Off-Limits Destinations: 12 Countries American Tourists Should Avoid
Traveling is a deeply enriching experience, allowing one to explore new cultures and horizons and actualize personal development and growth. However, it’s also important to be mindful of the dangers, specifically with unsafe destinations.
Here are 12 countries American tourists should avoid for various reasons, such as unstable governments and on-the-ground risks.
1. North Korea
Image Credit: Astrelok/Shutterstock.
With no embassy or diplomatic ties to this country, Americans are advised to avoid North Korea. If there were to be a situation involving U.S. tourists, the government would be unable to provide emergency services. The U.S. is severely limited in how much they can intervene.
2. Mali
Image Credit: Shutterstock.
Extremist factions are active in the northern regions of Mali. They include groups like Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) and Ansar Dine. As a result, exploring as an American tourist in this country could be quite hazardous.
3. Afghanistan
Image Credit: AX1962/Depositphotos.com.
Afghanistan remains a highly volatile country due to ongoing conflict and political instability. The presence of extremist groups, armed conflicts, and the risk of terrorism pose significant threats to personal safety.
With a global peace index of 3.55, travels to Afghanistan are strongly discouraged for Americans.
4. Iraq
Image Credit: Shutterstock.
Iraq has faced many security challenges recently, making it a risky destination for American travelers. The country still grapples with political instability, armed conflict, and extremist groups. Americans are especially warned against traveling to the Kurdistan Region, where the insecurity concerns are at their peak.
5. Syria
Image Credit: Shutterstock.
Syria is another country of grave concern. Ongoing civil war and political unrest make it a perilous country for Americans. Moreover, the situation remains unpredictable, with constant armed conflict and the presence of various armed groups.
Terrorism, risk of unjust detention, civil unrest, and kidnappings pose significant risks, and the U.S. Department of State strongly advises against all travel to Syria.
6. Yemen
Image Credit: Shutterstock.
Terrorism takes center stage in Yemen. Terrorist targets include Yemeni Government interests, ministries, security patrols, and parades. In addition, the country is embroiled in a complex conflict and faces significant security challenges.
7. Somalia
Image Credit: Shutterstock.
You might be watching or have watched the news about the particular societal issues plaguing Somalia. The country has grappled with political instability, terrorism, and widespread violence for years.
The country lacks a stable government and is a hotspot for piracy and kidnappings. As a result, travelers are at a high risk of being targeted, and the U.S. Department of State advises against all travel to Somalia.
8. Libya
Image Credit: Shutterstock.
Libya has experienced significant instability since the overthrow of its former government. The level of crimes committed in the country increases daily, including kidnap threats for ransom.
As an American, you should know the target of these crimes are usually Westerners and U.S. citizens. So take caution if you ever want to try visiting this place. In fact, the U.S. Department advises against visiting.
9. Central African Republic (CAR)
Image Credit: suprunvit/Depositphotos.com.
Political unrest, armed conflicts, and high levels of violence characterize the Central African Republic (CAR). Criminal activities that are prevalent in the country include armed robberies and kidnappings. The security situation is unpredictable, and the U.S. Department of State advises against travel to CAR.
10. South Sudan
Image Credit: Shutterstock.
South Sudan continues to face internal conflicts, resulting in violence and civil unrest. In places like Juba, the security environment is volatile and porous, leaving room for possible deterioration with little warning.
The country has a high crime rate, and armed clashes can occur without warning.
11. Venezuela
Image Credit: happyalex/Depositphotos.com.
The crime rate in Venezuela is out of the ordinary. Other social unrest plaguing the country include street crimes such as armed robberies, kidnapping, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws.
Also, the country is experiencing a severe economic and political crisis, which fuels increased crime rates and social instability.
12. Haiti
Image Credit: Shutterstock.
Haiti has long grappled with political instability, high crime rates, and a fragile security situation. As a result, the U.S. Department advises all its citizens against traveling to the country.
In light of the current security situation, U.S. citizens in Haiti are also advised to consider departing the country through whichever channels are available. Kidnappings, armed robberies, and civil unrest are significant concerns; you do not want to get caught up in the crosshairs.
Haunting America: Unveiling the 17 Most Bone-Chilling Paranormal Hot Spots
Image Credit: Shutterstock.
There’s something about paranormal destinations that keeps visitors coming back and edging closer. Is it fear or fascination that motivates this exploration, or perhaps a bone-chilling mix of the two?
If this speaks to your interests, we’ve got you covered. Here are 17 eerie hot spots in the USA guaranteed to give you a good haunting.
Haunting America: Unveiling the 17 Most Bone-Chilling Paranormal Hot Spots
Restless Spirits Revealed: Journey to the 12 Most Haunted Places on Earth
Image Credit: JanKranendonk/Depositphotos.com.
Have you ever stopped to think about what makes a place haunted? Or better yet, have you experienced an eerie destination yourself? We’ve compiled a list of the 12 most haunted places on Earth. The only question is, would you brave these locations? Daring travelers and fans of the paranormal – this one’s for you!
Restless Spirits Revealed: Journey to the 12 Most Haunted Places on Earth
Risky Routes: These Are the 12 Most Dangerous Roads in the World
Image Credit: kamonrat/Depositphotos.com.
We are fortunate in the West that we get to drive on roads with good road markings, traffic circles, lights, and road signs. However, not all countries have features designed to keep people safe. Here are some of the most dangerous roads you would be best avoiding around the world.
Risky Routes: These Are the 12 Most Dangerous Roads in the World
15 Most Dangerous Cities in the World Where Crime Rates Are Off the Charts
Image Credit: Shutterstock.
There are many ways to measure the danger of any given city—robberies, physical assaults, and even the number of fatal work accidents. However, there is one universally accepted metric for gauging danger: violent crime rates and property crime rates. Based on recent statistics, here are some of the most dangerous cities around the world (not in any particular order).
15 Most Dangerous Cities in the World Where Crime Rates Are Off the Charts
No Second Chance: 15 Travel Destinations Around the World That “Failed To Impress”
Image Credit: Shutterstock.
There’s nothing worse than being psyched up for a trip only to be let down when you get there. These are 15 travel destinations around the world that failed to impress the travelers who visited.
No Second Chance: 15 Travel Destinations Around the World That “Failed To Impress”
Where indicated, some images courtesy of Depositphotos.com.
