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Touching base in the realm of global exploration, the US Department of State has revealed’not travel‘ warns to keep US international travelers safe from challenges and risks that may be inescapable.
Travel to nineteen countries, in particular, is discouraged. From armed conflict and civil unrest to kidnapping and mass murder, every country is not safe to travel to according to the US State Department.
So, in reviewing these trouble territories that the State Department is warning adventurers to avoid during their voyages of discovery and exploration: What is it that draws travelers to these countries in the first place?
belarus
For starters, the State Department warns travelers not to touch Belarusian soil after protests and military actions linked to the war involving neighboring Ukraine.
In addition to providing great urgency to stay off their land, there is the possibility of armed conflict and civil unrest, along with cases of the illegal imprisonment of US citizens by the Burmese military, a feared situation in which no one in their right mind would want to be involved.
Belarus is known for having a relatively unexplored corner of Eastern Europe, attractive to those who wish to venture into the unknown. An impressive 40% of the country is covered by forests, supporting around 600 bison.
Travelers can see colorful murals and three hundred kinds of delicious potato dishes in attractive restaurants as they venture deeper into civilization. Still, these advantages are not worth the risk when it comes to security.
Venezuela
Venezuela is another country that also poses significant dangers, now home to civil unrest, crime, kidnapping, and the arbitrary application of local laws. Unjustified terrorism, detentions and inadequate health structures further aggravate the nation’s problems.
As a consequence, the South American country has experienced a tremendous exodus of its citizens seeking asylum in other countries, escaping threats against humanity in their home country.
Although it is advisable not to travel here, it is worth noting that Venezuela was previously a hot spot for tourists.
The country boasts a stunning landscape of tropical rainforests, towering mountain ranges, and wide river plains, providing a wide range of natural habitats, attracting nature lovers.
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Haiti
Next up is Haiti. While it may seem unfair for the United States Department to warn American citizens against traveling to this beautiful Caribbean island, the federal government has its reasons.
Haiti is a poverty-stricken country that shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic and faces challenges involving crime and social turbulence.
As bad as it sounds, the most troubling issues in the country include mass kidnappings, which commonly involve bodily harm to victims, ransom negotiations, and attacks on convoys.
Other impacting risks is a recent cholera outbreak, fueled by forcing people to survive in cramped conditions without sanitation.
Despite such dire circumstances, Haiti has a remarkable history of being an attractive tourist destination. The island has a year-round favorable climate, the second largest coastline of beaches, and the highest mountain ranges in the Caribbean. It also has enchanting caves, waterfalls, and an intriguing cultural history.
burma
Yet another country on the State Department’s ‘Do Not Travel’ list is Myanmar. From the Burmese army deposed and detained government officials in 2021, life-threatening riots have occurred. The army responds to these protests by arresting people, and some unfortunate protesters and bystanders face death.
In Rakhine, Kachin, Chin and Northern Shan states, there are landmines and unexploded mines in places not marked as identifiable, which have injured both natives and foreign travelers in the past.
The country also has limited healthcare resources, after many workers quit their jobs. Medical supplies are also hard to come by, even over-the-counter prescriptions.
Travelers used to flock to Myanmar to immerse themselves in the country’s Buddhist beliefs and architecture and explore one of the most exclusive tourist destinations in Southeast Asia. Not now.
Iraq
Iraq remains a volatile region after 9/11, with ongoing armed conflict, political turmoil, terrorism, and a lack of support for US citizens from the NATO Mission in Iraq.
Additionally, the country has witnessed terrorist attacks and rebel factions targeting civilians and security forces, making the fate unpleasant, albeit boldly.
While it’s 100% worth avoiding, it’s undeniable that the country has a wealth of archeological gems. The historic cities of Nineveh, Babylon, and the UR have a captivating grandeur, which the so-called of the past would explore to uncover the mysteries of the country’s history, unaware of major troubles ahead.
A broader spectrum of risks
Although the above five nations present key areas of concern, it is essential to heed all travel advisories from the US Department of State. for personal well-being.
The other fourteen countries in danger, some perhaps more obvious than others, include Ukraine, Russia, North Korea, Syria, Afghanistan, Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, Mali, Central African Republic, Burkina Daso, Somalia, and Libya.
Each nation faces its own distinctive set of challenges. War, terrorism, and political volatility drive turmoil, uniquely carving political and social landscapes and underscoring the tangled web of global affairs.
Given the pervasive challenges and risks in these countries, US citizens should consider travel advisories from the Department of State. Exercising caution and being well-informed on these issues, therefore prioritizing personal safety, is vital for everyone, no matter how adventurous and invincible you think you are!
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