National travel advisory update: ‘Reconsider travel’ to these popular tourist destinations

The U.S Department of State has updated two travel notices for popular Central American tourist destinations.

Travel advisories for Guatemala and Belize were issued in late December due to “violent crime,” according to the U.S Department of State.

Guatemala remains under a level 3 “reconsider travel” alert, which is the second-highest warning.

Belize is under a level 2 “exercise increased caution” category.

Details on Guatemala advisory: Level 3, ‘Reconsider Travel’

Those who plan to visit Guatemala are urged to reconsider, as several areas of the country “have problems with gangs, robbery, carjacking, drug trafficking and violence,” the State Department warns.

“Local law enforcement may not always respond well to serious crimes, leading to low arrest and conviction rates,” the department said.

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And while tourists are not usually targeted, they can still become victims of “opportunistic crimes,” according to the State Department.

Areas of the country under a “Level 4: Do Not Travel” advisory include the San Marcos Department, Huehuetenango Department, Zone 18 in Guatemala City and Villa Nueva.

People can still visit popular places such as Tikal, Antigua, Lake Atitlán and the Pacific coast areas in Santa Rosa and Escuintla.

Details on Belize advisory: Level 2, ‘Exercise Increased Caution’

Travelers with plans to visit Belize should take increased caution due to crime and note that some areas of the country have an increased risk for violent crimes.

The State Department warns travelers that violent crimes — including sexual assault, home invasions, armed robberies and murder — are common in Belize, even in broad daylight and in tourist areas.

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A “significant portion” of these crimes are gang related and most crimes go unresolved or unprosecuted by local police, as they “lack the resources and training” to respond effectively.

The State Department strongly encourages travelers to be especially cautious when traveling to the south side of Belize City.

People traveling to Belize are advised to:

• Be aware of their surroundings
• Avoid walking or driving at night
• Not to resist any robbery attempt
• Be vigilant when visiting ATMs
• Refrain from showing any signs of wealth
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to receive alerts to make it easier to locate you in an emergency