses. Sometimes innocent bystanders become victims.

Review our Travel Guidance for Uruguay to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

If you decide to travel to Uruguay:

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. Embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report for Uruguay.
• Review our information on Crime Abroad and for Victims of Crime.
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling to tourist locations or poorly lit areas.
• Call 911 if you encounter a crime in progress. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt or try to stop a robbery in progress.
• Be vigilant when visiting banks or using ATMs during non-daylight hours or in remote locations; criminals often target ATMs and businesses in the early morning hours.
• Do not leave valuable objects in parked vehicles or in plain sight when driving.
• Do not display signs of wealth, such as wearing expensive jewelry or watches.
• Review your personal and residential security plans.
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Uruguay.
• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancellation coverage.

in Laos due to crime, unrest, and unexploded ordnances. Some areas have increased risk. Review the entire Travel Advisory.

Review our Travel Guidance for Laos to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

• Reconsider Travel to Xaisomboun Province due to civil unrest.
• Exercise Increased Caution in areas on the Border with Burma, Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, along Route 7 (from Route 13 to the Vietnam border), Route 9 (Savannakhet to the Vietnam border), and Route 20 (Pakse to Salavan) due to crime.
• Exercise Increased Caution in areas of Savannakhet, Xieng Khouang, Salavan, Khammouane, Sekong, Champasak, Houaphanh, Attapeu, Luang Prabang, and Vientiane provinces, as well as along Route 7 due to unexploded ordnances.

in Kenya due to risk of crime, kidnapping, terrorism, unrest, health, and traffic safety. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Crime

Violent crime can occur at any time. Violent crimes include armed carjacking, mugging, home invasion, sexual assault, and kidnapping for ransom. Petty crime is common. Criminal fraud targeting Americans is a concern.

• Local police often are unable to respond effectively to crimes.
• Crimes like robbery are common. They are often committed by individuals riding motorcycles.
• Solo travelers in particular should exercise caution. Some Americans have been victims of sexual assault in bars and resorts/hotels.
• Petty crimes often occur in crowded areas or when people are distracted.
• Schemes to defraud investors are common. Americans often fall victim to schemes involving transactions in gold and other high-value commodities. Kenyan authorities are unlikely to assist Americans in recovering losses.
• Property disputes are common in Kenya. Americans who have bought land, churches, and businesses have lost their investments or been pushed off the property by locals who claim the land or business.

Kidnapping

• Terrorists, criminal gangs, and other armed groups kidnap for ransom. 
• Local law enforcement officials are not equipped or trained to handle the threat of kidnapping.

Terrorism

• There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity. 
• Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Terrorists plot kidnappings, bombings, grenade attacks, armed assaults, suicide attacks, and other action in Kenya. Terrorists attack without warning. They have targeted:

• Kenyan and foreign government buildings
• tourist locations
• transportation hubs
• hotels and resorts
• markets and shopping malls
• places of worship

Unrest

• Cross-border incursions occur along the border with Ethiopia.
• Demonstrations, strikes, and other political and economic protests are common. They can turn violent.
• Protests often block key intersections and highways, resulting in widespread traffic jams. Protestors have also attacked vehicles containing Americans, including motorcycle taxis and safari vehicles.
• Violence during protests has occurred across Kenya. This includes rock-throwing by protesters and use of deadly force by police. Violent protests are most common in Nairobi and in western Kenya.

Health

Medical services in Kenya are limited. They are often unavailable in rural areas.

• Medical facilities in Kenya often lack sufficient medicine and equipment. Except for a few private medical facilities based in the large urban centers with enhanced capability, many health issues may require medical evacuation at your expense. 
• Medical facilities will usually deny service if payment is not made upfront.

Some schools, substance abuse centers, and other facilities claim to rehabilitate people, but operate with little or no government supervision.

• Physical and emotional abuse is common in these places. Residents, including Americans, have been held in these facilities against their will.
• Americans or residents who lure individuals to Kenya under false pretenses or forcibly place Americans into such rehabilitation facilities may be subject to legal repercussions in the United States.

Traffic safety

Automobile accidents are one of the main causes of injury and death of Americans in Kenya.

• Major highways between Nairobi and Nakuru and Nairobi and Mombasa are only two lanes, and drivers frequently pass with little attention to oncoming traffic. 
• Tourists, who may not always use seatbelts, have also been seriously injured or killed in safari vehicle accidents. 

in Belgium due to crime, terrorism, and unrest.

Crime

• Petty crime is common, especially in popular tourist locations. Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Most crimes against foreigners are crimes of opportunity, like purse snatching and pickpocketing.

Terrorism

• There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Belgium. 
• Visit the U.S. Department of State's country reports on terrorism to learn more.

Unrest

• Large-scale, generally peaceful demonstrations related to the local political situation may occur. Demonstrations may disrupt transportation and other essential services.
• Review our Travel Guidance for Belgium to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.

Do not travel to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) due to health, crime, unrest, terrorism, and kidnapping.  Due to the Ebola outbreak in the DRC, the Department of Homeland Security has implemented new restrictions under Title 49 of the U.S. Code which prevent U.S. citizens and nationals who have been in the DRC within a 21-day period from boarding commercial flights into the United States. Travelers who have been in the DRC within 21 days of their flight will not be allowed to board flights with U.S. destinations. All U.S. citizens and U.S. nationals who have been in the DRC must remain outside the DRC for 21 days before boarding flights to the United States. Visit the Centers for Disease Control’s Information for Travelers Returning from Ebola-affected Areas for more information.

Advisory summary
The U.S. government has limited ability to provide in-person emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), especially those outside of Kinshasa, due to the health and security situation.

Health
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a Travel Health Notice for Ebola for the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

On May 17, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the Ebola outbreak in the DRC and Uganda a Public Health Emergency of International Concern. 

Outbreaks of serious infectious diseases are common in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information before you travel.

The local health infrastructure is inadequate. Health services, hygiene, and quality control do not meet U.S. standards of care. Pharmacies are not well regulated. Locally available medications may be unsafe.