The US Department of State has reissued a travel advisory warning Americans to avoid traveling to this South American destination. The "Level 4: Do Not Travel" warning is the most serious travel advisory that can be issued. On May 13, 2024, the US reissued the "Level 4" warning for Venezuela, citing "crime, civil unrest, kidnapping, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws." The advisory also noted that violent crime is common, and the US Department of State "has determined there is a high risk of wrongful detention of U.S. nationals in Venezuela."
Additionally, the Department of State warns that there has been "a strong police and security force response" to protests against Nicolás Maduro, the current president of Venezuela. The Department of State says that Maduro "illegally claimed the presidency of Venezuela" in 2019.
Venezuela's next presidential elections are scheduled for July 2024.
Some regions of the country also deal with "shortages of gasoline, electricity, water, medicine, and medical supplies," according to the travel warning.
For those who still decide to travel to Venezuela, the US recommends taking several precautions, such as drafting a will and preparing a plan in case you are taken hostage.
More from LittleThings: Another Woman Has Come Forward Saying Sean 'Diddy' Combs Drugged & Sexually Assaulted Her
According to the state department, travelers should "establish a 'proof of life' protocol with your loved ones, so that if you are taken hostage, your loved ones know specific questions (and answers) to ask the hostage-takers to be sure that you are alive (and to rule out a hoax)."
The US government cannot provide emergency services to Americans in Venezuela as consular services have been suspended since March 11, 2019.
