U.S. Issues Increased 'Reconsider Travel' Warning
The United States Department of State has a lengthy list of travel advisories and warnings for hundreds of countries across the world, offering travelers all the information they need in order to stay safe during their travels. This week, the U.S. updated one of its travel advisories for a country popular with outdoorsmen.
Madagascar is notorious for its landscape and beautiful national parks such as Ranomana National Park, Isalo National Park, and Andasibe-Mantadia National Park. Earlier this week, however, the United States issued a warning for anyone considering making the trip to the country.
United States Travel Advisories
The State Department has an extensive database of travel advisories for countries across the globe, warning travelers of the risks associated with traveling to each of those countries. The travel advisories range in severity from relatively innocuous Level 1 advisories to the most severe Level 4 advisories.
A Level 1 travel advisory reminds everyone traveling to that respective nation to simply “exercise normal precautions” during travel. This travel advisory applies to countries that are generally perceived as safe, such as Canada, Australia, and Greece.
A Level 2 travel advisory urges travelers to “exercise increased caution” when traveling due to some additional risk factors, such as theft. Countries under a Level 2 travel advisory include Brazil, France, Italy, and India.
Level 3 travel advisories get a bit more serious, warning travelers to "reconsider travel" to those destinations. Countries currently under a Level 3 travel advisory include Colombia, Pakistan, and Uganda.
Level 4 travel advisories are the most severe, urging travelers to simply "do not travel" to those nations. These countries include Iran, North Korea, Russia and Sudan.
Level 3 Travel Advisory for Madagascar
Until this week, Madagascar was under a Level 2 advisory. However, due to some recent changes within the country, the United States Department of State has upgraded that travel advisory to a Level 3 advisory, warning travelers to "reconsider travel."
The biggest change, the state department warns, is that protests have been breaking out across the country, and they could turn violent without warning.
"Protests occur throughout the country, and they can turn violent without warning. Protesters have also engaged in rioting, looting, vandalism and destruction of property. Police responses to protests and large gatherings can quickly become violent," the travel advisory warns.
"U.S. citizens should stay in place and avoid areas with protests or demonstrations. Sporadic protests may develop quickly, especially after dark."
Additionally, the State Department warns of violent crime in the country.
"Violent crime occurs throughout Madagascar, particularly after dark. This includes armed robbery and assault. It can happen in remote areas, and along major national roads in the country’s south and west," the advisory warns.
If you do decide to visit the country, make sure to stay up to date with the latest information on the U.S. State Department's website.